Choosing the right Rpod
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Topic: Choosing the right Rpod
Posted By: jcwilde1
Subject: Choosing the right Rpod
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 11:51am
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My wife and I have been going back and forth on which one is the better layout for us. We figured since the R-pod community is so great, maybe we should just ask people who know! We are mainly considering the 179 and 180 although the 178 would be great if it had more storage for hanging clothes etc. There is just two of us and we love the 179 layout in general but are a bit concerned with the wet bath since we haven't used one. So the 180 keeps coming up in our discussions. The 180 seems great but since it has a really small dinette and wasn't sure about kitchen counter space for prep and such. We are also concerned about lounging around comfortably. Anyone who can weigh in on what they like or don't like on those models would be great.
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Replies:
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 12:21pm
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Welcome to the group! We have the 179 and really love the set up an storage room. The bathroom is small, but we camp mostly at campgrounds so there is always a bath house near by. ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: StephenH
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 3:13pm
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The wet bath is okay. We have a squeegee to wipe down the two walls that are not covered by the curtain. The back wall and door are covered. The bath is small, but we figured the larger kitchen and the storage there would be of more use to us than a larger bathroom. In any case, a larger bath won't do much good if you are dry camping as 36 gallons of water do not go far. between flushes and kitchen use, you likely won't get but 2 or 3 showers before your fresh water tank runs dry, even with turning the water off while soaping and shampooing. The kitchen is what sold us on the 179. We figured we could sacrifice on the bathroom. I really can't see trying to work with very limited counter space. The 179 is great as it gives us the room we need. and the storage space to stash the items we want to carry. ------------- StephenH Happy is the man that findeth wisdom,... http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=7712 - ouR escaPOD mods Former RPod 179 Current Cherokee Grey Wolf 24 JS |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 8:54pm
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Welcome. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual 
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Posted By: kymooses
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 9:22pm
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This is the 100% most honest best way to decide the best Pod for you. Find each model you are interested in if you can at a dealer. Now, tell the dealer you just want to spend some time in them. Go inside and sit there, pretend it's pouring rain and it's just a washout and you can't leave the Pod. Both of you find a place to sit and think about how comfortable you'd be. Then spend about 20 minutes just talking and feeling it. There are some Pod models that I honestly cannot spend 5 minutes in because of how cramped they feel or something feels out of place. Many models I can sit in with Pod friends and talk all day if I had to. Barring any amenities or space that one model offers over another, the one you feel the most comfortable trapped in will serve you best. Odd way to look at it perhaps, but Pods are small, being comfy and feeling like "this is home" is important. ------------- https://calendar.google.com/calendar?cid=cnBvZC5zcG90dGVyQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ - RPod Rallies https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1W1foQXGtrjf8aYly1uh0b-bHPfI&hl=en_US - RPod Owner Map |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 27 Feb 2016 at 9:38pm
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Good test........we spent 2 1/2 day in our 171 and 2 days in our 179 during heavy rains down in Cape Hatteras. Your test fit perfect ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: Happy Tripping
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 8:05am
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All of the above is true, but misses the point - Buy a travel trailer to fit your own needs. If you want a 'home away from home' DON'T buy a Pod. It will never serve. If you feel forced to stay inside your trailer because it's raining, DON'T buy a Pod. There's a big world out there, rainy or not, and that's what rain gear is for. I like the 171 because it's maneuverable and it DOESN'T have a heavy, leaky, motor driven slide. If you need a slide, just get a bigger travel trailer from some other manufacturer, in my view. Yes, it's small, but I knew that when I bought it, and it fits my need. |
Posted By: Keith-N-Dar
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 8:28am
You are right on getting the trailer that fits your needs. Your needs were filled by a 171. We have no problems with our slide (always works, no leaks, and plenty of capacity with our TV so no weight problems, so for us a 177 was ideal. If we were looking now it would likely be a 179. Both are pods and they fit us fine. ------------- Keith-N-Dar Boris & Betty (Boston Terriers) 2011 R-Pod 177 2010 Ford F-150 |
Posted By: techntrek
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 1:18pm
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I agree with the sit-in test. Our 171 was great for camping trips. We spent most our time outside, even in the rain (under EZ-UPs or rarely under the dome). For touring trips it was too small for the 10-12 hour stays at truck stops and Walmarts. If we had a 177 or 179 we probably wouldn't have had to upgrade because of the extra room, but the 177 wasn't even introduced until the week we picked up our 171. ------------- Doug ~ '10 171 (2009-2015) ~ 2008 Salem ~ http://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=1723 - Pod instruction manual
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Posted By: Happy Tripping
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 4:24pm
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You are right on getting the trailer that fits your needs. Your needs were filled by a 171. We have no problems with our slide (always works, no leaks, and plenty of capacity with our TV so no weight problems, so for us a 177 was ideal. If we were looking now it would likely be a 179. Both are pods and they fit us fine. [/QUOTE] Ooops. I was 'philosophizing' and didn't mean a direct or indirect criticism of your decision. I keep reading that it's best to go with a bigger tv, etc, initially because after you have a travel trailer, you will soon find that you will want to upgrade. I had the impression that you and your wife appear to want something that no one pod has, and perhaps a bigger travel trailer would better satisfy you, but shoot, whatever you want, go for it and I hope I didn't antagonize you. Back to lurking
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Posted By: ronahue
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 4:54pm
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We have had a 179 for one camping season about 60 nights. We have never used either the indoor or outdoor shower, for us the bathroom is mostly for the middle of the night or inclement weather. The 179's best features are storage and kitchen, the bed is comfortable for 2 short people. The dinette is tolerable for eating and OK for watching TV, reading or computing and useless as a bed without considerable modification to the cushions. Since we came from a tent we feel we are in the lap of luxury and we are thrilled with the 179 as our traveling base. As others have suggested go lock your selves in bring a book or take a nap and see what works. ------------- Ron & Sharon 2015 R-Pod 179 2022 Nissan Frontier No trees were harmed in the sending of this message but a billion electrons were really agitated |
Posted By: jato
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 7:35pm
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Have to agree with Travis and Carrie. That is the test to take and prayerfully you will agree on the same unit. That is basically what we did and settled on the 177 and for us it has been the cats meow (yes, we like cats). Dogs are ok too. We feel quite blessed as we go into our 6th year with our 177. We still remember the days of tenting and pop-ups, and how nice it is not to have to fuss with wet canvas when it is raining, sleeting, snowing or in cold windy weather, or putting up the tent or tearing down in those conditions. The pod is cozy
------------- God's pod '11 model 177 '17 Ford F-150 4WD 3.5 Ecoboost Jim and Diane by beautiful Torch Lake "...and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." |
Posted By: David and Danette
Date Posted: 28 Feb 2016 at 9:03pm
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I keep thinking of the times camping in a tent and then think of the r-pod that we had and the Vibe we have now. Then I think of all the conveniences and at my age I do not want to go back to a tent and definitely not my wife. The r-pods are so easy to tow and maneuver, I have often thought of a larger camper with more space but do not want to deal with the towing of a larger camper. I like the r-pods and our Vibe they are a nice compact package with all the conveniences.
------------- 2018 Vista Cruiser 19BFD (2018- 2012 Vibe 6503 (2014-2019) 2009 r-pod 171 (2009-2014) Middle Tn 2014 Ram 1500 Quad cab |
Posted By: Patriot Dave
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 3:21pm
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Hey my wife and I are going through that very same thing right now and with the same models you mentioned.
We have even started pro and con lists. We have set in both models for several hours. We are in Michigan and will be camping probably 9 months out of the year. So there will be times we will be inside for longer periods of time so the R-pod needs to be comfortable. I have no doubt you have been having the same conversations as we have. I think we are leaning to the 179 however i just wish the bathroom was not directly across from the eating area, I enjoy setting and looking out while having my morning coffee. Additionally I would prefer eating directly across from my wife than side by side. there than that the 179 gets the edge. At least for today. Choices Choices....... Grrrrrrrr. Let us know what you decide. LOL Patriot Dave ------------- Dave & Joyce Never Forget, In God We Trust; This Our National Motto. Member; Patriot Guard Riders, Michigan Chapter Retired; So Every Day is Saturday.... Except Sunday |
Posted By: ronahue
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 3:26pm
I was wondering why my wife taped a poster of Paul Newman from "Cool Hand Luke" on the bathroom door. I thought it was because she liked his salad dressing
------------- Ron & Sharon 2015 R-Pod 179 2022 Nissan Frontier No trees were harmed in the sending of this message but a billion electrons were really agitated |
Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 4:42pm
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Another question I think you have to ask yourselves. Why are you camping? Do you want to be "with" the great outdoors. Campfires in the evening, hiking, sitting outside watching nature. Or, do you prefer being entertained? TV, eating and relaxing inside, etc. Our choice for a number of reasons was the 171. Only the two of us, and Gracie. We enjoy sitting outside, chatting with neighbors, occasional hikes, and communing with nature. We even special ordered our Pod without a tv or antenna. Reading a good book, getting some sun, these are the reasons we have a 171. We have an easy-up for the occasional rainy day. We can sit under it and enjoy the rain. I have to admit here in Oregon, we don't have those pesky mosquitoes, that make the outside screened porch a must. Examine what kind of camping you want and that will help you make a decision. Save Travels.
------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: TheBum
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 4:49pm
| We considered the 180 for the bigger bathroom, but that didn't leave much room for "lounging" area. Also, my wife has knee problems and typically uses a shower seat, so a wet bath was ideal for her. The choice then came down to the 178 or 179 and we chose the 179 for the counter space and storage space. |
Posted By: Camper Bob
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 4:54pm
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Sounds like you made the right choice for you. Safe Travels. ------------- Camper Bob and Camper Sue Gracie the Wonder Dog (12 LB. Mini Dachshund) 2013 Rpod 171HRE(ORPod) 2016 Lance 1685 2015 Nissan Pathfinder |
Posted By: jato
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 5:28pm
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Camper Bob, We are in the same thought as you as to why we camp. Also special ordered ours so it did NOT have A/C, entertainment center, microwave/convection oven. Since we dry camp a lot and electricity is not available we figured, why carry all this excess if it doesn't get used. So far after 5 years there has been a total of 2 times we thought it would have been nice to have A/C, but since we were in an area that didn't have electricity, it became a moot issue. Yes we camp to explore God's great outdoors. Even if it is cold and raining we would still rather hike than sit inside. We go pretty basic and feel pretty spoiled with our 177 as it was a HUGE upgrade from tenting and pop-up camping which we were used to. ------------- God's pod '11 model 177 '17 Ford F-150 4WD 3.5 Ecoboost Jim and Diane by beautiful Torch Lake "...and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." |
Posted By: Patriot Dave
Date Posted: 02 Mar 2016 at 5:33pm
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Now thats got me to thinking ................ just maybe i could hang a Shania Twain poster.. LOL ------------- Dave & Joyce Never Forget, In God We Trust; This Our National Motto. Member; Patriot Guard Riders, Michigan Chapter Retired; So Every Day is Saturday.... Except Sunday |
Posted By: julieboyles
Date Posted: 06 May 2016 at 1:46pm
| I'm nearly ready to jump in to the R-pod world and purchase a 177 or 178; also trying to decide between new or 1-4 years old. I'm mid-50s, often work through the Internet, will be traveling alone with times with my adult daughter and/or two grandkiddos, and I don't know **** about any of this except for the research I've done. Nevertheless, I'm ready for this and have the feeling inside that this is my next path. Why buy the 177 vs. 178 (or vice versa) and why buy used vs. new (or vice versa)? I'm expecting I'll be in it at least a month or two at a time or could even do longer. When I have to be in Portland, I can always go out for long 4-day weekends (but will have to park it at a lot as I live in a tiny, downtown Portland condo). Any thoughts--appreciated. The resources and help on this forum have also helped convince me that an R-pod is the way to go. |
Posted By: julieboyles
Date Posted: 06 May 2016 at 1:50pm
| Camper Bob, I sent you a PM as you, too, are a Portlander and I was hoping for some advice. But also, what's an "easy-up"--probably a pop-up awning thing? Why that instead of an R-dome? I'm guessing because it's "easy" to put up? I'm wondering if I'd want an R-dome or simple awning--thoughts? |
Posted By: Pnew40
Date Posted: 06 May 2016 at 5:02pm
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My husband and I visited locales dealerships several times to make up our minds on either the 179 or 180. We kept changing our minds ! We did sit in both each time counting all the pros and cons. We end up buying the 180. Each had its plus and minuses. We almost purchased thev179 for its extra storage , larger dinette capable as another sleeping area for grand children when they are older. And yes the kitchen has quite the prep space. Ultimately we went with the 180 for its r pod small but more open layout. We liked sitting with better back support , able to look out at nature with our coffee etc. It has less storage, but more Windows for viewing and airflow. Felt less boxed in. The dry bath is nice for sure...but we will use campground shower when ever available as others have stated. So ...it was the more open floor plan, and table better for enjoying the view that sold us...That said....I still like thev179 too lol. If only I could meld the two ! ------------- Pat & Bill Upstate New York |
Posted By: jato
Date Posted: 06 May 2016 at 8:39pm
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Can't speak for the 178 but we have thoroughly enjoyed our 177 for the past 5 plus years. The slide for the kitchen area is a huge plus for more spaciousness/room. Have never gone more than 2 weeks at a time, work prevents me from taking more time off but am sure I could easily get used to spending more time in it. Did have to replace the mattress after our third trip, was totally worthless, ended up with a Eurotop, and still have it today, an excellent, comfortable mattress. We have had more than the two of us in it at one time, it works, the kiddo's love it! We dry camp a lot so we use our 2 deep cycle marine batteries a lot and since a lot of our camping is done in the off season, we also have (2) 20 lb propane cylinders.
------------- God's pod '11 model 177 '17 Ford F-150 4WD 3.5 Ecoboost Jim and Diane by beautiful Torch Lake "...and you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." |
Posted By: Pea Pod
Date Posted: 21 May 2016 at 11:20am
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Why can't I insert my cursor w/o the emoticons ???? ********* 179 ********** The only usable kitchen space, counter and 'big' storage cabinets nearby. I rest my case !!! xoxoxoxoxox |
Posted By: Jewel59
Date Posted: 22 May 2016 at 7:34am
For me it was a decision between the 180 and the 180G. I went with the 180. I got my Rpod to take to dog shows. I needed a decent bathroom because handler needs to look decent  ! Also, there might be times I need to bathe the dogs in the shower (chihuahuas, so small and quick). I do not love the smaller seating space and overtime I hope that doesn't bother me. I didn't need a bed other than queen so that wasn't a factor. I like the mini wardrobe for my show clothes. The back garage would have been a perfect place for prepping/grooming the dogs but the R-dome and my grooming table provides a good space too. I pick it up on Monday with the maiden voyage for a show Memorial Day weekend. I hope I made a good choice. Sure beats the expense of hotels and being right at the show site will be so handy. I hope the air conditioning is reliable. I live in the south and will use it constantly.
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Posted By: Jewel59
Date Posted: 22 May 2016 at 7:43am
I'm just a hair over 50 and a female who will mostly use it on my own. In my area there are next to no used rpods. The few I have seen are just a couple thousand less than the new ones. I was able to get a good deal on a new 2016 180 just this month (likely because the 2017s are out). You might be able to get a deal on a 2016 if you can find one.
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Posted By: Pnew40
Date Posted: 22 May 2016 at 8:31am
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Have fun with your new 180! We just picked up our 180 last Tuesday. We love it. Having fun finding all the stuff we want to stock it with. We are dog people, used to show goldens in conformation and obedience, more recently agility with our two over sized toy poodles. We don't show anymore, but we've said that this model would have been great to have for our agility days. Now my guys will enjoy camping and traveling . :) ------------- Pat & Bill Upstate New York |
Posted By: Jewel59
Date Posted: 22 May 2016 at 9:54am
Awww, someone who know the madness of dog shows! Looking forward to ditching hotels and thankfully chihuahuas are the smallest breed....so the Rpod works!
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Posted By: Pnew40
Date Posted: 22 May 2016 at 10:01am
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You will love it! My two boys , 7 and 10 pounds think it's great now without having even left the drive with it yet lol ------------- Pat & Bill Upstate New York |
Posted By: beaster
Date Posted: 27 May 2016 at 11:15am
| we have a 182g, we keep the table down all of the time, the bunks are great for storage. We love the garage in the back this where all of our cooking utensils, condiments, wrap, food,etc is stored. Plus when traveling all of the chairs, tables, wood is kept. this is my forth TT and the smallest, we never cooked or hung out inside, just slept and used the bathroom. Even if it is raining we are under the trailer or table canopy. |
Posted By: TigerPawd
Date Posted: 27 May 2016 at 3:23pm
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On the wet bath, we got some spray Rain-X and worked over the walls in the john with it. It's been over a year and the water still beads up and runs down immediately. We still squeegee the walls after a shower, but the Rain-X helps make quick work of that.
------------- Joan, Jerry and the two Pugs 2015 R-Pod 179 |
Posted By: Leo B
Date Posted: 27 May 2016 at 4:51pm
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Good tip!, ------------- Leo & Melissa Bachand 2017 Ford F150 2021 Vista Cruiser 19 csk Previously owned 2015 Rpod 179 2010 Rpod 171 |
Posted By: ron/roscoe
Date Posted: 06 Jun 2016 at 4:27pm
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My wife and I had many rv's over the past 25 years. I am 71 years old, wife is 66. We decided on the Rpod 178 after looking at several. We recently took our 2 year old grand daughter on her first camping in the pod, eat a blast we had. Both beds were comfortable. A bit more work to set up but worth it. We love the layout. It even has a closet! Either way, you will have a great time in any pod. ------------- Ron Rowland |