Unlike our first experience reviewing camper options, where we focused on price, the second time around we focused on storage, amenities, community-user reviews of various products, and product videos -- lots of product videos. We also wanted to have something that we would be proud of owning. One company that stood out among others wasGrand Design. We were first acquainted with Grand Design through the Keep Your Daydream (KYD) channel on YouTube where the Grand Design Momentum Fifth Wheel toy hauler and Reflection bunk house was featured. The more we learned more about the Grand Design, the more we compared their features (on video and paper) to others (Winnebago, Catalina, Jayco, Forest River, et cetera). Interestingly enough, there are only a handful of companies that manufacture RV components. So, despite the long list of RV manufacturers and floor plans, almost all have the same manufactured parts such as refrigerators, stoves, fixtures, and other parts. So, what's the difference among them? The answer to that question is where the research comes into focus. Grand Design appeared to have a higher level of attention-to-detail in quality control (based on read reviews) than others. So, while Amy and I were 99% certain we wanted a Grand Design, were weren't sure about what model, the size, and even where to purchase one in Wisconsin (there are two-three dealers...none close to Madison).
The model we chose would have to comfortable accomplish all of the following:
Living space needed to allow for breathing room while being indoors.
When we were in Door County at Bailey's Grove, we had some rainy days and evenings where we had to stay indoors. The 21' Jayco had a bed and under-sized booth/table. Two adults, two German Shepherd Dogs, and a teenager made for pretty tight quarters. And while being in tight quarters indoors while it's raining was appreciated, we were too cramped and on top of one another to enjoy the situation to the fullest. The new RV would have to have space so during inclement weather we could all have a space where we could spread-out, have some buffer from one another. At the same time, we wanted to be able to have bona-fide seating areas so we wouldn't have to always be laying on a bed while inside the camper.
Counter space and kitchen area needed to be functional.
The Jayco was not designed to really accommodate much of the indoor living experience. Hey, I respect that. After all, when camping, we want to spend as much time outdoors as possible. But the Jayco may have had three feet of counter space and that would be it -- no real prep area and limited only to one function at a time.
We would not compromise on storage -- period.
Storage space in an RV is said to be a luxury where creative design is appreciated. Space for storage was certainly lacking in the Jayco, and Amy and I certainly knew that the new RV would have to have enough storage to accommodate plates, utensils, pots, pans, food, and other supplies that would be ample, easily accessible, and not at the expense of compromising living space and functionality.
Scalability and Livability
The next RV we purchased must have the potential to add solar power, supplemental Wi-Fi connectivity, backup cameras, and have tank capacities that would allow for comfortable boon docking.
So, it was clear we had to do our homework and make good decisions in order to position ourselves to be able to upgrade.
