Motorhome Features Vary Drastically; Create a Wish List Before Shopping

When my husband suggested upgrading our motorhome, I shook my head and my heart jumped a beat. Our 2005 40-foot Monaco was a beauty; she and I had a bond. However once I started looking at newer models of the Tiffin, I felt my heart beat faster. Amazed at what they offered, I started to think Randy had a good idea. We started shopping. So much for that bond.

If you are in the market for a RV, begin by making a list of wants and needs. Then align that list with what is available and the price you are willing to pay before beginning your search. Be careful not to be enticed to buy more than you need - or can afford.

In our case, we has several criteria. Our ideal list had a want and a need column. We wanted a shorter motorhome to increase where we could venture and ease of mobility. Our fear was that smaller would jeopardize some of our wants. To be satisfied we wanted a queen size bed to accommodate two adults and two dogs, adequate storage space inside and out, a large fridge and a booth dining arrangement.

We walked into many brands and styles but each left us thinking if only . . . The more we searched the longer our list grew because we fell in love with each new feature. The thought of waking up on a cold morning and cuddling in front of a fireplace excited me. Randy dreamed of using the automated leveling system. We both loved the curved u-shaped couch.

Then we walked up the step of a Tiffin Open Road Allegro. It filled our dream list and more. It was hard to say goodbye to "The Beast," our pet name for the Monaco, but we have never been happier with a purchase.

We discovered features we didn't even know we wanted.

For instance, Dagney has her own window to observe the world as we move down the road. Randy claims the window provides a view of the blind spot from the driver's seat, but I believe it is a puppy window.

Tiffin caters to the needs of motorhome enthusiasts. We found ourselves enjoying features we didn't even know were available and recognized upgrades when we didn't know there was a need for improvement. Our discoveries included these surprises.

• The AC compressor sits closer to cab so it cools faster. The temperature of the air is colder because there is less distance to push the air.
• The headlights shine brighter. Even after replacing the headlights in our old RV, they never illuminated as well. These are LED and the technology creates a clearer and brighter image of the road.
• Because of the integrated technology of the entertainment, even us old folks can work the televisions, audio equipment, backup camera, navigation, and satellite tv. Everything works with remotes easily.
• Abundance of USB outlets create ease in charging devices. Not only are USB outlets plentiful and in convenient locations but numerous three prong AC electrical outlets are also available.
• The navigation device is built in. This has been the most difficult for us to use but because we are comfortable with our phones we typically use them. Practice makes perfect so over time we will begin accessing the perks available: visual map, destinations, directions readily available to points of interest including gas stations and restaurants.
• Lighting system at the entry door is on a timer. This feature is especially useful when I take the dogs out at night. When the door is opened the floor, dome, and handle illuminate. Beside the door on the inside are switches that turn on the exterior lighting. On a side note there is also a switch beside the bed that turns on the porch light.
• The water heater functions on demand allowing for hot water whenever it is needed. This means at the end of a long day, leisurely showers can be enjoyed without fear of running out of water - as long as the motorhome is hooked to water.
• The shower is large enough to accomplish tasks comfortably. I like the corner seat, sun roof that slides open and increases the light, and the detachable shower head.
• The external storage compartment doors have side hinges and open horizontally. This is not a huge factor, but it is nice to not have to worry about a door being open when opening or closing extending or retracting the slides. The compartments on our last motorhome swung up and interrupted with the movement of the slides.
• Organization of storage areas increases space both inside and out. Sometimes RVs provide space that is so difficult to access that it might not be useable. The Tiffin designers planned how to optimize space. Even though this RV is 8 feet shorter, we have never felt cramped for storage.
• Air conditioner is quieter because it is a ducted system instead of a pass through. This makes conversation and watching TV comfortable when the AC is running.
• On either side of the cab are fans. Randy and my bodies run at different temperatures. He is hot when I am cold and vice versa. With a flip of a button either of us can turn on our own personal fan that is mounted above our heads. There is also a ceiling fan with two speeds mounted in the bedroom.
• Newer is usually better and we witness the results of this through the accuracy of the tank sensors. With a glance, we can assess the amount of water available, if there is a need to dump the grey water or potable water which eliminates worries that we had before.
• We never wanted an over the cab bed because we thought it would be intrusive. However, the Open Road has one and it doesn't block windows or take up needed space. So far we have not yet needed it, but it is nice knowing it is available if we ever get the chance to take the grandkids along.
• Each window has two types of coverings - sunshades and night shades. They can easily be pulled down and retract out of view. The front shade is automated which is an improvement over the push-pull curtain.

We survived and LOVED our Monaco. We didn't know what we were missing until we bought the Tiffin. However, living in our new rig provides comfort and enjoyment. If you are in the market for a new RV consider these features.

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Traveling across the US from Idaho to Maine.