Questions on ordering a Bambi

[BobSenigo]

Hello all!

Just bought an '07 Silverado 1500 5.3 with the z71 and towing packages. Based on my research, a 19' Bambi would be an excellent fit given my tow vechicle.

Now to get the TT. I like the Safari Bambi - For options, I'd like to get the upgraded TV/Audio and both LS and SE options. For those of you that own one, would this be overkill? Also, if there are any other options that would make the rig more pleasant/safer to use I'd love some suggestions.

I plan on going full time eventually. It will just be myself using the trailer. I'll be using the rig for both staying at full hook up RV parks as well as the occasional Wal-Mart/Truck stops/National Parks along the way. I'd also want the TT to be able to spend time in cooler climates in addition to warmer areas. (4 season use).

Would this be large enough to meet my needs for the most part? Also, what percentage off of MSRP would be a reasonable offer to make?

I'm just starting the process so any and all comments would be most welcome!

Thanks!
Bob.

[SilverRanger]

Hi Bob, welcome to the forums. Based on my experience, the Bambi is a good choice for 1 or 2 people, and if you're a close family, maybe a child. Ours suits us perfectly for both short and long trips, but it all depends on your individual situation. You should have no problem towing with that setup. My first TV has very similar specs and it pulls the Bambi like a dream.

We didn't order, but bought off the lot, and paid about 23% less than MSRP for our Bambi and, while I didn't initially want any upgrades, I've learned to suffer through the LS package, audio/video ugrade package, and the solar panel with the two AGM batteries.

I don't think you'll regret getting the LS upgrade package, as I think it's well worth the extra cost. The audio/video upgrade can be done much cheaper and better if you purchase the components yourself. Most Airstreams come pre-wired for A/V and solar whether you order the packages or not. Don't forget to get a good weight distributing hitch. My last upgrade was a switch to enable the Fantastic Fan to vent both ways, and my next one will probably be another fan for the rear vent. Everything else is already in place.

Best of luck in your decision.

[mswartz]

Bob,
I noticed your post mentions four season travelling. My experience with my 2001 19ft Bambi was generally very positive in cool/cold weather.

However, I've had enormous problems with corrosion started by residual road salt from the very few times I've towed November to March on wet roads here in the Northeast. Look at the 1999-2004 Bambi sub-forum for postings with pictures for what happened to my trailer.

I would strongly urge that you avoid towing in any conditions where roadsalt will get on your trailer.

That said, you will find the AirForums to have many helpful contributors, often with varying points of view and experience, but willing to help with any questions. And feel free to contact me if I can assist- I'm in Falmouth.

[craftsman]

Bob, do you mean that you'll be fulltiming in the Bambi? If so 19' may be a little tight. I have a 25' and that would be snug for fulltiming although doable. I'll let others chime in here. What is the smallest size Airstream that you could fulltime in?

[Muddy Waters]

Craftsman, that's a good question. I'm surprised no one has replied in two months.

I personally loved the 25 foot Bambi but DH is worried about towing something that long. We're newbies, lol. Maybe when we get used to this whole thing we'll want to upgrade to a larger TT. Full-timing sounds AWESOME but we're a couple of years away from contemplating that. Have fun!