From Fifth Wheel to Motorhome: Freedom on the Road
Embarking on a new adventure often requires careful consideration, especially when it involves investing in an RV to explore the world on wheels. In our quest for freedom and flexibility, we found ourselves faced with numerous choices, contemplating the pros and cons of different RV models. Ultimately, we settled on the Thor Windsport 32T which checked off all our boxes, a motorhome that has become our beloved travel companion. Join us as we share our experiences and insights after seven months of traversing the country in our trusty rig, lovingly named Aine (pronounced ON-ya).
Finding the Perfect Fit
One of the initial hurdles we encountered was deciding which motorhome. We disliked the length of the fifth wheel and the inconvenience of needing a truck as a daily driver, but it did allow a lot of storage room in the garage area but lacked portability and interior space. Ultimately, this motorhome won us over because of its price and available cargo weight. Diesels were double the price but are much stronger. This one was a balance of good price and available cargo weight because it was built light (read cheaply). We traded high quality cupboards and insulation for available weight to carry what we need it to. If you are ever shopping for a Motorhome make sure to check what the empty weight is compared to the maximum weight load you can safely have. The difference will be what remains for your stuff, including water, food, gas, supplies and even people. If that number is too small, you can barely bring a suitcase so make sure it’s suitable for your lifestyle especially if you are full time.
Comfort and Convenience
The transition from our old RV to the new one was seamless, thanks to the assistance of the RV dealer we chose, the National Indoor RV Center in Las Vegas. They offered us a good price for both the 5th wheel and the truck which simplified the transition alot. We parked the 5th wheel beside the new coach for a couple days and began living in the Aine immediately, transitioning our belongings over those days. Also gave us an opportunity to try everything out including off grid items like the batteries, which turned out to be not connected properly but was a quick fix. Any time you can live in the RV for the first few days you own it on the lot of the seller its a great opportunity.
The Thor Windsport 32T offers a range of amenities that enhance our traveling experience. The king-size bed ensures a restful sleep, not only for us but also for our furry friends. For guests, the hydraulic bed above the driver’s seats provides a spacious resting place. One standout feature we adore is the expansive front window, which provides stunning panoramic views of our surroundings. We discovered that having a motorhome allowed us to prepare lunch, work at the table, and even use the bathroom while on the road, making it a perfect choice for frequent travelers. Additionally, the ease of maneuvering, backing up, and parking our motorhome has been a pleasant surprise. Setup time at a new spot is a fraction of the time it was with the 5th wheel providing a higher level of freedom to move.
Exploring the Country
Since acquiring our Aine, we have embarked on an incredible journey, traversing the length and breadth of the United States. From coast to coast, we’ve experienced the joy of living off the grid with the help of solar panels on the roof, supplemented by an upgraded controller. Throughout the winter and summer, we only plugged in a few times, enjoying the freedom of boondocking. However, when we do connect to power, we appreciate the cozy ambiance provided by the unexpected but cherished fireplace.
Exploring Beyond the Road:
As avid adventurers, we were thrilled to bring along our trusty Jeep, affectionately named Sol. The Jeep allows us to explore off-road trails and provides us with a daily driver for local excursions. Whether we’re navigating the highways or venturing into rugged terrain, our motorhome and Jeep combination has allowed us to embrace the true spirit of exploration.
Going Forward
Our decision to invest in a motorhome and exchange our stationary home for a life on the road has been a transformative experience. The Thor Windsport 32T has exceeded our expectations with its versatility, comfort, and convenience. With Aine as our faithful companion and Sol as our reliable sidekick, we have discovered the beauty of this vast country and created memories that will last a lifetime. Our journey continues, and we eagerly look forward to the adventures that lie ahead, guided by the spirit of Aine, the Celtic Goddess of Love and Light.
