Tin Can Sally

Old, or New?

I always dreamed of one day purchasing a vintage Airstream and restoring it. I am fascinated with working with small spaces and let’s face it, they just don’t make them like they used to; however, for my first time out of the gate, I decided to go with the new. Way too many things going on with this pandemic and this house arrest way of life is not cutting it, I WANT OUT!!!

There are definite disadvantages to getting a new rig as it’s like buying a brand new house, it is going to take a little time to settle and work out any kinks that occurred coming fresh off the assembly line. Each new Airstream comes with a 3-year Airstream Limited Transferable Warranty and 3 years of Coach Net 24/7 Roadside Assistance. Also, the Airstream Service location is less than an hour from where I currently reside which will definitely help. I like the idea of having all of the new technology for sure, especially because it will also be used as a workspace for my extended trips.

Basic, or Bougie?

I first started researching the various single axle, lightweight models including the Bambis and Caravels. The Bambi (Basic) to the Caravel (Bougie) is like comparing a Honda to an Acura, same size options, same floor plans, different wrapping, depending on what you are looking for with the Airstream experience. There is about a 12k difference between the two models.

I landed on the Caravel because there are about 100 more upgrades and features. I found an informative blog on Airstream’s website which includes 24 key comparisons with some cool pics. I could look at pics of Airstreams all day :).

Teenie, or Tiny?

My next decision was on the size. The Caravel models come in 16RB (Rear Bed), 19CB (Corner Bed), 20FB (Front Bed), and 22FB ft options. Being that it’s my FIRST time towing a vehicle, single as a Pringle, I narrowed it down to 16, 19, and 20. I did a lot of research online comparing models.

I also found some great extensive videos by this dime piece named Patrick over at Colonial Airstream on each of the models…….all of which I watched about 10 times each, because I’m THAT person.

16RB

At a first glance, I liked that there are front AND rear panoramic window options on the 16RB; however, the bathroom IS the shower, boo hiss.

19CB

I liked the 19CB because I like the dining table in the front with the panoramic window and the shower, toilet, and sink are all separate, I did not however fancy the placement of the bed in the back corner; however, it may look better in person. Yes, I just said fancy.

20FB

After looking at the videos for the 20FB, I wasn’t a huge fan of any of it really. I didn’t like that the bed was right next to the dining table (second bed) and the bathroom and kitchen were way in the back of the trailer. I was thinking of that one scenario of having to climb over guests in the middle of the night for a whizzle or worse yet, to “read” a magazine.

Putting a pin-in-it

After combing the internet on all things Airstream Caravel 16RB and 19CBs, I decided it was time to head to the dealership to have a look in person. After looking at all three models, I landed immediately on the 19CB and put down a deposit on a 2021 Caravel 19CB with Tungsten interior, solar panels, 4 awnings, and a convection oven so that I can burn a turkey.

Tin Can Sally will arrive at the dealership in Tampa fresh out of the Ohio plant on July 16th, 2020. This is when shinizzle is about to get real yo….