We are considering getting our first TT and are largely down to AS ( 23CB or 25FB) Olli Elite II or a Travel Lite Falcon ( Hard to get real world info ). We are lucky enough we have an opportunity and flexibility to travel and explore for some extended periods of time upwards of 1-3 months at a time. We are still sorting out how often and for how long but expect it to be in waves of extended time. Beside the two of us we occasionally will have two early teens join us from time to time and a dog as long as he stays with us, he is getting older.
We have been doing our research in the forums and learning from others shared experiences. We also plan to meet with some friends who have a 16' AS as they have a lot they want to share on what they would do different etc.
We started off thinking a 16' AS but have slowly settled into thinking a 25'FB or 23CB is the best option considering tradeoffs between bigger and smaller models. My SO would like something she feels she could pull on her own if possible so the 25' is a little intimidating. She is willing to go to the 25' if I plan to spend more time vs. less on trips. She is also concerned with entry cost, tow-ability, boondocking / off-road ability and is leaning more toward the Falcon. I am more concerned with comfort, quality, durability and investment protection.
We spent several hours at our local AS dealer going in all sizes and floor plans and felt the best about the 25'FB. We even considered the 23'FB but like the bigger fridge, windows and extra sitting space of the 25'FB. Have not been in the Ollie or Falcon but hope to see both in Montana in a week or two.
We keep coming back to the olllie. I was down on it but its growing on me. I think its going to be less maintenance and the better boondocker. My only hang ups right now are...
- King bed: Seems like such a waist the way its done. Uncomfortable looking and I am NOT looking forward to setting it up every day. My SO says just leave it. I agree but think there is so much lost storage space there. I wish it was a fixed in place queen with more storage on the sides and underneath with a wall / divider for closing.
- Dinette: Wish it had a slider for extending out and more space for games / working
- Not going to be enough from the dinette bed / conversion for when two teens join us from time to time. So one or both will have to tent camp
- With the both beds being conversions not looking forward to tow conversions daily even if from time to time
I have already compromised on less windows, wet shower and less space overall vs. the AS. Although nice to have. I do not think they have to be deal breakers.
Price. We are seeing amazing deals on excellent condition lightly used AS. So we are likely to be 20K more with an Ollie tricked out for boondocking like Two Plus Lu laid out.
Thanks in advance for any input and guidance.