Honest Assessment of Airstream Ownership

Join us as we get into our summer adventure with the Airstream RV in 2023! In this video, we're sharing our honest thoughts about the Airstream, covering everything from very specific details that we don’t love about our Airstream and do love about our Airstream. We'll tackle questions like: Do we regret buying the Airstream? What's it like compared to our old fifth wheel? From maneuverability to interior space, storage solutions to unexpected challenges, we're laying it all out.

[@janewardguaraldi7975]

We love our Airstream. It’s not for anyone, but the travel, set up, breakdown, and the places we can go is like no other:)

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Absolutely agree!!! The mobility is our favorite feature.

[@donrains]

Jim and Amy, we just downsized from a 36' 5th wheel to a 2023 Flying Cloud 25FB Twin about a month ago. About 2 weeks later, I found your channel and have really valued finding someone else who is going through many of the same dilemmas, having to make the same types of compromises, and asking the same questions we are. Your straightforward honesty and humility are appreciated!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Oh, awesome!!! We REALLY wanted that 25 model and if we didn’t have pets we probably would have done it. We had a major incident after this video (more to come on that later) and have learned that the dealers’ service departments are pretty lame as a whole. There’s probably exceptions but we haven’t found them. We reached out to Airstream directly and they absolutely blew us away with their response. We are thrilled. We do this for fun and don’t intend to ever make it a business for us (because that would kill the fun) so we can be totally honest. We’ve learned so much from others so we are happy to be helping someone else out there! How are you liking your 25???

[@donrains]

@@lifebetweentheditches1307 So far, we've only had the chance to take it out one weekend, and that Saturday it was 112 degrees at our campsite here in Oklahoma. Had it not been the maiden voyage, we wouldn't have gone out in that heat. Played several rounds of the game "Where did we put THAT?" and played a lot of cards. We had 50amp service and the dual A/C's kept it at 72 degrees in the camper. We have 2 dogs that go camping with us. The available floor space is going to take some getting used to, but the twin beds really help with that. Learning to take what we need and need what we take. A good example: The RV does not need to contain the entire 32 year family history of silverware. We have had several people tell us to buy what you want and need for yourselves and not what other people might use if they visit or come with you. Finally took that advice. We have been RVing for 25 years, but this is our first Airstream. We had 28'-31' travel trailers before the 5th wheel and thought we were going to love all the extra space. Found out the bigger RV forced us to completely change the way we RV...and not for the better. We had so many problems fitting the bigger 5th wheel in the state parks, forest service campgrounds, and other places we love to camp. Literally, we spent almost 3 weeks on the continental divide in Colorado (Twin Lakes/Leadville area) in late June - mid July and traded the 5th wheel off a week or so after we got back. I thought when we bought the $85K fifth wheel in 2021 we were buying our way out of the cheap materials and poor build quality and workmanship. NOPE. We just bought the same cheap materials and poor quality in a much bigger package.

[@ekulikow]

Nice candid and frank video y'all. Nice work! We have owned a 2018 27FB for four years and love it. They are quirky but that is also part of the uniqueness of owning one. Safe travels!!

[@Michelle-li7fl]

For the sheets... I use one fitted sheet that stays on the mattress semi permanently and have a matching sheet for just the foam topper, then you only have to wrestle a wiggly worm instead of a grizzly bear. 🐻

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

THIS IS SO SMART! We wonder how long it would have taken us to figure that out. Thank you for this! 👏👏👏

[@romaleevanhoosier4319]

We do the exact same and works well. So much easier!

[@benhandley9739]

Just started watching recently and really appreciate your style and attitudes. The both of you just roll with things!!!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thanks for that! We’ve lived enough life to not be too easily rattled. We and our oldest daughter almost died in the first 3 years of our marriage and that was a gift. Excellent and instant perspective.

[@benhandley9739]

@@lifebetweentheditches1307 we had a head on collision in 2017 that rocked our world too. Thankfully our family made it out…not all did. That day forward I have had a new perspective on work life balance and vacation. RVing is a big part of that! Keep on keeping on!

[@vpnman]

I do believe I've binge watched every episode guys have uploaded! I've found gem of a couple and YT channel. Thanks for the great content. I also love the floorplan and would have never guessed that it was as usable as it is. We have a 2018 Classic 33 FBQ.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

What a very nice thing to take time to write. Thank you! We are always a bit shocked that anyone follows along but we love the awesome people we’ve met along the way. That 33 bathroom is just dreamy!!!

[@brutah_venice]

Love you guys! You’re the only RV channel my wife wants to watch. We’re in a 30’ Flying Cloud front lounge area, which is our second Airstream after having purchased the 30’ Flying Cloud Office last year, only to realize the front lounge area makes a huge difference. Now we have our eye on the Globetrotter as Amy makes the great point of the table being additional cooking prep area. You’re both an inspiration for RV travel and couple goals! Keep the epic videos coming!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Oh my - we are humbled. Thank you for such generous words. We are just very average, normal people so it always feels a bit odd to us that anyone’s coming along for the ride but we sure have met some very lovely people. We appreciate it. We have definitely enjoyed the floor plan without regret!

[@bandefreitas7455]

Just found your channel and love you two! We are new to RVing (not full time) and never had a 5th wheel but I can appreciate your comments on the pros/cons.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thank you! Yes! Always trying to find that “more pros than cons” fit. Our needs have definitely changed through the years.

[@ShawnPatterson402]

Enjoyed the honest review of your Airstream. As with any RV, tool kit and some patience required. Sounds like you guys are having a great summer. As always, safe travels....

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Absolutely! You have to come to an RV with appropriate expectations. Summer 2023 is amazing!!

[@theresapassarelli1599]

We are picking up our Airstream next week. We've been RVing for 27 years, and although we are not newbies, we enjoy watching your videos very much!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

How exciting!!!! Hope you have some fun plans! What’s your favorite trip in the past 27 years?

[@theresapassarelli1599]

@lifebetweentheditches1307 , we've been to Fort Wilderness many times and love the Fort. Besides the Fort, Arcadia was our favorite place to RV.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Fort Wilderness is always a fun time!!! We went the week before Christmas and the decorations were so amazing!

[@Killmonize]

I am happy you make videos. Being honest is key. Thank you.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thank you!

[@livingourjourney365]

Amy and Jim you two are so refreshing to watch. Love your travels. The Airstream seems like a great fit for you two, but I know we couldn't downsize that far 🤣. Safe travels you two, look forward to the next vlog.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Very kind. Thank you! You really could. You might be absolutely miserable if you did…..but you could 😂😉 We’ve surprised ourselves really.

[@jennifervotodian2412]

Thanks for sharing. We are considered down sizing from our 4th wheel. Love how you share it all 😊.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Glad it was helpful! We still miss the fifth wheel. And we still love the Airstream. Mostly we love the lifestyle and we just adept to whatever we are in. It’s hard to beat the Airstream on travel days and those fifth wheel interiors are hard to beat when you’re stuck inside due to bad weather.

[@cheryluhrig-rivard2963]

I use full size sheets on my twins. There's a lot more material to wrap around the mattress and to hook the bed garters to which keeps it from bunching and sliding around. It's still a pain on changing day but I don't have to wrestle the bed as much each morning to tuck and straighten out the fitted sheet and the top sheet stays tucked under the bed on the wall side of each bed so its just a matter of straightening up the top sheet and covers. I found one of those small screws that came out of your bathroom door handle in my hallway and couldn't figure out where it came from - guess I'd better check the bathroom door handle before I get locked inside! That wouldn't be good for me as I travel alone!

[@elainejarvie5458]

We have your exact model and we use the beddy’s regular twin size. The extra long might work with your toppers. I change the sheets myself in about 5 minutes each. We use the Froli system instead of toppers. Very comfy.

[@elainejarvie5458]

And we have had fun watching your content.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We are familiar with Beddy’s but didn’t think about them for the curved mattress. Maybe a good option. The bedding is so pretty but we wish we had traveled with something that didn’t require dry cleaning.

[@elainejarvie5458]

It’s not as pretty as yours all made up but it’s so easy to wash and put back on that we can live with it. I hope we run into you one day. We’re in the road about half of the time.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We would LOVE that!!! We will be home fall through the holidays but we will let you know when we figure out where we are headed after that.

[@elainejarvie5458]

@@lifebetweentheditches1307 we’re going to Yuma in March and then to Texas for the eclipse. After that we had to Savannah slowly. Then in the late summer we’re going on the airstream caravan through the southwest for two months. Maybe we’ll find you along the way.

[@diann546]

We left our home in Indiana on May 10th. We have been in Alaska since June 1st. It has been interesting to see how we do things evolve. I had picked up a box of "Great Value" gallon bags accidentally. After I bought a box of Ziplocs, I realized that mixing together those prepackaged salads would be much easier in the cheapies, than in the bag they came in. I also use the wipe with papertowel, spray soap, alcohol spray mix method to clean many things. This works especially well for big items. It took 2 months to realize that I could hook the charger cables for the Bluetti, through the closetmaid shelving, when not in use. I no longer waste time locating the ends. I am currently north of Fairbanks on a large pond. I finally made a rolled blackout shade for the front window. I wanted to be able to roll over and look out the window for the Aurora, in the middle of the night. Besides, the reflectix with velcro wouldn't stay up. Enjoy your content. Keep it up. Btw, we did the Lake Clark bear trip. It was awesome!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

SO ECSTATIC you got to go visit those beautiful bears!!!! What a day that is!!!! Happy to hear the trip is going well and we appreciate the tips!! Excellent idea. Hope the Aurora gives you a heck of a light show! Still on our “to do” list. Safe travels m!

[@lorigrant2876]

I am learning so much from your videos. I am new to RV & first on is the 22Fb Caravel. I hit the road after Christmas, and wondering how I will do with the repairs. You help build my confidence!!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Awww. That’s so kind of you to share. Thank you. We frequently give ourselves a little push and just say, “ok- let’s figure it out”. These communities are invaluable!

[@Carolann_237]

We were told during our walk through that those curves on the bottom of the cabinet are the returns for the heat??? . I think?? I just remember he said never to block them. So glad the pups are liking the new set up. Thanks for the honest thoughts on your rig. Safe travels. Have you mastered the convection oven? Or can you give us newbies any tips on using it??

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

That was so interesting to hear! And it would definitely make sense. We got down on our stomachs to look and don’t see anything but solid cabinet down there. And some missing toenails 😝

[@judyfish73]

Enjoy watching you two.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thanks so much. It’s really weird to us that anyone does. We’ve had a few people recognize us in campgrounds this year and that was just very bizarre but they were all REALLY lovely people who are now new friends!

[@carolyntaylor7611]

Thanks for the honesty, we're considering buying an Airstream.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

All RVs have issues. Every. Single. One. But overall, we have been happy with the quality of the Airstream.

[@stephen2215]

Nice vid! We had this exact model on order but then found another one used. For the cabinets that keep opening - you can buy a heavier duty 10lb latch to keep 'em closed!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Nice!!! We are surprised we kept passing this model over initially. It’s worked really great for us! Thanks for the tip 👍

[@HoosierInNJ]

We also have memory foam toppers. I enclosed them with a zippered mattress protector. Keeps everything together, protects against moisture damage, and it’s easier to make the twin bed!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

See? That’s just brilliant! This is why “community” is so important. Love this! Thank you.

[@camrodger8638]

After several years of life in our 30 Classic, I became jaded with the quality of manufacturing that did not align with the purchase price. The wiring is an absolute rats nest, especially under the front couch. The other HUGE issue that eventually led me to leaving the Airstream lifestyle was the constant, unrelenting problems with the ZipDee “Relax” automatic awning. It ended up riding around as dead weight on the coach because it’s operation became a crap shoot with all the reliability of a slot machine pull. We had Greg Blue take a look at it at an Alumapalooza at the factory and even he threw up his hands and walked away. We downsized to a class B+ and moved brands away from Airstream to Leisure Travel Vans. I looked as deep within the units as I could and found the wiring in the LTV loomed and firmly secured where possible. Both brands offer the Mercedes chassis, so quality of construction became our deciding factor. We very much miss the Aistream rallys and time with fellow owners, but sadly, the unrelenting issues outweighed staying with the brand.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

How disappointing 😞😞. We are very sorry to hear that. We LOVE the Leisure Travel Vans! How are you enjoying it? We ended up at the factory over an entirely new thing that popped up and they were amazing for us. They’re taking care of everything and apologized that it ever left the factory like that. We were incredibly relieved because we’ve grown to expect bad service in the industry. We haven’t attended a rally yet but we are going to get one on the calendar!

[@remitremblay2091]

Great video and we love the honesty! We (I mainly) would love an Airstream…but, we (maybe not me) are always afraid of the weather…hence our decision to not go with one of those amazing thing 😢 But, and that’s important, we love to see you are enjoying the Airstream… up in Alaska (as we are) we see one main advantage to our own TT (ORV 24RLS) is the “clearance” we have on the ground… it is showing us that the more you have, the better you are with where every you want to go, including ferrys across ocean… Keep doing what you are doing = we enjoy seeing your love of traveling in an RV. We are wishing much joy in your travel! When will we see you in Quebec???? The eastern part of Canada is great you know 😊 Remi, the silly Canadian :-)

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

YES!!!! So glad you mentioned clearance. We need to bring that up at some point. We did a 3 inch lift on our AS because we like dry camping and we absolutely wouldn’t own one without it. Not for the way we go! So far no scrapes or dragged but we do have to think about it more than we used to. We worried about bumping the top of the fifth wheel and the bottom of the AS. 🤣 We so love Canadians! A silly Canadian sounds even better! Safe travels, Remi! Stay Silly!!

[@wandrousvindella716]

Great assessment of your Airstream. First I want to give condolences for Silas. What a sweetheart & I'm so happy you have documentation of his travels. We have a 2018 Classic 33FB that is documented on KZbin by previous owners. We absolutely love everything about it. Currently we travel with our two pups, but had a third (inherited) tripod pup when we started out Oct 21,2022. Over the first year we covered 33 states & had to make the difficult decision to euthanize Jake the tripod right before Christmas. Trying to decide what our moniker would be, we came up with "PlotTwist" because that's exactly what RV life is. My recommendation for the bed linens is to try the Beddy system. (we LOVE ours) Now to binge watch you guys ! Safe travels and hope to see you down the road. Wanda (& Vinnie) Charleston SC

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

What an incredibly kind message. Thank you! Poor, Jake 😢. It’s so hard to let them go but we are so grateful that he was actually having a really great day right up until about 2 hours before we had to let him go. He had all those challenges the last few years so we were so pleased he didn’t have to suffer. We really MUST get the Beddys! We wanted to use the beautiful bedding provided but after this trip we realize the white bedding and dogs aren’t the greatest combination😂. “PLOTTWIST” is perfect!!! Yes!!! Safe travels! Perhaps we will meet at a Carolina AS event!

[@skr8674]

Hi, I just watched a video on a 2024 new airstream, the salesman said those cut outs are for some kind of vent return and ductwork that’s in there.

[@barbaraghylin1594]

Amy I loved the comments about the books. My daughter and I both read and RV with trailers. We have both been known to do the exact same thing . We both laughed till we cried🤣🤣

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

That is because you, your daughter are brilliant, logical thinkers 🤣🤣🤣 They do fit so nicely there though!

[@hathawaywego]

Amy, I'm so sorry, but I nearly wet my pants laughing at you being stuck in the bathroom. Good for Jim for thinking to record that! LOL!! We have issues with cabinet latches too...such a pain. the hinges on the doors under the bed were a huge pain until Dee came up with a solution and zip-tied them, now they stay on no matter what! We also have the twin beds, and love them...but one of the first things I purchased for them was Beddy's. They are wonderful. I highly recommend them. Yes, it's still a bit of a pain when it's time to wash them...but as for daily making the bed it's so easy. Loved the video and I so enjoy your honesty. Safe travels to you!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

🤣😂 Amy might have wet her pants laughing at her dilemma but she was in the best room to prevent that from happening! Those are the debacles you just have to laugh at!

[@horizon42q]

Great honest review. You would think they would figure out the cabinets and door latches.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Definitely! We always look at RVs before we buy them and ask, “So, what fun surprises do you have in store for us” 🤣

[@walterrafolski5662]

Put blue lock tite on the set screws, and watch airstream nutz and bolts for the front door modification. I’m working on my wife for an airstream, we had a class A before but you talk about having to work on an rv it was constant. Great video

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Awesome, thank you! Adding it to the tool box. We’ve never owned an RV that didn’t need work so we just go in expecting it. We’ve been fortunate that none of it was serious or disruptive to our trip. Airstream (the factory not the dealers) has been AMAZING so we are happy about that. It took several years to convince Amy to consider one. Silas being crippled may be the factor that convinced her to give it a shot.

[@jillimpink8198]

We had a 20ft FC; don't talk to me about difficulty making the bed! LOL All kidding aside, we upgraded to the 25ft because I had PTSD from making that bed, and I also had a foam topper, which I think makes it harder but more comfortable!! Anyway, I'm new here, I just found you today, and I can't wait to follow along!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣!!! This gave us a laugh. And you are right - that model does look much harder. Hope your loving your 25!

[@rickmorris588]

Thank you for the honest assesment of your Airstream experience. After owning several 5th wheels we are considering an Airstream 28RB or 30RB. My question is do you find the Airstream less stressful pulling it or about the same stress as the 5th? My BIL made the switch to AS and all he talks about is how much he loves the way it pulls and handles over his 35' fiver. We currently have a 34' with opposing slides.

[@reneetucker5151]

We have a 30RB Airstream and my husband often says he almost forgets he is pulling it, as it rides so smoothly. We have had ours for almost 5 years and love it, and wouldn't even think of trading it for any other rig! :)

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We never minded towing the fifth wheel at all. BUT….yes, this is much easier, very nimble, we stopped ducking every time we go under a bridge (🤣) and our gas mileage is dreamy. With all the pros and cons - the mobility in the Airstream is a huge win for us.

[@TomB-zh1lo]

There is a small plastic clip that inserts into the hinges that prevents the hinge from accidentally coming detached. It is: Grass America GFF072135807540 Tiomos Hinge Accessories Hinge Clip Protector. They are easily removable if you need to remove the hinge. Some of the hinges on my Airstream came with them installed but others didn't. Looks like at least some of yours did't also.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! We learn so much from others and always appreciate input and advice!

[@johnfalconer4846]

Use some blue lock tite on the set screws

[@CherylLily7003]

Thank you. We're looking at a 2018 International and your insights are valuable to us. We are especially interested in the ramp that you have for your dog, as ours is elderly also and cannot navigate steps. Where did you get it and what's its name? Thanks again.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We love these ramps! We’ve been using them since 2019 and they hold up great. We got ours at PetsMart. It is made by TopPaw. Hope this helps your senior citizen. We also highly recommend Dasaquin. It has done more for Silas’s mobility than anything! Good luck on your Airstream shopping! So exciting!!

[@CherylLily7003]

@lifebetweentheditches1307 Thank you so much! We left the dealership Friday to give the purchase some more thought, and we've decided to make an offer on Monday. Now, we're trying to figure out a good starting point for negotiations. Hopefully, the unit will still be available. And have a new sub!

[@meaganfroh2812]

Could you send me information on the ramp you are using for your dog?

[@kathibucklin8198]

Jim and Amy great video! If you were to do it again would you still choose the 30 or would you consider the 27? We are debating between the two lol. Each have their advantages and disadvantages of course! Love watching your adventures

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thank you! We are 100% happy with the 30. If we didn’t have such giant dogs we would probably be just fine in the 27. The 30 is still so much smaller than our fifth wheels that we feel incredibly nimble in it and it so easy to tow and maneuver. We lost our ginormous Labrador BUT we are now traveling with our 141 pound Bullmastiff so that extra floor space is extra necessary for us at this time. Both are really great floor plans!! Good luck on your decision! 🤞🤞❤️

[@kathibucklin8198]

@@lifebetweentheditches1307 Thanks for your input. We currently have a 30 ft lance with two slides but are reaching an age where the airstream seems simpler. We are on the road for roughly 3 weeks at a time so we are moving every few days. Looking forward to meeting your Bullmastiff! Being able to take our pets on the road make the journey even sweeter! Merry Christmas to you both!

[@user-gh8sl7iu3y]

Hilarious! Haven’t been stuck in our bath but we rarely close the door since there are only 2 of us. We did have the door lock somehow while we were towing so immediately took the lock off since we don’t see any need to lock it.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

These accidental lock stories crack us up!!! You have to laugh. It’s just too absurd!

[@curtisaitken7027]

Not an airstream owner (yet). Am looking to buy an old one so I can fit it out the way I want. Is there a way to build your own bed in the back into a queen or king? I’ve seen some beds with amazing storage solutions

[@aswinos6077]

The bathroom door handle on our Airstream 2021 GT 25FBT fell off too! It must be a feature! 😂

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Maybe it’s a secret feature for only the very best AS owners?! 😉 Those are the moments you just have to laugh!!

[@Decon78]

How comfortable do you find the couches and dinette? We’re considering the Globetrotter 30RBQ and the Classic 30RBQ. We both love the look and airiness of the Globetrotter but concerned about the overall seating comfort.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We have found them to be comfortable! Clearly not as comfortable as theatre seats like we had in our fifth wheel since they don’t recline but the cushions are sturdy.

[@user-df6rq9wr7g]

If you know the maker of the hinge you are having trouble keeping attached, you may be able to find a cover that will keep the hinge from releasing. As an example, look up the product "Sugatsune J95 Safety Cover for J95 Hinges", and you will see a piece that covers the release mechanism. It's likely that the manufacturer of your hinge has something similar. Just FYI, we have a 2023 Classic 30 RBT that we love. BRN #31200.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

This is very helpful information for us! We were not aware of this. Thank you for sharing!

[@JanPodesva-lu9il]

Try Beddy’s for you beds.Once on- your daily making the beds is a breeze. No tucking after on, they zip! The are also very confortable!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

People that have Beddys really do seem to love them! We need to look into them for sure! Thanks!

[@bretthiler2401]

Not sure if it would help on bed dilemma what if you did one at a time moved all bedding to one side change sheets on opposite side and vice versa may save you a little time. Hey even in fifth wheel I have to do sheets cause gotta pull mattress out some to get to those top corners. Safe travels guys.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Thanks Brett! You’re right. They are all pretty tight spaces to wrestle. At home we each take one side of the bed and it’s done in a jiffy so we are just spoiled at this point. Definitely a high class problem!

[@reallymatt6494]

You should stuff a towel/foam or something in the opening on the floor you dislike. However I wonder if those are there for air flow or have a specific purpose? Use thread lock on that screw.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Unfortunately, no air flow, no vents. It appears to be cosmetic. Towels are a good idea!!

[@jessiecleverauthor]

I don’t know if this will work with a mattress topper, but we got the fitted Airstream sheets from AB Lifestyles, and they are a GAME CHANGER. I was doing the clips before with a regular sheet, and you are absolutely right. It is awful. The Airstream specific sheets are so much easier.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We are 100% going to get on this ASAP. They’re cheaper than physical therapy! Thank you - we didn’t know about these.

[@jessiecleverauthor]

I really hope they work for you. They are so much easier! Love your videos and safe travels!

[@angelalester4172]

Can you please tell me about Gatsby’s bunk bed? I’m looking for a solution in our rv. Thanks so much!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Definitely!! We bought a price of plywood that just slides under each of the mattresses about 18 inches. It’s pretty lightweight but sturdy enough to support him. We wrapped it in quilt batting and Amy made a large pillow case for it to prevent any scratching. Then we just set his bed on it. We can still use the nightstand drawer but it’s a little harder to access the 2 under bed lockers closest to the nightstand. We stored things we don’t use often in there so it worked out great for us.

[@angelalester4172]

Great idea! Thanks for taking the time to respond. I really appreciate it. My husband and I really love your honesty and transparency on everything you share. Happy travels! Be blessed!

[@tracyclay7665]

Please share the name/brand/length of the dog ramp. Our dog seriously needs that

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

This is the one we use. We’ve had them since 2019 and they hold up very well. We have one we leave outside year round from our deck to the yard and it has never rusted. (No sponsors or affiliates- just happy to share what has worked for us). If you block off both sides so they have no choice but to go up the ramp, it makes training go pretty quickly. www.petsmart.com/dog/beds-and-furniture/ramps-and-steps/top-paw-deluxe-telescoping-pet-ramp-5152514.html?gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADiLNNnyIJVHeyO6v8MmltowmYeDB&gclid=Cj0KCQjwusunBhCYARIsAFBsUP-RtSH_3MA4aX9dd1Y6EKEgtiDK1SiF1iDVq6uhHUKPYDK6U29WHgYaAguWEALw_wcB

[@DavidSmith3750]

Ok kids. Put the fitted sheet UNDERNEATH. The mattress. Then tuck in top sheet around sides. Use duvet cover fr your top only wash top sheet and duvet cover. Less work.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

ALL for less work!!! That’s actually a very clever tip. Thank you for that!

[@duc1198s]

New sub 😁

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Welcome!

[@SILLYHLLBLLY]

My question to you would be about your experience. I am a travel tech and spend quite a bit on airbnb for 3 month+ stays for my spouse and 2 pets. Looking into getting a travel trailer, more specifically an airstream. We can afford it but can’t get past the price tag. My wife and I are 30 and don’t own a home yet. The big expense seems to push us further back from attaining our dream property but at the same time, continuing to staying at airbnb we are not paying into ownership. I suppose my question to you is, is the price tag worth it for full time travel for years to come and what would you say your average monthly expenses are? Thank you

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We totally understand where you are in your thought process. We get your point on trying to justify the price. The answer is “it depends”. On several things. We love the airstream and are definitely happy with the quality. It was perfect for our elderly dog getting in and out - which is how we ended up pulling the trigger. It was perfect for us doing our road warrior thing and moving every 3 to 4 days for several months. The most important factor in deciding what to get (or if) is how you are going to use it. Based on your needs- we probably wouldn’t choose an Airstream. We know several people that go full-time with a pet or a child and still love it and that is all good. Rent is money you never get back (formerly owned real estate firms) so the AirBNB money is gone. RV’s are depreciating assets but there is some resale value at the end so it would be a matter of crunching some numbers to weigh how much money you save by RVing over the AirBNB. Depending on what areas you are working in, campgrounds can be a great deal, moderately expensive or as expensive as hotels. We do love knowing the dogs can be with us. We really love having our beds, our bathroom, our kitchen etc. We don’t have a monthly cost because we are not full-time. We are considering going for a straight year or two in the future and deciding to list or rent our home. And much like you, trying weigh out the value of various RVs that we would want for that slower pace of travel. Motorhomes seem to be a likely choice for what we need BUT wowww, the cost of buying and owning. So you are asking all the right questions! Keep talking to others and crunching your numbers. Highly recommend a lightly used Airstream if you go that route. There are some very well maintained ones out there! Best of luck to you on your process!!

[@tyggeln]

Minute 9 we use earthquake straps to secure those doors that can open on the road.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

That is such a great idea!!! Love it!

[@Jasonrcsd]

how has dealer and manufacturer support been for Airstream compared to your other RVs?

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

AMAZING when we deal with Airstream directly. The dealers service departments are consistently useless thus far.

[@kevinrobinson7336]

Those twin beds sheet changes look easy peasy compared to an airstream queen bed without a walk around... Consider yourself lucky.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Oh - very good point! That just sounds miserable. Walk around is the key!!!!

[@Frenchy5117]

Add alittle blue locktite to that screw so it won't come loose

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Yes! Love that stuff. We couldn’t find any where we were but we’re going to be adding to each one as he tightens them going forward. Thanks!

[@bobgrabowski2232]

What year Airstream did you get?

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

2023

[@Eric-xp1kl]

Question for Amy & Jim...I have loved and dreamed of an Airstream for 20+ years. Now that we are actually looking, I think an Oliver is a much higher quality build, but not the Airstream visual appearance. Airstreams just scare me that they have grown so much (volume production), but the quality is no longer there for the astronomical price.

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

Olivers are SO cool! Definitely a good choice. We reached out to Airstream (mothership, not dealers) and we are shocked to report they are replacing all of it and saying it should have never left the factory like that so we are pleased. We can deal with mistakes/problems as long as there is accountability. Sadly, we weren’t expecting it because the industry as a whole is so disappointing. Good luck with your Oliver! We also thought inTech was super cool but the storage just wasn’t realistic for us.

[@Eric-xp1kl]

@@lifebetweentheditches1307 Agree...InTech do look pretty cool also. Appreciate your thoughts.

[@LibYourBestLife]

Get yourself twin Beddy’s! Way easier and the twin fits fin. Zip it and forget it!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We really do need to order some! Everyone seems to love them!

[@karenpowell6489]

You two are cute.

[@damnthetorpedos1691]

#locktight

[@jameskerrigan2997]

Some places only allow air stream. Not worth the price.

[@judithwilliamshudson1744]

I have two propane tanks two and one tank will last me 3to 7 months. Refg. Water tank, stove. Don't use the heater

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We got 5 months on one tank but we used the heat quite a bit. It’s so impressive. We went through a tank every 3 weeks on our fifth wheel!

[@moetarded7757]

Lock tight? Sponsor here?

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We love solutions and all suggestions! We don’t do sponsors. This isn’t a business for us so we aren’t going down that road.

[@Tek-eo3li]

Get yourself a fifth wheel with a Lippert frame and really have something to whine about.

[@sykesc2]

I definitely second @elainejarvie5458 on the Beddy's. We have a 27' Globetrotter FBT and I use a twin XL on my bed. I tried a regular twin and it was a fight to get it on. The XL goes on in just a few minutes. I leave the wall side unzipped so that I can pull the extra bedding around under the curve. When you pull up the cover during the day you never know. I loved your honest and open feedback on your Airstream experience. No RV is perfect, and I appreciate your summary of the pros and cons you have found. Safe travels!

[@lifebetweentheditches1307]

We are definitely going to look into them!! ❤️