New Member North Florida. Which one to buy?

[Miami66]

Hello everyone,

My wife and I just joined the forum. Very impressed with the contents! Very Helpful information. We are rookies looking to buy our first (last) Airstream. We are outside of Gainesville Florida. Originally we looked at a 20 footer that seemed perfect (wife loves the kitchen). Now the 22 footer is in the mix! We are overwhelmed with all the different models,etc. Looking forward to learning more from the forum members and pulling the trigger! Thanks!



Carlos and Rebecca Fernandez
High Springs, Fla.

[Mrjkq]

"Buy the Third One the First Time"! Make sure it's big enough to suit your needs down the road or you'll be trading it in for a larger unit.

[rodsterinfl]

Welcome Miami66. We may soon be neighbors as we are planning our relocation to north FL. from Southwest FL. Naturally the choice is a personal one; however, there are many factors to consider on models and everyone has their say. The most popular model is the 25' as it gives the advantages of both the smaller models and the larger ones- middle of the pack - bigger tanks, wider body, etc. The Bambi models are nice too. It depends on how long your stays will be. Don't forget about used models.

[jayseejay]

Not sure which model will be best for you, but I can highly recommend your nearby dealer, Sanders RV, in Alachua. We are in Fernandina Beach and bought there and return there for service. It is a slow-paced dealership, but they are good people and take care of their customers. Joe

[mandolindave]

This sounds obvious but I'll say it any way.

Picking out a model is a matter of personal taste

Picking out a size, is more about how you will be using the trailer and what kind of campers you are. ( and that can change )

I've seen campers that sit inside, all day, watching TV with the AC on.

I basically just sleep in my trailer, but I have slept next to my camper.

I have a 20'. Even though it is a smaller trailer, I have considered not bringing it for long long road trips. ( for various reasons, MPG, mobility,stealthiness etc)

You take a beating when you sell them so it's best to pick the right size the first time.

[brokeboater]

Greetings fellow High Springer. Your ad doesn't mention new or used. If you are in the used market you are welcome to come take a look at our 25' Safari. It's not for sale but sometimes when shopping used it's hard to get a look at a lot of models.

[FCStreamer]

Different strokes for different folks. My wife and I are ex boaters. 3 boats in 3 years, always trading for something bigger. So when we made the switch to trailers, we both agreed we'd get the largest one we could tow. In our case, a 30' FC. We couldn't be happier. But that's us. You mileage may vary.

[moosetags]

Welcome to the Forums. We're glad to have you with us. Good lick in your quest. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Brian

[HiJoeSilver]

If you'll be using it a lot you'll probably want something with seating beyond the dinette. The dinette is good for meals and maybe doing bills, but not so much for relaxing after a long day exploring.

[Drake1949]

Originally Posted by Mrjkq

"Buy the Third One the First Time"! Make sure it's big enough to suit your needs down the road or you'll be trading it in for a larger unit.

Totally agree!!! Bought the Bambi 16'.....after staying in it for two weeks with grandkids, traded it in for a 25' Flying Cloud FB. Wife loves it....should have gotten it first.

[OTRA15]

Welcome to the forum! Lots of good advice so far.

Best approach IMO is to visit an Airstream dealer and spend plenty of time in each possible model with important family members incl. pets. There is simply no substitute for being physically inside your dream!

When you react, "this is it!," you have found your new home on wheels.

Without seeing things in person, analysis paralysis can set in quickly.

Even if you must fly to the dealer, like Colonial in NJ.

Good luck!

Peter

[xrvr]

Sanders has new and used AS in Alachua. Doesn't cost anything to go look. You might even find something you want. Let them know.

[xrvr]

Forgot, welcome to the best part of the state!

[Miami66]

Thank you to all for your feedback, advice. Special thanks to Black7Beard for allowing my wife and I to see his 25 yesterday. Small world. Turns out he lives across the street from me! I think I found my Airstream mentor! I'm convinced now that a few extra feet is worth it especially if we are buying used. Thanks again.

[OTRA15]

Excellent news and kind of him to do that! We had a 25' in the 90's but recently downsized to the FC20. The 25' was great and we miss the extra seating and separate bedroom. With the right tow vehicle, this size is a good compromise.

Love the 20' kitchen though . . .

Have fun!