Hi
I am currently looking at upgrading from our soft floor to a Cub. We can't decide between the Longreach and Escape. We will be adding the adventure pack to what ever we go and if we go the Escape adding the Longreach kitchen and a boat loader.
Has anyone had experience with the Longreach. The thing that is pushing towards the escape is the inability to put a boat loader on the Longreach (so I've been told) so this means on trips with multiple overnight stays having to unload the racks or not use them which seem like a pain in the bum and a waste of racks.
I see the size having pros and cons. The extra space inside with the chest of drawers setup is awesome. Plus extra storage ontop of the bed for pillows solar panels etc. The other thing is I have two girls 7 & 2 and in ten years the space would be a plus. But then the towing size and setup length. Look I know it is no caravan but if you can have smaller why not.
Anyway feed back on both models (Longreach and escape) would be great.
John
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Hi John,
We've recent finished our first shakedown trip in our 2018 Escape. We have 3 kids (11b, 9g, 7b) and have downsized from a 19ft full height van. I ummed and ahhed about the Longreach vs. Escape decision for some time. The benefits you have mentioned of the Longreach are very relevant. However we went with the Escape. For a number of reasons:
1. Payload - Escape has a greater payload (hence the potential for a boat loader)
2. Downsizing - We were focussed on going smaller and lighter to give more confidence and ability off road
3. Swags - The boys love their swags so inside space isn't a premium. Having said that, if the weather turns really south, they can all fit
4. Kitchen - We put the Longreach kitchen on the our Escape. Worth. Every. Cent. Do it if you are getting an Escape.
5. Adventure Pack - If you are keen on offgrid stuff, get the double battery and water. With a small panel, you'll run out of water before power!
6. Boat Loader - one thing I wish I had done was installed one, and then removed it post delivery. That way I would have the brackets if I needed but not the weight if I was going without things that would go on it (bikes, kayaks, etc.)
7. Storage - Granted the LR has a fair chunk more, but remember payload so can carry less. My though is with creative loading, tubs and vehicle storage we should manage no problem. You can always get small draws put in an Escape. We removed the locker box as we wanted more flexibility to use what we want (we have a handy collapsible pantry cupboard that could be a wardrobe on long stays.
Either way mate, they are both rigs. Just work out what's REALLY important and then work out which model meets those requirements. From there, it's time to go with the options list...
Good luck.