Post by marjim on May 27, 2021 18:50:18 GMT -5
Hey All,
wanted to share an update on our first trip with the Sonic 190VRB. In summary, no hassles, no issues (other than self inflicted) and a great time, regardless of how much gas cost.
First time packing the trailer, we took extra clothes, single cup Keurig, air-fryer, way too many towels, 2-boxes of Jimmy Dean frozen sausage biscuits, English muffins, standard condiments, chocolate bars, graham crackersXL marshmallows, OJuice, 6oz Sprite and Squirt, all our electronics for phones, tablets, hearing aids and fit bits. Dog biscuits, baking soda for fridge, dog beef chews,10 tennis balls, a ball thrower and of course water/food bowls. I took enough tools to rebuild the trailer along with a 2000watt WEN generator, pancake compressor, 2-sets of leveling lego b;ocks, chocks and a LOWES bucket for clean water, electrical and sewer. Both RAM boxes were full and the box about 50%. Also a bottle of black cherry flavored bourbon. We let the fridge get cold overnight, although the freezer was ready after 3hrs. (I do recommend putting cold food in a cold fridge)
We left, Monday May 18th from St. Louis and drove to Jensen's RV campground north of Southhaven, MI, (East coast of Lake Michigan) on our way to Kalkaska. (Selling the family lake cottage 
) Took about 8.5hrs for 439 miles at 10.1mpg. (Ram 1500 in TOW/HAUL mode) We pulled in at 6:45pm EST and was setup (except for sewer) by 7:10. A 1/2' 20v impact driver zipped up/down the stabilizers very easy and quick. I used my elec tester for power hookup and had the right pressure regulator, filter and fittings to support both clean and wash hoses. Cool in the evening so we just left the windows open and used a rotating table fan on oven glass.
) Took about 8.5hrs for 439 miles at 10.1mpg. (Ram 1500 in TOW/HAUL mode) We pulled in at 6:45pm EST and was setup (except for sewer) by 7:10. A 1/2' 20v impact driver zipped up/down the stabilizers very easy and quick. I used my elec tester for power hookup and had the right pressure regulator, filter and fittings to support both clean and wash hoses. Cool in the evening so we just left the windows open and used a rotating table fan on oven glass. Jensens' was a nice campground and we were close to the bathhouse. Other campers were very close and the place was about 75% full. Lots of permanent campers, as well as transient workers. It was OK, but not worth a rating. We paid $51 night and $5 for wood bundle. Left at 8am on Tuesday at 10am and made it to Kalkaska by 1pm EST. (4hrs and 10.9mpg)
Kalkaska RV & Campground is a great place. 5-5 stars. Lots of trees, wide spacing, pool, bath house and brightly lighted trails and a dog run. Hard pack gravel pad, full hookup with concrete patio, fire ring and picnic bench. 40mins from Traverse City, golf courses, casino and lots of inland lakes, RV trails.
After a week, we headed back and found a place in Rantoul, IL. Prarie Pines RV campground. Ab out 3miles from I-57, this was the smooth, grassy, large trees, bath house, lots of space and only $26.50/night. Full hookup. No problems with trailer, components or room. We had a great time. Avg price of gas was 2.78/gal for unleaded.
Last note, after putting the camper in the barn, my truck got back to 23.3 mpg which was a relief. It was a great trip, the unit performed great and we were safe going in both directions.
I have to give thanks to all of the group here for suggestions, tips and shared experiences. All of which led to the most Perfect First trip. Thanks Jim & Marcia
