There’s a lot of chatter online about RV quality, especially concerning travel trailers manufactured during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. You’ll often see warnings to avoid campers built in certain years, with some claiming a widespread decline in quality. But is this fear-mongering justified across the board? Let’s dive into the reality, particularly when it comes to Rockwood Travel Trailers.
It’s true that some RV manufacturers, particularly those focused on budget-friendly options or those with pre-existing quality control issues, might have seen a dip in standards during periods of increased demand. Some companies did ramp up production to meet the surge, and in some cases, quality may have suffered.
However, this isn’t a universal truth, and certainly doesn’t apply to all brands. Rockwood travel trailers are a prime example of a manufacturer that maintained its standards. Unlike some who brought in untrained staff or drastically increased output, Rockwood kept its operations consistent. Our personal experience with a 2022 Rockwood Mini Lite was overwhelmingly positive – a solid, dependable camper. And our current Rockwood travel trailer continues to impress, showing no signs of decreased quality compared to our previous models, including a 2016.
In fact, we’ve observed improvements in components and features in newer Rockwood travel trailers. So, the blanket statement that all “Covid-era” campers are poorly made simply isn’t accurate. It’s a myth.
Having witnessed the construction of these trailers firsthand, the attention to detail and rigorous quality assurance processes at Rockwood are evident. Their quality teams are meticulous, using a color-coded tape system to mark even minor imperfections during inspections along the assembly line. The level of scrutiny is impressive; they catch details that most people would easily miss. Furthermore, there’s a system in place to correct recurring issues, ensuring continuous improvement in the production process of Rockwood travel trailers.
Minor Gripes, Major Satisfaction
Like any product, there are always small things one might tweak. In our current Rockwood travel trailer, there are two minor points we’d adjust.
Firstly, the USB outlet placement by the roadside bed is convenient, offering both USB 2.0 and USB-C ports. However, it incorporates a very bright green LED indicator. This small, yet intensely bright light, positioned right next to the bed, can be a bit disruptive at night. We’ve noticed this same bright LED in many 2023 RV models.
Secondly, the quick-disconnect for the outdoor griddle is located far under the RV skirting, attached to the chassis. Accessing this connection, which requires two hands to operate, is quite awkward and requires some uncomfortable maneuvering. While we appreciate the included flat-top griddle and use it frequently, the accessibility of the disconnect could be improved.
Rockwood vs. Flagstaff: Decoding the Differences
A common question among prospective buyers is the distinction between Rockwood and Flagstaff trailers. The truth is, the difference is purely cosmetic – essentially just the brand stickers. Rockwood and Flagstaff travel trailers are produced by the same manufacturer, Forest River, using identical processes and on the same assembly lines. So, if a Rockwood dealer isn’t conveniently located, but a reputable Flagstaff dealer is nearby, the Flagstaff equivalent, such as the Flagstaff 22FBS, is essentially the same trailer under a different name.
Ultimately, Rockwood travel trailers are well-constructed, and their commitment to detail translates to a superior camping experience. Our continued satisfaction with our Rockwood travel trailer reinforces our initial positive impression. We are confident that it will continue to provide excellent service for years to come.
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