Why did I buy an RV? And why an Aliner?

00:00 - Intro
00:31 - In the beginning...
01:35 - Aliner not my first choice
02:02 - TAB 320
02:43 - TAB 400
03:07 - New search
03:17 - Why do I want an RV?
03:49 - Does RV need toilet/shower?
04:07 - Does RV need stove/furnace?
04:39 - Does RV need to be light weight?
05:03 - Does RV need to fit in my garage?
05:42 - How many adults will RV hold?
06:13 - Buy new or used RV?
06:49 - Pop up or Aliner?
09:39 - Aliner Scout Lite
09:57 - Little Guy Trailers - San Diego
10:09 - Aliner Ranger 10
10:43 - Closing the deal
10:51 - Sean Hagan - Little Guy Trailers

[@rl5271]

Thanks for a very well thought out video. Note to all Aliner owners: Be absolutely sure you have a proven wind preventer before you ever leave home. I live in the mid-south, but have property in Montana. I'm a very senior widower that shopped for a used typical pop up, but kept running into people that had worn out canvas and crank up problems, so I waited 2 years. Then a friend pointed out Aliners and I immediately saw that there would be no cranking problems and no wet canvas to pack when having to leave on a schedule. Every used Aliner I found was either not in my budget or 1500 miles away. Finally, I found a 2005 Aliner Sportsman 800 miles away. As soon as I bought it my work schedule changed and I had no time to get away for even a long weekend. It sat for two years. Then, 20 miles from me I found a garaged 2016 Aliner Classic that due to health problems, the seller had only pulled it about 500 miles in 6 years. Seeing this gave me a good case of "two foot itis"! I've put 400 watts of solar on it with 4 Battle Born 100 Ah batteries and a 3K inverter. I also added a Webasto diesel heater, good to minus 40F. I took off the two 20lb. propane tanks in favor of a tongue mounted aluminum diamond plate utility storage box. In this box I have miscellaneous gear and one 10lb. propane for hot water if needed and backup if not able to cook on an outside open fire. For trips not in the mountains and of 500 miles or less, I tow with a 6cylinder Ford Escape SUV. For mountains and longer trips, I have a '91 Ford Custom 4x4 pickup truck. I'll be changing to a Toyota full-size SUV, for better gas mileage this Fall. Il you see an Aliner with "Magic Man" on the back of it, be sure to say "Hi!"

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

I’ll keep an eye out for you on the road 🛣️

[@robertmayer6696]

Thank you for an informative video on your reasons for choosing Aliner. I have been thinking of purchasing a Scout but now I will look at the Ranger. Best regards, Bob from AZ

[@MinnVet]

I recently purchased an Aliner Scout Lite. It's perfect for our needs because we don't spend any time in the camper except to sleep. We do everything outside, and have a quick popup gazebo in case of rain. It stayed dry in two overnight thunderstorms on our first trip. Camping is all about being outdoors and enjoying the experience. I would recommend this camper to anyone. Great video!

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Thank you. Like you, I spend most of my time outdoors when camping. The Aliner is perfect for anyone looking for a step above tent camping. Enjoy your travels. Also, thank you for your military service. I served in the United States Air Force during the early 1980s.

[@nathans.3751]

Aliner Classic owner here. Really love them and your channel.

[@garysheets7816]

Nice video especially comparing setting up pop ups and aliners.dont think I ever saw that before.We have a 2021 family scout with two hard dormers just has ac.and a sink no bells or whistles.thanks again

[@dickvankoughnett2331]

Good video . I purchased a scout light last year. It was used but not even a year old . Mine does not even have an air conditioner. I had a Rockwood A frame for years ,so familiar with the design . One little tip .most people talk about using a pool noodle to seal the roof gaps . I suggest something we used in construction called Backer rod . comes in different diameters . I did modify my rear tire carrier to raise the spear tire up about 10 inches . Pulling with a Ford Maverick Tremor , hoping this will be the perfect camping set up for me and my wife and small dog . Thanks .

[@MBAdoptableDogs]

I have loved my Aliner Classic since 2017. I tried the Thereford toilet, too much trouble taking to bathrooms to empty. I use a luggable loo on a pail, with a trash can liner' for night time stops. Next day, tie up bag and in the trash. Also, an oil filled radiator style heater is great when electricity is available. They are silent and the small one does a great job. I have had the Aliner at 68 degrees in 38 degree weather.

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Good idea on the radiator style heater. I use one at home when I only want my room heated.

[@lynnepollack7991]

I have just finished answering the questions you did. Almost the same ones. I live in an HOA Townhouse community. I should be ok keeping it in my garage(pseudo-single car). Others in the complex have jet ski's / small boats. My initial measurements give me 14 ft length total and the ranger 10 will just fit at 13 ft. Don't forget to count the trailer hitch. It's 3 feet long. I currently drive a minivan so I need to keep things light. Regular pop-up campers will not fit in my garage.

[@mitchellhuth]

The thing people don't understand about towing is the tow rating has much more to do with stopping than pulling. In Europe, people pull huge RVs with small volkswagens because they have tough braking requirements. If you look up the tow rating for the passport in Europe, i but it's way more than 3500. I used to own a Nissan Versa. Nissan said no towing in the US, in Europe, 4500 lbs!!!

[@marynichols7429]

I wish I could upvote this 100 times so more people could see it!

[@davidp6839]

There's certainly some truth here, as the breaks do matter, but it absolutely also has to do with "pulling". Things like shocks, trasnmission, etc. There are literally differences in tow capacities between trims of the same model where the manufacturer adds things like additional engine cooling.

[@intrepidinterloper]

This was incredibly helpful! We appreciate all of the work you put into this video, and the split screen showing how quick and simple the setup is really sold me after years of wondering about that.

[@mpprocter]

I have a 2023 Aliner Ranger 12 - it was a great choice for many of the reasons you listed for the one you bought. I just wish the AC was better for here in Arizona.

[@joannebonin5757]

We have a 13 foot Trillium 1975 We love it , Had it for years ,

[@monicalifornia_]

Great channel name. PS… I was crying when that pop-up took a header. 😂😂

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Hahaha. Unintended humor gets more laugh 🤣😂😅

[@larrytucker222]

We owned a Rockwood A122. Really liked it. Fit in the garage, could see over it driving, easy to set up. We are looking for a Scout Lite for our Sienna Van.

[@lynnepollack7991]

Oh! forgot to say Great video. Thanks

[@GoodBoyChevy]

Excellent explanation , good questions to ask oneself and useful comparisons to make. The A-liner will probably be my choice someday.

[@pattyk8594]

Great video thank you! I can't wait to buy an Aliner one day! It will be a few more years for us, but I'll enjoy watching your videos in the meantime :o)

[@54bonkers]

Great review! Thanks!

[@teresas7272]

Great video! Captures succinctly a lot of the choices one has to think through. I love the 10’. I have the 12’ Scout and often wish it had a smaller footprint.

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Ironic, because sometimes I wish I had gotten the Ranger 12. The grass is always greener…

[@larryparson9609]

Nice 👍 happy Trails Thanks 🙏🏼

[@ggadventures6654]

We liked our Aliner but with the hard dormers, us short and inability to open it we sold it having only camped twice in it. Enjoy yours!

[@genericwatcher2439]

When my wife got sick, I started looking for downsized options for just me to travel. Taking gear from our camper, I took a week long trip in our large 3rd row SUV to hike Acadia National Park. It got GREAT mpg, had everything I needed and I was SOLD that this is the way for a single person to travel! My only issue was on day 4, it started to rain, stuck in the back of an SUV all day was not great and really turned me off to SUV camping. I wonder if I should bring a tent for rainy days and that would make things better?

[@vitendogroup8125]

Love the beetle🤩

[@richardmorrow5060]

Great choice. We love ours.

[@The.Garage.Studio]

Cool video !!

[@goldfinger180024]

Went through the same analysis although I have had larger trailers before. I ended up with an Aliner Grand Ascape ST (new also).

[@amyd1549]

Almost bought a Aliner 20 years ago, they are adorable. But my final choice when retirement dream time came...a van. I love camping or as i do it, GLAMPING. Cute channel. New subscriber!

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

It's funny that you mention camping in a van, because one of my childhood dreams was road tripping in a vintage VW Microbus. Enjoy you travels!

[@alvashoemaker8536]

THANK YOU for this vid; I’m getting (in my dreams); this was a GREAT explanation/ review of the A-liner, which seems like it “checks all the boxes”…for ME…! 👍🏻👍🏻‼️

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

You’re very welcome.

[@markbajek2541]

you should move to my town you can park a used 50 foot metro bus in between houses or on your front lawn. Just not on the street

[@patrickmckowen2999]

Excellent 👍

[@dennisclouser3458]

Will probably go with Aliner here in FL. The trouble with popups.... whenever I head home, it rains the morning of and my canvas is wet. I have to get it home, open it back up to dry out. I hear the Aliners are the better option for hard side popups? Great video!!

[@user-ze9vu2gv2r]

Very helpful, Again:). All of the same exact thoughts. I almost purchased the Scout but decided to wait due to some current budget restraints. Kind of glad I did. Question? What is the weight difference between the Scout Light and Ranger 10? It appears the towing and weight are not a factor for your Honda Pilot. Thanks for the info and the comparisons. They match my thoughts almost to a tee and it helps to see how others are thinking as well. God bless and thank you.

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

The height of my collapsed Ranger 10 is 61 inches at the highest point. The Scout Lite is the same height. The dry weight of my Aliner was 1,519 lbs, although the website advertises a dry weight of 1,300 lbs. (perhaps because it doesn't include the weight of the air conditioner, soft dormer, and high wind kit). According to the Aliner website, the dry weight of a Scout Lite is 1,190 lbs.

[@GoingNoWhereFast]

You obviously did not watch my video on "Don't Buy an Aliner..... Before watching this" on why not to buy an Aliner!! But here you are!! Any Chance your a member of the Aliner Owners Club!! Our North American Rally is in a week in NC. I'd love to meet you!

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

What an honor to hear from you! I did watch your video, and I was still encouraged to buy one of my own. I am not a member of Aliner Owners Club, but I love to part of any organization that would have me as a member 😄. Where in NC?

[@djkenny1202]

Sounds like Scout lite could be pulled by our 4 cyl Forester. I debated a Scamp, but want something Used under $5000. Those Others are so heavy and weird layouts. I wanted to line the TAB. Didn’t. I need to sleep 4. 2 adults, 2 kids. No Shower and Toilet. I’d like an outdoor shower. Shoot, the Scout Lite doesn’t Sleep 4. Back to Scamp or other…

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

If I needed to accommodate more people, I would’ve opted for a soft-sided pop-up. Even the small models can hold at least 4 or more adults. Very lightweight, in that a 4 cylinder vehicle could tug it. Good luck in your search.

[@rhg1313]

Wish you would’ve shown us the inside 😢

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Please see my modification video, as it includes an interior video.

[@rhg1313]

Thanks for the interior update

[@amydelpiere9315]

Could you comment on how the dry weights compare between the Scout Lite and the Ranger 10?

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Aliner advertises the dry weight of its Scout Lite at 1,180 lbs, and the dry weight of its Ranger 10 at 1,300 lbs (mine weighed at 1,500+ lbs). A Scout Lite can be pulled by a vehicle with a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 lbs. Keep in mind that any extra loads to the RV and tow vehicle will impact performance of your tow vehicle.

[@truchretienne8889]

The setup & takedown part of the video was funny. It could compete with some Charlie Chaplin footage. Thanks for sharing your decision process. I pray safe and beautiful travels.

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Hahaha. It was shock when the pop-up trailer tipped, and it made me laugh during editing. Charlie Chaplin I’m not, as I was aiming to be more like George Clooney 😂. I obviously failed at that, as a friend commented that I sound more like Gene Hackman on my “Aliner Intro” video 🤣

[@CatGarlo]

Just curious have you heard about about Prolite? I had a toss up of Aliner on sale new for 12,800 or Prolite used 10K i decided on the Prolite, it’s only 5’11” inside. I can fit at 5’2” :)

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Yes, I am familiar with the smaller Prolite models, but I need a height of 6’2” or more for full comfort. Traveling would be more spacious for me if I was 5’9” or less, especially when flying in crowded 737s. My heart sank when my tall frame couldn’t maneuver comfortably inside the TAB 320 ☹️

[@cabochris100]

OMG... no interior walk through? Disappointing 😢

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

See my modification video, which provides a walk through . Don’t blink, though, as you’ll miss it 😂

[@Seefourmiles]

Hello- Thanks for your informative videos. I am 6'1" and wondering about the bed length. Do you have any discomfort due to lack of bunk length? Thanks!

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

The length of both beds are 74 inches, and it's plenty of room for me. The width for the front bunk is 30 inches, and 40 inches for the rear bed. Also, I find the cushions firm and comfortable for sleeping.

[@cliffwendy3765]

Did you check out the safari condo alto 1723?

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

No. My initial focus was on the TAB 320. After that I only looked at RVs that were less than 20k, and could fit in my garage. I spent a bit more for the Ranger 10 based on the extra amenities, but it’s worked well for me 😊

[@coffeedollsvp]

Did u compare with Rockwood premier?

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

I didn't consider Rockwood A-Frames, as I could only find used models. Many of them were too long to fit in my garage.

[@coffeedollsvp]

@HaveMapWillTravel90606 yes...some have a storage compartment in front...a frame are so practical

[@richj120952]

In you circumstance, I would not have selected an Aliner, any model. Rather I would have gone to a Trail Manor. They make one that will easily fit in a garage, and have a hard side expansion that gives you 2 regular sized (either full or queen), full stand up room, and an easy up set up. Why? Well I have been looking at RVs for at least 20 years now. Trailers, as well as the various classes of drivable types. Still reluctant though to jump in to actual purchasing, but when I do, and if I decide upon a trailer it would be a Trail Manor. (Drivables would be a Rialta, as they have better gas mileage, and don't cost an arm and a leg.)

[@billayers2190]

Why not an Aliner Ascape?

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

The big reason was the exterior height was beyond the opening of my garage door. The other reason was the price for a brand new Ascape in my area was more than I wanted to pay.

[@carlpabst6506]

What was wrong with the meerkat?

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

It was more than I wanted to pay 😒

[@kylegilbertson2401]

Teardrops inexpensive?...

[@HaveMapWillTravel90606]

Hahaha. I was finding used teardrops in 2022 for less than $10,000. A lot of owners admitted it was too small for their liking and wanted to upgrade to a bigger travel trailer.

[@cathyjackson5959]

Star Wars? I am a Nurse that lived thru the pandemic of Covid. Had 5 code blues in 1 day!! Not on my floor of 29 ppl/patients. Covid was Very Hard -going to work-the deaths-

[@cathyjackson5959]

I soo wanted to be isolated with a camper & no responsibility for taking care of Covid infected ppl.

[@zazubombay]

Thank you for your service.

[@cathyjackson5959]

@@zazubombay Thank you but gotta do what ya gotta do at the time it needs to be done! With skill set ya have at the time!! Soldiers do everyday!!! ❤️💫❤️