I really think the storage box is a "must have". It is where the chocks, the electrical cable, the water hose, the leveling blocks, etc. go. I would really miss it if I didn't have it.
I'm slightly panicked about my final build sheet due date of 10 Nov for my 17B.
Please suggest additions or deletions to my current list of options:
Dual 6V batteries Yes, it is nice to be able to be off the grid for a couple days.
Solar Panel If you don't plan to ever be off the grid for more than 3 days, it is not required with dual 6V. If off longer, solar is a good option
Surge Protector Undecided myself.
Window in bathroom (I may delete this) I never had one in my 19, and never missed it. I think I might get one in the 5.0 though.
Thermal windows and extra insulation Definitely, keeps heat in in cold climates, and out in warm climates.
LED brake lights I would. I added them to my 19 for visiblity with bikes on the back.
Air Conditioning Depends where you will camp. I never had it in the 19, but will get it in the 5.0 as I plan to travel to hotter climates.
Microwave For us, a definite no go. So many others ways to cook while camping, and the space saved makes for great storage.
Shelves in closet A no go for us on this too. I mostly wear collared shirts, and ours was always full of hung clothes. I put about 3 shirts on each hangar.
Starter Kit If you don't already have this stuff, it is a good start. Besides, it includes two full propane bottles.
I've never owned or used an RV. Thank you!
Hi: Steve R... If going solar make sure all available lighting inside and out is LED. AlfI'm slightly panicked about my final build sheet due date of 10 Nov for my 17B.
Please suggest additions or deletions to my current list of options:
Dual 6V batteries
Solar Panel
Surge Protector
Window in bathroom (I may delete this)
Thermal windows and extra insulation
LED brake lights
Air Conditioning
Microwave
Shelves in closet
Starter Kit
I've never owned or used an RV. Thank you!
I really think the storage box is a "must have". It is where the chocks, the electrical cable, the water hose, the leveling blocks, etc. go. I would really miss it if I didn't have it.
Steve:
If it's possible, relax regarding your choices. We picked up our 17B in mid-Aug. and have spent 6 out of the 10 weeks since, using it. Option choices really depend on how you intend to use your trailer and your preferences. Your list is fairly consistent with ours--the differences may reflect your desires and so be entirely valid for you. Our choices did not include air conditioning or a microwave--we rarely camp where we have hook-ups and chose not to inflict the noise (or pollution) of a generator on our neighbors. Love the solar panel and dual 6v batteries--have yet to see a battery condition less than good on our monitor. We take numerous hanging clothes, and so find our closet (without shelves) to be highly useful. The surge protector can be viewed a cheap insurance (although again, we do not frequently have hook-ups). We like having the extra insulation and thermal windows for camping in "shoulder" seasons. We love the outside storage box, it allows us to keep all the set-up items (leveling blocks, cords, hoses, etc. outside our living area where they're readily accessible. What ever your finally choices, you'll love your Escape--have fun!
Dave
It is really light too, at least the 80 watt one is. We used ours up northern Vancouver Island with variable weather and were able to go off grid for over 8 days, but we also have all LEDs and only used the furnace a few times. We also moved it once a day to capture the best sun. Excellent unit and takes all the guesswork out of solar. Great customer service too. One thing I would recommend if you do get one, is to shop around for the best price and get your local RV place to price match. Saved over $100 this way.Thanks Jim and Ross, that's good information.
Lorrie, that's exactly what I was looking at. I figure if I can place it in the sun and tilt it properly that it will be plenty.