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Slow travel is an invitation to immerse yourself in the journey, to savor every mile. But choosing the right mode of transportation is key to making that experience as seamless—or as challenging—as you want it to be. Maybe you already have a vision of life on the road: van life, a large motorhome, a fifth-wheel trailer, or even a compact pop-up. Or perhaps you have no idea where to start. Wherever you are on this spectrum, it’s worth taking a step back and exploring your options before you hit the road. What you think you need, what you actually choose, and how it plays out in practice can be three very different things. And that’s okay—because this is all part of the adventure.
My Journey: From Aesthetics to Realities
When I began, I pictured myself with a vintage trailer, something with charm and character. I loved the classic look of Airstreams, the retro flair of Shasta trailers, and those inviting fifth wheels with their lofted sleeping areas. Aesthetically, they spoke to me. But aesthetics quickly meet practicality when it’s time to attach a trailer to your vehicle and drive into the unknown.
Reality Check #1: Truck Bed Compatibility
I discovered that my truck—a short bed—wasn’t ideal for a fifth-wheel or camper setup. I wanted to keep the versatility of my truck bed, so installing a fifth wheel wasn’t an option. Plus, I realized I didn’t want to lose the truck bed space that a camper might consume. That realization sent me back to the research phase, with a fresh understanding of my needs.
The Decision: Why I Chose a Cargo Trailer
Eventually, I made my first purchase: a 12-foot cargo trailer. It was completely empty—no cabinets, no insulation—just a blank canvas. Here’s why I chose it:
• Customizability: I could design the interior exactly as I wanted, adding a sink, storage, or whatever I needed.
• Compact Size: At 12 feet, it was manageable to tow and maneuver, especially as a novice.
• Learning Opportunity: Starting with an empty trailer meant I could learn as I went, figuring out what worked for me.
But here’s what I didn’t anticipate: towing even a small trailer comes with challenges. Backing it up, finding parking, and navigating tight turns were all tougher than I expected. The learning curve was steep. Ultimately, after some time on the road, I found that the cargo trailer wasn’t what I needed long-term. But I don’t regret choosing it, because it taught me so much about what I truly valued.
Lessons Learned: From Cargo Trailer to Pop-Up Chalet
After the cargo trailer, I knew I wanted something more compact, more maneuverable, and with a touch of character. That’s when I found my current setup—a vintage pop-up trailer. Here’s what makes it perfect for me:
• Compact and Foldable: It’s small enough to be easy to tow and park, but it opens up like an origami chalet when I’m ready to settle in.
• Lots of Windows: The panoramic windows let me feel like I’m outside, even when I’m cozied up inside with a book.
• Minimal Interior Space: The limited space means I have to be intentional about what I bring, which aligns with the simplicity of slow living.
And, I modified my Toyota Cruiser to create a cozy space for my dogs. I removed the back seats, creating a comfortable spot for them when they need their own space. It’s perfect for long drives and makes cleaning up a breeze.
Practical Tips for Choosing Your Own Setup
If you’re considering your own slow travel adventure, here are some takeaways from my experience:
1. Research is Essential—But Not Definitive
• Watch videos, read blogs, and immerse yourself in the different options: vans, RVs, fifth wheels, trailers, and more. This will give you a sense of what’s out there.
• Understand the distinctions between each type of vehicle, but keep in mind that what you think you need might change when you’re actually on the road.
2. What Works on Paper May Change in Practice
• I envisioned myself in a beautifully remodeled vintage trailer, but the reality of towing it and navigating unfamiliar roads shifted my priorities.
• Test out different setups through rental platforms like Outdoorsy or RVshare. Spending a few days or a week in someone’s converted van or a rented Airstream can give you invaluable insight into what suits your lifestyle.
3. Focus on What Matters to You
• What do you need most when you’re out there? For me, it wasn’t a dining table or a full kitchen—I don’t use those much in my everyday life. Instead, I prioritized a cozy bed and space for my creative work.
• Think about your routines and habits. Do you need space for cooking, or would a simple electric plate suffice? Do you need a dedicated workspace, or is a foldable desk enough?
4. Size Matters—Especially When It Comes to Maneuvering
• A smaller setup, like my 12-foot cargo trailer, made learning to tow easier. But the real challenge came in maneuvering through tight spaces.
• If you’re new to towing, start small. The excitement of a spacious RV can fade quickly if you find yourself struggling to park it.
5. Flexibility Can Be Your Best Friend
• Choosing a setup that allows for some level of customization—whether through layout, storage, or amenities—means you can adapt as you learn.
• Look for trailers or vehicles that can evolve with you as your needs change on the road.
The Big Takeaway: Learn as You Go
No matter how much research you do, nothing compares to the lessons you’ll learn out there on the road. What feels essential now might become irrelevant, and what seems unnecessary could turn into your most cherished feature. Slow travel teaches you to embrace the unexpected and find joy in the discovery.
Before making a big investment, try renting different setups to see what resonates with you. You’ll find that you need far less than you think—and what you do need, you’ll know without a doubt. Whether it’s a vintage trailer, a modern van, or a trusty old SUV, the right choice is the one that helps you embrace the journey, not just the destination.
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