Off Road Camping Trailers

raqball

Sep 10, 2024

I am currently researching off-road campers and trailers. The older I get, the less I want to setup my tent and other gear every time I head out. I am considering enclosed trailers and trailers with Roof Top Tents.

What I want is the ability to store all my gear inside the trailer when heading to a site, then setup base camp after arrival, and have a comfortable sleeping area.

I do not need a living area as most of my time spent will be wheeling the trails in the area for the day. Return to base camp at the end of the day, eat, chill by fire then sleep. Lather, rinse, repeat for the entire trip.

My budget is about $14K and while I can go over this, I'd prefer to stay at or under that price.

I want the trailer to be off-road capable but it won't really be heading down any serious trails. My plans would be to wheel to an area, set up base camp, wheel that area for the day then return to base camp for the night. Any serious off-roading would be done away from the base camp and the base camp would be setup in an easily accessible area.

I'd love to see and hear what others have. Photos and write up for it would be very helpful.

Here are a few options I am considering and their estimated prices.

Oregon Trailer DoDrop Alpha: $13,250 for the Base version (I would probably go over my $14K limit adding items and things it's missing)

https://oregontrailer.net/model/dodrop-alpha/

-----------------

Runaway Venturist XS: $8400 (as I have one configured) without RTT
Inspired Overland RTT: $1300
Total: $9,700

Trailer: https://www.runawaycampers.com/product/venturist-xs/5?cp=true&sa=true&sbp=false&q=false
RTT: https://inspiredoverland.com/products/io-lightweight-rooftop-tent/

----------------

TentRax Ascend: About $14,000 (as I have one configured) Limited storage - would need to do more research

https://www.tentrax.com/ascend

-------------------

Smittybilt Scout Trailer: $8800
Inspired Overland RTT: $1300
Total: $10,100

Trailer: https://www.smittybilt.com/product-skus/smittybilt-scout-trailer-87400/
RTT: https://inspiredoverland.com/products/io-lightweight-rooftop-tent/

-------------------

Some have an Off-road Articulation Hitch and some don't. I would definitely add one to the trailers that don't have one standard.

I am leaning towards the DoDrop Alpha since it does not require a RTT but I am also seriously considering the Venturist XS or the Smittybilt Scout with an Inspired Overland RTT due to their total price.. The TentRax Ascend looks good but it's a little pricey considering it's a soft RTT style on top and I think it's a propriety tent so I'd worry about getting another if it ever needed to be replaced.

Please share your camping trailers here and if you don't mind sharing, the price paid. I will probably be purchasing something over the winter so I am ready to roll come next spring.

Thanks!

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Bronco*girl66, BuckYeah

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Sep 14, 2024

#60

UserError
I hope you eventually get the paperwork, @raqball. Looking forward to your adventures with it.

I have not even bought it yet. I'm waiting on the final sales paperwork with the tax, title etc. then need to settle up with the payment.

It's really not a big deal. I just assumed everything would be done today. I am not even going to pick it up until after my move. It'll probably sit there on their lot until the 1st or 2nd week of October..

I am not familiar with Nebraska weather but I hope to at least get it out for one shakedown trip before Winter hits.

@Sven, can you share the battery packs you are using? I might go the route you did with the batteries.

Also, did you get the free solar panel? Holly at Taxa told me that after I have the purchase paperwork to contact her and they'll drop ship me a free solar panel.

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Jakob1972, Deano Bronc

Sep 14, 2024

#61

raqball
I have not even bought it yet. I'm waiting on the final sales paperwork with the tax, title etc. then need to settle up with the payment.

It's really not a big deal. I just assumed everything would be done today. I am not even going to pick it up until after my move. It'll probably sit there on their lot until the 1st or 2nd week of October..

I am not familiar with Nebraska weather but I hope to at least get it out for one shakedown trip before Winter hits.

@Sven, can you share the battery packs you are using? I might go the route you did with the batteries.

Also, did you get the free solar panel? Holly at Taxa told me that after I have the purchase paperwork to contact her and they'll drop ship me a free solar panel.

My previous reply went to the moon I guess. On the advice of the fella living in an RV next door I got a couple of these. They are about half the weight of the equivalent lead acid deep cycle. With the solar panel I should almost never need more for what I do.

https://www.litime.com/collections/...MI0-uzzrnBiAMV9g2tBh0ekQM_EAYYASABEgIbJ_D_BwE

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

Chief Ron, UserError

Sep 14, 2024

#62

Sven
My previous reply went to the moon I guess. On the advice of the fella living in an RV next door I got a couple of these. They are about half the weight of the equivalent lead acid deep cycle. With the solar panel I should almost never need more for what I do.

https://www.litime.com/collections/...MI0-uzzrnBiAMV9g2tBh0ekQM_EAYYASABEgIbJ_D_BwE

Awesome, thank you!

Aside from the solar charge, I assume they charge off the Bronco battery when the 7pin is connected and the Bronco is running?

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Chief Ron

Sep 14, 2024

#63

@raqball I got the group 24 Batteries. sorry for the wrong link.

https://www.litime.com/products/12v-100ah-group-24-lithium-battery

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

raqball

Sep 14, 2024

#64

raqball
Awesome, thank you!

Aside from the solar charge, I assume they charge off the Bronco battery when the 7pin is connected and the Bronco is running?

Yes to when plugged in to the Bronco. Also when you plug in to shore power.

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

Chief Ron, raqball

Sep 14, 2024

#65

raqball
I am sure I'll be thrilled with it. Ever since I took those photos of it at OE PNW for you I've had it stuck in my head. Then after seeing yours, it got me seriously wanting one but the cheapskate in me didn't want to drop that much cash..

You hear horror stories of people dealing with RV places so I am hopeful everything goes smoothly and the price does not change. I am sure everything will be fine..

One very odd thing I learned, at least with this dealer, is that if you pay cash they charge 2% more? WTF? I thought it was the other way around. I am sure they get additional kickback if you finance so that's probably why they do it..

Maybe you can finance a zero % and pay off early. I'll do those anytime they are offered.

Deano Bronc, Chief Ron

Sep 14, 2024

#66

Lots O Fords
Maybe you can finance a zero % and pay off early. I'll do those anytime they are offered.

The 2% add for cash would only come out to about $350 or so (if my brain math is correct).. Not really a big deal.

The TigerMoth I am waiting to buy comes with a Thule Tepui RTT that I won't need or want so that will be removed and sold. I think they retail for about 2K so I'll sell it dirt cheap just to get it moved.. That'll get me some cash back on the purchase.

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Deano Bronc, Lots O Fords

Sep 14, 2024

#67

Congratulations on your choice.
Coming from someone who is sitting in his camper right now in the middle of a two week trip, I might suggest you talk to people in the service department and learn what things are normally repaired. Under warranty, wear and tear or neglect.
It will give you good knowledge on preventative maintenance.
When an RV has a problem, nothing is worse than finding out afterwards, if you would have done....... That wouldn't happen.
Plus, RV manufacturers go out of business frequently. Many times it's not because of the product just business.
My 2 cents from owning campers and trailers.

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 14, 2024

#68

Lots O Fords
Congratulations on your choice.
Coming from someone who is sitting in his camper right now in the middle of a two week trip, I might suggest you talk to people in the service department and learn what things are normally repaired. Under warranty, wear and tear or neglect.
It will give you good knowledge on preventative maintenance.
When an RV has a problem, nothing is worse than finding out afterwards, if you would have done....... That wouldn't happen.
Plus, RV manufacturers go out of business frequently. Many times it's not because of the product just business.
My 2 cents from owning campers and trailers.

Good info!

Taxa is a pretty reputable company. From what I've read, the camper and their customer service are top notch. Of course, as with anything, there can and will be issues.

Sven owns the exact same year, make and model I am 'hopefully' buying today and I've been picking his brain about it..

Also, the dealer I am buying from is an 8 hour drive from where I am moving to so I assume if it needs work, I'd need to find someone local..

@Sven can you do me a favor and measure from the ground to the center of the Lock N Roll on the TigerMoth? Trying to figure out how much rise or drop I'll need on the vehicle side.

From what I can tell in my research for the Lock N Roll system, you take measurement to the center of the trailer side, then center of the vehicle side receiver and then you subtract the two. After that you also subtract an additional 1-1 1/2" and this gives you the amount of rise or drop you need on the driver side.

For instance: Lets say the trailer side to center is 25" and center of vehicle side receiver is 20 1/2". That would leave 4 1/2" difference. Next subtract another 1" to 1 1/2" and the rise needed would be 3" or 3 1/2" to keep the trailer level when towing.

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 14, 2024

#69

raqball
Good info!

Taxa is a pretty reputable company. From what I've read, the camper and their customer service are top notch. Of course, as with anything, there can and will be issues.

@Sven owns the exact same year, make and model I am 'hopefully' buying today and I've been picking his brain about it..

Also, the dealer I am buying from is an 8 hour drive from where I am moving to so I assume if it needs work, I'd need to find someone local..

@Sven can you do me a favor and measure from the ground to the center of the Lock N Roll on the TigerMoth? Trying to figure out how much rise or drop I'll need on the vehicle side.

From what I can tell in my research for the Lock N Roll system, you take measurement to the center of the trailer side, then center of the vehicle side receiver and then you subtract the two. After that you also subtract an additional 1-1 1/2" and this gives you the amount of rise or drop you need on the driver side.

For instance: Lets say the trailer side to center is 25" and center of vehicle side receiver is 20 1/2". That would leave 4 1/2" difference. Next subtract another 1" to 1 1/2" and the rise needed would be 3" or 3 1/2" to keep the trailer level when towing.

Like you I measured and remeasured so when I finally got it I could hook up and go. The unit came a short straight vehicle side stinger but would require spare tire removal. Here is the set up I went with and a link.
Also Stock Badlands with SAS also 1.25" rear lift and 2.25 front lift/level
24.5 - 25 " is the desired height according to the tape. my set up to allow the swing gate to open puts that height just under 24" I get about 1.5-2" sag when hitched up but no issues running 70 down the road. (no tail wagging the dog) Just like the Bronco always extras to purchase...some wants some needs.
I went with the longer stinger to allow more room to open the rear door. Also I cut off about an 1 1/4 (removed 1 hole) from the stinger to get the tire to clear. Hope this makes sense. EDIT: from the pin on the Bronco to center of hole on hitch is 19.5 inches.
Happy to answer any questions you have.
https://locknroll.com/shop-now/vehicle-side/VS503_VS519_Combination_Package/

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21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

Chief Ron, raqball

Sep 14, 2024

#70

Sven
Like you I measured and remeasured so when I finally got it I could hook up and go. The unit came a short straight vehicle side stinger but would require spare tire removal. Here is the set up I went with and a link.
Also Stock Badlands with SAS also 1.25" rear lift and 2.25 front lift/level
24.5 - 25 " is the desired height according to the tape. my set up to allow the swing gate to open puts that height just under 24" I get about 1.5-2" sag when hitched up but no issues running 70 down the road. (no tail wagging the dog) Just like the Bronco always extras to purchase...some wants some needs.
I went with the longer stinger to allow more room to open the rear door. Also I cut off about an 1 1/4 (removed 1 hole) from the stinger to get the tire to clear. Hope this makes sense.
Happy to answer any questions you have.
https://locknroll.com/shop-now/vehicle-side/VS503_VS519_Combination_Package/

Awesome, thank you.. Much appreciated!

I emailed and asked the status and was told probably not until Monday. I guess the issue is where to title and register it and where to charge me the sales tax.

I am an odd case since I am basically dead smack in the middle of a move. I'll buy it while living in Washington but would not pick it up and / or register it until after I am in Nebraska..

I told them just charge me WA sales tax and register it in WA. Then once I move, and I transfer over Bronco plates, I'll do the same with the TigerMoth.

Sounds like I am in a holding pattern until Monday..

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Deano Bronc, UserError

Sep 14, 2024

#71

raqball
Awesome, thank you.. Much appreciated!

I emailed and asked the status and was told probably not until Monday. I guess the issue is where to title and register it and where to charge me the sales tax.

I am an odd case since I am basically dead smack in the middle of a move. I'll buy it while living in Washington but would not pick it up and / or register it until after I am in Nebraska..

I told them just charge me WA sales tax and register it in WA. Then once I move, and I transfer over Bronco plates, I'll do the same with the TigerMoth.

Sounds like I am in a holding pattern until Monday..

Well....at least you know you were not put on the back burner.

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 14, 2024

#72

Sven
Well....at least you know you were not put on the back burner.

They actually just called me and said we should be good to go on Monday. They are going title and register it in Washington.. They said the WA plates will be shipped to them and I can pick those up when I pick up the TigerMoth the 1st or 2nd week of October..

Sounds like all that's left is to sign the final paperwork and send payment..

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Lots O Fords, Deano Bronc

Sep 14, 2024

#73

Sven
@raqball I got the group 24 Batteries. sorry for the wrong link.

https://www.litime.com/products/12v-100ah-group-24-lithium-battery

I wonder if I could get by with just one? The Dometic PB40 I use for my car fridge is only a 40ah and it will power my car fridge for days..

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

Lots O Fords, UserError

Sep 14, 2024

#74

raqball
I wonder if I could get by with just one? The Dometic PB40 I use for my car fridge is only a 40ah and it will power my car fridge for days..

I'll bet 1 will do. I only got two so I can run a little 500 watt heater since cold seems to be the theme where I live.

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 15, 2024

#75

raqball
One very odd thing I learned, at least with this dealer, is that if you pay cash they charge 2% more? WTF? I thought it was the other way around. I am sure they get additional kickback if you finance so that's probably why they do it..

A dealer makes money three ways: the sale itself, the trade-in, and the financing. (4 if you include later service. Plus accessories and stuff.) So a cash sale eliminates that part of his income.
The thing to do is to negotiate the best price you can, while making the salesman think you're going to sign a note--and you probably will. ("What's my monthly payment on this trim package?" you ask.) He'll go down on the price as long as he thinks he's going to get a trade on your old vehicle and you're financing it with him.
Then close the deal at the best possible price you can get. (Idea: have him throw in accessories and a higher trim package that costs the dealership very little, like wheel locks, but would cost you lots out of pocket.) When they prepare the finance note, insist that there is no pre-payment penalty. (They're illegal in my state, don't know about yours.)
So you sign the note, close the deal, take possession of the vehicle (or trailer).
But you were going to pay cash! you say. Right. Make the first payment, then pay off the loan in its entirety with the cash you were going to use to close the deal. This way, the salesman/dealer thought he was going to get income from the financing (interest), but you don't pay that interest by paying off the loan.

Edit: Let's assume you have the cash to pay in full. Use your credit card(s) as much as you can.
Salesman: "Congratulation, you've got a great deal. The Bronco is yours for $50,000. How much do you want to put down?"
You: "How much will you take on my credit card?" (Assuming you have a credit card with a high limit.)
Salesman: "$5,000."
You:"I want to make it $10,000, since this is a large finance note I'm signing."
Salesman: "We'll accept $7,500 on your credit card for the down payment."

Here's what happened: You just racked up lots of reward points or miles on your credit card. He won't go much higher because the dealer will pay the credit card service 2%-3.5%. That could be $150-250 in rewards for you. Plus it's good for your credit rating! But he wants to close the sale.
Here's what you're going to do: Since you have the cash to pay for the vehicle (or trailer) in full, you'll pay the entire principle on your credit card. When your first payment is due on the truck (or trailer), you pay that off in full, so you don't pay any (more) interest.

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 15, 2024

#76

Sven
I'll bet 1 will do. I only got two so I can run a little 500 watt heater since cold seems to be the theme where I live.

I'll start with one battery and see how it goes.

The car fridge will stay in the Bronco with the Dometic PB40 so I can have cold drinks on the trail. The only thing I'd really need to power inside the TigerMoth are the interior lights and maybe a small USB powered fan. I'd also use that power to charge phone, flashlights ets. For heat, I'd probably just get one of those small MR Buddy propane heaters..

I don't plan on camping when cold or in the snow (what can I say, I am a lightweight) so a small heater might do the trick for me.

Hopefully all is done tomorrow and the TigerMoth is mine. I am going to try and pick it up as soon as I get settled in (hopefully the 1st week of October) then head out on it's Maiden shake down voyage..

I am trying to compile a list of things I know I'll need and want for the TigerMoth.

The Lock N Roll you linked
Small USB Fan
Small Mr Buddy heater
One of the batteries you linked

I am hoping to fit some Jerry Gas Cans in-between the tool box and the TigerMoth on the flat rack area and secure them down with ratchet straps. One bummer of the 2DR Bronco is its small fuel tank.

Other than that, the shakedown trip will give me a good idea of what else I want to add..

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

UserError, Sven

Sep 15, 2024

#77

raqball
I'll start with one battery and see how it goes.

The car fridge will stay in the Bronco with the Dometic PB40 so I can have cold drinks on the trail. The only thing I'd really need to power inside the TigerMoth are the interior lights and maybe a small USB powered fan. I'd also use that power to charge phone, flashlights ets. For heat, I'd probably just get one of those small MR Buddy propane heaters..

I don't plan on camping when cold or in the snow (what can I say, I am a lightweight) so a small heater might do the trick for me.

Hopefully all is done tomorrow and the TigerMoth is mine. I am going to try and pick it up as soon as I get settled in (hopefully the 1st week of October) then head out on it's Maiden shake down voyage..

I am trying to compile a list of things I know I'll need and want for the TigerMoth.

The Lock N Roll you linked

Small USB Fan

Small Mr Buddy heater

One of the batteries you linked

I am hoping to fit some Jerry Gas Cans in-between the tool box and the TigerMoth on the flat rack area and secure them down with ratchet straps. One bummer of the 2DR Bronco is its small fuel tank.

Other than that, the shakedown trip will give me a good idea of what else I want to add..

The Moth does have a powered ceiling exhaust fan which helps remove the warm for sure. A small fan would be a good addition.
There is plenty of room and attachment points for gas cans etc. on the front rack. Also a 12vdc plug up there as well.
The one battery should be all you need I'm pretty sure unless it's an extended trip But once you get the solar panel that will help extend that time for sure.
My little heater took it all of 10 minutes to make it comfortable first thing in the morning in the small space.
Hopefully they don't mount the toolbox up front and you can mount it to your needs. As I said I moved it an 1 1/2 towards the tongue to get enough room to fit my stuff.
The tongue rack is 16.5" and I moved the toolbox to get 18".
My Dometic fridge and 2000 watt gen fit on the front rack fine.
Can't wait to hear of your escapades with it and hoping you like it as much as I like mine.

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 15, 2024

#78

Sven
The tongue rack is 16.5" and I moved the toolbox to get 18".

I think most metal Jerry Cans are like 13.5" so I should have plenty of room. My plan would be to have 2 metal 5 gal gas cans and 1 5 gal water can. I know the TigerMoth comes with a water can but having an extra won't hurt.

I'd need to get locking ratchet straps so my cans and fuel don't get 'easily' stolen while I am out wheeling the area since the trailer will mainly be used as a basecamp..

onX Trail Guide & Tread Lightly Member
2023 Badlands 2 door in Hot Pepper Red 🌶️ 🌶️

UserError, Chief Ron

Sep 15, 2024

#79

raqball
I think most metal Jerry Cans are like 13.5" so I should have plenty of room. My plan would be to have 2 metal 5 gal gas cans and 1 5 gal water can. I know the TigerMoth comes with a water can but having an extra won't hurt.

I'd need to get locking ratchet straps so my cans and fuel don't get 'easily' stolen while I am out wheeling the area since the trailer will mainly be used as a basecamp..

Maybe a bike cable lock you can run through the gas can handles and through the spare tire? Just a thought. Now you got me thinking of stuff. I'm still that guy with the unlocked house and the keys in my old Bronco. Just something to keep folks honest you know.

21 Badlands, 2 dr, four banger, slushbox, SAS. PERFECT!

Bluestreak57, Deano Bronc

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