MOST Sleeping in the Smallest Space!! 2024 Catalina 184BHS Travel Trailer

[@overlandski7795]

Great colors on the inside but every time i see a trailer like this i wish it had two axles. Im a truck driver and i would never pull anything on a single axle for safety

[@MostlyNotDps]

I’m in the same boat. It’s “not a big deal” until you’ve blown a tire on a single axle on a freeway. Plus, every time they stick a slide-out in a single axle the cargo capacity just tanks

[@swamprat9018]

it's not that big of a deal except for the tire flopping around and damaging the camper.

[@overlandski7795]

@@swamprat9018 its not a big deal in perfect conditions, now have a blowout in slippery conditions, up or down hill and u have a problem.

[@smithjs1978]

One of the big reasons we bought our Micro Minnie 1800bh.

[@elij8029]

I love the floor plan this is my favorite so far

[@brianackerman6188]

Thanks for reviewing this one Josh. This looks like a great layout that covers the needs of my family and size we can tow with our Colorado.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You bet!

[@travisburgess747]

I've watched soo many of your videos and this is almost the perfect camper for my family. If the outdoor camp kitchen had a small sink instead of that cabinet it would be my dream camper

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That would be cool

[@adrienep907]

We keep a plastic dishpan and a Y hose connector outside, even when our last outdoor kitchen had a sink.

[@martaleary5598]

I like this camper! It has everything you need for the weekend!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😊

[@ExpertGTAMortgage]

Love that you’re now including a towing segment Josh! Keep up the great work!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I try when I remember

[@RicardoMartinez-xg4ks]

Josh If you make it to expo this weekend, you should defenetly check out their 192bhs. Please give us your thoughts on it.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Basically the same thing in an Expedition, right?

[@RicardoMartinez-xg4ks]

@JoshtheRVNerd Yes and no. I was going to go for the 23 year model but herd about some exciting things catalina did! 😉 really hope you get a chance to give us your thoughts on it.

[@texillini1]

Glad to see the future ladder prep

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I was too

[@randalltolman2368]

Yanother window on campsite by bed, I need windows

[@tennekun]

This is my favorite floor plan! I like everything but the kitchen counter space. There's few model that has wide counter space in this floor plan pattern. That's why I love my Jayco 184BS stil.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That’s a really good model

[@nancyh4679]

I am a single senior camper that only needs a small travel trailer. I have had 3 campers , and all are nightmares to winterize. Access is behind a panel in a tight outside cubby. Please suggest manufacturers to add this to inside or on outside compartment accessible similar to larger RVs. I Definitely would GLADLY sacrifice some storage for easy access to winterize camper. I will be the first one in line to “trade up” !!! Thx

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for sharing!

[@randalltolman2368]

I agree, lots of us can do our own winterizing but access is always nhard to get to.

[@Shoop83]

The only modification I see for this one would be the addition of a fold down counter extension in front of the sink. Yes, it puts the sink in a corner, but the expanded countertop would be worth it. Bonus if it is detachable with a dedicated storage location. Being able to use the Murphy bed in road mode is awesome! More campers need this. I do wish that cushion didn't interfere with the slide, though. I can see that being a point of enhanced wear-and-tear. Some storage along the sides and above the Murphy bed would be great as well. Including wiring capable of 600 W of storage is super good. Well done Catalina!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thank you for watching!

[@jillaltman2474]

Love the outside colors. The only thing I may change with that is to have the storage doors black instead of white. Coachmen is great about their camp kitchens. This is alot like the Forest River FSX 178bh my friend bought. She is already having some small issues with it.

[@eddielawson7230]

We bought a new 178bhsk in January 2021 . Had a hard time finding one because of covid . So many have complained of quality during that time. But ours has been fantastic . We wanted that floorplan , we have 7 grandchildren and needed the bunks. It tows SO EASY , behind our 2020 Silverado. It has a spare on the bumper . I do worry about a blowout , being single axle , but as far as sway , NONE . I'm 69 years old and couldn't be happier .

[@kristenjones4445]

Very good floorplan and nice sized U-shaped dinette

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thank you for watching!

[@martaleary5598]

The camp kitchen is cool!!! 😎

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think so too!

[@Redfour5]

This is an awesome layout that addresses so many of the "issues" with the single axle bunk bed units. This unit will take teenagers, two of them AND mom and dad with room to actually maneuver. The small bunks are OK... if your kids are under 12, maybe, but come on 30 inch wide bunks maybe 32 inch? We got an Aspen Trail 17BH BECAUSE it had a 40 inch bottom bunk...and here, you have two full bunks. Cramped is what you get in normal layout and since they do this kind of layout without the slide in 7 foot wide units, you WILL be climbing over something or someone at some point in time. Learning to do the "dance" or someone going outdoors or the bathroom is the only way to move in some of them. AND, big Labrador Retrievers don't back up well let me tell you... The room in this unit is amazing... First, this has double bunks. Check one. Then, it has the slide. Last, it is an 8 foot wide unit. I feel that is a must for small trailers like this vs the 7 footers. Check two for room and last to maximize living space it has a nice Murphy Bed. Check three for room. Last, it is an 8 foot wide unit. I feel that is a must for small trailers like this vs the 7 footers. I wish I had had access to this back in 2014 when I got my first travel trailer. I might still have it. One thing I actually recommend is a smaller under counter fridge with maybe one on the outside kitchen. Then put a pantry/storage where the fridge is. That was the way that the old style 17BH was and it gave more counter space AND more storage. I guess if you got two 15 year old boys, that big fridge might be helpful, but otherwise, most people don't need all that fridge cubic footage but always need the easily accessible storage...and counter space. Another thing is that It might be nice to put a wardrobe/storage next to the bed since you got the space and perhaps doored storage above the bed... Do these things and for me it would be a perfect couples with grand kids trailer. Flip the axles, put some decent off road tires on, maybe the suspension "shock" system and hunters could go anywhere and more than one... Three easy...

[@rogerlink4192]

Nerd Herd - funny Josh , great work as always !

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@RichardoBrit]

Yes! Choose your own adventure books were the best. I even did a book report on one 😁

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That's awesome!

[@betterwithrum]

Wow, I have a buddy this would be perfect for if I can get him to stop thinking about tear drop campers.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Share away!

[@overlandski7795]

Best idea for those who need good entertainment. Install a retractable projector screen anywhere you want on the camper and get a nebula projector. I have been using mine on my camping trips forever. Screen size up to 120” and great quality. It also is rechargeable so no hook ups required anywhere plus you can take it outside and have a true outdoor theater experience with the kiddos at night.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That's a great idea!

[@bryana1942]

I'm liking this a lot. I'm all about lightweight bunkhouses, espeially with double bunks. I like the vertical stove top. They use a lot less space, not that it really leaves any counter space free, but still, I appreciate the effort. I really like the true U dinette, really handy with bunkhouses. My only issue with it is the fact that the Murpy bed is east/west, so someone has to crawl over the other. I understand it's due to space limitations, but still, it's probably my least favorite thing about this trailer. Another thing I really, really like is the bathroom door that actually fits properly. And I'm with you, you can never have too big of a fridge, even at the cost of less dry storage.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Wildwood just made their bed north south in this layout actually! Look for my video on the 2023 or newer 178bhsk

[@bryana1942]

@@JoshtheRVNerdOh yeah, I forgot about the Wildwood. I went and rewatched your video on it, and I like it, even more than the Catalina. Though it has more of a “peek-a-boo, I smell you” bathroom door. Other than that, 👍👍👍.

[@carolinedeck7499]

Could you do a video on the Catalina Summit Series 7 184RBS - for the couples out there? Love your videos!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I’ll keep an eye out for her

[@doraquist3053]

Josh is there any way to get your videos listed in KZbin Newest to oldest? they are all 'jumbled' currently and its very confusing. I get a notification that there's a new one posted and I have to search for it 😢

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yes, if you go to my main channel and then click the videos tab, it will default from newest to oldest. There are other search options, like oldest to newest and most popular as well.

[@peterdyba6057]

What's up with the trim wood piece not being painted, by the bench seating?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Probably just a production thing. I’m not saying I like it or defend it but it’s a cost sensitive. Harvey that probably doesn’t take a little fashion bit into account.

[@stevenkaskus6173]

Wish you shown the dinette seat storage

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I missed that? I'm sorry. I usually try to open all that up. Apologies

[@marvcbjorge]

There’s now milk available that you don’t have to refrigerate until it’s opened. It’s only 1%, but I’ve found it great for camping because it comes in quarts and can be stored in a cupboard until opened and you don’t lose fridge space or cooler space, yet still have enough for your trip.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Good to know!

[@swamprat9018]

1% milk?!?!?! so what is the other 99% in the carton?

[@jebkramer1263]

I thought you were gonna say “The Catalina Winemixer” 😂

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahaha

[@BecauseCat]

I found it! This appears to be the Coachman band name but its the same as the Aurora Light 18BHS? Love your videos!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Exactly yes. Aurora is a literal clone of Catalina branded under the forest river name Exterior color is THE only change

[@rogerlink4192]

Squatty Potty - your on fire today !!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Lol 😊

[@laurenm6511]

My first thought was if that had an oven I would run right out and buy it right now I think it's beautiful. But no oven is going to always be a deal-breaker with me. Not having a big kitchen is understandable but that is like almost no kitchen and no drawers is not cool but the rest of it is absolutely beautiful and I love it. Do they have a bigger Bunkhouse model like this? That U dinette I just am in love with

[@swamprat9018]

Look at his video from yesterday on his 26??? Go Play brand.

[@alh9338]

I'm actually shocked in two ways with this one. First is they fixed all the issues with this layout! Next is the first thing that popped in my head for usage was bunkhouse for off site projects. Nicely done!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😊

[@judithmoore7892]

They could have put some drawers under the booth benches for kitchen storage. I understand why the table is a huge step up, but I still hate it for my bad knees.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@DAPete418]

I love the idea of the refrigerator cut off switch. Buuuut…… we own a small bunkhouse. The entire counter area gets piled on. I could very much see my daughter slinging her bag up there and hitting that switch. Then we wake up to thawed ice cream and not so good milk! Seriously though, probably pretty easy to move that switch 18 inches higher.

[@martaleary5598]

Awesome 👏 “squaty potty”🤣

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😂

[@NujwOayk]

25k, I have no idea if this is a good value or not but I know I like it.

[@tankscrittersandurbanhomes5579]

The fridge kill switch, i think it's too low. Easy to hit and not notice while using the kitchen space. I think it needs to be higher in the wall.

[@mrkmahon87]

I have a question for you if my suv has a tow load of 5000 pounds would you recommend this camper?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I would not recommend it myself as the gvwr of this is 5500lbs which exceeds your tow rating

[@swamprat9018]

I love the cutoff switch for the fridge. that would be nice to have, so If i'm boon docking and just want to use the ice chest and save the battery for lights and water pump. still like having my drawer inside and outside in my 179dbkx. I got rid of the outdoor fridge and moved the drawer and griddle to the right and added another blackstone griddle. Looks like they need to flip the axle on that to get more ground clearance because the poop shute is low that would make the step up slide lower too.. Also where is the spare tire?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

These may not have a spare.. I can’t recall offhand. Apologies

[@RicardoMartinez-xg4ks]

Spare tire on these is actually optional. If you where to choose that option, on this specific model the tire would be mounted on the back bumper. Their 192bhs actually has a lifted frame and would have the spare tire underneath the front of the frame. Really nice set up now that they have switched to Norco frames.

[@GregsWorkshopOregon]

Does the maximum weight apply to a parked trailer? If you had a full tank of water, four adults and all of their stuff you could very easily exceed the maximum weight capacity overnight in the campground.

[@samebert4344]

Probably not so long as your stabilizers are deployed? I've thought about this before. I have family with a trailer that only has about 800 pounds of payload and both of us with each of our better halves in it definitely exceed that... and that's only 4 adults

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I don’t really have good information on that from the manufacture. But if you look at something like bunk ratings, they can hold more weight at rest them in motion. So if you never move the RV and loaded it a little heavier, and you would probably be OK. But I do not have any guarantees or assurances I can offer.

[@markacamacho]

Does it have a heated underbelly?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

These do not

[@jonathansailer1473]

What is everyone’s experience with different types of slide systems? I assume ‘ it depends ‘ on size of slide etc. I have heard about issues but don’t know if user error or design issues? Being a newbie, it’s something I always intend to research but figure Josh has years and years of real world experience with a service Dept at Haylett/Bishs.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I have a vid on slide systems. Customers report most to least confidence in this order: rack and pinion, cable, Schwintek

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

But there are exceptions to any feeeback

[@betterwithrum]

Coachmen, you're half way there, in the refresh, remove that other outdoor speaker! :)

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Good call!

[@overlandski7795]

One this that kills me on budget campers is the white cargo doors on a color trailer 🤯 a simple color matched vinyl sticker would do the trick or at least make them black to match the wheels and trim

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

They’re actually light grey but the contrast makes them look lighter The baggage door builders only offer specific colors and can’t always hard match

[@Cowboy47]

#NerdHerd 🎉 🎉 🎉

[@stevez340]

Love the Murphy bed to help seat all of the people it can sleep👍but there are too many failures including the cheap bathroom with a plastic toilet, shower curtain and Dollar Store 4" fart fan, absolutely no kitchen storage, no standard solar for the 12V fridge making the RV incapable of offgrid camping, no standard ladder for roof maintenance, only 1 tiny 20 lb propane tank and no TV for 6 people to watch on all of those cold rainy days and nights😩

[@mikebailey5127]

Take me of your list

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Mike that’s not how KZbin works. I don’t add you to any list. You yourself have to willingly subscribe to a channel and manually unsubscribe yourself.

[@mikebailey5127]

@@JoshtheRVNerd can you find me a 12 volt or 110 fridge I have a norcold model 12101M thanks

[@dubyacwh7978]

I extremely dislike the telescopic ladder mount please attach a permanent ladder.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I prefer those as well

[@tms299]

Wish there was a plug in on the counter for a coffee pot. I know there’s not a lot of space but to not have any plug ins there is kinda weird.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@laura7053]

🎉#NerdHerd..

[@antonk1893]

So can this sleep a dog 6 cats & 5 chickens 2 adult children - Mr & Mrs BAZOOKA BUTT ? I mean with all this I might need a one ton truck 😂 🙋💣🚽💥💥💥.. make the COMMODE room bigger

[@stuartlafrancis1371]

Drain line are low

[@Corky68s]

I dont like it for me but it’s a nice camper

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY for watching. And I appreciate how you can still recognize where it's a nice RV even if it's not the one for you!

[@georgelee7259]

Like pet friendly but no prep space and not a fan of the Murphy bef

[@CatrachaCaracola]

Oh no , no counter space either

[@motherfunko777]

Like and Comment simply for being a Min Pin dude ❤

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I miss her. She was MY dog 😊

[@motherfunko777]

@@JoshtheRVNerd 🐕❤️

[@craigquann]

Kitchen is lacking for what we wanted. We wanted at least 3 burners and a oven. the lack of "master bedroom" privacy was another deal breaker. Ultimately that was why we didn't get this one recently.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hard to get all that in a single axle. Dual axles will more commonly bring those features