Achieving towing Nirvana with the lightweight Lance 2375 and the Nissan Titan XD Pro-4X

In some cultures, personal journeys are measured by spirituality and success in finding inner peace and harmony. Although not quite as thought-provoking, RV enthusiasts spend a great amount of time seeking an ideal truck-and-trailer union, especially if they have narrowed the field to the modern half-ton truck and a lightweight towable. When the right combination is selected, the result is usually a heavenly experience resulting in satisfaction and enjoyment of the lifestyle. The Lance 2375 rear-lounge trailer hitched up to Nissan’s Titan truck will certainly make you a believer that not all things in life happen by accident.

Peering deeper into this nearly perfect pair reveals the nuts and bolts of the 2375, the newest and largest to date of Lance’s lightweight travel trailers. From an aesthetic standpoint, the smooth and streamlined exterior lines intersect nearly flawlessly. Aside from the excellent fitment where multiple materials mate, the trailer’s walls are finished with tasteful graphics and a uniquely styled rear cap and front gravel guard.

To bring this trailer to life, the Huck-bolt-assembled frame serves as a base that’s destined to eliminate weak and rust-prone welds. The frame rides on rough-road-absorbing rubber-torsion independent-suspension Dexter axles with EZ Lube bearings and self-adjusting brakes. Stylish aluminum five-point wheels wrapped with relatively standard 205/75R14 tires connect the axles to the asphalt. This combination proved to not only be roadworthy but flexed its muscles off-pavement with grace and confidence.

All the belly region areas have four-season protection with strategically placed insulation and heating of all three holding tanks and their associated plumbing parts. Rounding out the frame features are BAL electric stabilizer jacks at all four corners, an electric hitch jack and the unique Tri-Five Propane Tank. This system utilizes three 5-gallon LP-gas cylinders that can quickly and easily be exchanged at multiple locations throughout the United States, almost eliminating the need to hunt down a propane filling station. The powered stabilizer jacks are a convenient feature, but having two locked compartment doors on
either side of the trailer for housing the switches, with only one main power switch, takes orientation and a little exercise walking from side to side.

Building the home portion on the chassis takes advantage of precision alignment of an aluminum wall structure. All Lance products are subjected to stringent assembly guidelines by employing CAD- and CNC-designed and -operated cutting, bending and laminating equipment. Building in this manner ensures that the walls, cabinetry and all included interior items end up where they’re supposed to be. This sort of building technique also allows for such close tolerances that both the exterior and interior walls require no tape or gap concealers, providing essentially a near-perfect fit and finish.

The same kind of detail goes into laminating the walls, substituting standard lauan for plastic-based composite Azdel, which is layered behind the outer fiberglass and on either side of the dense solid-foam insulation. The panels have three times the insulation value and half the weight of wood, and are impervious to water, so they will not rot, mold or delaminate side walls, according to Azdel. This is all processed in a state-of-the-art room that uses special lights and heating, temperature and humidity controls driven by key sensors.

On the exterior walls, amenities are placed where they work best and look clean. Such items include a 20-foot lateral-arm Carefree electric awning with a wind sensor and LEDs, frameless dual-pane windows, slam-latch compartment doors and opposing battery boxes built into the walls. This is a good use of space, freeing up the area for the triple-LP-gas-cylinder configuration. Topping off the outer structure is a one-piece molded TPO roof backed by a healthy 12-year limited warranty.

During a weeklong trip in the lower regions of California’s Sierra Nevada range, the 2375 lived up to Lance’s reputation as one of America’s premium truck-camper and lightweight-trailer builders. What you won’t find aboard the 2375 is an over-appointed interior with gaudy decor. Instead, the trailer is thoughtfully designed and loaded with just the right amount of features — everything you need and nothing you don’t for going out and creating your personal adventure.

The 2375 was fitted with the Passage decor package, which exudes a home-away-from-home atmosphere. A highlight is the optional laziness-inspiring J-couch near the entryway. This convertible couch is made for serious lounging and has a great view of the entertainment center, but the recliner portion might work better placed in the center of the couch to allow for true reclining rather than providing an upright position with just the legs kicked out. Besides the couch, the only other seating comes in the form of a comfy dinette, nestled snugly in the single slideout and surrounded by the natural brown and gray tones of the cabinetry and countertops.

On the other side of the open floor space is a small but functional kitchen offering a selection of stainless-steel cooking appliances and a matching Norcold 6-cubic-foot refrigerator. The kitchen is outfitted with all the necessities but could benefit from a small folding- or sliding-counter extension. There’s no shortage of storage here, with an ample amount of cabinetry fore and aft. Within the confines of the perfectly fit cabinet structure is the aforementioned entertainment center, housing a 32-inch, 12-volt DC Jensen HDTV and matching AM/FM/DVD/CD/USB/Bluetooth audio/video system.

Just beyond the reach of the kitchen lies the bathroom and bedroom. The bathroom doesn’t offer extravagance or massive free space, but it does provide enough room to do what’s necessary. Part of this is thanks to the new curved shower enclosure, giving good looks and greater functional space. Although floor space is somewhat restricted, slight toilet repositioning could be very helpful in keeping the lid open.

Inside the master bedroom, an extra-cozy, serious-slumber-inducing queen bed is located beneath a large curved window and between flanking wardrobes. Each side is equipped with reading lights and soft-close drawers. At the foot of the bed, near the bathroom, resides an additional lighted double-door closet and extra counter space.

Indoor creature comforts are supported by a ducted 25,000-Btu furnace and a centrally located 15,000-Btu air conditioner, both of which are controlled by the same wall-mounted digital thermostat. The wide array of LED lighting includes a dimmable fixture over the dining table.

Given the trailer’s generous storage spaces and its modest, at best, 310-pound payload capacity, users will need to be aware of how much cargo they’re hauling to avoid overloading its 6,500-pound gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr).

Out on the road, it was easy to learn that Nissan’s diesel-inspired Titan is not just another run-of-the-mill half-ton from Japan trying to compete against the current Big Three and Toyota trucks on the market. This is a much-acclaimed truck, and the Cummins V-8-powered Titan XD Pro-4X Crew Cab was even given the 2017 half-ton truck of the year title by a number of automotive publications. For a time, the rumor mill had this truck headed for extinction, but the resurgence of a top-notch drivetrain has catapulted new life into Nissan’s truck entry. There are five levels of Cummins-powertrain-based Titans, and the beefy XD has all the meat and potatoes expected by truck owners.

The Titan XD is built on a fully boxed ladder-type, corrosion-resistant steel frame. Holding the frame up is a front double-wishbone/coil-over independent suspension tied into a 36mm stabilizer bar, while out back is a multi-leaf spring pack, mounted to a solid axle coupled to an 18mm stabilizer bar. At all four corners, additional ride control is handled by Bilstein shocks, standard for the Pro-4X.

Also built right into the frame direct from Nissan are the optional integrated gooseneck and Class 3 receiver hitch along with a Trailer Sway Control (TSC) system. The TSC really strutted its stuff in strong headwinds and crosswinds. During these windy events, the combo maintained straight lines, demanding little effort for correction. For towing, the necessary four-way and seven-way plug receptacles are ready for use in the rear bumper. Once the trailer is plugged in, a light test can be handled by the clever optional trailer-light-check function found on the key fob.

The Cummins-prepped 4×4 Titans are rated to pull a significant 12,030 pounds when properly equipped. In addition to the well-appointed, well-designed frame and the factory towing system, Nissan offers bed-mounted options like the aluminum Utili-track cargo system with adjustable tie-down cleats and removable, lockable in-bed storage boxes that double as coolers and even have drink holders. These items only top the list of usable and realistic accessories earmarked for the truck bed. The truck is rated for a full ton of fun, thanks to its 2,000-pound payload capacity, which, of course, is dependent on accessories and options.

The truck has the first Cummins V-8 turbo-diesel made specifically for the Nissan Titan XD. The optional power plant is a beast, a smaller-scaled version of its bigger cousins. Coupled to the impressively smooth-sounding, -running and -performing 5.0-liter, double-overhead-cam turbo-diesel V-8 is an equally smooth and effective Aisin six-speed automatic transmission. Not only was the Aisin fully capable of harnessing all 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of road-ripping torque, it did so with finesse and plenty of optional shifting and tow modes built into the column shifter. Nissan managed to nail the placement and functions of the shift column, making it a breeze to physically move up and down through the gears using a simple fingertip touch for manual gear selection.

The Cummins diesel ran without hiccup or hindrance, providing plenty of power on its own or coupled to the Lance 2375, which weighed in at 6,190 pounds wet; the truck weighed 7,246 pounds. The Titan XD not only pulled the trailer comfortably and with pure confidence, but in the handling and comfort departments, the truck was surefooted, providing plenty of stability and unparalleled ride quality. The Titan is so well-built and ideally balanced for towing, work, play and comfort that it was hard to notice
the Lance was behind the truck.

In a nutshell, it was hard to find fault with the Titan’s performance. The new Cummins works and runs rhythmically and will probably do so for a long time. However, all that power and pickup were a little too reliant on the turbo to spool up enough to get things going, which meant a little more lag than preferred. The turbo lag was quickly cured by burying the accelerator a bit more, but this method will burn up your hopes for higher mileage and a lower fuel budget.

Nevertheless, the Titan’s fuel economy was pretty good. We recorded 18.5 mpg driving the truck solo at around 70 mph, and 13 mpg while towing the Lance 2375 in adverse conditions with a steady wind and traveling at about 58 mph. That’s not bad for a half-ton truck that can lay down an impressive 13-second zero-to-60-mph time while towing the Lance trailer.

When it comes to comforts, the Titan XD Pro-4X will certainly impress. The cab and interior have lavish leather appointments and the most complete list of accessories we ever wanted or thought possible. For example, the powered multiposition leather seats elicited love at first sit. While comfortably cradled, it’s not hard to appreciate the incredible-sounding 12-speaker Rockford Fosgate stereo that’s an audiophile’s dream on wheels. This was hands-down the best factory truck sound system I’ve encountered in terms of quality and superb acoustics, with appropriately located speakers placed by car-audio experts.

Another key interior feature is the user-friendly 7-inch touch-screen audio-and-navigation center. The operations of this screen are many, but when it comes to being usable for towing situations, the backup camera with bull’s-eye accuracy makes it possible for a person who struggles with hitching a trailer to relax. From the first try, it was easy to place the ball under the coupler alone and with precision.

It wouldn’t be all that tough to go on and on about the seemingly endless list of options, but the bottom line is this truck made short work out of towing the Lance and was a ball to drive. It’s not surprising that the Titan XD has accumulated best-half-ton-truck status in the media.

By the same token, it’s not surprising to see why the Lance 2375 has been getting accolades in its few short months on the market. Some trailers, even with all the best hitch equipment, are prone to sway, causing discomfort during towing, often requiring a person to “really drive” the combination. That’s not the case here. With the Lance 2375, it was smooth sailing all the way and one of the best-towing travel trailers we have ever personally pulled, especially coupled with the Titan XD. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-built or -equipped lightweight travel trailer for the dollar amount, and a bit more available cargo capacity would further sweeten the pot. Pairing the Lance 2375 and Nissan XD will find you in half-ton heaven.

Nissan | 800-647-7261 | www.nissanusa.com

Already famous for its truck campers, Lance ventured into the travel trailer market a few years ago and has been making a name for itself again with a full line of lightweight, easy-to-tow and versatile trailers that run the gamut from about 16 feet in length to right around 28 feet long. We’ve reviewed a number of Lance travel trailers over the years, but when the new 2185 model appeared on the scene, we just had to grab it for another look at what the Lancaster, Calif., RV manufacturer has to offer.

The Build

From the bottom up the trailers built by Lance are solid and sturdy. Take for instance the chassis. It’s made from lightweight tempered steel that is then powder coated for corrosion resistance and protection from chips and road debris. Its Huck-bolted construction makes it sturdy and also keeps corrosion at bay.

The heavy-duty, rubber torsion-bar suspension axles feature EZ-lube bearings that are practically maintenance free. The completely self-contained axle and suspension design offers an extremely smooth and stable ride over just about any road surface, allowing the trailer to follow the Jeep Cherokee used as a tow vehicle for this review with no bouncing and hopping no matter where we took it, and the contents within the Lance to stay put during travel. The axles also feature self-adjusting brakes, another fact that makes owning this trailer a real pleasure.

The inner superstructure of the Lance trailer’s walls, floor and roof are made from welded aluminum framing that delivers two advantages: a sturdy coach that is also easy on your tow vehicle. For longevity, Lance uses Azdel, a composite material instead of luan wood in the wall construction to help eliminate mold and mildew concerns. The composite sheets are also lighter and provide superior (a higher “R” rating) insulation than the luan wood product as well. Laminated fiberglass exteriors cover the sidewalls, front and rear caps. Rigid foam blocks are used inside those walls for insulation, providing a high overall “R” rating for this trailer. Its interior cabinetry is built of a material called Lite-Ply that is imported from Europe. The high-quality laminated wood product is particularly strong, yet lightweight and offers good insulation and durability. It’s also good looking because of an even grain, which is almost white when produced and provides a nearly perfect and uniform finish, painted, or stained any tone from pine to cherry. Up top is a roof made from Energy Star-rated TPO material, featuring integrated rain gutters and drip spouts to prevent the sides of the trailers from getting black streaks. 

Inner Glory

Lance’s 2185 is truly laid out for up to seven to sleep – for family getaways – but theoretically could be used by buddies on a fishing trip, or a couple away from it all for the weekend. In a nutshell, the trailer offers a walk-around queen bed standard (but our unit had the very handy and optional convertible sofa bed), Lance’s “Super Slide” convertible dinette, and triple bunks across the back wall that will fit adults if needed.

An ingenious design, the optional sofa helps turn the trailer’s already good interior space provided by the dinette-carrying Super Slide into a voluminous living area. The sofa’s armrests lift out and are stored, the seat cushion and backrest are folded out and down to form the lower half of the queen bed box spring/mattress, and then from behind, a queen mattress topper is unfolded to reveal the entire constructed queen bed. The operation takes about 30 seconds; and the bed is quite comfortable.

Directly behind the bed is a nearly full bed-width headboard niche area for books and other small objects, above is a large storage cabinet, and on both sides are good-sized wardrobes with nightstands below. Plenty of area lighting is provided in the front bedroom, and twin LED reading lamps are located in a position so they are easily managed from a prone position on the queen bed.

The Super Slide provides very comfortable seating for four adults; you can squeeze five in if you wish. As for its sleeping capacity, Lance advertises it as two adults, but they would either have to be short adults, teens or children. We suggest you reserve it for one adult lying diagonally, or teens and younger children for sleeping purposes. It does, however, provide plenty of storage with large, roll-out drawers on both sides of its U-shaped and well-padded seating configuration. Lance uses Schwintek mechanisms for its slideouts, and it offered a smooth and quiet movement. The mechanisms are said to be lighter than others, and smaller, so they allow for more interior space.

The three-bunk configuration across the rear wall is versatile. It allows three adults to sleep once the Lance 2185 is parked and set up, but during travel, the bottom bunk platform can be stored on top of the third and topmost platform and the second platform can be lifted up and secured out of the way. This creates a storage area underneath the topmost third bunk that is large enough to store a couple of adult-size bicycles (and who knows what else a creative packer might be able to stow in there). Our only issue with this bunk arrangement is that most of the bunk is blocked by the adjacent bathroom wall, which means that you must crawl into bed through a relatively small opening and then “scooch” your body down the length of the berth.

Its bathroom features a wet bath/shower arrangement that is large enough to not feel confined in when sudsing up and rinsing off, and high enough that even I (at 6 feet, 2 inches tall) could stand straight without hitting the ceiling. The porcelain toilet offers a foot-pedal flush. Also provided was a generously sized cabinet, medicine cabinet with mirrored door and vanity light. The optional Fan-Tastic Vent power roof fan kept the bathroom mirror from fogging up during showers, and vented fumes well too. We also appreciated the ducted heat outlet. Directly opposite the bathroom door, on the curbside wall, was a small sink, cabinet and mirror that acts as vanity for the three bunkmates. At the head of the bunks (also curbside) is a large wardrobe, also to serve the three bunkmates. The second and rear door splits this wardrobe and vanity, which makes the rear vanity and the bathroom of the trailer easy to use for cleaning up the kids during daytime activities, while keeping them out of the main living area and the kitchen.

The kitchen is the star in this trailer, as it is both complete and compact. Featuring a two-way, 6-cubic-foot refrigerator, three-burner range, range hood with a light and a fan, and a large and accommodating single sink with a pullout faucet, the kitchen offers all of the right equipment to get the job done. There is a decent amount of counter space, and if you take advantage of the extra slip-up countertop at the front end (only useful if the main front door is shut) of the kitchen counter and dinette table across the aisle, you could whip up a masterpiece. Storage space is bountiful here, too, with cabinets above and below the kitchen counter, as well as across the aisle underneath and above the dinette. 

Décor and Systems

Lance trailers have always been well styled and the 2185 is no exception. Highlights include hardwood framed flat panel cabinet doors with glazing, hardwood raised panel overhead cabinet doors with glazing, day/night shades in the dinette with valance boxes, mini-blinds in the kitchen and living space with valance boxes, and a wall clock adds a touch of class.

Standard electrical equipment highlights in the 2185 include a 55-amp converter/load center, AM/FM/DVD/iPod stereo with interior and exterior speakers, exterior 120-volt AC patio outlet, HDTV antenna, storage compartment lighting on the forward passthrough, and pre-wire for park, satellite dish, A/C, and Fan-Tastic fan. 

Towablility and Livibility

Ahead of the Lance 2185 for the trip was a Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit 4×4 powered by the optional 5.7L V-8 VVT (variable-valve-timing) engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. Some of the more notable functional standard features of this Grand Cherokee that directly relate to this review are the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, Hill Descent Control, Advanced Multistage Front Airbags, Antilock 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, ParkView Rear Back Up Camera, Hill Start Assist, and Trailer Sway Damping.

The Lance 2185 weighed in at 4,290 pounds wet so the Jeep had no trouble pulling it from a standing stop to highway speeds on flat land, and it took little to no effort to get it up hills due to the power of the V-8. Handling was surefooted and calm; we never once felt any sway or untoward whipping behavior. And the trailer’s tongue weight was easily supported and leveled by the Jeep’s air-suspension system, and the rear-view camera made itself very useful when hooking up the trailer.

Seating and drivability rated high on our scale. The Jeep’s front seats were heated and vented so summer and winter were made comfy. Powered eight-way driver and passenger seats, and power four-way lumbar adjustment, combined with a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, made it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Overall visibility was good with large windows and small pillars. Bigger, better towing mirrors are a must, but overall, the Grand Cherokee was an excellent tow vehicle for our time with the Lance 2185.

The Lance 2185 is a good value for those interested in a lightweight towable that can be pulled by a half-ton pickup truck or highly maneuverable SUV like many already have available in family driveways today. It delivered easy towing, easy setup, generous storage space, voluminous interior living room, good looks, and it comes with plenty of standards to make great RVing adventures, but can be ordered with a full range of options to really trick it out, including Lance’s 4 Seasons All Weather Package that can make it “extreme weather ready.”

Specifications

Lance Camper 2185
Exterior Length 25′ – 8″
Exterior Width 8′ – 0 3/8″
Exterior Height 9′ – 11″
Interior Width 7′ – 10 1/8″
Construction 6 Sided (Floor/Walls/Ceiling) Aluminum Frame Bonded with Fiberglass Exterior)
Freshwater Cap 45 gal.
Gray-Water Cap 40 gal.
Black-Water Cap 40 gal.
LP-Gas Cap 2 ea. 5 gal. (10 gal. total)
Water Heater Cap 6 gal.
Refrigerator 6 cu ft
Furnace 25M Btu
Air Conditioner 9,000 low profile or 13,500 Btu
Converter 55 amp
Battery 12V (Dealer Install)
Tires ST205/75 R14 (C)
Suspension Tandem 2,900 lb. (5,800 lb. total) Torsion
Weight (Freshwater, Water Heater, LP-gas full; no cargo): 4,290 lb. (3,825 lb. dry)
Hitch Weight 522 lb. w/Freshwater/Water Heater/LP (450 lb. dry)
Axle Weight 3,768 lb. w/Freshwater/Water Heater/LP (3,375 lb. dry)
GAWR 5,800 lb.
GVWR 6,000 lb.
Cargo Carrying Capacity 2,100 lb.
Base MSRP $26,672
As-Tested MSRP $32,500
Basic Warranty 1-year limited (or as applicable)
Lance Camper Mfg. Co.: 661-949-3322, www.lancecamper.com
 

Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4×4
MPG: Solo; Towing: 17; 11
Engine 5.7L VVT V-8
HP 360 @ 5,150 RPM
Torque 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM
Transmission 6-speed automatic
Axle Ratio 3:47:1
Fuel Cap 24.6 gal.
Tires P265/60R18
Suspension Quadra-Lift Air-Suspension; (f) A-arms, coil springs, coil-over shocks; (r) multi-link, live axle, coil springs, shocks, lower control arm, upper link and toe link.
Brakes 4-wheel disc
Tow Rating 7,200 lb.
GVWR 6,800 lb.
GCWR 12,764 lb.
Length 189.8″
Wheelbase 114.8″
Base MSRP $42,995
MSRP as Tested $49,890
Jeep: 877-426-5337, www.jeep.com

Lance’s new 2465 travel trailer features a king-size bed, split bath and enough windows to bring the outdoors inside

Last year we tested the 1475, Lance’s smallest travel trailer, and managed to cram a dozen people in for a breakfast gathering. This time around, our party of only two headed out in the company’s longest travel trailer, the 29-foot, 5-inch 2465. Sporting two slideouts on the driver’s side, almost 25 feet of interior floor length, a rear bedroom with a king mattress, a split bathroom to keep couples from quibbling over elbow room, and sleeping accommodations for three more people, the ultralight 2465 made us wish we were on an extended trip.

We paired the 6,790-pound Lance 2465 (topped off with full propane and water) with the new diesel Ford F-150 Platinum Series 4×4 and headed out on a clear, chilly day in December for a series of adventures. Outings ranged from overnighting at a packed full-service RV park and an almost-empty campground with partial-hookups among pines, oak and cotton­wood trees, to dry camping next to farm animals at a winery.

Boondocking alongside farm animals seemed like a charming idea at the time, but when the roosters, which apparently had a lot to talk about, woke us at 4:32 a.m., we wondered why we’d chosen to park next to the critters when the friendly folks at Agua Dulce Winery had invited us to stay the night almost anywhere on the 400-acre vineyard. We discovered the Southern California winery through Harvest Hosts, a network of 600-plus unique places to dry camp. The Lance, with frameless dual-pane windows and its four-season package that includes covers for skylights and vents, kept the heat in when the temperature dipped to 43 degrees overnight, but the fiberglass walls with Azdel substrates and block-foam insulation didn’t cut the sound of the nearby roosters’ wake-up calls.

Let There Be Light

Sunlight spills into the living area and bedroom from every side of the trailer through multiple windows (presuming the shades are open), creating a friendly environment that brings the outdoors in. And there’s no shortage of lighting with overhead LED fixtures, pendant lamps on a dimmer over the dinette and lovely accent lighting. The focal point is the front curved window spanning more than 5 feet over the J-lounge. Partially visible from the galley and at the opposite end of the trailer is the bedroom’s 49-by-43-inch window.
The galley’s skylight — with accordion- style sliding cover — and three-speed electric fan contribute to interior light. The extensive use of windows is a perk for parents who want to keep an eye on the mischievous goings-on of kids and pets — or a spouse — who are outside while they are inside.

The most frequent comment from folks stepping into the 2465 was that livability and furniture placement were well thought out, starting with a three-seater J-lounge to the right of the entry and the way the floorplan flowed from the kitchen into the bathroom and rear bedroom. Four hooks incorporated into the lower cabinetry inside the entry are appreciated by those who set keys down and can’t remember where. Switches on panels for the lighting, galley slide and two Carefree awnings are placed high for easy viewing inside the entry door, while panels for battery, solar and holding-tank monitoring, and switches for the water heater and pump are on the wall next to the range. A large analog clock is viewable from anywhere in the living area.

As a side note, the test trailer had manual steel steps, but Torklift’s UltraGlowStep is available as a factory-installed option, as is a keyless entry. The entry door opens flush against the trailer, and padding over the radius-door frame is extra insurance for tall folks. We noted that the seams where the interior walls meet the ceiling are caulked for a nice finish.

Home Away from Home

A big plus of this floorplan is the ability to pack up the trailer with the slideouts closed, which can be instrumental for those who have restricted space in storage or in front of their homes. And bravo to the company for designing the 2465 to be completely livable with the slides retracted. With the bedroom slide in, only about 11 inches of the California king bed’s length is forfeited where the 72-by-84-inch mattress tucks in under the cabinetry.

The kitchen is fully functional with the galley slide closed, and there’s space to access drawer contents and the stainless-steel-clad 7-cubic-foot refrigerator, and cook and set up a feast at the dinette. Even with the condensed galley, there’s more than 2 feet of floor space between the sink side and dinette, leaving room to convert the dinette into a bed pronto, and bathroom access is not compromised.

What we liked
Windows galore including large ones front and rear, well-thought-out livability, king-size bed in spacious bedroom, abundant storage in bathroom and bedroom.

What we’d like to see
Wiring neatly tucked under the front of the trailer by the A-frame, stronger tieback straps to keep the wood pocket doors closed during travel.

Extend the dinette slide, which opens up the kitchen to a width of more than 5 feet, and a 40-inch Jensen TV, Bluetooth HDMI DVD player (two speakers are in the ceiling) and 31-inch TruVision electric fireplace with two heat settings come into view. Above the fireplace, a tip-out cabinet houses a hookup for satellite TV, and there’s a King broadcast antenna on the roof.

Our favorite place to laze was on the J-lounge with its thick, ultrasoft faux-suede cushions, part of the Mystic Shores decor. The lounge makes into a 49-by-72-inch bed, leaving 16 inches of walk space so the entry door is not blocked. To convert into a bed, the armrest needs to be removed, which took some practice to put back into place. There’s storage underneath the lounge, but there is a height limitation for what goes inside there since the lounge converts scissor-style into sleeping accommodations, and access takes a little work, so it’s best to store things here that you don’t need frequently.

The J-lounge is in perfect alignment with the TV, though it was pointed out that the person moving between the range and dinette when preparing dinner and setting the table can obstruct the view of the television for the lazy one sprawled on the lounge.

Lying lengthwise on the lounge’s 8-inch-thick cushions when it was dark outside, I delighted in watching the night sky through what Lance dubs the “Star View window.” The 2465 is clearly designed for RVers who want to see outside while enjoying a cozy nest. And when privacy and dark are needed, two-layer, slow-rise MCD roller shades pull down smoothly. The entry-door window even has a pull-down shade. GFCI outlets, USB ports and 12-volt DC receptacles are at each end of the J-lounge — in fact, these are scattered throughout the trailer, so there was a place to plug something in everywhere we turned. Five-inch shelves, semi-hidden behind the cushions, work great for setting drinks and keeping remotes handy. LED fixtures swivel to spotlight reading material without bothering your neighboring couch potato.

We like that when working in the kitchen we were facing the entry door. The large single-basin sink with pull-down sprayer takes up much of the counter space, leaving limited prep room, but with the sink and range covers in place, the area is transformed into a large flush-surface area where you can spread out. Incorporated in the counter behind the sink is a hidden waste bin.

The High Pointe flatbed microwave eliminates the need for a glass turntable, and the three-burner Dometic range/oven has a cover that doubles as a back­splash. Three soft-touch self-closing drawers with solid-wood fronts and a cabinet with solid-wood doors are below the sink. The only overhead cabinet in the kitchen is the five-ply Lite-Ply-laminate Euro-style one above the sink. Lights come on automatically when the two-shelf cabinet door is opened, and two LED accent lights reside in the wood paneling that extends to the ceiling. Boxes of tea on the spice rack over the window stayed put during travel.

The dinette’s bench seating has smooth-gliding drawers with sturdy handles that lock for travel. The lock-button portion of the drawers are counterintuitive, but once we got used to them, the 7-inch-deep drawers were great for storing large items with easy access. We were impressed with the feel of the dinette’s 4-inch-thick cushions, which are made of a combination of three different materials, including the faux suede for your rump. Opposing windows crank open outward at the base, providing for good airflow, and are garnished with stitched-leatherette padded valances. Converting the dinette into a bed takes just minutes and, when it was set up, we had a 60-by-44-inch mattress with a cushioned headrest from the window valance that placed us front row to the fireplace, TV and a window.

Our winter outing included nights that dropped into the low 40s. The combination of the electric fireplace and 25,000-Btu furnace with three heat registers in the galley warmed up the area within minutes. The bedroom, with just one heat register, was slower to warm up and stayed consistently cooler. Standard are two 13,500-Btu Coleman-Mach air conditioners.

Rest and Relaxation

The roomy bedroom seems even larger with the big back window (the lower portion opens). Pure relaxation was lying on the 5½-inch-thick mattress on a rainy morning with a view of trees, trees and more trees. Windows grace all three of the bedroom’s side walls. The king bed, with almost 2 feet of walking space at the foot and enough room at the sides to make the bed, faces a window that is partially blocked when the hidden 40-inch LED TV on a motorized lift is in the raised position.

Specifications

2019 Lance 2465
Exterior Length 29′ 5″
Exterior Width 8′ 3/8″
Exterior Height 10′ 4″ (with A/C)
Interior Width 7′ 10″
Interior Height 6′ 6″
Construction Aluminum-framed substructure, laminated fiberglass exterior walls with Azdel substrates and block-foam insulation, one-piece crowned PVC roof and
high-gloss TPO front lower section
Freshwater Cap. 45 gal.
Black-Water Cap. 45 gal.
Gray-Water Cap. 45 gal.
LP-Gas Cap. 15 gal.
Water-Heater Cap. 6 gal.
Refrigerator 7 cu. ft.
Furnace 25,000 Btu
Air Conditioner (2) 13,500 Btu
Converter 55 amp
Battery Dealer installed
Tires ST205/75R14
Suspension Rubber torsion-bar
Weight (freshwater, water heater,
LP-gas full; no cargo) 6,790 lbs.
Hitch Weight 840 lbs.
Axle Weight (2) 5,950 lbs.
GVWR 7,300 lbs.
GAWR (2) 3,500 lbs.
Cargo Carrying Cap. 510 lbs.
MSRP, Base $47,407
MSRP, As Tested $58,044
Basic Warranty 2 years

Four-across, self-closing drawers are incorporated into the expansive 2-foot-deep-by-7-foot-long curved counter that swallows up the TV. Three drawers next to the bedroom’s entrance, three large wardrobes with clothing rods, and overhead cabinets big enough to store comforters add up to a lot of storage capacity. There’s no storage under the bed since that area is designated for exterior access.

The padded headboard is about 17 inches high and stops short of the window, so you’ll likely want a pillow to buffer your head if you like to sit up fully in bed. An overhead shelf spans the width of the bed, and there are narrow “nightstands” and pocket-type storage, plus charging ports and LED reading fixtures on each side of the bed.

Split Bath

After spending time in the 2465, I’m a big fan of the split-bath setup, which is especially convenient when sharing with someone who is on the same getting-ready schedule. A fellow RVer remarked enthusiastically that it was the perfect setup because she could be showering while her husband was shaving. Wood pocket doors section off the bathroom from the living area and the bedroom. Tieback straps are in place to keep the doors from closing during travel, but much of the time they didn’t work very well. We passed that information along to Lance’s design team.

We used the large linen cabinet to stow most of our food since it offered plenty of room and is conveniently located around the corner from the fridge. Additionally, the curbside half of the bathroom has three self-closing drawers, a tilt-out laundry cabinet and a vanity with storage. A spacious countertop surrounds the sink, and a stylish and effective light is hung over a mirrored medicine cabinet that is exceptionally deep. A wall-mounted towel ring is next to the sink, and towel hooks are attached to the wall between the bathroom and galley. There’s plenty of room to move around freely, and keeping with the theme, there’s also a window in the bathroom.

Across from the vanity is a bathroom door, behind where the toilet and shower dwell, that has a large mirror and opens outward. Your RV mate will have to remember not to bust out of the bathroom just as you are scrutinizing yourself in the mirror. Heat registers live at floor level by the vanity and below the shower pan, so we had heat at our feet. A porcelain toilet is set 20 inches off the linoleum floor, and the TP-holder is handily located.

The shower’s heavy plastic curtain is set on a track that angles outward at the top, adding more room to the already spacious 19-inch-deep-by-33-inch-long shower pan. Shelves for setting shampoo bottles are truly functional, and with the skylight, there’s 6 feet, 3 inches of headroom. The chrome handheld showerhead with hose has multiple sprayer settings and a shutoff valve. The bathroom’s electric vent for pulling steam out has one setting, and there’s a long wall-mounted towel bar.

Outside Matters

The 2465 has two lateral-arm awnings with one over the entry door; between the two, they cover the length of the trailer. Speakers, a bracket attached to the side wall and hookups under lock-and-key allow for the TV to be moved outside. The Lance is set up with 50-amp service, an outside water sprayer, a Lippert SmartJack power A-frame jack with battery-level indicator and hitch-height memory, Dexter Nev-R-Adjust forward self-adjusting brakes, 14-inch Goodyear tires, electric stabilizer jacks, park satellite, a solar-on-the-side plug for portable solar-panel charging and propane hookups. At the lowest point, ground clearance is 10 inches.

Magnetic latches hold up the exterior doors that access several storage areas including a 22½-by-12½-by-12½-inch carpeted compartment and a 12-by-19-by-5-inch metal storage bin that was lifted from Lance’s toy-hauler product. The main exterior storage compartment is 5 feet long, 3 feet deep and 11 inches tall, and had more than enough room for our camp chairs, tables, hoses and electrical cords. Valves for black and gray tanks are in separate locations, so you’ll want a wye connector when hooked up, and there’s a black-tank flush.

See Related Tests:

Lance 1475

Lance 2375

The Lance’s heavy-duty ladder is one of the sturdiest we’ve seen and has wide supports for good grip. Checking out the rooftop, we noted that Lance uses EternaBond on the roof termination seams, skylights and vents — extra insurance to prevent leaks. Lance offers an optional Load Roof Rack system with a 300-pound capacity for RVers who want to bring along a kayak or other toys. The test trailer had the optional third 5-gallon LP-gas cylinder for those who like to camp away from the crowd.

With the new-for-2019 29-foot, 5-inch 2465 model, Lance has created an easy-living trailer that brings the sunshine inside with multiple windows and provided us with contentment and comfort in our happy place, the outdoors.

Families with three children have a perennial problem when looking for travel trailers. Do they squash three kids into two bunks, fold down a dinette bed every evening, look at pop-ups or hybrids, or buy a longer trailer with quad bunks? With three bunks and a queen-size bed, the Lance 2185 makes it possible for a family of five to have dedicated beds in a fully enclosed trailer, and it still comes in at less than 26 feet. If needed, the roomy convertible dinette adds sleeping space for up to three more little ones.

While some people think of Lance primarily as a manufacturer of truck campers, the company has brought its reputation for quality and innovation to the travel trailer realm. The 2185 is Lance’s only bunkhouse model, but it is a standout in terms of design and decor.

Triple Bunks and More

Sleeping space starts at the front of the trailer with a dedicated queen bed. A convertible sofa is an option, flipping easily into a bed, while providing ample seating and floor space during the day. A tinted picture window gracefully arcs overhead.

At the rear, the triple bunks are a standout feature. If only two are needed, the bottom mattress can be removed to utilize the space for storage. The middle bed flips up, creating a packing bay accessible from a rear door. Two cabinets add storage near the bunks, and a pair of wardrobe closets flank the master bed.

Luxurious Styling

Available in three decor packages, the Lance 2185 exudes luxury, starting with the smooth, rounded European-inspired cabinetry, similar to that found in yachts. Embedded magazine racks, spice storage and key hooks add functionality. Day and night shades on each of the large windows provide various options for lighting and privacy.

The kitchen features attractive stainless-steel appliances, including a 7-cubic-foot refrigerator and a three-burner stove with a flip-top cover and striking metallic backsplash. A large undermount sink is topped by a pullout faucet. Included sink covers and a flip-top counter extender increase meal-prep space.

Quality Construction

The laminated bonded fiberglass exterior covers aluminum-framed walls. To add soundproofing and weather protection, the walls are filled with Azdel, a thermoplastic composite that is impervious to rot. While solidly constructed, the Lance 2185 still weighs in at just 6,000 pounds (GVWR) fully loaded.

With a base price of $40,208 and a two-year structural limited warranty, the Lance 2185 provides quality and functionality for a family of five — or more — in a stylish package.

Manufacturer’s Specifications

Lance 2185
Exterior Length: 25′ 8″
Exterior Width: 8′ 3/8″
Interior Height: 6′ 6″
Exterior Height: 10′ 2″ (with optional A/C)
Freshwater Cap.: 45 gal.
Black-Water Cap.: 45 gal.
Gray-Water Cap.: 45 gal.
LP-Gas Cap.: 10 gal.
UVW: 4,565 lbs.
Hitch Weight: 755 lbs.
Axle Weight: 3,810 lbs.
GVWR: 6,000 lbs.
MSRP, Base: $40,206
www.lancecamper.com

With her small bunkhouse travel trailer in tow, Kerri Cox has traveled near and far with her husband and two teenage sons, documenting their adventures on her blog, Travels with Birdy. When not on the road, she spends her time teaching and writing. Her words and photographs can be found in print and digital publications, including Trailer Life and the Good Sam Club Blog.

Piloting a decked-out, custom-built 4×4 Ford F-350 carrying a four-season Lance camper, we bounced along a deserted dirt road with an open meadow on either side and blue skies overhead. It seemed like the landscape went on forever, and in the distance, snow covered the tops of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Then we disappeared into a grove of pine trees so dense that it became noticeably darker inside the crew cab.

See Related Story: Lance 1172 Truck Camper

Our unique home on wheels was vinyl-wrapped in a custom-designed graphic sporting the squiggly lines of a topographic map, as well as mountains, rivers and ocean that flowed from the camper onto the truck. It was the perfect RV “to boldly go where no man has gone before,” to quote Captain James Kirk. OK, so that’s a bit of an exaggeration — others have gone here before, but the bears and deer certainly outnumber people where we were headed.

When the dust settled, we hopped out of the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 diesel-powered truck and breathed in the fresh mountain air. Ahh, the perfect boondocking campsite at almost 8,000 feet with a stream meandering among the trees. The 855s Lance camper, bound to the Ford by Torklift Talon aluminum tie-downs and stainless-steel, quick-disconnect locking FastGun turnbuckles, is an example of how far you can go — literally and figuratively — to create a truck camper that knows no boundaries.

Lancaster, California-based Lance performs these special builds — this one named the Altimeter — to get the message out about truck camping to a broader audience. Said Bob Rogers, Lance’s director of marketing, “We want to raise awareness of the amazing versatility of truck campers and the Lance Camper brand.” Following up with that, Jim Waters, marketing coordinator, said, “We want to educate younger buyers that they can go farther off-road and camp longer off-grid with a truck camper.”

The 855s camper was stock with a few options, but had several prototype features: a Truma AquaGo instant water heater and VarioHeat furnace, both of which the company is considering installing in future RVs.

Off-road and off-the-grid is how we spent a week, stopping in at an RV park once to fill up the 30-gallon freshwater tank, and running the 2,500-watt Cummins Onan generator a couple of times to charge up our computers. Otherwise, we relied on the 100-watt solar panel and two 5-gallon LP-gas cylinders.

At this writing, Lance had just installed an inverter and several more 100-watt solar panels in addition to two 170-watt models that will charge four Battle Born 100-Ah 12-volt GC2 lithium batteries. This may be a good excuse to ask if we can get our hands on the Altimeter again!

Smack Dab in the Middle

With an overall length of 18 feet and a box length of 8 feet, 11 inches, the 855s floorplan lands in the middle of the company’s truck-camper lineup that ranges from a box length of 6 feet, 10 inches to just under 12 feet. At a claimed wet weight of 3,331 pounds, this single-slide, shortbed-truck model is roomy and can sleep up to four people. Because the Altimeter’s looks turned heads wherever we went, fellow campers wanted to peek inside and were impressed with the creature comforts in the 855s.

Overhead, just inside the entry is a Fan-Tastic Vent fan. A key hook resides over the door — handy, because that’s where the keys were located much of the time because of the keyless entry system (optional). What a convenience keyless entry was when we were out mountain biking or hiking, and even snowboarding one day — in July! Outside, a Yakima bike rack was attached to the Altimeter via a Torklift SuperTruss extension. The swing-down steps and heavy-duty fold-up ladder to grab onto made exit and entry easy.

Centrally located and housed in the slide is the elevated four-seat dinette with 4-inch-thick cushions that are made for relaxing. Clearly, some craftsmanship went into the leatherette cushions in the Roadster decor’s rich, warm brown tone. The space between the base of the table and seats is almost 8 inches, and seat-cushion depth is 20 inches. The cushions have just the right amount of padding for that “ahhh” feeling when plopping down and leaning against the 14-inch-high supportive backs.

Dual-USB, 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC charging stations are placed at the base of the dinette’s first step, a couple inches above floor level. It’s not the handiest place to reach when sitting at the table, plus you need to watch cord placement so that you don’t pull an electronic device with you when stepping down. Storage space under the 10-inch-high step is great for tossing things in like shoes.

Smooth-rolling glide-out drawers, 7 inches deep, 17 wide and 26 long, are under the dinette benches and lock for travel. We stored everything from pots and pans to a large cutting board and bags of chips here, and because the drawers are a foot and a half above floor level, reaching into them was not backbreaking.

Seated at the dinette, there’s a front-row view to the outside through the large tinted window with two panes that crank outward from the base via smooth-operating hand cranks. Dimming lights over the dinette set the mood, and there’s plenty of LED lighting throughout. Transforming the dinette into secondary sleeping is a snap: flip a release lever on the table, push down, move a couple of cushions around, and you’re done. At 71-by-44 inches, it can sleep an adult, possibly two.

Kitchen Chronicles

Across from the dinette, a Dometic three-burner range has a full-coverage rolled-metal grate that is raised above the waterproof laminate countertop. A metallic-look plastic backsplash protects the walls around the range and gets a thumbs-up for quick cleanup. We liked the height of the counter, at 35 inches, and location of the stainless-steel-and-black appliances. Above the range is a microwave, and next to it a cabinet that opens toward the ceiling, leaving 6 feet, 3 inches of head clearance, so even when the cabinet door is left open, most people won’t be hitting their noggins on the edge of it. Cabinets are Euro-Lite construction with raised hardwood panels.

The black double sink is set forward in the counter, leaving sufficient space (ranging from 1 to 2 feet deep) between the sink and the kitchen’s crank-open window, clad with aluminum mini blinds. One kitchen criticism: We would have preferred either a single-basin sink or a longer faucet, With the pull-out faucet turned to the left-side basin, it was too close to the sink divider, so when washing our hands or a large skillet that didn’t quite fit into the sink, water sometimes ran across the top of the divider and onto the counter. Placing a towel at the edge of the sink mitigated water runoff.

A spice rack is affixed to the kitchen wall leading up to the cabover bed. Someone came up with an ingenious idea to place a narrow 2-foot-long shelf above this rack and at the base of the mattress, so when climbing out of bed, an errant foot doesn’t accidentally step onto the spice rack and take it out. Plus, that shelf was great for setting a drink while preparing meals.

Additional storage is in the row of cutlery drawers with self-closing hardware and the wardrobe/pantry on the wall between the kitchen and wet bath. We kept a hodgepodge of items in this large cabinet, from hanging jackets to storing a box of peaches that bounced along some rough roads and survived bruise-free.

Panels for monitoring battery power, solar, LP-gas level and holding tanks, and the switch for the generator are located near the kitchen’s overhead cabinet, where they’re also viewable and reachable from the bed.

Sleep Tight

A wide step (where batteries are housed) leads up to the queen-size cabover bed, and another small one is set at an intuitive height to aid shorter folks. A privacy curtain separates the “bedroom” from the living space. If you don’t want to leave the cozy bed to brush your teeth, you can lie on your stomach with your head at the foot of the bed to lean down to reach the kitchen sink below to rinse (ask us how we know this!). And since the three-way, 5-cubic-foot refrigerator is located at the base of the bed, we could reach into it from our sleeping quarters for snacks.

An option in Lance truck campers and travel trailers is the company’s Bed-Maid sleep system, a comforter-and-sheet-set-in-one that simplifies making the bed and saves occupants from packing a variety of blankets. Slip the fitted sheets (sized for an RV queen mattress) into the comforter, and they stay in place with hook-and-loop tabs. The comforter itself has a heavier-weight side (winter) and a lighter one (summer), so you simply flip the comforter over to match the season.

Our favorite feature is the push-open escape hatch/roof vent over the bed with three height settings for regulating airflow, and it’s a breeze to operate. Lying in bed at night, looking at the stars was also a treat. The hatch has a day and night shade. The screen shade keeps bugs out while still allowing in air. The night shade darkens the space for sleeping. There’s a window on each side of the bed for a wonderful all-around flow of fresh air.

While lying in the very comfortable bed, there’s enough headroom for partially sitting up, though we stuffed pillows behind our backs to compensate for the rounded front wall. Stainless push-button LED nightlights over each side of the bed twist almost 360 degrees to cover reading material without blinding your bed buddy. The driver’s side has USB and 12-volt DC outlets, and the passenger’s side has a double 120-volt AC receptacle.

Most of the bedroom’s storage is on the driver’s side, with a flat wardrobe deep enough to stow my hiking boots and long enough for adjustable twist-lock trekking poles and a tripod. A large wardrobe with a hanging rod near the foot of the bed can be reached from the bed and when standing on the step. On the opposite side is a drawer, and shelves are positioned around the 28-inch Jensen LED TV (with swing-out bracket) and Jensen DVD/VCD/MP3/USB with app and Bluetooth compatibility.

Rise and Shine

The sizable wet bath is accessed through a wood sliding door with a large mirror on the outside. The push lock keeps the door closed during travel but sometimes got stuck, making it difficult to open. With 6½ feet of height, courtesy of the skylight, and good elbow room, there was enough space for my 6-foot, 4-inch husband, Bill, to comfortably shower. The shower pan is 15 inches wide at its narrowest point, and the plastic Dometic toilet is stationed higher than the shower pan. A shower curtain protects the wood door, and a watertight cabinet, located under the single-basin sink, keeps TP dry.

The bathroom is outfitted with particulars not seen in all wet baths, such as a faucet operated separately from the shower, a bath-towel rack, a removable clothing rod for drying (optional) and a mirrored medicine cabinet. The adjustable-head handheld sprayer, with shutoff valve, felt stout, and water pressure was good. Overhead, an electric fan pulls moisture out, though, in the case of the Altimeter, the racks for a roof-mounted Yakima Rocket Box were above the vent, blocking it from opening all the way.

A wonderful touch is the padding above the door so tall folks stepping up into the 8½-foot-high shower pan have head protection. The light switch for the bright ceiling-mounted LED is just outside the door. Drying the wet bath after a shower with a towel was a cinch because all the edges are curved; there are no hard corners for water to sit.

Outside Matters

At one campground, our nightly entertainment was a six-pack of chipmunks that used the Altimeter’s undercarriage as their playground. They gathered on a nearby rock, ran single file under the truck, jumped up into the Raceline Defender wheels and Maxxis Razr tires, ran across the axle, jumped back down, and then reconvened under the truck to discuss their findings. Enjoying the outdoors and watching this was more fun than being inside viewing the TV, which comes with a King over-the-air antenna. A Winegard auto-locating satellite antenna is an option.

There’s an outside sprayer, and two carpeted exterior storage compartments on the passenger’s side measuring 15 by 13 by 22 inches are at an easy-reach height since they back to the dinette’s drawers. Carefree awnings, a manual one off the back and an electric model on the side, are optional.

After a week playing in the Sierras, we took a slight detour on the way home to spend an evening at the beach. From taking a wrong turn and ending up on a dirt road to nowhere, to checking out a 60-foot-deep earthquake fault, to spending the night in a populated campground and then the next setting up in a remote campsite and falling asleep to the soothing sound of a stream, we enjoyed the versatility of truck camping in the well-equipped Altimeter. The F-350 and Lance 855s are a sky’s-the-limit pairing for exploring new and adventurous places in comfort and convenience.

MANUFACTURER’S SPECIFICATIONS

2019 Lance 855s Truck Camper
Exterior Length: 18′
Box Length: 8’11”
Exterior Width: 8′
Exterior Height (with A/C): 8’9″
Interior Width: 7’10”
Interior Height: 6’9″
Construction: Aluminum-framed floor, cabover bed, roof and walls; block foam insulation; Azdel interior walls; laminated and insulated floor; one-piece roof
Freshwater Cap.: 30 gal.
Black-Water Cap.: 25 gal.
Gray-Water Cap.: 20 gal.
LP-Gas Cap.: 10 gal.
Water-Heater.: Truma AquaGo instantaneous
Refrigerator: 5 cu. ft.
Furnace: 11,500 Btu
Air Conditioner: 10,000 Btu
Batteries (2): Group 27 deep-cycle
Weight (Wet, with Standard Equipment): 3,331 lbs.
Lance 855s MSRP, As Tested: $50,543
Lance Altimeter Project Cost, Projected: $164,806
Basic Warranty: 2-year structural

Ford F-350 SRW 4×4 Crew Cab Platinum
Engine: 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 diesel
Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Lance Project Sponsors

Hellwig: Big Wig Air Spring Kit
Icon: 2.5-inch Performance Suspension System, Stage 5
KC HiLiTes: Gravity LED G34 Pair Pack System
Maglite: ML150LRX LED Rechargeable System
MagnaFlow: Filter-Back Black DPF Series Exhaust System
Maxxis: Razr MT-37×12.50R18LT tires
Raceline: 935BZ Defender Bronze with Black Ring wheels
Scosche: Boombottle MM waterproof wireless speaker
SherpTek: Pak Horse gear and supply carrier (not on tested unit)
Torklift: SuperHitch Magnum 30K frame-mounted receiver, Talon Aluminum Camper Tie Downs, Locking FastGun turnbuckles
Truma: AquaGo instant water heater, VarioHeat furnace
Warn: Ascent front bumper, Zeon 12-S Platinum Winch
Yakima: LongHaul bicyclerack, RocketBox roof carrier
www.lancecamper.com/altimeter

Trailer Life Managing Editor Donya Carlson grew up camping with her family in Southern California and loves spending time hiking, mountain biking, motorcycling, snowboarding and just about anything else outdoors. Before joining the Trailer Life and MotorHome team, she served as managing editor of Rider, a magazine for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Northern Lite 10-2 EXCD SE

Built for extreme temperatures and adventurous RVers, the 10-2 EXCD SE packs a spacious 10-foot, 11-inch floor length into a 3,265-pound (dry) nonslide camper for longbed trucks. Constructed from fiberglass molds, the company’s campers have just one seam where the top shell is placed over the bottom shell and joined with plywood, metal and vinyl.

“Our mission is to design and build the lightest, most durable, aerodynamic, true four-season truck campers equipped with standard features that are practical and useful,” said Keith Donkin, Northern Lite’s president. The 10-2 offers 6 feet, 8 inches of headroom in the living space, and 3½ feet over a low-set queen bed with a HyperVent pad that is designed to prevent condensation under the mattress.

The 10-2 EXCD SE is available with a choice of a four-seat U-shaped or face-to-face dinette, and a wet or dry bath. Standard are a 100-watt solar panel, lightweight acrylic thermal-pane windows and skylights, and a six-year structural warranty. All campers feature cabinets with solid hardwood paneling and trim, and nine-ply birch is used in drawers with roller bearing glides. Interior decor is available in five choices, and the ceiling is carpeted.

The galley’s pullout pantry with wire shelves resides alongside the dinette. Across are a 6.3-cubic-foot three-way refrigerator, a three-burner range, oven and single-basin stainless sink, and a microwave is housed inside an overhead cabinet.

Two awnings power out for plenty of shade, with a 10-foot side awning and a 7-footer over the rear entry door. Overall length is 18 feet, 2 inches, and base MSRP is $48,650.

Northwood Arctic Fox 990 Legacy 2020

When it comes to high-end slide-in truck campers for longbed trucks, the Arctic Fox 990 has few rivals, and the line’s Legacy 2020 Limited Edition ($33,236) is a real standout for 2020.

“The 990 LE, like all Arctic Foxes, is built to exacting detail in terms of rugged construction, quality materials, maximized storage, innovation, style and comfort,” said Lance Rinker, marketing director for Northwood Manufacturing. “The Legacy 2020 ups the ante by offering a thoughtful array of upgrades and feature content that really makes it special.”

See Related Story: Truck Camper 101

First of all, the 990 is big. It’s a slide-out model with an overall length of 17½ feet, a 9-foot, 1-inch floor length, a 6-foot, 7-inch interior height, and a dry weight north of 3,100 pounds. Add in the 53-gallon freshwater tank and 82-gallon capacity between the gray- and black-water tanks, and it’s easy to see that this is a camper designed for a dually — and for being a home away from home.

The corner galley is roomy with a stainless-steel three-burner range, double sink, pantry and stylish overhead cabinets. On the street side is the slideout with a booth dinette and 7-cubic-foot two-way fridge. The wet bath combines the shower, toilet and sink into one molded unit. The bedroom has two wardrobes and a hamper along each side of the queen mattress.

The list of standard features and amenities is long, and the furnishings and overall fit and finish are first-class. “The Arctic Fox 990 LE is built to withstand off-road use without leaving behind any at-home comforts,” Rinker added.

nüCamp Cirrus 720

Distinctive Amish-built cabinetry blended with modern interior design, innovative construction materials and a hydronic-heating system are the hallmarks of the 2020 Cirrus 720, the third and newest model in the Cirrus line. “The unit marks a new direction in terms of weight and incorporates a captivating modern aesthetic that has never been seen in a truck camper,” said Julie McComb, nüCamp’s marketing manager.

With a base weight of 1,875 pounds (UVW) and fully optioned weight of 2,100 pounds, the 14-foot, 9-inch hard-side camper is well within the cargo capacity of today’s three-quarter-ton short bed pickups. The $35,110 MSRP includes nearly every feature RVers want in a camper, so the options list is short. In addition to the Alde radiant-heating-and-hot-water system, interior highlights include a Froli queen-size sleep system, wood cabinetry with radiused corners, radiused entry door, curved-enclosure wet bath and a spacious galley for a pickup camper.

The 720’s light weight can be attributed to its aluminum frame combined with Azdel-laminate side walls and Coosa composite materials used to support the cabinetry. The truck camper is four-season-ready with full water and electric hookups, plus 12-volt DC and an optional solar kit for off-grid camping. This could be a trendsetter in truck campers.

Palomino Rogue Series

Palomino’s new line of pop-up-roof campers provides basic off-grid camping needs in a compact package that tips the scales at just under 1,400 pounds (UVW). The Rogue comes in two styles, EB-1 ($13,500) and EB-2 ($13,000), with floor lengths of 6 feet, 11 inches and 6½ feet, respectively. The larger EB-1 needs 45 inches of space between the wheel wells, while the EB-2 requires just 39 inches.

“We developed the Rogue Series truck camper specifically for outdoor enthusiasts who care more about the adventure than their sleeping quarters,” said Ben Meloche, general manager of Forest River’s Palomino branch. “The two models have minimal options, so they are lightweight, allowing someone the freedom to reach hard-to-get-to destinations in their pickup.”

The EB-2 has the two-burner cookstove and sink on the curb side and a queen bed over the cab with a U-shaped convertible dinette at the back of the truck cab wall. The EB-1, which has a 5-inch longer floor, turns the queen bed lengthwise to make room for a pair of foot lockers along the streetside wall. It also places the galley next to the small two-way refrigerator to make room for an L-shaped 33-by-80-inch dinette bed.

The EB-1 has a closed interior height of 6 feet, while the EB-2 is 5 feet, 5 inches. The roof on both models raises at an angle to increase interior height at the back of the camper by 20 inches. Both models have a 16-gallon freshwater capacity but no black or gray tanks. For the Rogue’s target buyers, that’s not an issue.

See Related Stories:

New RVS for 2020: Travel Trailers
New RVS for 2020: Small Trailers
New RVS for 2020: Fifth-Wheels
New RVS for 2020: Toy Haulers

REV Group, Inc., manufacturer of industry-leading specialty vehicle brands, announced its recreation brands have each issued a warranty extension, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lance Camper, Fleetwood RV, American Coach, Holiday Rambler, Monaco, Renegade RV and Midwest Automotive Designs are providing 60 days of extended-warranty goodwill repair coverage to their owners with limited warranties that are expiring in March, April and May 2020.

This extended goodwill repair coverage will provide all the same benefits under the terms of the original express limited warranty. Any requests for repairs under this extended coverage will be honored through July 31, 2020.

“In these unprecedented times, we recognize that the state-issued stay-at-home orders may make it difficult to get to warranty service appointments or visit a dealer for warranty repairs,” said Tony Besasie, chief marketing officer for REV Group, Inc. “We place high value on the measures needed to protect our employees, customers and communities, while we also want to ensure that all our customers receive the full benefit of their limited warranty.

“REV Group’s recreation brands are committed to taking every action required to help owners protect their well-being while ensuring they enjoy all the benefits to which their RV purchase entitles them,” Besasie continued. “We want our customers to be assured they can count on us to be there for them until they are back on the road.”

REV Group’s recreation brands continue to provide parts and technical support to dealers and customers; however, customers are advised to call prior to dealer visits due to the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic.

Last fall RV enthusiast Pam Gaudreau attended the 67th California RV Show in Fontana and entered the sweepstakes to win a Lance 1475 travel trailer. Little did she ever dream of becoming the winner. Getting the thrilling phone call last December that she’d won the brand-new 2020 ultralight trailer valued at more than $30,000 was one of the best calls she’s received, she said.

Pam and her husband, Mario, attended the California RV Show at the Auto Club Speedway to look at different trailers to buy for their new lifestyle. The Upland couple had a toy-box trailer that Mario had custom-built in 2000, but they sold it several years ago because it no longer fit their needs. Mario had retired and the couple wanted to enjoy camping with friends and family and decided that a trailer would be a good choice. Seeing the display for the Lance trailer sweepstakes, Pam decided to complete the form.

The Gaudreaus picked up their brand-new 1475 in March 2020 at Richards Boat and RV Center in Lancaster. Said Pam, “The Lance has so many more great features than our previous toy box. It has a full kitchen with a beautiful sink, refrigerator and cooking stove!” The trailer definitely meets the Gaudreau’s needs as they have camping plans in the works, starting with an outing to a nearby RV park in San Clemente, California. “The trailer is a perfect size, it’s easy for my husband to tow and easy to park at a campsite,” stated Pam with a big smile.

This year’s California RV Show is scheduled for October 2 to 11, 2020. More than 1,000 RVs will be on display to walk through, plus there will be live entertainment and food in a family-friendly environment. And another Lance travel trailer will be up for grabs! Congratulations to Pam and Mario!

Relaxing on thick denim-colored leatherette cushions on opposite sides of a U-shaped dinette, drinks in hand, a cheese and apple platter resting on the table and dinner simmering on the stove, my husband, Bill, and I watched the sunset bathe California’s Carrizo Plain in golden hues through large windows from all sides of a Lance 2075 travel trailer. The Euro-style telescoping table turns 360 degrees, so rather than politely saying, “Please pass the snacks,” we simply turned the table like a giant lazy Susan to help ourselves.

Thanks to a 3.0-liter Power Stroke-equipped Ford F-150 tow vehicle, we were camped with nobody else in sight in the 24-foot, 9-inch Lance, one of the newest models in the company’s travel trailer lineup. Outfitted with two optional 190-watt solar panels and dual lithium batteries, the trailer had no need for hookups. Quite a change from previous nights, when we’d stayed at Wine Country RV Resort in Paso Robles, California, a park with every amenity, located just minutes from the Mid-State Fair and plentiful wineries. In both locations, the 2075 was an ideal travel companion.

Several features stand out on this trailer, but we have to focus on the rear outdoor kitchen and the windows. The four-season 2075 has European Thermopane acrylic windows that dominate the Azdel-panel walls and open outward to allow for as much airflow as you can take. It’s easy to control how wide open you set the dual-pane tinted radius windows, which are held open by struts and a twist knob. Accordion-style pull-down screens and pull-up night shades keep bugs out and regulate the amount of natural light. In addition to the curved Lance Stargazer window at the head of the bed, each side of the trailer has at least one window.

As if all these large windows don’t offer enough potential sunlight and cross-breezes, push-open 24-by-16-inch roof hatches with three height positions reside above the foot of the bed and over the dinette. These hatches have the same sliding screen/shade as the windows, so the amount of sunlight coming in can be controlled as well. With every window and shade buttoned down, it can be dark as night inside on a bright day, a plus for RVers who like to get a little noontime shut-eye.

The distinctive European-sourced entry door resembles an airplane’s and has pockets that are reachable from the dinette for stowing things like maps and phones. No-fuss opening, closing and locking the door are simplified by flipping a lever up or down. A full-length, side-sliding screen door is another two-thumbs-up feature.

A four-key hook is right inside the entry above a fire extinguisher. The iN-Command system’s panel is located by the entry as well, and controls everything from the electric jacks, awnings and 13,500-Btu air conditioner to the water pump, and the functions can be controlled with a smart device.

Royal Living

“Royal” is the color name given to the dinette’s denim-looking leatherette cushions with white stitching. The seats have the look of my favorite pair of blue jeans and are almost as comfy. Five-inch-thick cushions with 15-inch-high backs have just the right amount of firmness and fit together nicely to stay tightly in place.

The quartz-look Euro telescoping table does more than turn 360 degrees; with the release of a lever, it also slides this way and that, and can be locked in place. Need extra room to scooch around to the back of the dinette’s seating? Simply slide the table to one side, set up shop where you’re comfortable, and then slide the table back into place. Or glide the table toward the galley area for additional prep space while making a meal. The tabletop will not move so far as to block entry or exit into the trailer.

Another lever releases the wide single-post table so it can be pushed down to form the base for a 40-by-80-inch bed, offering enough sleeping room for two tall and lean adults. Once the dinette’s corner cushions are removed, large cubbies at each end are revealed for stowing bedside items. A little effort and time are involved in setting up the bed, but once guests are supine on the comfy cushions and peering out at the night sky, they may be so content that they overstay their welcome.

A 24-inch Jensen 12-volt DC HDTV on a swiveling bracket can be viewed from every angle while seated at the dinette, and a King antenna is near the dinette in the 6½-foot ceiling. An AM/FM/DVD stereo, speaker and cubby are grouped with the digital control panel for the Truma Combi Comfort Plus heating system, standard on three Lance trailers.

The Truma Combi system provides hot water and interior heat and can run on LP-gas, electric or mixed modes, and is so quiet that we had to put our hands by the registers to be sure it was on. While all areas of the trailer warmed up quickly, our favorite was the floor register in the bathroom for toasty toes. Coming in late one cold night after walking through Paso Robles’ amazing Field of Light at Sensorio, a 15-acre walk-through artwork of almost 60,000 solar-powered spheres that change color, we were warm and cozy in less than 10 minutes.

We stowed a 6-quart Instant Pot in the space under one dinette cushion, which could easily swallow up half a dozen more and then some, and a smaller storage area is under the opposite side. Built into the base of the seating are USB charging stations, and 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC outlets, and another set is in the wall next to the 10½-inch-wide shelf that spans the area behind the streetside seating and window.

This large shelf also came in handy for stowing items like a coffee maker, which did not fit on the galley counter that houses a stainless-steel two-burner Euro cooktop and stainless-steel round sink. Countertop space in the kitchen around the sink and cooktop only allow for such things as cups, a bottle of olive oil and a soap dispenser, but with a cutting board over the flush-mounted glass cover, the cooktop converts into an adequate prep area next to the sink.

What We Liked

Numerous push-open windows, comfy and spacious U-shaped dinette, dual awnings, outdoor kitchen

What We’d Like to See

Convection microwave, extra lighting over cooktop, increased cargo-carrying capacity

A full-coverage, dimpled-metal-look backsplash is on the left and back walls. The sink is furnished with a black residential arched faucet with pullout sprayer, and it is large enough to fit a 10-inch skillet for cleaning, but it does not have a cover. Below the galley’s counter are two 28-inch-long, 18-inch-wide soft-close drawers. The deeper bottom drawer easily accommodated large frying pans and rolls of paper towels. Anything that didn’t fit on the counter was swept into these drawers and handily retrieved when needed.

A black-and-stainless-steel High Pointe flatbed microwave oven is fine for heating snacks and frozen foods, but because there is no conventional oven, a convection microwave would be appreciated. Lance explained that, as of this writing, there are no convection microwaves on the market that fit in the allotted overhead space, but they’re working on it. Also, with no combo exhaust hood and light, the darkest place in the entire trailer is the galley’s corner, although the overhead LEDs and accent lighting above the spice shelf (and the big window) provide enough light to work by.

Smart Use of Space

The generous interior space of the curved Euro Lite Ply cabinetry over the dinette is continuous, with no wasted area where they join in the corners. The cabinets open upward on soft-close hinges and have automated interior lights. Accent LEDs light up the shelving below the cabinets, and stop-bars help keep items in place. Radius-corner shelves are deep enough to stow a 10½-inch square game box.

Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the hidden seven-bottle storage cabinet next to a pantry with adjustable shelves. We filled this space quickly — we were spending time in wine country, after all — with not only wine bottles but glass balsamic and olive oil bottles, all of which survived being bounced along 20-something miles of a hard-packed dirt road.

Leaving the powder room’s door open freed up walk space between the living area and bedroom, so one of us could sidestep out of the way. Cooking steam was close to nil with the big window behind the cooktop open and the bathroom’s remote-controlled Fan-Tastic Vent (with rain sensor) in motion.

Speaking of the bath area, the black-and-gray-toned tempered-glass bowl sink looks like something you’d have sitting on a coffee table, and it and the wood-framed mirrored medicine cabinet are the only bathroom components visible from the entry. There was enough space to lean over the sink to wash my face without hitting my head on the mirror. A hand-towel ring is next to the sink, and there’s also a shower-towel bar.

The porcelain toilet, set at 20 inches high on a platform in the corner, leaves a good amount of floor space between the vanity and 19-by-32-inch step-up shower pan. The heavy-plastic shower curtain is secured at the top and bottom, and locks into place, while the curved upper bar allows for extra elbow room. The black plastic adjustable sliding showerhead with shut-off valve matches the rest of the 2075’s fixtures. With the skylight, there’s 6 feet, 2 inches of headroom.

Sleeping and Stargazing

Here again, there’s no lack of natural light in the bedroom with its walk-around queen bed with a 6½-inch-thick Serta pillow-top mattress and storage underneath. Front and center, at the head of the bed, is Lance’s Euro Thermopane curved acrylic Stargazer window, and 28-by-40-inch windows are on each side. Over the foot of the bed is the hatch, framed with suedelike material housing LED lights operated by a switch next to the bed.

With the Stargazer window taking up a good portion of the front wall, we propped up pillows in the corners to lean against while reading in bed when the shade was closed. Because of the curve of the window, we had to lie on our backs to open and close the shades — but what a treat to recline in bed and check out the night sky!

Mood lights, a wardrobe, USB charging stations, and 12-volt DC and 120-volt AC outlets are on both sides of bed. Each sleeper also has access to plenty of bedside tabletop space, at 14-by-40 inches, and a drawer. Tap-button LED reading lights that resemble votive candles swivel 360 degrees. Speakers reside next to the reading lights, and a 24-inch 12-volt DC HDTV on a swiveling bracket is tucked in out of the way and stows flush with shelves and a shallow cabinet.

All-Out Tailgating

The 2075 is particularly well-suited for those who like to tailgate — literally — with its rear-mounted outdoor kitchen. Simply slide out the combo two-burner cooktop and sink, hook up the LP-gas and water, and attach the stabilizer legs residing in the large back storage area. A drawer-style Dometic refrigerator is tucked in below a metal shelf that’s wonderful for piling plates and bowls of food for a party.

Additionally, there’s a 4-foot-long folding table stored in the upper portion of a lighted compartment. This space, with a pullout storage tray for easy access to big items like camping chairs, passes almost all the way through to the other side. On the opposite side is a vented compartment for stowing a generator, a small steel locker, plus another good-sized storage cubby for the 30-amp electric cord, water hoses and lots more. All have magnetic door catches.

Users will need to be cautious about how much cargo weight they add because the trailer offers only a modest 392 pounds of cargo capacity (with full water and a full optional third LP-gas cylinder) before exceeding its 5,900-pound gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).

And don’t forget to pluck the removable Bluetooth stereo speaker with flashlight off its charging station below the living area’s TV when you head outside; brackets for positioning the speaker are on each side wall below the 16-foot power side awning and 7-foot rear awning that protects the outdoor chef. Both awnings have wind sensors and LED lighting. The 2075 is sure set up to be the soul of a good tailgate party!

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Also located at the back of the trailer is a large compartment dedicated to longer and wider sewer hoses that makes them easy to access and lift out. There’s room for a rinsing hose and a wye connector, which is needed for dumping since the black and gray tanks are separated by the dual axles and do not merge into one dump valve. An exterior wash station is provided, and the trailer is prewired for Go Power’s Solar on the Side in addition to the roof’s solar panels.

The entry door opens all the way to stay flush against the trailer; just be careful when opening the door if the kitchen window is extended outward, especially if it’s windy, so the two don’t meet. Sturdy Torklift GlowStep Revolution 25-inch manual folding steps have a quick-release lever, locking mechanism and are adjustable so we could deploy the steps on the curb in front of our home when packing up. (These stairs are similar to the below-the-door GlowStep Revolution featured on page 65.) Safety devices include a lit-up entry-step well and swing-out assist handle.

We enjoyed the versatility of the Lance 2075 and how much larger it feels inside with the surrounding push-open windows. Whether spending time in an RV resort, boondocking or tailgating, the 2075 should find favor with a wide range of enthusiasts.

Specifications

2020 Lance 2075
Exterior Length 24′ 9″
Exterior Width 8′ 3/8″
Exterior Height 10′ 2″ (with A/C)
Interior Width 7′ 9 3/4″
Interior Height 6′ 6″
Construction  Aluminum-framed substructure, laminated fiberglass exterior walls with Azdel substrate and block-foam insulation, one-piece crowned PVC roof and high-gloss TPO front lower section
Freshwater Cap. 45 gal.
Black-Water Cap. 45 gal.
Gray-Water Cap. 45 gal.
LP-Gas Cap. 10 gal., 14-gal. opt.
Water-Heater Cap. Continuous
Refrigerator 5 cu. ft.
Furnace 14,300 Btu
Air Conditioner 13,500 Btu
Converter 60 amp
Inverter 1,500 watt
Battery Dealer installed (OEM lithium optional)
Tires  ST205/75R15
Suspension Rubber torsion
Weight (freshwater, water heater, LP-gas full; no cargo) 5,508 lbs.
Hitch Weight 440 lbs.
GVWR 5,900 lbs.
GAWR (2) 2,900 lbs.
Cargo Carrying Cap. 392 lbs.
MSRP, Base $44,942
MSRP, As Tested $62,691
Basic Warranty 2 years, 12-year limited roof
www.lancecamper.com/travel-trailers/2075

Trailer Life Managing Editor Donya Carlson grew up camping with her family in Southern California and loves spending time hiking, mountain biking, motorcycling, snowboarding and just about anything else outdoors. Before joining the Trailer Life and MotorHome team, she served as managing editor of Rider, a magazine for motorcycle enthusiasts.

Online RV Buyers’ Guide

For information on new and used towable RVs, including specs, floorplans and photos, visit Trailer Life’s online RV Buyers’ Guide at rvbg.trailerlife.com. The search tool has model-year-specific details on RVs going back to 2003. Searches can be done by length, price and manufacturer, as well as model year.

Already famous for its truck campers, Lance ventured into the travel trailer market a few years ago and has been making a name for itself again with a full line of lightweight, easy-to-tow and versatile trailers that run the gamut from about 16 feet in length to right around 28 feet long. We’ve reviewed a number of Lance travel trailers over the years, but when the new 2185 model appeared on the scene, we just had to grab it for another look at what the Lancaster, Calif., RV manufacturer has to offer.

The Build

From the bottom up the trailers built by Lance are solid and sturdy. Take for instance the chassis. It’s made from lightweight tempered steel that is then powder coated for corrosion resistance and protection from chips and road debris. Its Huck-bolted construction makes it sturdy and also keeps corrosion at bay.

The heavy-duty, rubber torsion-bar suspension axles feature EZ-lube bearings that are practically maintenance free. The completely self-contained axle and suspension design offers an extremely smooth and stable ride over just about any road surface, allowing the trailer to follow the Jeep Cherokee used as a tow vehicle for this review with no bouncing and hopping no matter where we took it, and the contents within the Lance to stay put during travel. The axles also feature self-adjusting brakes, another fact that makes owning this trailer a real pleasure.

The inner superstructure of the Lance trailer’s walls, floor and roof are made from welded aluminum framing that delivers two advantages: a sturdy coach that is also easy on your tow vehicle. For longevity, Lance uses Azdel, a composite material instead of luan wood in the wall construction to help eliminate mold and mildew concerns. The composite sheets are also lighter and provide superior (a higher “R” rating) insulation than the luan wood product as well. Laminated fiberglass exteriors cover the sidewalls, front and rear caps. Rigid foam blocks are used inside those walls for insulation, providing a high overall “R” rating for this trailer. Its interior cabinetry is built of a material called Lite-Ply that is imported from Europe. The high-quality laminated wood product is particularly strong, yet lightweight and offers good insulation and durability. It’s also good looking because of an even grain, which is almost white when produced and provides a nearly perfect and uniform finish, painted, or stained any tone from pine to cherry. Up top is a roof made from Energy Star-rated TPO material, featuring integrated rain gutters and drip spouts to prevent the sides of the trailers from getting black streaks.

Inner Glory

Lance’s 2185 is truly laid out for up to seven to sleep – for family getaways – but theoretically could be used by buddies on a fishing trip, or a couple away from it all for the weekend. In a nutshell, the trailer offers a walk-around queen bed standard (but our unit had the very handy and optional convertible sofa bed), Lance’s “Super Slide” convertible dinette, and triple bunks across the back wall that will fit adults if needed.

An ingenious design, the optional sofa helps turn the trailer’s already good interior space provided by the dinette-carrying Super Slide into a voluminous living area. The sofa’s armrests lift out and are stored, the seat cushion and backrest are folded out and down to form the lower half of the queen bed box spring/mattress, and then from behind, a queen mattress topper is unfolded to reveal the entire constructed queen bed. The operation takes about 30 seconds; and the bed is quite comfortable.

Directly behind the bed is a nearly full bed-width headboard niche area for books and other small objects, above is a large storage cabinet, and on both sides are good-sized wardrobes with nightstands below. Plenty of area lighting is provided in the front bedroom, and twin LED reading lamps are located in a position so they are easily managed from a prone position on the queen bed.

The Super Slide provides very comfortable seating for four adults; you can squeeze five in if you wish. As for its sleeping capacity, Lance advertises it as two adults, but they would either have to be short adults, teens or children. We suggest you reserve it for one adult lying diagonally, or teens and younger children for sleeping purposes. It does, however, provide plenty of storage with large, roll-out drawers on both sides of its U-shaped and well-padded seating configuration. Lance uses Schwintek mechanisms for its slideouts, and it offered a smooth and quiet movement. The mechanisms are said to be lighter than others, and smaller, so they allow for more interior space.

The three-bunk configuration across the rear wall is versatile. It allows three adults to sleep once the Lance 2185 is parked and set up, but during travel, the bottom bunk platform can be stored on top of the third and topmost platform and the second platform can be lifted up and secured out of the way. This creates a storage area underneath the topmost third bunk that is large enough to store a couple of adult-size bicycles (and who knows what else a creative packer might be able to stow in there). Our only issue with this bunk arrangement is that most of the bunk is blocked by the adjacent bathroom wall, which means that you must crawl into bed through a relatively small opening and then “scooch” your body down the length of the berth.

Its bathroom features a wet bath/shower arrangement that is large enough to not feel confined in when sudsing up and rinsing off, and high enough that even I (at 6 feet, 2 inches tall) could stand straight without hitting the ceiling. The porcelain toilet offers a foot-pedal flush. Also provided was a generously sized cabinet, medicine cabinet with mirrored door and vanity light. The optional Fan-Tastic Vent power roof fan kept the bathroom mirror from fogging up during showers, and vented fumes well too. We also appreciated the ducted heat outlet. Directly opposite the bathroom door, on the curbside wall, was a small sink, cabinet and mirror that acts as vanity for the three bunkmates. At the head of the bunks (also curbside) is a large wardrobe, also to serve the three bunkmates. The second and rear door splits this wardrobe and vanity, which makes the rear vanity and the bathroom of the trailer easy to use for cleaning up the kids during daytime activities, while keeping them out of the main living area and the kitchen.

The kitchen is the star in this trailer, as it is both complete and compact. Featuring a two-way, 6-cubic-foot refrigerator, three-burner range, range hood with a light and a fan, and a large and accommodating single sink with a pullout faucet, the kitchen offers all of the right equipment to get the job done. There is a decent amount of counter space, and if you take advantage of the extra slip-up countertop at the front end (only useful if the main front door is shut) of the kitchen counter and dinette table across the aisle, you could whip up a masterpiece. Storage space is bountiful here, too, with cabinets above and below the kitchen counter, as well as across the aisle underneath and above the dinette.

Décor and Systems

Lance trailers have always been well styled and the 2185 is no exception. Highlights include hardwood framed flat panel cabinet doors with glazing, hardwood raised panel overhead cabinet doors with glazing, day/night shades in the dinette with valance boxes, mini-blinds in the kitchen and living space with valance boxes, and a wall clock adds a touch of class.

Standard electrical equipment highlights in the 2185 include a 55-amp converter/load center, AM/FM/DVD/iPod stereo with interior and exterior speakers, exterior 120-volt AC patio outlet, HDTV antenna, storage compartment lighting on the forward passthrough, and pre-wire for park, satellite dish, A/C, and Fan-Tastic fan.

Towablility and Livibility

Ahead of the Lance 2185 for the trip was a Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit 4×4 powered by the optional 5.7L V-8 VVT (variable-valve-timing) engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. Some of the more notable functional standard features of this Grand Cherokee that directly relate to this review are the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, Hill Descent Control, Advanced Multistage Front Airbags, Antilock 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, ParkView Rear Back Up Camera, Hill Start Assist, and Trailer Sway Damping.

The Lance 2185 weighed in at 4,290 pounds wet so the Jeep had no trouble pulling it from a standing stop to highway speeds on flat land, and it took little to no effort to get it up hills due to the power of the V-8. Handling was surefooted and calm; we never once felt any sway or untoward whipping behavior. And the trailer’s tongue weight was easily supported and leveled by the Jeep’s air-suspension system, and the rear-view camera made itself very useful when hooking up the trailer.

Seating and drivability rated high on our scale. The Jeep’s front seats were heated and vented so summer and winter were made comfy. Powered eight-way driver and passenger seats, and power four-way lumbar adjustment, combined with a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, made it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Overall visibility was good with large windows and small pillars. Bigger, better towing mirrors are a must, but overall, the Grand Cherokee was an excellent tow vehicle for our time with the Lance 2185.

The Lance 2185 is a good value for those interested in a lightweight towable that can be pulled by a half-ton pickup truck or highly maneuverable SUV like many already have available in family driveways today. It delivered easy towing, easy setup, generous storage space, voluminous interior living room, good looks, and it comes with plenty of standards to make great RVing adventures, but can be ordered with a full range of options to really trick it out, including Lance’s 4 Seasons All Weather Package that can make it “extreme weather ready.”

Specifications

Lance Camper 2185
Exterior Length 25′ – 8″
Exterior Width 8′ – 0 3/8″
Exterior Height 9′ – 11″
Interior Width 7′ – 10 1/8″
Construction 6 Sided (Floor/Walls/Ceiling) Aluminum Frame Bonded with Fiberglass Exterior)
Freshwater Cap 45 gal.
Gray-Water Cap 40 gal.
Black-Water Cap 40 gal.
LP-Gas Cap 2 ea. 5 gal. (10 gal. total)
Water Heater Cap 6 gal.
Refrigerator 6 cu ft
Furnace 25M Btu
Air Conditioner 9,000 low profile or 13,500 Btu
Converter 55 amp
Battery 12V (Dealer Install)
Tires ST205/75 R14 (C)
Suspension Tandem 2,900 lb. (5,800 lb. total) Torsion
Weight (Freshwater, Water Heater, LP-gas full; no cargo): 4,290 lb. (3,825 lb. dry)
Hitch Weight 522 lb. w/Freshwater/Water Heater/LP (450 lb. dry)
Axle Weight 3,768 lb. w/Freshwater/Water Heater/LP (3,375 lb. dry)
GAWR 5,800 lb.
GVWR 6,000 lb.
Cargo Carrying Capacity 2,100 lb.
Base MSRP $26,672
As-Tested MSRP $32,500
Basic Warranty 1-year limited (or as applicable)
Lance Camper Mfg. Co.: 661-949-3322, www.lancecamper.com

Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4×4
MPG: Solo; Towing: 17; 11
Engine 5.7L VVT V-8
HP 360 @ 5,150 RPM
Torque 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 RPM
Transmission 6-speed automatic
Axle Ratio 3:47:1
Fuel Cap 24.6 gal.
Tires P265/60R18
Suspension Quadra-Lift Air-Suspension; (f) A-arms, coil springs, coil-over shocks; (r) multi-link, live axle, coil springs, shocks, lower control arm, upper link and toe link.
Brakes 4-wheel disc
Tow Rating 7,200 lb.
GVWR 6,800 lb.
GCWR 12,764 lb.
Length 189.8″
Wheelbase 114.8″
Base MSRP $42,995
MSRP as Tested $49,890
Jeep: 877-426-5337, www.jeep.com

by Brian Brawdy

I like to think of it as my “Just in Case Place.” Balanced between wanting to boondock or needing to bug out, the SRMR (Self Reliant Mobile Residence) has multiple functions.

From the moment I began RVing, I realized the duel purposes of recreating on the one hand and evacuating on the other. There is no better way to bolt to somewhere or from something. Family vacationing emergency vacating, your home away from home can be a perfect base camp, wherever you find yourself. In a few short weeks I will be launching 3 videos here on RV.net highlighting the engineering and building of the SRMR.

Meanwhile, I am very excited to take this week off and attend the Mid Atlantic Truck Camper Rally. I can’t wait to get there. If you are in the area, please swing by.

Please join me on Facebook for more exclusive photos and engineering mock-ups of the SRMR. Stay tuned to my Facebook page for details on the upcoming video on building the SRMR.

Wind Turbine Cable Boxes - SRMR

To learn more about Brian Brawdy, please visit BrianBrawdy.com

The post From Bookdocking to Bugging Out, the SRMR covers it all appeared first on Good Sam Camping Blog.