Handicap Accessible Campers with Josh the RV Nerd

[@darrenlingerfelt5879]

Dune Sports in Arizona make a wheelchair accessible camper for people with special needs. I’ll be buying from them.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That's good to know. TY for sharing

[@aburns2685]

My husband and I full time he is able to access all the RV. We have a Starcraft Autumn Ridge 286KBS. The only adjustment we made were we took about 2 doors widened them to bathroom and bedroom and put up barn doors. It’s just us and though it’s not huge it really does work for us. I’m always looking to see what’s new but haven’t seen anything that compares to what we have.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I remember that model! Only a few builders made it. I always thought it was pretty slick. I've seen a few things similar, but usually with front beds and rear living. The privacy you enjoy with the rear bedroom in that one is great

[@cordellross307]

Thanks for being honest. This was very helpful.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

My pleasure!

[@GeekCulture101]

Thank you for doing this video. As a wheelchair user i still dream of owning a rv. I know theres a few that claim to be fairly accessible but they are sooo costly its well beyond my and many others with special needs ability to afford. So i appreciate your video more than you know.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I’ve noticed similar trends. There are a few but whew.. spendy

[@danaooley6611]

Thanks for your honesty...

[@davidallen2211]

Hey Josh, I've watched most of your videos and dream, because as an adult I'm in a wheelchair. I don't have the challenges of some, so I do have some abilities. However, I've never been camping. I speak for those in need, and you're right, it's unfortunate that the industry doesn't pay attention. It's no different than cars, anything handicapped ready is 500 percent markup, the wheelchairs are. With that said, if a couple of companies would actually get with some disabled people and learn what we need and not guess. They might find that if something was offered, even on special order with a reasonable mark up for being so it'd be no different than special ordering something regular, and they'd be shocked at the money made. Give a disabled person something we can use and afford and we'll run with it.

[@BreakerInc]

I WILL modify an RV to fit me, don't care if it's common. It does suck that pre-made ones aren't, in any way accessible with a chair, but it is what it is.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Keystone just released one I hear

[@texteb]

Thanks. A good video. I am disabled (not in a chair) looking for a trailer and you seem to be the best in the country.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Nobody's perfect, but man.. we try.

[@sheilagraham7658]

We have a fully wheelchair accessible tow behind camper that was made to be accessible. Lift door separate from regular entrance and lift stores inside like it would in a van. Harborview is made by HL enterprises. We love it and camp quite a bit when we can with work schedules. Our first camper was a remodel with an exterior stored lift that was a pain to maintain. Highly recommend the Harborview -- we have the 28 foot model but they have several with different floor plans. By the way --- the toy hauler plan is the worst cause most of them have such small living are they are not usable as well as who can push up that steep ramp.

[@arthurtyleriii8345]

I appreciate your honesty. Thank you.

[@JimmyWeberfromtexas]

I specifically looked up wheelchair accessible camper and had several come up plus yours. Yours came up basically saying can’t be done, but there were several more showing how it can be done. Anyone in a wheelchair who drive have a good understanding about what the cost will be.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I didn't say it was impossible. I said it's not a common thing the mainstream market does not consider when designing RVs unfortunately. I also said I don't like that answer. But it's beyond my ability to influence There are several motorized companies with accessibility enhanced models (like Winnebago) and some smaller trailer companies (I think Harbor View) is one, but the opportunities there are extremely limited by comparison

[@nofeardarr]

i had mine custom built it took me years to find a factory to build my toy hauler they had me come to the factory to see what i needed and i got to lay out the floor plan there is a few videos on it

[@mrswratch5470]

Josh, as a wife of a wonderful man who has ALS I REALLY appreciate that you presented this subject in an honest and heartfelt manner. You are a class act! 😊❤️ We are considering a toy hauler and have learned a lot from watching your informative videos.

[@thomasdarby6084]

The best RV made for the wheelchair user was the Born Free, however the company went out of business. It had a nice, quality lift at the rear passenger side and a roll-in shower. Excellent design. I gave up, and bought a used shuttle bus that already had the lift, and had the interior built to my needs.

[@russcorbett3923]

I don't like what you said but I appreciate your honesty . I was outgoing , motorcycles camping hiking everything off the beaten path ,,, then lost both kegs and can't go or do anymore . One day maybe ,,, I was looking for a cheap way to go but unless you win the lottery and get a full RV ,,,,

[@josephhoak1235]

Winnebago has a line up for special needs. And their is a company called hy-line who does travel trailers for special needs

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY for mentioning this. We are a dealer with a heavy focus on towables which shapes a lot of the content we provide. This is good input, though.

[@DisabledNomads]

I was gonna post Winnebago Accessibility Enhanced RVs but you beat me to it! They have Instagram and Facebook.

[@JamesSmith-ho7kg]

As an amputee (left below knee) I’m impressed with many of the RVs featured and the only real thing I look at as far as make or break is the layout of the bathroom and accessibility of the shower for myself being an amputee. I completely understand that these manufacturers are a business and in the business to make money. Auto manufacturers don’t make handicap accessible vehicles. An aftermarket shop does the conversions to make them accessible.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

*Excellent* parallel reference to the auto industry. Ty for sharing

[@crazyboysnakes1019]

I've only ever seen one and it was all electric unit

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Winnebago has a few motorized units and I think newmar might have some?

[@revmichaelm]

Even toy haulers, have a ramp door that has to be raised and lowered by hand. not done by electric. and some of those ramp doors can be heavy.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You're absolutely right of course. I've seen several owners equip their RVs with a simple winch system & remote control to raise/lower the ramp as needed It's certainly not an ideal solution of course, but that's kind of the _unfortunate_ message in this video -- the RV industry at large doesn't really have ideal solutions for enhanced accessibility in RVs with precious few exceptions (like a few Winnebago motorhomes)

[@wmschooley1234]

Mr. Winters: With as many Haylett businesses that are in Coldwater, has any consideration been given to creating a handicapped RV modification program or service to your existing business lines. Isn't this a unique business opportunity in a niche market for an honest dealership to consider? Rather than being sad, wouldn't it be better to be able to make a video saying something like: "HAYLETT RV IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE OPENING OF A NEW RV MODIFICATION SERVICE INTENDED TO MAKE CAMPING AND RV'S MORE USER FRIENDLY TO THOSE WITH LIMITED MOBILITY" Haylett has the experience and the reputation to be a keystone dealership for such a service. Respectfully submitted, William Schooley

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

In theory there's a lot more we would like to do for a lot of people. But the problem for us is the same as the MFGs -- we would have to stop providing assistance for at least 10 other clients for one custom up-fit job like this. Our shop is overwhelmingly busy as it is & this is just something we can't do right now.

[@wmschooley1234]

@@JoshtheRVNerd In retrospect, I can see how my earlier post could be read in the context of existing Haylett RV dealership and shop operations. However, I was thinking more in terms of a separate stand alone company within the Haylett family of businesses dedicated to the idea of providing uniquely tailored RV goods and services to those with mobility challenges. I apologize for the confusion. Respectfully, William Schooley

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@wmschooley1234 Ah! Thank you for the clarification! It's certainly an idea. There are a few companies that offer something similar (though I'm not familiar with them). The challenge we've had with any attempt to expand is ensuring the culture of our store is broadcast across locations. It's not an easy thing. We'll add it to the list of requests to open Haylett facilities across the country *lol*

[@margaretnorman1921]

I think the big problem is RV designers look at current ADA standards and think that's just not possible in an affordable floor plan with general appeal; however, the ADA standard for supporting people with paralysis issues is not what is usually needed for older or injured people with mobility issues. Most people with mobility issues have a bad back, bad knees, or an injury/weakness one side that requires using a walker, crutches, cane, or small wheelchair and for those people 30" is generally the number needed for using a 28" walker or wheelchair. Many are able to side step short distances (3'-5') with a grab bar to access a toilet or get into a bed. A lot of the larger baths with residential showers (or that new one with double sinks) could support a 30" doorway using a barn or true pocket door. Portable modular folding ramps can be placed over normal entry steps. I have a plan that can fit in 5th wheel pass through storage to use a platform over the normal steps and extending beyond the dining slide out, then turning 90 degrees for a long ramp run with light aluminum sections. Adding stairs to the end of the platform allows people who don't need the ramp just cross the platform. If only something like FlexStep by Liftup could be used for those interior 5th wheel steps... Because most of the changes needed are so small, they would probably not impact the resale value much either. I believe, in the larger coaches at least, mobility issues could be addressed with a lot less expense than many RV designers imagine. The demand for addressing those issues is going to continue to rise as both the population ages and the RV living lifestyle gains popularity. The number of people who are able and willing to pay for a more mobility accessible product could create a whole new profit opportunity.

[@micheleerdman7922]

Thanks for your honesty!! I live in Michigan and have Muscular Dystrophy and LOVE camping. I have some ideas...always looking for ideas. I have some ideas and wish I could figure out how to add those ideas to everyday campers to make it cheaper to camp with a disability

[@cherylb82]

I am glad you brought up this topic Josh as it was something we were considering but were having a hard time finding when it came to accessibility. I am sure if the industry made people aware of what companies would be at least willing to consider the disabled when it came to builds they may find more people would be interested in camping in general in travel trailers etc. Being this is an area where there are a lot of handicapped people with more active lifestyles that just can't get past the options provided to make camping worth their time and effort.

[@tonypiwko3634]

As a couple of commentors stated, Winnebago and Newmar have a class A option that are purpose built. This year's RVX show Winnebago gave tours to a few of the RVer KZbinrs out there (Getaway Couple and Big Truck Big RV for example) but if I recall they were being sold exclusively (for now) thru one dealer in FL. Unfortunately as you pointed out it probably equates to higher cost, harder resale sadly. As far as I know towables haven't caught on. There has been tremendous innovation in the last decade... hopefully things like this may be more common and affordable as that snowball continues to roll.

[@johnminnott7334]

I am handicapped to the extent that I cannot depress the accelerator or brake pedal but I have driven for many years using the Menox handicapped hand control system which allows me to operate the brake and accelerator with one hand and steer with the other. Power brakes and steering and an automatic transmission allows this. The Menox system is relatively inexpensive to purchase and have installed. Do you know if such a system can be installed on a Class B or C?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I am not aware personally, but logically... it's just a modification to the cab/chassis which has nothing to do with the "rv" portion of a motorhome. I'd wager it's quite possible.

[@johnminnott7334]

@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks.

[@keithmagee3744]

Great video as always, as someone with limited mobility, and living full time in a 25ft tt , the hardest thing I find is getting in and out of my trailer. With steel fold out steps, and the fact that I am walking on forearm crutches with only one leg it is challenging to say the least. I am looking for something newer and with the solid steps

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

If your door is 26" wide, then there's a 99% chance solid steps could be upfitted onto your existing RV.

[@cherylsmith9342]

I had to quit full timing because I am unable to walk. Doorways, bathroom, and bedroom doors, showers. Not large enough for wheelchairs. also dumping the tanks in some rigs is difficult. Thank you for the facts. I still keep looking at the rigs and follow people who are full timing, I makes me feel like I'm still out there. lol

[@karinross66]

The only real option is looking for us rigs have been retro fitted. We’ve met people with Class A’s they’ve had lifts added to and some alterations done to accommodate chairs. But they’re probably hard to find.

[@balsumfractus]

A wheelchair bound friend has one of these.....there is nothing he can't do by himself!

[@Ms.Understood2.0]

I've noticed they don't cater to handicapped kids or adults. My 19yo son has been in a wheelchair since age 12 and would love to go on the road. But I can't afford a $300,000 motorhome. You're right it's very sad.

[@enrico7522]

The Americans with disabilities act has been signed in to law July 26 1990. The federal government will sponsor to make things accessible for the disabled

[@osu0768]

Somewhere (maybe Trailer Life) I saw a toy hauler where the rear bathroom “wall” was moveable to accommodate the toy being rolled in. That might be a good option.

[@timwince5008]

I love your channel you are very honest with your reviews, that's why I watch. My wife has no knee in her right leg. She can do some stairs but she needs more room to get around, and when she sits her right leg sticks straight out so most rv bathrooms and to small. That is why we got the 2019 Palomino Columbus Castaway 86FK. It has an extra large entry door and the bathroom is larger than the one at home. Just thought I'd share.

[@jimbo5635]

Would be a good niche market for a small manufacturer. A good way to successfully break into an industry is to make something no one else makes.

[@marshaloneagle4646]

I have seen a small company that builds towables that strongly resemble cargo trailers. In addition to things like chair lift, they offer a wee add on to ramp door at both bottom edge and over hinge to smooth going in n out. But i bet the prices are higher sadly.

[@ae4xo]

I've seen some from the factory with ramps or lifts but they are very expensive

[@debra-vs]

Look at Wee Roll, Josh. They make affordable converted cargo trailers which can be customized for any need.

[@lindamurray8407]

Josh. Check out Newmar coaches. They actually have a wheelchair assembled rig. They look pretty good. Expensive but. It’s a class c though. I would like to see a tow behind rig. I personally do not like class c’s for me.

[@DonnerPassWhisky]

This is a excellent topic Josh, a big slice of the demographic for these products is people of retirement age and reduced mobility goes with age. A company that did a purpose built trailer in say the 26'-28' box range that was completely ADA accessible would have the market all to themselves. (until everyone else copied the design they put all the $ into creating) Are you listening manufacturers?

[@scotthicks8338]

Thanks for saying it like it is. I’ve thought about this, having a mother in law who would love to participate but can’t, and it’s just a bummer that it isn’t possible. I’m betting that if there was an option, the trailer would be too heavy for me to tow anyway. But like you said, it is what it is.

[@davidh0809]

The ice fishing trailers that drop to the ground would work for those who cannot do stairs, but the door widths and tub heights do not meet ADA requirements.

[@iamwhatiam4075]

Thank you! :) It is sad but true, but as you & others said; "so is life very often.". Big open floor plans & handy friends.? :/

[@raymondmartens7803]

What a great subject to discuss not eberyone thinks about always informative....I have a lot of questions about the type of RV my wife and i would like do you have an email we can correspond to?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You can reach our team at [e-mail] I personally am not able to assist clients in their search directly as these camera duties have me quite occupied

[@michaelgehrke9297]

Newmar makes a motorhome specifically designed to be handicap accessible, but they're the only one I'm aware of who caters to this specific need.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY for mentioning this. We are a dealer with a heavy focus on towables which shapes a lot of the content we provide. This is good input, though.

[@robertaviles8451]

My stepfather had both knees replacement. I was hoping for an RV with fewer (or shortened) steps. I know that going up and down my trailer is a "pain" (dunno of a better word) for him, when he and Mom visit. Any ideas?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Things like a Grey Wolf or Wildwood X-Lite ride lower to the ground, include factory standard stable steps, and only have 2 steps up to the main deck. Those series of RVs also have floor plans large enough to likely fit your family when they visit. Larger Entry Handles are also something they'll provide. If you speak with a sales contact, then perhaps they can offer more ideas.

[@jeffmckinsey8769]

Toy hauler and a chainsaw to the bathroom wall boom done

[@kenp9469]

The truth is often not pleasant. However a lie will hurt more, down the line. You did not create, nor do you run the rv industry. So just do what the rest of us do. Play the hand you are dealt, with as much decency as possible.

[@lindamurray8407]

With the graying of Americans this is going to be a more needed item. It might not be a thing right now. But I guarantee it is coming.

[@kennethjinkins8967]

Bummer

[@marilynlynds3398]

Why bother getting people's hopes up to tell them that you don't have anything to say? People with mobility problems KNOW the challenges. Why post something just to say that the options are bad? Why waste your time and ours?

[@Thomas-dz4eg]

Nobody makes proper wc camper. They do not exist unless you design it yourself.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I know both Winnebago and Monaco both make a limited selection of motorized models. I believe a company called something like Harbor View makes a series of travel trailers specifically designed for chairs with lifts, wide doors, and flat-level showers as well. But yeah.. painfully uncommon