Ordering a new Keystone, any suggestions/recommendations for options?

[jmacjgm]

Hello all,
We should have the final ordering complete this Monday. I will be ordering the Keystone with many of the non-standard options. Is there anything that you would have not ordered or changed based on owning the camper for a while? How has the soft portion of the camper held up through the years? Does the Arctic-Pac insulation do a good job during the hotter months; how about condensation?
We are really excited to start the build; any info is greatly appreciated.
,Jason

[kcowyo]

The soft sides on mine are pushing 20 years old with no issues, tears or holes. On the new models the soft sides are a much thicker materiel, almost as thick as the materiel used on white water rafts.

I would strongly encourage the Fantastic Fan and perhaps a screen door, given your location in AZ. Many people like dual roof vents to really keep the air moving on those sweltering nights... I'm leary of the second vent over the bed, only because on occasion the roof vents pop up at highway speeds from the wind, and I'm paranoid about any rain getting in and soaking the bed while I'm driving. That said, I've never heard anyone mentioning that happening to them...

I'm not sure if the Arctic Pack would be of any benefit during the warmer months...? Condensation happens on chilly nights (seldom, if ever on warmer nights), even with a window cracked open. I don't leave the heater on at night while we sleep, and with two of us sawing logs all night, there is some condensation on the ceiling in the morning. Part of our pack-up routine is to grab a paper towel or dish towel and do a quick swipe of the ceiling before dropping the top. Not a big hassle though...

One thing I really like on the newer models, and it certainly has nothing to do with "roughing it", but I like music while I'm cooking, eating & cleaning up. So the new stereo option is something I would order if I were buying now. The sliding rear window is nice for access to the cab of the truck if necessary. Personally, I think the hot water heater is a space robbing product, but that's me. The new roof-lift assist is very nice, especially if you have any plans to store anything on the roof.

Congratulations on your impending order! Hope you enjoy it -

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[jmacjgm]

Thank you so much for all the information; we are definitely going to get the dual roof vents and extra fantastic fans along with the screen door. Its good to hear that the condensation should not pose too much of a problem. I'm glad to read that the soft portion is improved and is pretty durable for the years you have had your camper. The build time is going to take 3 months but I will be posting pictures and record 1st impressions of the camper and all future trips for anyone interested.
, Jason