This past year has been all about embracing new adventures in future years, and what better way to do that than with a new truck and a travel trailer? Yep, we went all-in on family travel dreams at the end of 2024! Let me tell you how it all came together, why we’re so excited, and how our first trip went.
The Truck: First Big Step in July
In July, we decided to upgrade one of our vehicles to a Ford Ranger truck by purchasing directly from the dealer since our preorder truck was stuck in a different state for about 6 months after being built. With growing kids, outdoor-loving hobbies, and the dream of future road trips, it just made sense. Our trusty older Toyota Corolla had served us well, but it wasn’t quite cut out for what we had in mind.
The Ford Ranger we chose has plenty of towing power (I knew this upgrade was just step one!) and tons of space for our family’s never-ending bags, gear, and snacks. You know, the essentials. It’s also way more comfortable for long drives, which is a must when traveling with kiddos who love to ask, “Are we there yet?” 1,000 times.
The Travel Trailer: Dream Come True in September
Once we had the truck, the next step was finding a travel trailer that checked all the boxes. We wanted something cozy but practical—a space where we could create memories comfortably without being more than what we could tow. In September, we found the perfect one after numerous trips to RV dealerships. We decided on the 2024 Grand Design Imagine XLS 21BHE
It’s small enough to feel manageable but big enough to sleep our family comfortably. I’ve already dreamed up a list of places I want us to visit, from mountain lakes to coastal beaches. But first, we needed to test it out.
Our First Camping Trip: Success!
In mid-September, we took our new setup on a quick camping trip. Since it was our first time using the trailer, I kept things simple—a spot not too far from where we’d be parking it up in the gorge, just in case.
The kids loved it. From the moment we pulled into the campsite, they were ready to explore. Meanwhile, I was doing my best to figure out the trailer setup with the hubs while keeping the kids entertained. If you’ve ever camped with kids, you know the juggle is real.
Once everything was in place, though, it felt like magic. We cooked dinner on the outside grill, had a fire with some smores, and then slept like meh in our queen Murphy bed because it was not all that comfortable. (we knew we would most likely have to upgrade the bed) The youngest wouldn’t stay in her top bunk so she smooshed in between us in ours. We also had a bit of trouble with getting the hitch attached back to our trailer. Hopefully, as we get more familiar with RV travel, we’ll be more quick and efficient with our trips.
This first trip was just a taste of what’s to come, though. We’re already planning a couple of longer trips for next year, and I can’t wait to share those experiences with you. Family travel isn’t always easy, but having the right tools—like a reliable truck and a comfortable trailer—makes all the difference.
If you’ve been dreaming of family camping trips, I can’t recommend the leap enough. Whether it’s a tent, a camper, or a trailer like ours, there’s something so freeing about hitting the road and making memories together.
Here’s to more adventures ahead!
Have you ever taken a family camping trip or considered getting a trailer? I’d love to hear your experiences and tips in the comments!
This does look like a dream come true! What an awesome travel trailer. You are so lucky you will have this to use on many adventures.
This is my dream and we are preparing to do the same. I want to spend a year just cruising around the states and capturing memories. I love your truck and the RV too! Looks so nice!
It sounds like you had an amazing time! This is such a fabulous combo. We aren’t camping people so it wouldn’t be for us, but I know so many families love it!
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