13 replies to this topic

[CLynn85]

I just returned from an 8000 mile trek with my FWC on my truck. I took a huge hit on gas mileage when traveling into the wind. I went from getting 18-22mpg combined to 13-16mpg. I did fare a bit better coming back east with a bit of a tail wind but my average was still in the 15-16mpg range. Needless to say the day after coming home the camper is back in the barn...

With the air-lift air bags, the overall drivablity of the truck wasn't affected much, so that wouldn't factor in too much. I also value my truck's bed, it was afterall the primary reason for buying another truck, so a permanent camper kind of mitigates this...

Additionally, I work at a naval base and frequently travel to other military institutions, and I figured the hassle of getting on base with the camper was just not worth it as well.

[Ted]

Erod,

We keep sleeping bags and pillows, all cookware, kitchen items like plates, silverware, oil, foil, bbq and charcoal, etc., tarps and ropes, sunblock, mosquito spray, towels, flashlights, and, yes, canned and dry food. When we take off for a weekend, all we need to do is add water, set up the porta-potti, and pick up fresh stuff on the way out.

Don't have any interior shots but you can see our set-up on my Death Valley trip report - http://www.wanderthe...hread.php?t=317

Ted

[John D]

Y’all who have those little trucks, good gas mileage, easy to park, I would definitely consider keeping my camper on full time. Might be an opportunity for a nooner. There are other serious advantages too, including but not limited to the following;

One of my camping buddies has a beautiful 12 year old Coach House RV, gorgeous cabinet work inside. He wants a different engine. This would be no problem if he had a truck camper because a pickup holds its value so well. They can be traded with little loss of money. On the other hand, my buddy’s Coach House has poor resale value even though it is like new.

[erod]

thanks ted, appreciate the reply. great set up by the way, i missed your death valley post previously. i think were headed there this fall so i;ll have to take a closer look. cheers!