AK Newbie - 25' or 27' International CCD?

[hrthelr]

I am so excited, I can hardly stand it. The only issue holding me back from a purchase TODAY is a lack of towing experience. I am unsure of the difference a couple feet.

As a primer, I live in Alaska - and I lived 12 years in Texas - 'bigger is better' is a motto fully imprinted in my psyche. Plus, I am 6'5" and like a lot of space (go figure). However, for practical reasons, I wonder if 25' would be better (FYI, my tow vehicle is a Ford F250 Diesel):

1. I live on a residential street that is not too wide (although two cars can pass), and in order to back into my planned RV pad, it would be beneficial to continue pass the house and turn in the circle drive (to back in the opposite direction). Is it possible to turn around in circle residential drives with a 27'?

2. I have heard many campsites may limit sizes beyond 25'. Is that true in your experience?

3. Any thoughts on how to gain experience (and confidence!) with towing?

Thanks for any insights!
-Chris

[dznf0g]

I turn my 30' around in the culdesac.

Sure there are some sites that you can't use, but not all that many. Fire roads to remote boondocking might be a challenge

As many have suggested, practice in a large parking lot till you're comfortable backing then get out there. Drive slower and take wide turns till you get comfortable. It won't take long.

[blmitch5]

Get the size you will be most comfortable in. You will learn how to tow it with practice. Go and lay on the beds in both sizes and get a feel for the space etc. Have fun! I wish I was in ours right now but it's winterized!

[hrthelr]

Thanks for your responses! It makes me feel much more comfortable with the 27'. Now, off to purchasing my Dream Stream!

[Lifestreamer]

Welcome, we asked these questions ourselves before we purchased our 27FB International. Most people I asked said they never had a problem getting a campsite. Our experience, no problem at all. We are so happy we went with the 27FB because of the extra kitchen space and the way the bed is positioned. Our tow vehicle is a 2004 2500HD Duramax and we have no problems towing at all. Our truck and your truck are more than enough to handle a 27' and much more. As far as experience, and learning....practice makes perfect. Get some orange cones and head over to a school or church parking lot when its empty. Set up cones for backing into sites and backing out of trapped situations. There are also some dealers that offer RV safety classes. I know for a fact that LazyDays in Florida offers classes, I've talked to a few RV'rs that really enjoyed the classes. Good luck and happy camping!