I don't want to incur the wrath of Airstream fans, but the small (Bambi and Safari) Airstreams we looked at were a disappointment in their fit and finish and we didn't think they were worth paying almost twice what we paid for our little trailer. I'm sure the resale value would be higher and they probably last a lot longer, but are not as well put together as we'd expected.
Oh, and I totally agree with TF36DSMatt about the Bigfoots. Those are some nicely made trailers!
Husband: Derek
Dog: Bucky
RV: 2000 Aerolite 19RB TT
TV: 1996 Chevrolet Blazer 6 cyl. 4WD
This car used to be our toad, now is our TV!
Our Airstream -- now 41 years old and among the youngest at the Vintage Airstream Rally that we attended recently -- speaks for the longevity of these rigs.
Lynn
The 16/19 foot units IMO would be about as easy to resell as any trailer.
If the new ones are too expensive-check out late model used. I think you can find something nice for $20,000 or less if you spend some time searching. Like any RV if you buy used be sure it isn't leaking and the floor is solid.
We looked at the better TT's out there and decided to pay a bit more for the Airstream. They advertise the Airstream gets 20% better gas mileage than a comparable weighed box and I am a believer. We have more room than we know what to do with and our bathroom is bigger than the others we looked at. Fit ,finish, and fittings were also superior. If you liked your grandmas cabinets the Airstream is not for you.
You've got some good answers so far. Can't beat how well Airstreams last, and how easily they tow.
However, that great towing and long life comes at a very high price. I'm not just talking about the price tag, either (although thats a big part of it). Other disadvantages include:
1. Little to no exterior storage
2. No ducted air conditioning inside
3. Limited storage space in overhead cabinets, due to curved sides
4. Very limited floorplan options - nothing with a bunkhouse for families with children, and only one or two floorplans that offers a slideout
Really, Airstreams are more of 'travelling' units, not so much 'destination' units, if you know what I mean. They are designed to travel well, at the expense of some comforts when you get to your destination.
We looked at them before buying the trailer we have now. Ultimately, we decided Airstream just was not for us. We needed a bunkhouse model, and are more of 'destination' campers, so Airstream just didn't fit for us, price tag aside.
In the end, it all comes down to what YOU like best, that fits YOUR needs best. Airstream are not for everyone, but those that own them love them.
Will & Angela
2 wonderful children that love camping, Stephen & Allison
2003 Ford Excursion V10 4x4
2003 Thor Citation 33M, Hensley Arrow hitch, Brakesmart Brake Control
(wanna see? Here is a picture of it )
Having had three Airstreams I think I know something of them. The comment about them being the poorest quality of the silver trailers is the personal opinion of the poster, not fact. An opinion I firmly disagree with. You'll find a lot of "sour grapes" posted by folks who have never owned an AS. As for the AC, why would anyone need ducted AC in a 16'-19' TT? They are pricey, but nothing comes close to the towing manners of an Airstream. They are not for everyone. Even within the AS product lines are some difficult to explain interior finishes that seem kinda like a cross between Art Deco, the Jetsons and a TV dinner. :-). They still make the classic line.
I have a 28' International, bought it in 2006. I really like it.
It is built well, I like the design. It pulls like a dream. Though I could have gotten more room in some other trailers with slides, this floorplan suits me (and my dog) well.
I have had no problems with it. When I bought it, the salesman told me that I could pass it down to my kids, it will last that long.
I said, let them buy their own!
The company just celebrated it's 75th year, try to find another trailer manufactuer that can say that!
Expensive? yes, but you get what you pay for.
You will not be sorry if you get one. Welcome to the club!
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