That’s right, folks; Imagine Aim is officially Grand Design RV’s lightest and most affordable camper. If the name Grand Design RV rings a bell, it’s probably because we’ve covered this team before. Considering this crew has been in the game since 2012 and has successfully competed against the likes of Airstream, Forest River, and Winnebago, there must be something they’re doing right. Well, a thing that appears as “done right” is Purpose, and we’ll explore exactly what I mean.
Now, I introduced the Aim as the lightest and most affordable travel trailer from this manufacturer, and with a starting price of $32,282 (€30,600 at the current exchange rate), that’s true. A dry weight under 3600 lbs (1633 kg) covers the lightweight aspect. But I know what you’re thinking: There are less expensive campers out there, so why should I bother with this? Because we haven’t scratched the surface yet.
Ok, so let me level with you; what is important to note about the Goal is how it is constructed. Something we’re seeing more and more manufacturers doing these days is helping people extend their off-grid and mobile travel season. Grand Design RV is on the move and prepares the Intent to handle sub-freezing and scorching weather. According to the information displayed on the manufacturer’s website, this puppy is tested in temperatures ranging from 15 F (-9 Celsius) to 100 F (38 Celsius). This means you can visit the deserts of Arizona in the summer and even the Rocky Mountains during the early winter.
Photo: Grand Design RV
All of this is made possible by the way Grand Design builds each Goal. Sure, an aluminum frame is used to create the main form of the camper, but it’s the layers of fiberglass insulation, plywood, and composites that give this puppy its R ratings. The walls are only rated up to R-7, but the the bottom of this beast boasts an R-30 rating. Want more comfort? The roof and front hood are insulated to R-40 standard. This means nothing more than the freedom to explore longer and travel further. That alone is worth every dollar in my book. But there’s more to this lineup than just the ability to handle heat and cold.
Overall, only four floor plans are available to choose from. Three can accommodate four sleeping guests, while the last one is only suitable for three. They also vary in size from 19.9 ft (6.1 m) to 21.9 ft (6.7 m). What is really amazing is how everything is distributed. The interiors offer everything you could need while roaming the world, but you don’t feel cramped.
For example, the smallest floor plan available, 15BH, can accommodate four guests because it includes a double bed, on top of which a single bed is added. The fourth person will use the modular dinette to sleep one night. A U-shaped galley occupies the front of the camper, and at the back next to the bedroom, the bathroom is located in the corner. But it is not a wet bath; special features all the way. There’s even a glass window that lets you look out at the outside world as you get ready for the day ahead.
Photo: Grand Design RV
At the opposite end of the size spectrum, we find the 18BH floor plan. It’s a little different than what I’m used to in a camper, and it’s all because of a king-sized Murphy bed and a bar-like dining area. Due to this style of bed, daily activities will take place in the largest possible space and the bar restaurant located under a massive window will certainly help you blur the lines between the indoor and outdoor worlds. Two more guests will fight for the top heads. To maximize space even further, the gallery is placed on a slide.
The last strong point of this formation is its tendency towards an outdoor life. Of course, the interior is beautiful and dynamic, but so is the exterior. For the purpose, the Grand Design included countless storage spaces for things like gear, tools, and even food, and two of the four models even include a pass-through. Drawing us even more towards the greater outdoors is the presence of a slide out pan, perfect for lazy mornings. Tents are there to provide shade during activities. If things get messy during the day, simply attach a shower head or hose to the disposable port and clean before heading inside.
If you’re like me, then this type of travel trailer is already way more than you need. However, if you’re going to have a mobile habitat, why not make it a solid one? A lightweight design, the ability to handle a wide range of weather conditions and do it for less money than industry standards will dictate are all reasons why the Imagine Aim should be on your list of substantial habitats for life on the move.
