Airstream attempt number 2

[Lexxy]

We are back after not owning an airstream for 10 years so we could sail around the world on a 40' boat. That was all great.

I remember how nice and helpful folks are here while we were doing a complete redo on our 67 safari. We have moved to the mountains of NC and just today bought a 1973 23' safari. Will go get it when the gravel gets spread on the parking pad in about a week.

NOW, HERE IS WHERE WE NEED HELP!

We never used the other trailer....not once. We can rebuild trailers...even put in newly sculpted tanks and frame supports....we know about the systems and all but we know nothing about camping in an rv...how to pump out a tank, hook up and the basics. We need to learn where to go, what discount organizations to join, the set ups and takedowns ....

Maybe there is a basic book on camping. We used to do tent camping and living on a boat is a lot like camping. I know we will just have to drag this thing to a camp ground and learn but I hope we don't look like total fools....well, we have before so it's nothing new.

Any advice is appreciated and I will keep reading here.

We looked at other campers but nothing came close to an Airstream so we knew we wouldn't be happy with anything else. We got a fair deal....not a steal ...for $11000. Unit was very well kept and everything has been checked out by a dealer who says it works....we'll see! It's all vintage with new floors and upholstery and foam. Needs some scrubbing but we don't mind. Awnings all around in good shape, good battery and tanks. It's a beginning....again. We don't want to renovate again...just maintain.

Looking forward to talking with folks here again. Below is the ad shot. Our tow veh is a ford 150. Capable, we believe!

[andreasduess]

Here you go: http://www.amazon.ca/The-Newbies-Gui.../dp/B004SUOZCC

Link goes to Canadian amazon site, but also available in the US of course.

Really good book covering all the basics. I read it before we bought ours and thought it a great primer.

It's also not all that complicated, much easier than most systems on a boat.
Fill with water, dump tanks, you'll be ok.

[Lexxy]

What a good idea getting this book is. We learned to get the basics right on the boat. We're not too proud to start at the beginning. We'll have more questions when we actually drive it home. We are extending the gravel pad area for the unit. We have 110 outlet at the parking. That will charge the battery but it won't heat or cool, right? Doesn't it need 30 amp plug?

[wahoonc]

Originally Posted by Lexxy

What a good idea getting this book is. We learned to get the basics right on the boat. We're not too proud to start at the beginning. We'll have more questions when we actually drive it home. We are extending the gravel pad area for the unit. We have 110 outlet at the parking. That will charge the battery but it won't heat or cool, right? Doesn't it need 30 amp plug?

How much 110? The 30amp plugs on the Airstreams are 110v. Just need a heavy enough wire and the proper breaker. You can run just about everything but the Air Conditioner on a 15amp 110v circuit. You will need an adapter to go from the trailer plug to the wall plug. Stock furnace is actually LP and 12volt.

Aaron

[kmaggard]

LongLongHoneymoon.com | Tips for Airstream / RV travelers.

Good site with lots of short videos. The book is a fun read but informative also. I got the ebook on amazon.

[Globie64]

Good luck- from what you write, you have all the tough stuff down. Learning how the systems work is time consuming for a newbie, worse when something goes wrong. I would imagine you'll find how pleasant it is (written from our Airstream, towed to our driveway from the storage yard for an overnight visit, music playing and martinis chilling) and I look forward to hearing more about your experiences. If you're used to a boat, you're used to minimalism, figuring out what is really necessary. This has been the fascinating lesson for me. Good luck to you

[kmaggard]

Globie64 you rent out that driveway? Beautiful area, have a nice evening.

[TouringDan]

Lexxy

If you have sailed around the world, camping will be a breeze. I would just go camp at Davidson Campground and learn while camping.
I have good friends in Brevard- nice place to live.

If you like music, check out the Steep Canyon Rangers. They are real popular and do a lot in Brevard.

Have fun camping.

Dan

[montanablue]

We will be camping in our Airstream on the 27th of this month at Davidson River. It is one of the best Family oriented campgrounds around. We will be in our 1969 Globetrotter. We also have a 73 Tradewind and a67 Caravel. Come camping and we will be glad to give you some pointers.
Rick in Greenville, SC

[Silver Otter]

Lexxy,
Welcome back to the Airstream family. We were in your place in the Spring 2011. We pulled to the nearest park and tried everything. It was a joy.

We love Brevard. Our younger son and wife live in Asheville.

For fun, how about pulling just up the road to Bear Creek RV park in Asheville? Ask for one of the Lower Level spots, as they are easy to back in to. You get full hook-ups so you can try all your systems, and yet you're just south of good shopping in West Asheville for the things you "forgot" to bring. We like spots LL9 or LL7 back against the hill. []Asheville Bear Creek Campground | Asheville Bear Creek RV Park & CampgroundAsheville Bear Creek RV Park & Campground | Asheville North Carolina RV Camping and chalet rental.

[Globie64]

Actually, camping with others is a great idea, to learn stuff but it's just fun. We learned so much on our first and subsequent rallies.

Ha, Kmaggard, never thought of that but we could rent out our driveway!