RE: Outback style TT with read bed slide out. Pro's and Con's
Hi, there are different floorplans for RS models although our Pilgrim is no longer. Pro and con is as noted by many and i think it all depends on your present needs (don't buy for future needs). Our 3 kids and cat (he's a happy camper) fit nicely in the front quad bunks and all but the dinette, couch are accessable when "in". It is nice pulling only 25' but 30' when parked. Ours is a cable system with 2 external support bars and no problems yet other than some water leakage prior to us buying the unit. I replaced the seam tape on the slide but that is an issue i will consider for next unit when kids no longer camping. Any slide will have this issue but we will prob go with a side slide for more floor space and an internal bedroom still in the 25' range. Again, it all depends on current needs but keep checking other's experiences. cheers
I will add that cold/heat has not affected our experience with the rear slide and the overhang is a great place to store firewood, etc. in case of rain.
RE: Can I pull it????
There have been many wise replies here and I will repeat/add that you should use the GROSS WEIGHT (GVWR) of trailer as the main guide for looking at TV and safe travel. Travelling without some fresh water seems foolish (to save weight)and unless you are only towing 1 - 2 hours to set up camp, you should not be near the GVWR. Our TT is 5900 lbs gross and works our 09 Sierra crew because it is the basic 4.8, 4sp. Tow/haul mode only saves tranny wear, does not include "tow pkg" upgrades like tranny cooler which is an easy aftermarket fix.
Our TT easily handles our family of 5 and cat (loves camping but not the trip) with the front quad bunks and rear slide but without a side slide, floor space is tight. Weigh the pro/con of your decision, if the trailer is a great deal, upgrade the TV. Again, short trips is one thing but going on a long trip with a TV that is at it's limit is a good way to wreck your vacay. cheers and good luck
RE: Must Have's - Nice To Have's - Don't Bother's
I will give our .02 worth but first will say that "go dogs" pretty well nailed it! We started with a used 12' Jayco popup and midway thru our 4th season (2011) bought a 07 Pilgrim Cirrus 25' with rear slide. Quad bunks up front give lots of room to our 3 girls. Experience and asking questions (as you are doing) gets you ready to finally buy new, (or newer) when you have figured out what you really want in an RV. We camp mainly in the provincial parks in Ontario and you see everything from the oldest, smallest to the newest, biggest and most people are happy to show and answer questions.
I know our next trailer will be mainly for the 2 of us but must have bunks (not 4) for occasional visits by the kids as they are getting older and this year is prob last for all 5 of us for a week or more at a time. Plus any slide is an area of concern (roof, etc.) so will go with a "bedroom" inside but a side slide is a must for floorspace so check out construction, roof protection, etc. carefully with any slide.
Best advice is too simply look at as many possible, the big shows are good as they have all makes, make notes re. your favourite features and then decide what your budget will allow. Read as many reviews as possible but keep an open mind!!
good luck, Jim
p.s. 30' is a lot of trailer and can limit your choices in some parks unless you just want the "campark" fit.
