Choosing the right travel trailer is a significant decision for any adventurer eager to explore the open road. Among the myriad of options available, Lance Travel Trailers stand out as a well-known brand in the RV community. However, like any significant purchase, it’s crucial to delve beyond the surface and understand both the potential advantages and drawbacks before making a final decision. This article aims to provide a balanced and insightful look into Lance travel trailers, drawing upon expert perspectives to help you determine if they are the right fit for your travel aspirations.
Understanding the Appeal of Lance Travel Trailers
Lance has carved out a niche for itself by offering a range of travel trailers known for their lightweight construction and variety of floorplans. This makes them appealing to a broad spectrum of travelers, from weekend warriors to those embarking on longer journeys. Their trailers are often lauded for being towable by a wider range of vehicles compared to heavier, more robust fiberglass models, opening up the RV lifestyle to individuals who may not own large trucks. Lance also boasts a comprehensive dealer network, making service and support readily accessible across many regions.
Potential Areas of Concern with Lance Travel Trailers
While Lance trailers offer undeniable benefits, it’s essential to consider potential areas that have been raised as points of concern by RV experts and experienced travelers. Understanding these aspects can equip you to ask the right questions and make a truly informed choice.
The Rubber Roof Question: Durability and Maintenance
One recurring point of discussion surrounding Lance travel trailers, and indeed many RVs in the market, is the use of rubber roofing materials, typically EPDM or TPO membranes. These materials offer a cost-effective and relatively lightweight roofing solution. However, they are inherently more susceptible to certain types of damage compared to seamless fiberglass roofs.
Vulnerability to Mechanical Damage: Rubber roofs can be punctured or torn by tree branches, hail, or even debris encountered during travel. This contrasts with the robust nature of a molded fiberglass roof, which is significantly more resistant to such impacts.
UV Degradation and Lifespan: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can degrade rubber roofing over time, leading to cracking, chalking, and eventual failure. While protective coatings can mitigate this, they require regular application and maintenance. Fiberglass roofs, on the other hand, are inherently UV resistant and have a significantly longer lifespan without requiring such treatments.
Potential for Water Damage: If a rubber roof is compromised, water intrusion can occur, leading to serious structural damage within the trailer walls and roof. Repairing water damage in RVs can be costly and complex. Fiberglass roofs, being seamless and non-porous, offer a superior barrier against water penetration.
For comparison, brands like Oliver Travel Trailers utilize a double-hulled fiberglass shell, including a robust fiberglass roof. This construction method eliminates the vulnerabilities associated with rubber roofs, offering enhanced durability and peace of mind, particularly for long-term ownership.
Slide-Out Systems: Balancing Space with Complexity
Many Lance travel trailer models incorporate slide-out rooms to expand the interior living space at the campsite. Slide-outs are a popular feature, offering a more spacious and comfortable environment when parked. However, they also introduce complexities and potential drawbacks.
Drafts and Insulation Challenges: Slide-out seals are crucial for preventing drafts and maintaining consistent interior temperatures. However, these seals can degrade over time or become misaligned, leading to drafts and making it harder to heat or cool the trailer efficiently. This can be particularly noticeable in extreme weather conditions and may increase propane or electricity consumption.
Reduced Interior Access When Retracted: When the slide-out is retracted for travel, it can significantly narrow the interior passageway, sometimes making it challenging to move between different areas of the trailer, especially for accessing the kitchen or bathroom during quick stops.
Mechanical Complexity and Maintenance: Slide-out mechanisms are complex mechanical systems that require regular maintenance and can be prone to malfunctions. Repairs to slide-out systems can be expensive and may require specialized technicians.
While slide-outs undeniably enhance living space, it’s important to weigh the benefits against the potential for increased maintenance and the slight compromises they may introduce to the trailer’s overall robustness and energy efficiency.
Cabinetry and Interior Construction: Examining the Details
The quality of interior construction is a critical aspect of any travel trailer, impacting its longevity and overall user experience. When evaluating Lance travel trailers, it’s worthwhile to scrutinize the materials and construction methods used for cabinetry and other interior components.
Cabinet Material and Joinery: Some RV manufacturers utilize less durable materials like stapled pressboard for cabinets, often secured with friction catches. While this can reduce manufacturing costs, it may compromise the long-term durability and sturdiness of the cabinetry, especially with the vibrations and stresses of travel. Look for trailers with cabinets constructed from more robust materials like plywood or hardwood, using solid joinery techniques and positive latches to ensure secure closure during transit.
Overall Interior Finish: Assess the overall fit and finish of the interior. Are seams tight and well-sealed? Do drawers and doors operate smoothly and securely? Attention to these details can indicate the level of craftsmanship and overall quality of the trailer’s construction.
Plumbing Considerations: Protection and Accessibility
The plumbing systems in travel trailers are essential for functionality and convenience. Examine how the plumbing is routed and protected in Lance trailers you are considering.
Vulnerability of Exposed Plumbing: Some travel trailers have plumbing lines and drain valves located underneath the chassis, where they are exposed to road debris, rocks, and potential damage from curbs or uneven terrain. This can lead to leaks, damage to tanks, and costly repairs.
Importance of Protected Plumbing: Ideally, plumbing systems should be routed within a protected underbelly or enclosed compartments to shield them from external hazards. Consider the location and protection of the black and gray water tank drains and valves. Are they vulnerable to being knocked off or damaged? Trailers with plumbing systems integrated within a sealed undercarriage offer greater protection and durability.
Jack Placement and Truck Tailgate Access
A seemingly minor but practically significant detail is the placement of the trailer jack. Many travel trailers, including some Lance models, position the jack very close to the trailer coupler. This design can sometimes obstruct the ability to fully open the tailgate of a tow vehicle when the trailer is hitched.
Inconvenience of Limited Tailgate Access: Restricted tailgate access can be inconvenient when loading or unloading cargo from the truck bed, especially during setup or breakdown at campsites or during roadside stops.
Benefit of Relocated Jack: Trailers with a jack positioned further back from the coupler, like Oliver travel trailers, allow for full tailgate operation even when hitched, providing greater convenience and accessibility to the truck bed.
Making an Informed Decision about Lance Travel Trailers
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not a Lance travel trailer is the right choice for you depends on your individual needs, priorities, and travel style. By understanding the potential areas of concern alongside the brand’s strengths, you can approach your purchase with greater clarity and confidence.
Key Steps for Informed Decision-Making:
- Thorough Research: Go beyond marketing materials and delve into owner reviews, expert opinions, and comparisons with other brands.
- In-Person Inspection: Visit dealerships and meticulously inspect Lance trailer models that interest you. Pay close attention to roof construction, slide-out mechanisms, cabinetry, plumbing, and overall build quality.
- Ask Specific Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask dealers detailed questions about materials, construction methods, warranty coverage, and maintenance requirements. Inquire about specific concerns you may have based on your research.
- Consider Your Travel Style: Think about how you plan to use your travel trailer. Will you be primarily camping in fair weather at established campgrounds, or do you anticipate more rugged adventures and off-grid excursions? Your intended use will influence the importance of certain features and durability aspects.
- Explore Alternatives: Compare Lance trailers with offerings from other reputable brands, including both traditional stick-and-tin trailers and more robust fiberglass models, to gain a broader perspective and identify the best fit for your needs and budget.
- Evaluate Used Options: Consider exploring the used travel trailer market. Well-maintained used trailers can offer excellent value and allow you to access higher-quality features or construction at a potentially lower price point.
Conclusion: Weighing the Factors for Your Travel Journey
Lance travel trailers offer a compelling option for many seeking a lightweight and versatile RV for their adventures. However, a balanced perspective requires acknowledging potential areas of concern, such as the rubber roof, slide-out systems, and interior construction details. By conducting thorough research, performing careful inspections, and aligning your choice with your specific travel needs, you can make an informed decision and embark on your travel journeys with confidence, knowing you’ve chosen the travel trailer that best suits your aspirations.
