5 Ram Promaster Vans That Won't Break Your Budget

[@MommaOsoIrish67]

Thank you for keeping it real and not just highlighting the good things. Letting us know the drawbacks is great for those of us gathering info for purchasing/building!

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You bet. We are just trying to help people understand what they are getting into with these models. In our opinion, sales reps. don't always have the leeway to point out the negatives. We have no problem with that. Thanks for the support.

[@genef1027]

The Entegra Ethos appears worth the slight premium price. They put a lot of extra thought into its design. More like the Mercedes Sprinter without the premium cost of repairs.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We have to agree. Although Dan is more of a fan of these smaller Class B's, Rose can appreciate a workable floor plan when she sees one. Thanks for posting.

[@ag1382]

Love these things, but does the entire inside structures have to b uninstalled, if by chance the refrigerator has to be replaced?

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You make a great point. Smaller spaces make repairs that much more challenging. They do hide the access panels pretty well, but it's still pretty tight. Thanks for the post.

[@loralynart3]

These big manufacturers dont actually seem to listen to what people want in a small camper. Like an open" garage " space under a bigger comfy bed, a larger fridge with a freezer that doesnt become just a hunk of ice, a simple shower tray with a curtain you hang on a circle rail when you need it and take the curtain off when you dont, cover the tray with some removable floor..a sink thats deep enough to use. All the cooking space in the world doesn’t help if you cant wash a pot. Do better big manufacturers

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We are with you on this one. It would be tough to fit all that in a small RV, but we definitely wish they would too.

[@crushin-it]

As an owner of a 2024 Sequence 20L, I can say I have not had one issue with regards to the lockless overhead cabinets. Drove 7000 miles anf they do not rattle, squeak or pop open. Maybe I got a good one, dont know. As far as the workmanship of Thor, yes, its like a mobile home on wheels. Built cheaply. Absolutely no different than a Winnebago Travato, that I have also owned and drove 25000 miles, I had a 2018 G. I cant speak of the other class B's you toured but on the Sequence, you failed to mention quite a few of its options that come standard like solar and bike rack and the inverter generator that is quieter than the Honda. The driver seat is not an issue and goes back as far as needed. The problem with it is the swivel more so than the reclining issue whick is barely noticeable for a non-mercedes classB. No sure what year chassis you were in but most 23, 24, 25 have tons of safety upgrades from the prior year along with a 9 speed transmission. Fridge , freezer is small, yes but works excellent even out in the desert boondocking on battery power the freezer stayed at 0 consistently. That will not be the case in the other more expensive models. The Thor Sequence is not perfect by no means but I don't think Thor is any different in there build process than the others in that price range. Also, add at least $3000 onto all the window prices you showed for junk fees that they all charge. Your out the door price is going to be quite a bit higher. Good video, I enjoyed watching it.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You make a great argument for the Sequence, and we appreciate you taking the time to provide this information to our viewers. Our "comparison" videos are a bit abbreviated because we are trying to show as many different floorplans and models as we can. Unfortunately, we sometimes miss some of those options. Thanks for your support. We really do appreciate it.

[@Heidi914]

The thing about the cutting board resting in the drawer when you pull it out you have extra counter space.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We used it a few times like that, but we just found out it slides back revealing more space underneath. Imagine our surprise.

[@genef1027]

Seems to me the cutting board is thin enough that it will warp (bow) over time. Might not allow the drawer to close easily once the cutting board warps (bows).

[@Desperado3248]

What is needed is something along the lines of theRecon envy camper with a few improvements. Priced as entry level weekend or day trip camper. Small generator running off gas tank . Split air , heat pump AC. Cassette toilet , and folding shower, propane for hot water as well, small kitchen, microwave and wifi

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Wow, we hadn't seen those before. You are definitely on the right track. We would love to find an Envy or a Weekender so we can do a walkthrough. We'll keep our eyes open.

[@TexasScout]

Oh! You said Half FAST Travelers. I heard that wrong. 😂

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You probably heard it right the first time. lol

[@xochiltrodriguez428]

Lol. I thought the same thing.

[@genef1027]

You'd almost think it's intentional 😅

[@jerrytalley802]

I wonder where you can buy that whole wet bath unit?

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Good question. I bet if you reached out to the manufacturer they would provide that information. I mean why wouldn't they, right?

[@SpykersB]

Enjoy your reviews. I've never seen so many class B's at once, it helps with the perspective in u comparing them n then i compare them myself with the European rv's lol. 🍻

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Thanks for yet another vote of confidence. In the future, we may switch to a format where we provide more detailed information on a single RV in a video. But for now we enjoy making these comparisons for all to see. We are still searching for some "European" models here in the US so we can compare those as well. Have a great day.

[@genef1027]

​@halffasttravelers2702 I actually like seeing the comparative highlights format. Seeing them grouped like this is very educational! You done good 👍

[@RetroRobbin59]

Thanks for the walk through. Great job.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Thank you. We are so happy you enjoyed the video.

[@creationsfromlace6894]

Check out Coachmen Nova models. Amazing construction and tons of storage.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We have seen one Nova, and we'll keep an eye out for some additional models. Thanks for the info.

[@janetfolkerts5827]

Like you, I dearly wish the manufacturers would listen to what buyers are having to add once their van gets off the showroom floor. Some of these upgrades is just pure common sense. If not locks, then some good magnets, everyone knows it only takes one bumpy road to cover the floor with whatever was stored up above in the cabinets. And how much more does it cost to put in a goose neck faucet in the kitchen sink than one of those flat pains in the rear faucets ?? And all those people who are over 5' working in the design department needs to spend the night on one of the narrow, 4" mattresses.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

@@janetfolkerts5827 We appear to be on the same page here. Love your idea to have the designers sleep on the mattresses before they can finalize the RV for sale. Memory foam is a life saver, but why should we have to come up with that solution? Thanks for posting this.

[@jerrytalley802]

Bage tge extra seats, put a fold down Murphy bed in the back, or even the older style Gaucho bed that’s a sofa during tge day, bed at night. These things need a design where you can use every square inch, JMHO.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We love the Murphy bed idea, but it would be a real challenge to wedge that into the back of one of these Promasters. By Gaucho bed, do you mean a Jack Knife sofa?

[@donnafaircloth3992]

I don’t want to put up or take down the bed everyday. Also if you use the twins as one how do you get to the bathroom? Also with others traveling with you hallways is blocked and the ones with pop up tent isn’t any better

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You bring up some good points. There are certainly many logistical challenges with these smaller vans.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for touring these class b vans. The short focset is because water will splash abd spatter with the tall focset in a narrow sink. The focset did pull out. Just not a fan of showers in a class b van... we have never showed in ours. Thank you again for the tours.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We have a short faucet in our Patriot, and we still manage to get water everywhere due to the small sink. Maybe we're doing something wrong. We totally agree about the showers. It's nice to have them in case of an "emergency," but that's the only time we would really consider using them. Thanks for the post.

[@LovinLnCottage]

The faucet you didn’t like has a pull out spray nozzle. I am surprised that you haven’t seen them before. I didn’t see anything I liked.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We had a detachable nozzle on the faucet in our Class B, but you have to use one hand to hold it. We prefer being able to move the dishes around underneath the water. Just a quality of life thing. Certainly not a deal breaker. We agree that the Promaster Vans aren't for us either.

[@reneecopeland1095]

Thank you. I hope the people that need to hear about the issues are listening to you! Good tours. I would not buy any of them! Again, thank you!

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We are hopeful as well. The Thor rep acted as though he has heard these criticisms before, so maybe thy will get through eventually. We appreciate the vote of confidence.

[@DisabledNomads]

So many reviews by tall people. Makes everything look so accessible. As a height challenged person (5'2") would I be able to reach the latch at the top of the shower door of the first van?

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Well look at the bright side. The vans may seem a bit bigger for the height challenged. Thanks for the laugh.

[@bobrambo5618]

I work at a Ram dealership. There's a reason the pro master is cheaper, FIAT ( fix it again tony).

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Now that's pretty funny. We've heard similar things said about the Ford too (Found on Road Dead). Also, some complain about the maintenance costs on the Mercedes. It's the age old adage: You get what you pay for. Thanks for the laugh.

[@klnrklnr4433]

watch out for the fords - found on road dead.

[@jerrytalley802]

I’m watching but the first problem for me, IT’S A RAM, LOL. I’m anxious to see how cheap too, lol. It’s all relative anyway.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Very true. On a side note, did you see that the CEO of Stellantis just left the company? It"s going to be interesting to see what comes of that, but it certainly won't promote stability.

[@Nomaswearefull]

Affordable is a most relative term

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We agree completely!

[@jerrytalley802]

To me, passenger seats are taking up so much valuable space since these are at best for 2 people. I like them but a few years ago, you could buy a nice ranch house for what these things cost, ridiculous.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Yes, we agree that the passenger seating takes away valuable storage space, especially when you're only using them for 2 people. Some people like the flexibility of being able to use these units for daily tasks when needed, so they may need the seats for that. We can't imagine sitting in some of these seats on an extended journey though.

[@chadith]

I was skipping through this video looking for the RVs that don’t break the bank. I couldn’t find any.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Ha ha. You are right about Class B's being a bit expensive for the size. However, they are some of the best selling RV's out there so they must be in someone's budget.

[@chadith]

I guess this is why many buy the van and build it out. These RVs have plenty of useless amenities that simply don’t need to be in an RV, like cable hookups and TVs, additional seating…showers…etc.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We agree. In the two years we had our Class B we only used the shower once, and that was just to see how it would work. We do use the television quite a bit though, as a TV and an extra laptop monitor when working.

[@genef1027]

​@halffasttravelers2702 Miniaturization almost always costs more. Not as wide a selection of off the shelf components when having to pigeon hole components.

[@MissDemeanorOG]

You guys are great. Thank you for all the info.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You are very welcome. We are glad you are enjoying the videos. Thanks for your support.

[@janicecrockett1400]

Thor does not impress me at all. Their build quality is lacking.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We have heard this from so many people. We actually cornered two Thor reps at the Summer RV Show and blasted them about the locks on the cabinets among other things. The response was similar to what we expected; they make these design decisions to save cost and weight. They were very nice though. Thanks for the comment.

[@donkeykong516]

Have a Thor & its perfect for us. Its all about what you want for what you're willing to pay. Everyone has a price.

[@crushin-it]

Had a Winnebago Travato and was very cheaply built. No different than Thor. The 3500 promaster chassis is worth around 60k, what can you expect with a conversion.

[@timboehm8700]

We have a Thor Sequence 20L and the build quality sucks! If they would buy it back from us we’d jump for joy. Do yourself a huge favor and move on from this brand

[@crushin-it]

@@timboehm8700 what can you really expect for the price? The Prevost are not built well either.

[@monicae67]

I like your videos but I don’t like the vans. We’re actually looking at the twin sofa bed with the rear wet bath floor plan but the Winnebago Travato 59K just looks better made.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We agree with you on the Winnebago. They seem to have some higher quality models. If w were going to get a Travato, it would definitely be a twin bed model.

[@traveldreamer4616]

I find it disingenuous for Thor to state that they use a lower quality product to save build cost/weight. They save a huge amount of money by duplicating the research & design of other builders. Thor could put that $ towards locks. Thanks for the review.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

I'm glad to see we're on the same page. We weren't buying that explanation either. We suspect (and this is just our opinion) that they keep the quality low in their less expensive models to push buyers towards their better appointed, more expensive coaches. Thanks commenting.

[@donnafaircloth3992]

No room again. Hate induction cook top need another refrigerator. Out of all 3 of these you would have to spend you time outside and hope it doesn’t rain or cold. Hate the twin beds. Y’all need to start over with many changes!!! Have a happy jack bed then you also have sitting area with searing

[@greycaribou]

Can you pull out the beds? Like in the 2nd one, really hard to tell what it looks like. I just need room for 1. Maybe they "dentist chairs" are for 2 friends who travel...🙄 not every one is married, I think they look fine. PS for a single, tall person the sleeping beds going across in the back are usually too short & a waste of space, along the side is is better.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Some of them have pull-out beds, but the "dentist chairs" did not. We find that the rear lounge vans usually have the largest bed options because of the extra seats/cushions in front of the sofa. Many of these vans seem to be designed specifically for single travelers or couples. We agree that for two friends the twin bed set-up seems to work best. Thanks for your comment.

[@kenmcclow8963]

The bed in the Arc 18 is a tri fold so it goes out to 72 inches side to side. They don’t have the front seat swivel, but if it did, I think a solo person like me could sleep with the feet on the driver’s seat and not unfold the bed. The thing I like about the Arc is there is no propane. The stove is an induction, and the heat and hot water run off the gas tank.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

That explains a lot. Thanks for providing that information, we really do appreciate it.

[@lorihamlin3604]

Teehee..I was listening from the kitchen and when I heard “half ass” travelers I had to check it out.😂

[@halffasttravelers2702]

That's our motto: Everything takes twice as long when you're half fast. Thanks for joining us.

[@kellierichardson7223]

I am 4 foot 9 and would do just fine in this.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Ha ha. Yes, these seem to be built for you. Thanks for the laugh.

[@kippbachurski4766]

How many people can actually say any of these fit in their budget?

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You would be surprised at the number of people who are seriously considering Class B's. They are very popular despite the cost. It all comes down to how you like to RV, among a million other considerations, we're sure.

[@kimdagnillo8246]

People spend money they don’t have everyday, my gripe is the space for the money. Go look in person, they’re even smaller, you can’t live comfortably in that, especially with a dog. I’d rather have a minivan for 1/3 the price

[@kathykeene2092]

I agree; they’re very expensive.

[@klnrklnr4433]

People love throwing money away.

[@donnafaircloth3992]

I don’t want to stand on my head to get in the refrigerator!

[@jhors7777]

Thank you for posting this helpful video

[@halffasttravelers2702]

It is definitely our pleasure. We are always glad when we can provide helpful information to our viewers. Happy Travels!

[@SkySkier]

I find a Promaster hard to drive due to lack of leg room. I drove one cross country and the only way I made it was using cruise control and having my feet flat on the floor. I ended up buying a Sprinter based Ekko, different weight class.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Thanks for the insight into the Promaster. We suspected the driving position might be a challenge, especially in the models with walls or furniture behind the driver. We too like the Sprinter, it is a very comfortable driving position and a relatively quiet ride. Enjoy your Ekko!

[@LCLand]

Aren’t they expensive if something breaks due to Mercedes chassis?

[@SkySkier]

@@LCLand Well what isn't expensive these days. I think the standard MB drive train warranty is 50k or 60k miles. For me it came down to liking the MB version of the Ekko better than the Ford version. At this point in my life I'm buying what I like/want. Well within reason of course :)

[@LCLand]

@@SkySkier but that’s the intent of my question. After 60k when you have to pay for repairs is the cost reasonable? MB don’t seem to have good resale value so I’ve thought repairs are likely not reasonable 🤷🏻‍♀️ Maybe I’m sticking to hotels….🥹

[@neilvsalmon6105]

None of these are as good as the Winnebago Travato .

[@amymegginson-uz7jj]

When you spend that kind of money on something, they really need to use better cabinets and other finishings.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We totally agree. A cynic might think that the manufacturers intentionally use cheaper materials to push buyers to the more expensive models. Specifically, a cabinet upgrade would probably only cost a couple of thousand more, but those with the expensive cabinets are priced as much as $10,000 higher. Just a thought...

[@kimhorton6109]

Here’s a clue: buy yourself a used Winnebago View or the Itasca version.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Our only concern with the View is the cargo capacity. Otherwise, we think it is a great option. Thanks.

[@peacedove9513]

Give me my Ford Beyond

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We agree, the Coachmen RV's we have seen seem to be very high quality units.

[@jbluesb3southside]

Not even close to a well kept 96 roadTech 210.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

A true classic. They really don't build them like the used to.

[@donnafaircloth3992]

I have dogs and they will travel with me . I would also use it for my home so none of these class B would do!

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We can see where that wouldn't work.

[@Cynthia-z8z]

Too expensive. Make your own.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

If only we had the skills to do that, we would probably save a ton of money. If we tried that being as half fast as we are it would end up costing us twice as much.

[@Desperado3248]

Most of these are overpriced . Most are clones of Winnebago Travato. Nothing innovative or reasonably priced. Thors have a well deserved reputation for shoddy workmanship. Winnebago should bring g back the Rialta , the greatest class b ever offered

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You are the second person to bring up the Rialta. We're going to have to take a look at that model from the past to see what all the hubbub is about. You are correct about many of the models being similar, but the subtle differences are what makes the buying decision for many so difficult. Thanks for commenting.

[@Desperado3248]

Check out a refurbished late model Rialta from Pop Top Heaven. The last versions from around 2000-2004 have the 6 cylinder 24 valve engine. They were front wheel drive and got 18-20 mpg highway

[@Desperado3248]

Another innovative class b , that is doomed to fail due to its US price , and un American lack of features is the Wingam Oasis. If made in the US and actually sold for around $100 k it would revolutionize the class b market

[@klnrklnr4433]

who the heck pays 100+k for a class b? pure madness.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Unfortunately, that seems to be the entrance fee for living the van life, unless one is ready to build their own. We're hoping the prices will come down a bit now that production seems to have caught up and surpassed demand.

[@azklr]

I hate those shades over the windows, old style!

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We had them in our Patriot van and we didn't mind them so much. Admittedly, there are a ton of better options out there these days. Thanks.

[@azklr]

@@halffasttravelers2702 they will be ruined in no time.

[@MommaOsoIrish67]

Overall, I'm just not that impressed with the Thor buildouts. Not much thought put unto comfort of the owner.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

We tend to agree, except for the times when we see the little innovations that they add like the wireless phone charging shelves in the bed area. We wish they would use better cabinetry.

[@donnafaircloth3992]

It’s way too small! Too many seats up front a lot of wasted space. No room can’t even move around no kitchen to work in I guess you sleep and cook at the same time! Also no freezer I would need a freezer. Don’t like at all

[@donnafaircloth3992]

Not for me not any room on the inside wouldn’t want the bed behind the driver seat. Not impressed with one either. No place to cook or eat or sleep!!

[@Gemini-kl1wn]

If you want quality get a Pleasure Way.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

If you check out our Hunt for the Perfect RV video you will discover that the Pleasure Way Plateau XLTS was our second choice. They seem very well built.

[@DoctorMummy]

“These always fall off”

[@halffasttravelers2702]

They sure do. Our questions is: "Why do they keep using them?"

[@donnafaircloth3992]

This is too small also no room to cook or eat or even sleep. All of these are way to small and not for me

[@vernonwilloughby9248]

All motor home is over price

[@halffasttravelers2702]

There are many who would agree with you. Once you calculate the depreciation, maintenance and operating costs the money you can save by not opting for hotels and restaurant meals doesn't seem so much.

[@larryhudson3930]

No, too expensive for smaller rv.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

There's no doubt that you are paying quite a lot for a small package, but keep a few things in mind: The price of just the chassis have gotten ridiculously expensive in the past couple of years. The models being sold right now are built on chassis that were built and bought by the manufacturers during the "supply shortage," and they are passing these costs on to the consumers. Also, these vans are small, but in most cases they carry the same technology and components as the larger coaches (appliances, plumbing, electrical, furniture, etc.) but jammed into much smaller spaces. Anyone who has had to do installs or work in small spaces will confirm that is is far from easy. Just food for thought. Thanks for the comment.

[@dcasandman]

Ram quality is always questionable.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

I think @bobrambo5618 would agree with you. Though, we can always hope to get the diamond in the rough.

[@jamesdewanca]

affordable???

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Well, affordable is a relative term. Considering Class B's can run into the $200's, these are much more accessible.

[@kirsten8807]

This is the most clickbait title I’ve ever seen. Seriously trying to find another way to say it, but jeebus, don’t waste your time. The truth is harsh: Total lies. There isn’t a single van in this list that is remotely “affordable”.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

You can make the argument that these vans aren't worth the price, but please remember that affordable is very subjective. These vans when compared to other Class B's that cost up to $200,00 plus can be a real bargain. No one is giving these vans away, and Class B's tend to have a very high cost per square foot.

[@kirsten8807]

@@halffasttravelers2702 Not in the rest of the world. Not in the vanlife community. A car that is over $100K is not a subjective argument. That is full-on top 1% “affordable,” which means it’s definitely not affordable for just about anyone clicking on the clickbait title. It’s fine to profile these vans. It’s not fine to lie in the title for views.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

It was not our intention to mislead anyone, and you can see that from some of our other thumbnails and titles. We assure you that there is a large segment of RV buyers who can not only afford these vans, but also enjoy them. Check out some other channels who tout the "van life" and you'll see what we mean. We welcome all opinions here, and respect yours.

[@CowboyTrucking61]

Doesn't look to me like there budget friendly. $130,000.00 I don't think so. To much for poorly made vans. Those models are pron to mechanical and electrical troubles. I wouldn't buy one.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

When we first saw class B vans years ago, our opinion is that we would never spend that much money on something so small when we could get an RV twice or three times as big for less money. There is a cost associated with opting for the smaller footprint, and we have learned to appreciate the differences as well as the benefits of traveling in such a small and versatile RV. We do appreciate you sharing your opinion here. Thank you.

[@jjradV]

Leather seats are unacceptable. There is no justification for taking someone's life for their skin or their corpse. Vegan leather is cruelty free,no one should have to suffer and die because of your preference for seating or your food choices.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Thank you for sharing your perspective. One of the things we like most about the "Comment Section" of You Tube is that it provides a conduit for people of all beliefs to share their views and opinions. Happy Travels.

[@virginiajackowski5164]

Dont like the bModels so much

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Rose agrees with you, she likes to have more living space. Thanks for the post.

[@brotherdaveseattle2791]

Really negative, downer narrative

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Well that wasn't our intention. Maybe it's because we are really looking for a bit more space. But if your intent is to be more versatile in the places you visit, these might be a good choice.

[@suzsnnesanders4742]

I have no interest in this at all, just my opinion way to much work, im a stay in a nice hotel kinda person ! Find your room. DONE!!

[@halffasttravelers2702]

Fair enough. Before we bought our first RV, we wrestled with this option, but ultimately we decided that we wanted to explore in a way we hadn't done before. Just our thoughts.

[@suzsnnesanders4742]

@@halffasttravelers2702 I admire your enthusiasm, but, just seems like so much work, to each his own

[@deborahwesner3000]

You do you! 😂

[@SquirrleyShenanigansOnMy-ve5rs]

@@halffasttravelers2702my fiance and I just starting to look at this way of living!

[@barrywentz4528]

Don’t you pack and unpack your luggage? Wouldn’t it be nice to shower and relieve yourself in your own bathroom? And if your doing state or national parks you’re in for a drive from your hotel. Better spring for a suite if you plan to do any cooking.

[@medusawebb]

If you would like to be taken seriously in your reviews, I would suggest that you stop referring to the "toy-dee". It makes you sound ridiculous.

[@halffasttravelers2702]

@@medusawebb Dan does slip into his Dad-joke humor at times. He says he’s trying to keep it light, but Rose has told him many times that not everyone appreciates that kind of humor. He says he’s going to start calling them “loos.” Thanks for the constructive criticism.