Is newer better?

I'm in the process of shopping for a new travel trailer. I have shortened down the list to just a few different makes and models largely based on floor plan, length, weight and price. That being said I really like the Rpod floor plans and storage design. Specifically the 192, and the new 197 (for tandem axle and extra roominess). Here comes the "but". I finally got to see both models in person and as I started to look very closely at the construction I can't say I was overly impressed. I know these are not on the high-end price point, but some of what I saw was concerning in terms of quality workmanship and longevity of the materials. I am curious if these 2025 units are lower quality than the pre-2020 models? 

I 75% agree overall campers are being built in the least expensive way. But there has been a few improvements like slam latch storage doors and the magnetic ketchs for them to keep them open and the use of azdel for the walls. But the basic construction of the interior has become poorer quality when we bought our 2009 R-pod the interior cabinet and dinette framing was made using hardwoods that soon changed to a soft white wood. The cabinette doors were made using hard maple wood. Our 2018 Vista Cruiser has crank open awning windows in 2020 they changed to less expensive sliding windows. It has been sometime since I have looked at a R-pod but last one was at a RV show and I noticed the cabinets as had been mentioned were made from a MDF type material. There are a lot of used campers for sale as we have found out trying to sell our own camper it's a buyers market. I would think it would be wiser to buy a used camper look for one that has been well cared for hopefully garage kept and you could save a lot of money and maybe better built.

Edited by David and Danette - 17 Nov 2024 at 8:40am

We had planned on owning the trailer for 8-10 years, add to this we have heard some RV resorts do not allow trailers older than 10 years. so we were looking at new vs something build pre-covid. As noted the walls using Azdel and aluminum is a longevity issue, and frames are better designed and stronger. I would think the A/C, tankless water heaters and furnace are more efficient and quieter. Also all the new trailers are set up for solar. But apparently to offset these costs and keep these trailer light, they are cutting corners on everything else. We have looked at many trailers in the 2017-2018 time frame and the wife not so excited with the dated interiors and smaller or less windows. The new trailers certainly are more inviting and bright inside. Especially the new 197! It's a tough decision, spend $30K for a decent quality trailer that will require more frequent repairs, or jump up to a fiberglass or InTech quality trailer but spend twice that.