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  • 2025 Grech RV Strada-Ion Lounge Review

    2025 Grech RV Strada-Ion Lounge Review

    If you’re looking for a luxurious Class B whose features and quality of build surpasses industry standards, you’re going to like what you see in the Grech RV Strada-ion. This smooth-riding motorhome is built on a diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. It’s fully electric, powered by a quiet lithium-ion battery energy storage system. And, maybe best of all, the craftsmanship found in the Strada-ion is backed by one of the most responsive customer service experiences we’ve ever heard of. (More on that at the end.)

    The Strada-ion comes in two unique floor plans: Lounge and Tour. Both floorplans are incredibly luxurious, but each is designed to meet the needs of a particular RV user. This model, the Strada-ion Lounge, is the people mover of the pair, seating up to nine passengers. The Strada-ion Tour seats up to seven. (See our review of the Strada-ion Tour.) Each floor plan is a fully featured statement of Grech RV’s dedication to superior design and outstanding build quality.

    Let’s talk more about what makes the Strada-ion Lounge stand out.

    At a Glance: Strada-Ion Lounge

    Check Some Specs

     

    Chassis: Fully optioned, diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 170-inch EXT

    Available in all wheel drive (AWD)

    Length (Exterior): 24 feet 2 inches

    Height (Exterior): 9 feet 11 inches

    Width (Exterior): 6 feet 8 inches

    Fresh/Gray/Black: 26/27/13 gallons

    Seating Capacity: 9

    Sleeping Capacity: 2 comfortably

     

    Features We Love

    • Hand-built birch plywood cabinets provide ample storage
    • Pop-up counter for additional counter space for remote work
    • Separate back and front areas
    • Comfortable memory foam seating and bed
    • Firefly Integrations touchscreen control panel (or phone app) for all functions
    • Two Lagun tables (rear lounge and front-seating area)
    • Two TVs
    • Power screens on doors
    • Rear windows that open
    • All electric, no propane
    • 300W solar power system
    • 1260 amp hours of Lithium-ion battery storage
    • 3000W Inverter
    • Whisper-quiet air conditioner (you’ll barely notice it)
    • Outdoor shower
    • Macerator
    • 5,000-pound towing capacity (with hidden tow hitch)

     

    Benefits

    • Great floorplan with two separate areas
    • Quality build
    • Looks like a passenger van from the outside
    • Two entertainment areas with Bluetooth for headsets
    • No need for propane
    • Generous tank sizes and macerator
    • Energy system capable of keeping you powered for six days off-grid
    • Dog-friendly

     

    Challenges

    • It’s a class B, so it’s a smaller RV space. You can travel with nine, but there’s not space to sleep nine. For short trips, that’s no problem. For longer trips with a bigger crowd, you’ll need to make accommodations, to camp outdoors, or to convoy with another RV.
    • There’s no outdoor storage for easy access to items like camping chairs or anything else you might be accustomed to store there. All storage is within the cabin.

     

    Who Is This For?

    • RVers who want to tailgate or travel with friends. Its power gives it the versatility to go off-road, but as a Class B, it’s equally primed for adventures in the city — especially with its luxurious look.
    • Perfect for grandparents who want to take family members on short road trips or adventures.
    • It’s an exquisite fit for weekend trips where you want to head out — in luxury. You know, golf excursions and wine-tasting tours with a select group of friends.

     

    How We Did This Review

    RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. And they gave us the six key areas: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, kitchen, four-season capability, and storage space. So, you’ll find those categories every RV review. Also, we know RV buyers want to base purchase decisions on unbiased assessments, so RV Trader has committed to independently assess each RV we review.

    To evaluate the Strada-ion Lounge, we assigned an expert Rver (that’s me, Lynne) to visit Grech RV in Riverside, California. While there, I carefully examined the Strada-ion Lounge in person. I thoroughly examined everything about this model to come up with an objective, unbiased review that would look at the key areas that shoppers want to learn more about when researching which RV to buy.

    So let’s dive in.

     

    Sleeping Area

    At the back of the Strada-ion Lounge, you’ll find a lounge area consisting of a very comfortable sofa and two ottomans. When it’s time for bed, you just click a button on the Firefly controller — or just as easily with the phone app — and everything effortlessly transforms into a surprisingly comfortable 66-inch by 76-inch bed. If you like to watch a show to unwind before falling asleep, the Strada-ion has you covered. There’s a 24-inch LED TV with Blu-ray as well as a fantastic soundbar. You’ll also find 110V power outlets and USB charging outlets with places to stash your electronics while they charge.

    One of the features unique to all of 2024 Grech RVs (and beyond) is a power screen that drops down over the rear doorway. That way you can enjoy sleeping with that fresh open-air feeling — without being bothered by bugs.

     

    Bathroom

    The Strada-ion Lounge has a space-conscious wet bath that’s packed with features that blend practicality and luxury. To start with, wet baths can often feel a bit claustrophobic. So, even a gentle touch can go a long way. The Strada-ion gives a perfect example, putting a window in the bathroom that’s hidden from the outside. It’s also outfitted with a ceramic flush toilet which gives it a homelike feel. (And it’s easier to clean than the plastic toilets that are frequently used in RVs.) Other cool features in the bathroom of the Strada-ion Lounge are:

    • Great lighting
    • Pullout mirror for shaving or makeup
    • Faucet that converts to a showerhead
    • Hooks to hang towels and washcloths
    • Easy-to-clean surfaces
    • Manual pull-down window shade
    • Cloth shower curtain
    • Large mirror that can be used outside the bathroom when door is open
    • Protected toilet tissue holder

     

    Living Area

    Aside from the lounge area at the back of the RV — with its own Lagun style table — the Strada-ionon Lounge has four captain’s chairs at the front that swivel and adjust so everyone can sit around a Lagun table that can be quickly set up as needed. But that’s not all. The seat closest to the door can be positioned to use the flip up countertop as an additional work surface.

    Grech RV has also taken into account the diverse entertainment requirements of families that travel together. There are two 24-inch LED TVs: one at the front and one in the lounge area. Both TVs are Bluetooth enabled, so passengers can connect without disturbing others in the RV.

    The practicality of this floor plan is also very impressive. It’s laid out so people can relax in the rear lounge area while others can work at the front. That’s especially beneficial if remote work is a part of your lifestyle — or even if you just need to catch up on email. This can all be done with the door wide open because Grech RV provides a screen door to protect you from any insects that might like to wander in.

    The Fun Continues Outside

    Grech RV also added an integrated power awning with adjustable awning lights that allows you to relax outside the RV. (And no, the Strada-ion will not allow you to drive off with the awning out.) Delightful features simply abound. Who wouldn’t love the power shade at the back of the RV that doubles as a movie screen (if you have a projector) for movie nights? All 2025 Grech RV models have that.

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen area of the Strada-ion Lounge has a lot of features that we’ve become accustomed to finding in larger RVs. There’s a lot to love in this functional kitchen. Here’s what I mean:

    • Massive pantry
    • Two-burner induction stove
    • Combination microwave/convection/airfryer
    • Large, farmhouse-style sink with pull-out faucet
    • Quartz countertop
    • Faucet with pull-out sprayer
    • Refrigerator/freezer combo
    • Oodles of cabinet storage (we always love that!)
    • A handy flip-out storage spot for pot scrubbers and other dishwashing tools

     

    Four-Season Capability

    Like all the Grech RVs, the Strada-ion Lounge boasts multiple layers of insulation in its floors, walls, and ceilings as well as heated freshwater and gray water tanks. While this helps occupants to stay comfortable, Grech RV spokesperson John Black is quick to point out that these RVs are not designed to be used in extreme cold (e.g., a Canadian winter). However, these RVs will keep you comfortable for four seasons where winter temperatures are milder. So, the Strada-ion Lounge is probably better classified as a three-and-a-half-season camper.

    One of the greatest elements of weatherproofing for the Strada-ion though is common to all Grech RVs: the quality of the build itself. Because access points, like its all-inclusive utility center, are prebuilt into the design, nothing is drilled into the side. Nothing’s been cut out. No saw has touched it. Which means that leak points common to most Class Bs (and lots of RVs) simply don’t exist in the Strada-ion Lounge.

    Storage

    We humans sure like to bring stuff with us when we travel. But that’s a particular challenge for most Class Bs. Where can you put stuff so it stays organized enough that you can find it? Grech ensures there’s plenty of space for storage in the cabin with an abundance of hand-crafted solid hardwood cabinets found all throughout the Lounge. (We were also pleasantly surprised to see plenty of shelves and cubbies where a book or iPad could be stashed right where we’d need them.)

    Although the Lounge has no basement storage for camping gear like chairs or grills, it’s spacious enough that there’s a lot of places to stash these items when you’re traveling. Especially for a Class B.

    You Should Also Know

    The Strada-ion Lounge Is Fun to Drive

    A test drive of the Strada reconfirmed our love for its powerful, fun-to-drive Mercedes-Benz diesel chassis. It’s worth mentioning that Grech outfits the chassis with every available option, which makes driving the Lounge nothing less than joyful. The raised driving position and expansive windows offer an impressive view of the road. All controls are within easy reach, including an on-board navigation system that was easy to operate. Apart from that, this vehicle handled beautifully. It was remarkably responsive and had sometimes surprising acceleration.

    Favorite Driving Features

    • Fantastic visibility of the road from the driver’s position
    • Easy-to-operate navigation system
    • Great stereo
    • Backup camera
    • Rain sensors
    • Parking sensors
    • Super comfortable captain’s chair with fully customizable seat and back positions with three preset controls for individual drivers

     

    The Overall Build Quality Stands Out

    Each element that goes into the Strada-ion Lounge contributes to an RVing experience that is carefree and absolutely perfect. (Honestly, it’s easy to get carried away.) Every detail here has been thought out with the goal of providing a premium RVing experience. It’s little things, like a painted cap for your awning and the roof A/C painted to match the exterior. It’s even unseen things. A look underneath the Strada-ion Lounge reveals stainless steel brackets, perfect welds, and not a bolt out of place. To make sure they don’t detract from that, all the holding tanks have been 3D printed to spec, offering a precision fit beneath the RV. It’s all part of a meticulous approach to building RVs that will last for years without any of the issues RVs are commonly prone to.

     

    A Giant Grech RV Takeaway

    Grech Motors is a relative newcomer to the RV industry. However, this family-owned company has been making sought after luxury limousines and buses for more than 40 years. So Grech RV had time to develop its luxury vehicle game long before jumping into the RV market in 2021.

    Right from the start, Grech RV did away with most of the pain-points that RVers often have with Class B RVs. Grech RV raised the bar for the RV industry within a few short years of its entry into the RV industry with its quick response to customer concerns and outstanding commitment to both quality and customer service — a huge and often overlooked differentiator in the industry.

    If a Grech RV customer has an issue with their RV, they are advised to give Grech RV — not their dealer —the first call. (They even provide you with a personal number.) That kind of responsive customer service enables Grech RV to diagnose over 90 percent of problems without an owner ever having to waste time, money, or energy with maintenance. And if maintenance is required, Grech RV helps arrange for an approved technician to fix it right away. It’s a level of customer care that’s unusual in an industry where RV owners too often find themselves waiting for months for service when something goes amiss. And it’s the kind of service we’d love to see the entire RV industry match.

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Strada

     

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    What Other Campers Are Saying

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  • Taking a Closer Look at Chase and Lindsay’s Keystone Fuzion 424

    Taking a Closer Look at Chase and Lindsay’s Keystone Fuzion 424

    If you’re active in the RVing social media community, you might be familiar with Chase and Lindsay (@wereoutnabout), two traveling nurses who are happily married and own two RVs – one for full-time living, and one for weekend adventures. Their nomadic lifestyle has allowed them to explore 30+ states together with their camping cat, Moka. 

    If you’re interested in learning more about Chase and Lindsay’s Keystone Fuzion 424, here’s a deep-dive into some of the RV’s amazing features. 

    Features That Chase and Lindsay Love 

    The Toy Hauler Garage

    This versatile space can easily transform from an office to a nursery to a master or guest bedroom or even a gym. You’re not stuck with a certain layout – the room can transform easily within minutes.

    Two Bathrooms

    There’s a master bathroom connected to the main bedroom and a second bathroom off of the garage, making it a much more convenient space to share and host their guests. 

    Patio Space

    With two patios on the Keystone Fuzion 424, the additional living space provides multiple private areas to relax and unwind. There’s a deck coming off of the back and one coming off the side. These patios further increase the amount of living space in the RV. They also make it so that if there is limited space in a parking spot where you aren’t able to use the back patio, you can still utilize the side patio. 

    The Kitchen

    As travel nurses, Chase and Linsday do a lot of meal prepping at home, so they wanted a full fridge, large cooking appliances, and plenty of counter space which this unit provides and then some. There’s also a hidden pantry behind the RVs television, which comes in handy for extra storage. 

    The Living Room

    The living room is open and comfortable. All four seats recline, and the middle two flip down with cup holders and charging stations, so it’s easy to relax and get work done.

    Feels Like Home

    Lindsay stressed that living in their Keystone Fuzion 424 doesn’t really feel like you’re living in an RV. It feels like an actual home, especially because of how spacious the RV is. The size of the RV can sometimes make navigating through and parking at campsites, state parks, and national parks difficult, but to Chase and Lindsay, it’s ultimately worth it. 

    Water and Electric

    This particular RV is four seasons compatible. It features an on-demand hot water heater, which both travelers love because they are never without hot water. It also has 3 ACs, so it’s easy to stay cool and comfortable during the summer. For the colder winter months, there’s an electric fireplace and propane heater to keep warm. 

    Additional Sleeping Space

    When it comes to additional sleeping space, this unit provides plenty with bunk beds in the toy hauler garage,a couch in the living room, and a loft in the kitchen (which can also be used for storage). 

    Storage Space

    There’s plenty of space to store belongings in this unit including the bedroom, in the closet, under the bed, and inside drawers. The toy hauler garage also doubles as storage if not being utilized for additional living space.

    In Command Control Center App

    Using this app, Chase and Lindsay can access and control almost every feature of their RV, no matter where they are in the country. 

    Appliances

    The Keystone Fuzion 424 has a washer and dryer, so you can do laundry from the comfort of your own home. There’s also an on-board generator, which is perfect for boondocking or going off-grid. The RV is also equipped with solar panels and inverted outlets so the RV can power up, even without electric hookups. 

    Plenty of Versatility 

    This RV is a great unit for couples or families, both large and small. It’s also great for weekend warriors who are active because of the spacious toy hauler garage. 

    The Keystone Fuzion 424 has the power to store and haul even your heaviest toys, such as dirt bikes and ATVs, and can comfortably sleep several people. Featuring a side patio off the living room, this RV is perfect for travelers who enjoy sitting outside and enjoying the weather while parked at camp. The interior has a spacious and open concept, with plenty of room to hit the road with family and friends. For those who are interested in pursuing RV life, this toy hauler is a perfect option to get started. 

    If you’re ready to start browsing the marketplace, visit RVTrader.com to search through our inventory of new and used motorhomes. 

  • RV Open House: 2024 Chinook Maverick Preview

    RV Open House: 2024 Chinook Maverick Preview

    By Tony Barthel
    Podcaster, Content Creator, StressLess Camper

    The Chinook Maverick SS is a new RV offering from a familiar name that’s making a statement for the brand and vehicle type. This independent RV company has persevered through ups and downs in the market since they were founded in 1938, and today they offer something truly unique. RV Trader is giving you an exclusive look at what the 2024 edition of this top model has for RV enthusiasts.

    The Maverick SS is a Class C RV based on the Ford Transit cutaway chassis outfitted with all-wheel-drive. It’s also one of the few RVs that has achieved a gold rating in Truma’s climate testing chamber. 

    Hot and Cold Camping Champion

    In an earlier conversation with Jeff Butler, the CEO of Chinook, he stated, “We wanted to achieve the four season gold standard by Truma. We’re the only manufacturer to achieve that standard.” Butler added, “It’s a big deal for us, and we work hard to achieve that.” 

    The Truma test sets a pretty grueling standard. First, you put the motorhome into a cold chamber with all the doors and windows open to “cold soak” it. Once the whole thing gets to -15°C (-5°F), they then close the doors and windows and turn on the heater in the rig, while it remains in the cold chamber. 

    To qualify for gold status a camper has to get up to 20°C (68°F) in 4 hours, but the Maverick did so in 3 hours and 20 minutes. Impressively, its heater kept going and going. 

    There are a lot of people who ask me for a vehicle recommendation to camp in cold weather for winter RVing. The combination of all-wheel-drive and the ability to recover from extreme temperatures definitely puts this rig on the list. In fact, there’s even a compartment where the water connections are heated and insulated. 

    Build Quality 

    This rig really stands out when you consider the materials that were used to build it. Of course, it starts with the steel frame of the Transit cutaway, but Chinook then adds a steel cage structure in the back. From there, the walls of the RV are sheets of aluminum rather than fiberglass, which is only used on the roof.

    Aside from the different exterior, the cabinetry, including its cabinet doors, are all cut from a single piece of wood. All the joints on the cabinets are dovetail joints, and the material is genuine plywood.

    Another thing to note in this rig are the walls, which are a padded vinyl material. This is a nice, soft material that also absorbs sound and helps with insulation. It’s up on the ceiling, too. Maverick’s Truma Combi dual-purpose water heater and furnace also helped earn its hot/cold rating. Everything considered, it’s a great, compact unit. 

    Unique Layout 

    One of the most unique aspects of this rig is the overall layout. While the majority of motorized and towable RVs have a campside entry, this one has a back door instead. This is where you’ll find a single-piece flip-over step for easy access. You’ll also find a flip-down door that provides access to a shallow cabinet, but can serve as a table should you want to bring the induction cooktop outdoors.

    RV Meal Prep

    The portable induction cooktop is the only stovetop in this rig, which is another great feature for campers. It makes cooking easier and cleaner, especially when venting air in your RV. And if you feel like whipping up a quick meal, you’ll also find a microwave. Another nice accent, the stainless steel sheets on the back and side of the cooktop encircle the large kitchen sink on the other side of this coach.

    Refrigeration comes from a three-way gas absorption refrigerator, which is a rare sight of late. Furthermore, this fancy reefer has doors that open toward the front and back so you can access it easily from either side. 

    A single induction cooktop in the 2024 Chinook Maverick MB360

    Bathroom

    The bathroom is essentially a two-part situation with a campside shower. The toilet and sink are behind a proper door on the opposite side of the rig. 

    Sleeping Arrangements

    Some refer to this RV type as a B+, while others call it a Class C. It gets the B+ categorization because there is no provision for sleeping over the van cab. The main space features a couch roadside and a tiny dinette campside. You can also get this model as the “DS,” which would be a double sofa where there’s a couch on both sides. 

    With the Maverick, you can fold the sofa flat, which creates a larger bed that could fit two. If you want more surface area, you can push down the dinette table to make enough room for a twin-sized bed. If you find this troublesome, check out these great solutions to make RV beds easy to use.

    Entertainment

    There’s a TV and entertainment area over the cab of this rig, if you feel like relaxing. It’s a nice addition when you’re camping out and staying inside during a rainy day.

    Boondocking and Travel Access

    This RV has no slide, and while that may be a disadvantage in some RVs, this model is spacious enough inside that it’s not really a drawback. While it comes with electric cooking appliances, there is a 4,000-watt gas generator on board, too. They also have a 3,000-watt inverter with solar on the roof, and four AGM batteries. Overall, this RV is well suited for boondocking. 

    Final Thoughts

    I like this RV quite a bit! The floorplan is very usable for two people and the build quality is great. Chinook has taken advantage of its solid reputation and signature styling cues, like the rear-slanted trapezoidal side windows. There are also three rather large (for a Class B) storage bays on the outside and a surprising amount of cabinet and closet space inside. 

    Considering that there are plenty of Class B RVs in the same general price league as this unit, I wouldn’t hesitate to get the Chinook instead. You have much of the same drivability and maneuverability in this rig, but far more storage space both inside and out. There’s also a usable bathroom and shower, along with a good seating area. 

    No matter what type of RV you’re after, we have what you’re looking for. See our nationwide selection of new and used recreational vehicles online at RVTrader.com.

    This is an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider Tony Barthel, where you learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A RVs, Class C RVs, and Class B RVs, as well as some interesting class-breaking RVs. Tony also writes for StressLessCamping.com.

  • RV Open House: 2024 Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia Preview

    RV Open House: 2024 Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia Preview

    By Tony Barthel
    Podcaster, Content Creator, StressLess Camper

    RV Trader is taking a closer look at some of the newest models arriving on the market in 2024, and there’s plenty to be excited about with innovative designs, new features, and more! This next RV review is for the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia. As I drove around RV Open House, where the RV industry shares the latest and greatest with dealers, the Patagonia model was something that stood out. This RV seems perfectly prepared for the kind of adventure that you can find in movies, and it’s certainly unlike anything else at the show. So, what’s all the noise about?

    Shop for new and used campers for sale online.

    What is the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia?

    Global Expedition Vehicles is a company that specializes in extreme overlanding RVs for those who have a serious lust for adventure and are working with a bigger budget. The company makes a variety of overlanding RVs that are much more than just a solar package or simple vehicle. The Patagonia is a custom-made RV that allows each shopper the ability to customize features and components in their specialized build. 

    The model that was at the Open House actually belongs to a company owner that uses it for their personal adventures and was based on a Kenworth cab-over chassis. Yep, that Kenworth. They don’t mess around. 

    The process to produce an RV for Global Express Vehicles involves learning more about what a specific customer wants and needs. They ask questions about their RVing experience, where they want to go, and what they want to accomplish with the vehicle. They want to know if one’s anticipated adventure is domestic or around the globe.

    From there, they start the design process. No good house is built on a weak foundation, so the company modifies the underpinnings of the truck so that it’s capable of off-road challenges. Part of this modification includes a front axle system designed by Global Expedition Vehicles so that the whole rig is incredibly capable off-road. 

    What’s Inside

    The company’s RVs tend to follow a common floor plan so they can work within the structure and build of a model. This means a bed across the rear of the vehicle, kitchen on the roadside, and dining on the campside. 

    The bed is a raised affair, so there’s plenty of storage underneath. While the vehicles are all spacious, they’re not as large as many other types of RVs, so you can still travel and fit within somewhat narrow spaces.

    The bed space of the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia
    Looking into the Kenworth cab of the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia

    These rigs also feature a wet bath, which includes a shower and a toilet in the same room. The toilets are also typically cartridge-style, which can be more convenient. Interiors can be almost as stark or lavish as you desire. The owner’s model I walked around featured tile floors and nice upholstery. This is the advantage of each unit being the customized vision of each specific customer. 

    Another nice thing is that the company makes the body portion of the RV “float” so that bumps and shakes on the road don’t transition as much as you’d think to the body of the rig. That’s how you can get something with tile floors that’s also very capable off-road. 

    Co-owner of the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia Rene Van Pelt in the kitchen space
    The living space of the Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia

    More Capability

    These are some of the most versatile vehicles coming to the market, in my opinion. For example, the one I saw had 200 gallons of diesel fuel on board, along with a 6,500-watt diesel generator. The interior featured all electric appliances, including a Vitrifrigo 12-volt, drawer-style refrigerator, and cooking was done with an induction cooktop. There was also a microwave and air fryer, which a number of RV companies are beginning to put into their rigs.

    The company uses Mastervolt battery and inverter systems, which come from the marine industry and are among the best available. They were pioneers in adapting these marine systems to RVs, and now a number of RV brands have started implementing them. 

    Winches, giant tires, brush guards, traction assist boards, and so many other things can also be incorporated into a build. 

    Something new with this RV that I haven’t seen with other vehicles yet is a storage garage where you can keep your dirt bike. This is a design feature that makes sense for extreme weather or off-road conditions, where you can drop your dirt bike off and scout out an area first before you take your RV on a secluded trail or try to boondock.

    The dirt bike is on a tray, and there’s a hoist to get it up and into the cargo bay, which is under the bed in the back of an enclosed compartment. That same hoist is how you’d raise and lower the spare tire for this rig.

    Find your next new or pre-owned motorhome for sale online.

    Final Takeaways

    As you might expect, these are expensive RVs. They start around $750,000 and can get closer to the $1 million mark. You can also spend that much on a Class A diesel pusher, but those are not necessarily meant to be taken off-road. The Global Expedition Vehicles Patagonia can prove to be a good choice for those who want to simultaneously enjoy luxury and embark on a serious adventure.

    When you’re ready to shop for your next vehicle, check out a nationwide selection on the RV Trader marketplace at RVTrader.com.

    This is an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider Tony Barthel, where you learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A RVs, Class C RVs, and Class B RVs, as well as some interesting class-breaking RVs. Tony also writes for StressLessCamping.com.

  • RV Open House: 2024 Rockwood GeoPro 15FD Preview

    RV Open House: 2024 Rockwood GeoPro 15FD Preview

    Guest Post By Tony Barthel
    Podcaster, Content Creator, StressLess Camper

    To continue RV Trader’s exciting series of new releases showcased at the RV Open House event, we’re taking a look at the Rockwood GeoPro G15FD. This trailer is the perfect solution for those who want a small, lightweight trailer with a dry bath. 

    You might think this is similar to a pickup camper with a set of wheels under the camper and a trailer hitch. In many ways, the layout of this trailer is just like that idea. Essentially, there’s a dinette/bed at the front, a toilet and shower on the roadside, and kitchen on the campside. 

    While this model’s specifications have yet to be determined, the similarly-sized Rockwood GeoPro G15FBS comes in at about 3,450 pounds (with a 498 pound tongue weight), making it very towable by midsize pickups and some SUVs.

    Think Differently

    Typically, RV life comes with a few realities. There are the higher-end RVs that have luxurious features, and there are the more affordable ones that give RVers an eventual desire to upgrade. Typically, the less expensive offerings are the ones that utilize lower-quality materials.

    When Rockwood introduced the GeoPro line, their research showed a market for a smaller trailer that still retained the signature quality features that Rockwood is known for. So, that means that these are smaller and more affordable units than larger members of the Rockwood family, but they’re not cheap. They’re also not cheaply built. 

    For example, they still incorporate walls that use aluminum framing and a vacuum construction that features an Azdel substrate on both the interior and exterior. Azdel is a man-made material that is produced in the United States and is not damaged by water. It also offers great insulation and soundproof properties. 

    Wherever there’s a structural element inside these trailers, Rockwood also favors a welded aluminum cage structure to make them more durable – but also lighter. Typically, most RVs (even higher-end models) feature a less-expensive wood structure. 

    These trailers also incorporate torsion axle suspension and high-quality tires with tire pressure monitoring systems. The torsion axle suspension means less jarring, which means less shaking on the road. 

    There are also frameless windows, as well as a vacuum bonded roof structure. In other words, many of the build features are as good, and in some cases, better than some larger trailers – which is why the company had to expand their operation when the GeoPro line took off. 

    What’s Inside

    In a trailer this size, a few things took me by surprise. The first of those was the dry bath. Small trailers typically have a wet bath, where the toilet is essentially in the shower. For those who want to maximize space and time, this might not be an issue. But some RVers don’t like the idea of a wet bath. 

    Rockwood pulled off a dry bath by making the shower a separate space from the toilet. That means the shower is basically in the body of the trailer rather than in the bathroom. The shower also has a hanging storage bag, which you can use for additional storage space. 

    The toilet is in its own room, which it shares with a flip-up sink. I like this idea because many smaller trailers don’t have sinks in the bathroom, so this was a good compromise. 

    The Kitchen 

    I mentioned two surprises. The second is the kitchen, where you’ll find a respectable amount of kitchen counter space. In fact, this model has more kitchen cabinet and drawer storage than my first travel trailer – which was notably larger than this one.

    Another thing I didn’t expect is a three-burner propane cooktop with a 22” oven. This is something you only expect in larger RVs, so the fact that it’s in here means you could actually use it to bake real meals and desserts. 

    Sit And Sleep

    When you’ve got something of this size, you’ll have to make compromises – and that might be the bed area. 

    By day, there’s a two-person dinette in the front of the trailer. At night, a platform drops down so the space becomes a 54” X 74” Murphy bed. This would be a nice space for a single camper and a cozy one for two campers.

     

    The front of the GeoPro G15FD features a table along with a Murphy bed

    Boondocking, Travel Access, and Seasonal Camping

    The GeoPro line has been popular with those who like to get off the grid. With more aggressive tires (and the tire pressure monitoring system), this model can reach remote places. 

    Part of the appeal is the standard 200-watt solar panel (with a second panel as an option). For 2024, these come with an 1800-watt inverter, so should you choose to use a lithium battery or two, you could actually run some pretty sizable devices. Perhaps a coffee maker, for example. 

    The TVs that Rockwood includes with these are 12-volt models, so you won’t need the inverter to catch your favorite shows. 

    This trailer also incorporates a Shower Miser which routes the water coming to the shower back into the system so you don’t waste water waiting for it to get hot. This saves water when boondocking. 

    With no slide room in this trailer, it’s fully accessible – even for a mid-journey snack or bathroom break. Lastly, these incorporate 12-volt holding tank heaters, but to be cautious, I’d say this is a three-season camper. 

    Things to Consider 

    I mentioned that this is similar to a pickup camper on wheels with a tow hitch. This is best exemplified by the entry door, which is at the rear of the trailer. Essentially, that makes the whole thing sort of a hallway with the bathroom and shower roadside, the kitchen on the campside, and the bedroom at the front.

    But for people who want a very small camper with a dry bath, this is one of the most well-designed examples of that. 

    Like many RV brands, Forest River’s Rockwood GeoPro has a sister brand in the Flagstaff ePro line that is identical except for the name. So if your local dealership doesn’t carry Rockwood but carries Flagstaff, it’s the same product with a different label. 

    This review is based on a pre-production prototype I saw at the RV Open House event. Final details might be different. Pricing and specifications weren’t available when this article was written.

    This is an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider Tony Barthel, where you learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A RVs, Class C RVs, and Class B RVs, as well as some interesting class-breaking RVs. Tony also writes for StressLessCamping.com.

  • RV Open House: 2024 Continental Cargo Trailer Weekender Preview

    RV Open House: 2024 Continental Cargo Trailer Weekender Preview

    By Tony Barthel
    Podcaster, Content Creator, StressLess Camper

    There’s a lot happening in the world of RVs right now, with big releases from top brands as we go into 2024, and RV Trader is covering everything you need to know. Today’s RV review features a cargo trailer that can also serve as a travel trailer from Continental Cargo, one of the many brands under the Forest River umbrella. I was surprised to see what Continental Cargo had to offer at the RV Open House event, and there are plenty of reasons to be excited for their new releases.

    There’s a surprising number of people who convert simple cargo trailers to travel trailers for a variety of reasons, but most cargo trailers are built differently, which can make the task challenging. In the case of these Continental Cargo trailers, they’re framed with steel and have aluminum sheet walls on the outside. Travel trailers, on the other hand, are either wood-framed with aluminum skins, or have a laminate of aluminum framing with a fiberglass exterior. Cargo trailers also tend to have different roof structures than travel trailers.

    All of this considered, it can be challenging to convert a custom cargo trailer. I’ve considered building a custom trailer from a cargo trailer and even drew-up a floor plan. But then it became apparent that I had to wire and plumb the unit so that it could withstand the highways and byways of this beautiful country.

    So, I bought a traditional travel trailer instead—specifically a Rockwood Mini Lite 2205s with the Power Package. However, this new release from Continental Cargo makes trailer conversion difficulties a thing of the past. Continental Cargo can handle all the wiring that’s needed, including air conditioners and lighting. They also offer cabinetry and sleeping surfaces, and even offer pop-out tent-style sides that have beds, which was demonstrated at the Open House. 

    Shop for new and used campers for sale online.

    Advantages of a Cargo Trailer Camper

    One of the most obvious advantages of a cargo trailer camper is the fact that you can bring along larger toys, such as ATVs or motorcycles. If you’re into recreational off-road riding or biking, you may want to consider buying one and learning how to pull a trailer. 

    You could also use this trailer during the work week for professional uses and then reconfigure it for adventurous weekends. This was also demonstrated at the Open House, as the cargo trailer camper had a number of rails along the floor and walls with cabinetry that could be mounted. The nifty thing about this arrangement is that if you want the cabinet to sit vertically, then it’s possible. If you want it to sit horizontally, that works too, as these cabinets simply slot into the rails and lock down.

    If you decide that you need to add more cabinetry, you can easily arrange that after you’ve already logged some travel miles in one of these trailers. The ability to change things on the fly is a significant advantage. 

    A simple but useful front kitchen in the Continental Cargo travel trailer conversion

    The unit I saw was a V-nose trailer, and the kitchen was a cabinet that occupied the V in front. The kitchen featured an induction cooktop, microwave, and sink. There was also a fancy electric fireplace, one of the options I wouldn’t have considered in my own cargo trailer conversion, but something that adds a nice touch. 

    Another big appeal with this new Continental Cargo trailer configuration is the water system. It’s essentially a 5-gallon container for the incoming water, and a 5-gallon container to capture the gray water. That’s it. 

    When it’s time to pack up or winterize the trailer, it couldn’t be easier. You just dump any fresh water remaining in the container, and you’re done!

    Sleeping in a Cargo Trailer

    Continental Cargo has made a number of sleeping options available for fun and relaxing RV trips. One model on display at the event featured a loft on the roof. A portable, extendable ladder gives you access to the loft and can also be used outside the trailer to access the roof. I felt comfortable and stable climbing up to the rooftop loft, and I’m not always a fan of ladders. 

    A couch is available and the ladder provides access to the loft in the Continental Cargo Trailers Weekender

    These rooftop tents are becoming more common in a variety of vans and smaller trailers. This one, which you access from a hatch inside the trailer, was a nifty implementation. You can also get pop-out, tent-style hatches in the side of these trailers that have a bed in them. You can also opt for a bed on a power lift mechanism. You’ll also find folding couches on power lifts for extra seating or sleeping space. 

    More To Consider

    If you’re not set on an industrial interior feel, you can make some adjustments with a DIY project. I’ve seen some conversions where people have used real wood, or even wallpaper, to change this, which can happen with the right vision, some talent, and the time to put it together. 

    And even without a toilet or a shower, you can make some simple modifications. With my conversion, I bought a Camco portable toilet and a SylvanSport Privy Bivy shower tent. There are a number of portable outdoor showers you can use with this tent, too. 

    Find new and pre-owned RV trailers for sale online.

    Final Takeaway

    For the right RVer, a Continental Cargo Trailer can be an exceptional choice. Cargo tracks on the side can be good for both reconfigurable cabinets and managing loads inside the trailer. And, if you’d like to change additional aspects of the interior, you can put in some work to spruce it up. There’s also the appeal of the build quality, materials, and absolute simplicity that comes with more traditional travel trailers. 

    A power bed lift is one of the options in the Continental Cargo Trailers Weekender

    Whether you’re considering a new release from a top brand, or buying a pre-owned vehicle or trailer, RV Trader has you covered. Visit RVTrader.com for the nation’s largest marketplace to purchase your next RV.

    This is an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider Tony Barthel, where you learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A RVs, Class C RVs, and Class B RVs, as well as some interesting class-breaking RVs. Tony also writes for StressLessCamping.com.

  • RV Open House: 2024 Rockwood Signature 8338DB Preview

    RV Open House: 2024 Rockwood Signature 8338DB Preview

    Guest Post By Tony Barthel
    Podcaster, Content Creator, StressLess Camper

    Welcome to RV Trader’s exciting new series, where we review the newest and most innovative RV models showcased at the RV Open House event. Today’s RV review is of a forthcoming Rockwood Signature Ultra model, the 8338DB. This is a member of Rockwood’s Signature series, which are the larger travel trailer offerings. The signature feature of this RV is that it actually has two bedrooms, which can be great for couples traveling together or for those with older children.

    Rockwood Signature / Flagstaff Classic

    Rockwood has developed an enviable reputation as a manufacturer of quality trailers. Even during the pandemic, they maintained the same team that has worked for them for years. In fact, some of the team members are second-generation. This is not typical in the RV space and is a point of differentiation with Rockwood and Flagstaff. 

    Other things they do include fully laminating the walls, including the slide box walls, in a vacuum lamination process that includes Azdel, a man-made component that doesn’t deteriorate when wet. It also offers better sound and thermal insulation than the Luan that has been used in RVs for years. 

    Rockwood is also known for their torsion axle suspensions, Goodyear Endurance tires with tire pressure monitoring systems, frameless windows, laminated roof structure, high-quality cabinet shop, and much more. The brand has earned high marks for typically choosing better quality components when given the option. 

    Like many RV brands, Forest River’s Rockwood has a sister brand in the Flagstaff line that is identical except for the name. So if your local dealership doesn’t carry Rockwood but carries Flagstaff, it’s the same product with a different label. 

    Two Bedrooms

    As with all Rockwood Signature models, the front bedroom in this one starts with a proper queen-sized bed. You can opt for a king-sized bed, if you prefer.

    If closet and drawer space are important to you, this is a worthy contender. There are six drawers in the front bedroom along with four larger cabinets, more cabinets over the bed, and a hanging closet. The bed is lifted for additional storage and the under-bed storage is accessible through a compartment door on the outside, too.

    I like the small shelves on either side of the bed, which is in a slide room, along with the reading lights. It’s a nice space. 

    The second bedroom is one of the more unusual set-ups that I’ve seen, as it would work as either a bedroom, an office, or a space to lounge and watch a movie. 

    Rockwood does a very good job with their Murphy bed designs – the bed itself doesn’t have a bend in the middle, unlike most of these types of beds. This bedroom features a Murphy bed on the camp side of the rig which means there’s a couch there by day and a bed by night. The particular couch that Rockwood uses also incorporates flip-up foot rests so, while not a theater seat, it does offer more than just a typical couch. If you’re the occupant of this bedroom, you’ll have four drawers, hanging closet space, and cabinet space – as well as additional storage above the bed. 

    Both the main bedroom and the second bedroom incorporate a TV, and Rockwood uses 12-volt TVs with integrated sound systems. So for those who like off-grid camping, you can operate the TVs without an inverter. Nice. 

    There’s actually a third TV in the main living space which sits opposite the theater seats, making it a good place to watch a movie on rainy days. That TV sits above an electric fireplace.

    Rockwood has done an interesting job in regards to meal time seating with a table that incorporates two free-standing chairs and an ottoman with a padded back. You can move the ottoman around, and it also sports more storage – so you can bring it over and create a conversation area with the theater seat occupants. 

    When it’s meal time, there’s a backrest that attaches to the wall with “hook and loop” (more commonly known as Velcro) fasteners.

    The chef in the family might appreciate the counter space that includes a large island in the middle of the main living space. You’ll find a single-bowl stainless steel sink here, too. I like that Rockwood utilizes a larger oven that’s actually able to be used to prepare meals – we’ve done so frequently in our own trailer with the same size oven. Many RV companies use the smaller oven, which has significant hot spots and isn’t really useful. There are also high-performance vent fans overhead, as well as a vaulted ceiling. 

    Toilet Talk

    The bathroom facilities in this rig are certainly friendly for those of us who need more space. I found the room around the porcelain toilet, which was angled away from the wall, to be more than sufficient for all restroom activities. 

    The radius shower is also large enough that we larger campers have sufficient space. There’s some storage in the bathroom, and a door both from the main bedroom and from the main living area. 

    Boondocking, Travel Access, and Seasonal Camping

    If boondocking is your thing, Rockwood trailers incorporate a device called the ShowerMiser which routes the water coming to the shower back into the system so you don’t waste water waiting for it to get hot. I love this feature. While we’re on the shower topic, I think the shower head might actually be good enough to keep in lieu of replacing. That was a pleasant surprise. 

    When it comes to travel access with the slides in, you can get to the bathroom. But as for the rest of the trailer, as they say in the mafia movies, fuggedaboudit. When the slides are in, the trailer is effectively inaccessible – except for the bathroom. 

    Like all Rockwood Signature models, this one has an underbelly that’s enclosed and heated. Plus, there are 12-volt heating pads on the holding tanks, too. Rockwood doesn’t rate their trailers specifically for cold weather camping, but these Signature series would go at least three seasons, maybe four. 

    Rockwood trailers come with 200-watts of solar on the roof and an 1800-watt inverter, along with a 30-amp charge controller (which should be okay for those who like to camp with full hook-ups). This model is also available with the Power Package, which features 400-amp hours of lithium power, along with 1,000-watts of solar. The entire system is sourced from MasterVolt, which makes these systems for yachts. Having one source means no finger pointing if there’s an issue. That’s a big deal with advanced solar power systems. I have this in my own trailer and it is a game changer for planning our adventures.

    Things To Consider

    Here are a few things worth noting. There are windows in the slide room, which houses the theater seats and dining table, but the bedrooms don’t have camp-side windows – and even off-camp-side window coverage is sparse. 

    These models are not small nor light, but they are nicely equipped and are well made. However, don’t even think about towing this with anything other than at least a ¾ ton truck. You may even require something more capable. 

    Another challenge is outside storage. There is storage in the slide room under the bed, and more in the slide room under the rear bed, but this is not the trailer for you if you need a lot of outside storage.

    This would be a great choice for people who might want to bring along another couple, or children or grandchildren. With the second bedroom that also incorporates a couch and multiple TVs, this would be a good choice for entertaining people with widely varying preferences on those rainy days at camp. But the way Rockwood trailers are built, and the solid feel of the interiors, only mother nature would be raining on your parade – as these trailers are a solid choice. 

    This review is based on a pre-production prototype I saw at the RV Open House event. Final details might be different. Pricing and specifications weren’t available when this article was written.

    This is an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider Tony Barthel, where you learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A RVs, Class C RVs, and Class B RVs, as well as some interesting class-breaking RVs. Tony also writes for StressLessCamping.com.

  • The Top 5 Most Popular RVs of 2022

    The Top 5 Most Popular RVs of 2022

    The RV lifestyle is full of opportunities, from attending game-day tailgates to venturing into the great outdoors for a reclusive getaway. No matter the activity, you want to be sure to find the best RV to fit your needs. You can narrow down your search by starting with some of the most popular picks among RV shoppers, like yourself. RVTrader.com is the #1 online RV marketplace with a nationwide inventory from both dealers and private sellers.

    As your trusted source for all things RVs, we’ve reviewed the most searched recreational vehicles, among new and used models, on our marketplace. Here is RV Trader’s ranking of the top five most popular RVs of 2022. (And for those of you who are wondering which models rank the more highly in the future … here’s a little time travel to the most popular RVs in 2024.)

    1. Keystone Sprinter

    First up, we have the Keystone Sprinter. This travel trailer is a popular choice for shoppers who search our marketplace because it provides a homelike camping experience. The Keystone Sprinter has the ideal layout for traveling families, from its cozy front kitchen to the spacious living area. The storage and towing stability of this model helps to make outdoor living easier than ever. Make sure to read online Keystone Sprinter reviews to learn about other RVers’ experience with this model. 

    2. Newmar Dutch Star

    Class A RVs attract a wide range of shoppers, from full timers to retirees, which is also the case for the  Newmar Dutch Star.  This widely sought-after RV is designed with an upscale interior and has plenty of impressive accommodations to match. In fact, the lush design is a frequent highlight throughout Newmar Dutch Star reviews.  The Dutch Star is offered in three lengths, ranging from 37 to 43 feet. Over the years, Newmar has updated this classic model to incorporate advanced technology and new features.  With all of its amenities, this vehicle is great to take on the ultimate road trip. 

    3. Grand Design Reflection

    Another highly favored fifth wheel RV on our marketplace is the Grand Design Reflection. By combining luxury, value, and towability, the Reflection is a great option if you’re looking for an elevated experience for your weekend getaways. The design isn’t the only modern addition to this RV, but it also features auto leveling and motion sensor LED lighting. Check out a few Grand Design Reflection reviews to get a better sense of this RV’s features and capabilities.

    4. Winnebago Travato

    The Winnebago Travato has certainly left its mark on shoppers who have browsed the RV Trader Marketplace this year. Unlike the other RVs on this list, the Travato is a Class B RV. This type of RV has a smaller build that makes it a great choice for someone who is new to the RV lifestyle or a couple who require less space than a full sized family would need. Despite its small size, this versatile camper van has everything you need to explore the outdoors, including a private kitchen, bathroom, and bed. Learn more about the Travato’s drivability, floorplan, and more in these Winnebago Travato reviews.

    5. Grand Design Imagine

    With its oversized tank capacity, drop frame pass through storage, and high capacity furnace, it’s easy to see why the Grand Design Imagine is a top five model for 2022. Another unique highlight worth mentioning is the universal docking station, an all in one location for utilities and hookups. The Imagine is definitely a good fit for those who seek a low maintenance motorhome with a lot of helpful features. Be sure to check out online Grand Design Imagine reviews to see what others have to say about camping in the Imagine.

    Whether you’re looking for an RV for recreational activities or outdoor living, one of our top five RVs on our marketplace would be a great starting point for your search. To gain more insight on these popular models, head over to RVinsider.com to read online reviews. Make sure to browse the nationwide inventory of new and used RVs at RVTrader.com.