Unmapped 24RK: A Real RVer's Take on This Innovative Couple's Camper
Unmapped 24RK: A Real RVer's Take on This Innovative Couple's Camper
Josh the RV Nerd at Bish's RV is excited about the Unmapped 24RK, and frankly, so am I. Forget the hype, let's dive into whether this innovative couple's camper is truly livable for the long haul. We'll dissect the design choices, assess its practicality, and give you the unvarnished truth about whether this RV is ready for full-time adventures, or just a flash in the pan.
A Kitchen That Actually Works (Maybe)
The heart of any full-time RV is the kitchen, and the Unmapped 24RK makes some bold choices. The wraparound counter space is undeniably impressive. As Josh notes, the extended countertop creates a mini bar top area. For a full-timer, that's not just a gimmick; it's a functional space for meal prep, a coffee station, or even a makeshift office.
However, there are some trade-offs. The lack of a propane oven is a significant drawback for those who enjoy baking or cooking from scratch. The included air fryer convection microwave is a decent alternative, but it requires a learning curve and might not deliver the same results. But, is it actually workable? That's the question you have to ask yourself. The open shelving in the kitchen could also be a problem for keeping things in place while traveling.
"Instead of cutting this back, they extended it out to create a mini bar top area. It's not like a massive bar area, but it's a mini bar top area," explains Josh, highlighting the thoughtfulness of the design. Still, full-timers need to consider whether the abundance of counter space outweighs the loss of traditional cabinet storage and a conventional oven. I know for me, I'd have to think long and hard about that one.
Road Mode Ready: Functionality On the Go
One of the most crucial aspects of full-time RVing is road mode functionality. Can you access the essentials without deploying the slide? The Unmapped 24RK shines in this area. Josh emphasizes that with the slide closed, you can still reach the bedroom, bathroom, fridge, sink, microwave, and stove. This is a huge advantage for quick stops, overnight stays, or navigating tight spaces.
This RV has nearly as good of road mode as you can hope for. He notes this design consideration is impressive for an RV with a slide. This accessibility minimizes the hassle of setting up and tearing down camp. The question about the bedroom door is an interesting one too. Josh wonders if it is even needed, or if there is a better option. This is a clever thought, and one I'd consider if I was going to make this my full-time home.
"For an RV with a slide, this is just about as good as you could ever hope for road mode," Josh states. This is a reassuring endorsement for full-timers who value convenience and flexibility. It can be a real pain when you have to set everything up just to use the bathroom on the side of the road. Thankfully, it sounds like Unmapped thought of everything.
Power and Practicalities: Solar, Storage, and Setup
Full-time RVers are always concerned about power management, and the Unmapped 24RK comes standard with 400 watts of factory solar. While this isn't enough to run the air conditioner, it can significantly offset the power consumption of the 12V fridge, especially with decent batteries and good sun exposure. Josh astutely points out that the solar package isn't a "mega solar inverter sort of situation," so realistic expectations are essential.
Storage is always at a premium in an RV, and the Unmapped 24RK offers a mix of solutions. The absence of overhead enclosed cabinets in the bedroom is compensated by built-in baskets. The pass-through storage up front is decent, although partially occupied by the on-demand water heater. The enclosed and forced-air heated underbelly is a welcome feature for cold-weather camping.
Goodyear Endurance tires and tire pressure monitoring are valuable additions for safety and peace of mind. The fact that these are factory standard is a testament to the build quality. And I agree, these are often the first things to be swapped out when RV brands are trying to save money. The Norcco chassis is another indicator of a solid foundation. These are all key factors for a full-timer looking for reliability and longevity.
Bathroom Bliss or Bust?
Let's face it: RV bathrooms are often cramped and poorly designed. The Unmapped 24RK's bathroom has some interesting quirks. The unusually shaped mirror, replacing a traditional medicine cabinet, might be a deal-breaker for some. The added storage shelves are a nice touch, but may not be sufficient for all your toiletries.
On the plus side, the toilet space is "fluffy friendly," according to Josh, and there are both hand towel hooks and traditional hanging towel hooks. The XL bathroom vent fan is another bonus. However, headroom in the shower is limited for taller individuals (over 6 feet). This is definitely something to consider if you value a comfortable showering experience. No one wants to feel claustrophobic when they're just trying to get clean.
It's a mixed bag. Some smart features, some questionable design choices. As Josh asks, "Is that successful or not? You leave me a note. Let me know." Ultimately, the bathroom's suitability depends on your personal preferences and priorities.
Little Things That Matter: Details for the Long Haul
Full-time RVing is about more than just the big features; it's about the little things that make everyday life easier. The Unmapped 24RK includes several thoughtful details that full-timers will appreciate. The pop-up power towers in the rear corners eliminate the need for extension cords. The central vacuum system, complete with an electric dustpan, simplifies cleaning. The blackout roller shades ensure a good night's sleep.
I also noticed that all of the swinging cabinet doors are soft close, which is a nice touch. This reduces wear and tear and prevents items from shifting during travel. The sink cover that stores behind the stove top is another clever space-saving solution. It's these small details that add up to a more comfortable and convenient living experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Wraparound Counter Space: Offers ample workspace but sacrifices a traditional oven and some cabinet storage.
- Road Mode Functionality: Excellent access to essential amenities with the slide closed, ideal for frequent travelers.
- Solar Power: 400 watts of factory solar helps offset fridge power consumption, but not enough for air conditioning.
- Bathroom Design: Unusual mirror design replaces medicine cabinet; limited shower headroom for taller individuals.
- Construction Quality: Goodyear Endurance tires, Norcco chassis, and welded aluminum cage construction indicate a solid build.
- Small Details: Pop-up power towers, central vacuum system, and blackout roller shades enhance livability.
Final Verdict: Is the Unmapped 24RK Full-Time Worthy?
The Unmapped 24RK presents a compelling option for couples seeking a compact and innovative full-time RV. Its standout features include the wraparound counter space, excellent road mode functionality, and standard solar power. However, potential drawbacks include the lack of a propane oven, unconventional bathroom design, and limited shower headroom. Ultimately, whether this RV is right for you depends on your individual needs and priorities.
I encourage you to watch Josh the RV Nerd's full video at Bish's RV for a more detailed walkthrough and his expert insights. Seeing the RV in action will help you determine if the Unmapped 24RK is the perfect fit for your full-time adventures.