Keystone Passport Elite: Winter-Ready Rvs?

Keystone Passport Elite travel trailers have received mixed reviews for their winter performance. While some users report being able to use the trailers comfortably during the winter, others have experienced issues with heating and overall quality. The trailers offer a range of features, including outdoor kitchens, spacious floor plans, and ample storage, but there have been concerns about leaking toilets, poor insulation, and warranty coverage. Overall, while some owners have positive experiences, others have encountered challenges with the trailers' durability and functionality in colder months.

The Keystone Passport Elite's winter performance

The Keystone Passport Elite is a popular choice for those seeking a spacious and comfortable travel trailer. With a range of floor plans, ample storage, and manoeuvrability, it has received praise for its winter performance.

One review highlights the ability to use the trailer during three seasons of the year, including winters spent in Florida, with an enclosed under skirt and forced-air furnace keeping the interior comfortable. Another user mentions spending winters in Boise with the trailer, performing well even without skirting.

However, there are mixed reviews regarding the overall quality of the Keystone Passport Elite. While some owners have encountered leaks, falling trim, and malfunctioning appliances, others have reported no significant problems, praising the roominess and ease of towing.

The trailer's performance in winter conditions may depend on various factors, including the specific model, proper maintenance, and additional upgrades or modifications made by the owner. Overall, the Keystone Passport Elite seems to offer a reasonable option for winter use, but individual experiences may vary.

Reviews of the Keystone Passport Elite

The Keystone Passport Elite travel trailer has received mixed reviews. Some customers have praised the spacious floor plan, ample storage, and manoeuvrability of the vehicle. One review mentions that the trailer was a "dream to tow". The Corian countertops, cabinetry, and overall roominess have also been appreciated. The trailer has also been described as "user-friendly" and "comfortable".

However, several reviews have criticised the quality of the trailer, with one customer mentioning that their unit had a leaking toilet, falling apart fixtures, and a spongy floor. Another review mentions that the front and rear caps delaminate quite badly. Some customers have also faced issues with the air conditioning, refrigerator, and heating systems.

The Keystone Passport Elite has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 on RV Insider, based on 12 reviews.

Pros and cons of the Keystone Passport Elite

The Keystone Passport Elite is a travel trailer that offers a range of features and amenities for campers. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

• Spacious floor plans with ample storage and counter space.
• Easy to tow and manoeuvre, making it ideal for couples or small families.
• Attractive design with a range of layout options, including the Grand Touring (GT) and Super-Light (SL) models.
• User-friendly, with features like outdoor kitchens, grills, and showers.
• Comfortable sleeping arrangements, including queen-size beds and bunk beds.
• Corian countertops and cabinetry add to the overall design and roominess.
• Four-season capability, allowing for use in a variety of weather conditions.

Cons:

• Quality issues reported by some users, including leaks, falling trim, and malfunctioning appliances.
• Issues with warranty coverage and repair services, with some users reporting a lack of support from Keystone.
• Some models may have design flaws, such as awkwardly placed appliances and difficult-to-reach light switches.
• Potential problems with slide cable gearboxes, which may require replacement.
• Mattress quality has been criticised, with some users opting to replace the included mattress.

Keystone Passport Elite's common issues

The Keystone Passport Elite is a popular travel trailer with generally positive reviews. However, there have been some common issues reported by users that are worth noting. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned problems:

• Leaks: Some owners have reported issues with leaks in various parts of the trailer, including the roof, toilet, and windows.
• Delamination: There have been reports of delamination issues with the front and rear caps, which can lead to water intrusion and damage.
• Structural problems: In addition to leaks, some owners have experienced more significant structural problems, such as spongy floors, bubbling in the exterior fiberglass panels, and door trim falling off.
• Poor quality: Overall, some users have complained about the quality of the trailer, with one reviewer stating that the quality is "absolutely CRAP."
• Window openers: The window openers have been described as flimsy and in need of repair.
• Ceiling molding: In some cases, pieces of ceiling molding have pulled loose and required reattachment.
• Storage shelf: The shelf in the storage area by the door has been reported to pull loose from the walls and collapse.
• Mattress: The standard mattress that comes with the trailer has been criticised for its poor quality and lack of support.
• AC unit: In at least one instance, the AC unit died after one year of use.
• Scissor jacks: There have been reports of scissor jacks rusting within a few years of purchase.
• Undercarriage rust: Significant rust has been observed on the undercarriage of some trailers.
• Slide cable gearboxes: The slide cable gearboxes have been a recurring issue, with some owners having to replace them multiple times.

While the Keystone Passport Elite has received mostly positive reviews, it is important to be aware of these common issues that have been reported by some users. It is always recommended to thoroughly inspect any RV before purchase and to address any potential issues with the dealer or manufacturer.

Keystone Passport Elite's floor plans

The Keystone Passport Elite is a range of travel trailers with a variety of floor plans to choose from. The Passport Elite offers both Grand Touring (GT) and Super-Light (SL) models, as well as single-axle Mini options.

The GT models offer larger floor plans and enhanced features, catering to those seeking a more spacious and fully-equipped trailer. On the other hand, the SL models provide nimble and compact layouts, perfect for those who prioritise manoeuvrability and towing efficiency.

For instance, the 2017 Keystone Passport Elite 19RB is a 19-foot unit that offers ample space but has been criticised for its poor quality, including leaks, falling trim, and a spongy floor. In contrast, the 2018 Keystone Passport Elite 23RB is also a compact option, ideal for couples, with generous storage and counter space, but requires an upgrade to the mattress in the queen-size bed.

For those seeking a larger option, the 2015 Keystone Passport Elite 31RE offers a spacious floor plan, sleeping up to five people comfortably. It features an outdoor grill and shower, high-quality furniture, and a forced-air furnace, making it suitable for use in three seasons.

The Passport Elite range also includes bunkhouse models, such as the 2018 Keystone Passport Elite 29BH, which offers a spacious home on wheels with sleeping accommodations for multiple people.

Overall, the Keystone Passport Elite range provides a variety of floor plans catering to different needs, whether it's compact and nimble trailers or larger and more spacious options.

Frequently asked questions