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For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the rv industry., exploring the safari condo alto f2114: a comprehensive review and user experience insight.

• /   October 9, 2023

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In a conversation about compact and efficient travel trailers, the Safari Condo Alto F2114 has emerged as a topic of discussion and curiosity among the nomadic and travel communities. With its lightweight design and a plethora of features, it promises a blend of comfort and practicality for adventurers on the road. But how does it fare in the real-world scenario, and is it worth the investment?

A Year on the Road: Unveiling the User Experience

The video review, hosted on YouTube, provides an intimate look into the experiences of travelers who have spent a considerable amount of time with the Alto F2114. The hosts delve into a comprehensive exploration of the trailer, offering a full video tour and sharing their adventures and insights gained over the past year.

The narrative is not just a review but a story of adventures, challenges, and the lifestyle adopted while living on the wheels of the F2114.

Transparency and Honesty: A Critical Review

Ensuring transparency and an unbiased perspective, the reviewers clarify that while the trailer was loaned to them by Safari Condo, the manufacturer had zero editorial influence over their content. This autonomy allowed them to provide an open, honest, and critical review, ensuring that potential buyers get a genuine insight into the trailer’s performance, pros, and cons.

The reviewers also express gratitude towards Safari Condo for being receptive to community feedback and critical reviews, highlighting a healthy relationship between manufacturers and consumers.

Navigating Through Features and Practicality

The review is not merely a showcase but a practical guide and a resource for potential buyers and travel enthusiasts. It is complemented by additional resources , including written reviews and insights into other models like the Alto R1723 and Alto F1743, providing a broader perspective on Safari Condo’s offerings.

Furthermore, the hosts share their favorite apps for RVers and tips on how to work full-time from your RV, making the content not just a review, but a holistic guide for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey.

Engaging with the Community: A Platform for Shared Experiences

The video also serves as a platform for community engagement, inviting viewers to drop comments and questions about the Alto F2114, fostering a space for shared experiences, knowledge, and curiosity. This interactive element adds a layer of community-driven information exchange, where potential buyers and enthusiasts can learn from each other’s experiences and inquiries.

Weighing the Pros and Cons for Informed Decisions

The Safari Condo Alto F2114, with its compact design and feature-loaded offering, presents itself as a viable option for travelers seeking a mobile, comfortable, and practical living solution on the road.

Through transparent reviews and shared experiences, potential buyers and travel enthusiasts can navigate through the myriad of features, practicalities, and possible challenges that come with adopting a mobile living lifestyle.

The comprehensive insights and honest feedback provide a valuable resource, ensuring that the decision to invest in such a travel companion is well-informed and resonates with the individual’s needs and preferences.

Additional Resources and Continuous Journey

For those keen on exploring further, the review provides additional resources, including detailed written reviews, insights into other trailer models, and practical guides on living and working on the road, ensuring that the audience has a wealth of information to plan their adventures effectively.

In a world where travel and living solutions are continuously evolving, the Safari Condo Alto F2114 positions itself as a contender worth considering, especially for those who seek a blend of minimalism, practicality, and adventure on their journeys.

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Electric Travels

Improving the already impressive alto trailer.

In standard form, the  Safari Condo Alto  is in a class by itself: striking contemporary design, ultra-lightweight, and high quality construction. Fitting a full kitchen (sink/stove/fridge/microwave), bathroom with toilet and shower, queen size bed,  two-person table and generous storage into a 17 ft trailer is certainly impressive. Add some compelling factory options  and it is “glamping” in a compact package!

But when it comes to personal living spaces; whether it be a house, boat, or trailer, there is always room for improvement. In addition to the 1035W solar/600Ah battery  system we had installed by Quality RV Solar , they made numerous other enhancements that have only added to our enjoyment of camping in our Alto.

Taking your wifi with you

Rosemary runs her own business, ToTheWeb LLC , and it’s important for her to stay connected. So Quality RV Solar installed a Cradlepoint IBR900 router  and a low profile   Panorama LGMM antenna  that can pull in even weak cell signals. create a local WiFi network for mobile internet access. We pay Verizon $20/month for the SIM card in the router, providing 15Gb/month of bandwidth, but I wish we had more. Bizarrely, Verizon and AT&T do not offer plans with more bandwidth even if you set up a separate account as opposed to what we did which is add a SIM card to our existing account.

So while I’m driving towing the trailer Rosemary is doing work on her computer or iPad so that when we get to the campground she can relax!

Additional taillights for safety

The stock Alto taillights are placed over six feet off the ground. That is a much higher position than drivers are used to seeing car taillights. They are also angled slightly upwards due to the curve of the roof. Because LEDs are directional, the taillights apparent brightness is diminished. When towing, my perception is that some drivers simply don’t see my turn signals during the day. I had Quality RV Solar install two more taillights (purchased direct from Safari Condo to match the existing taillights) about three feet off the ground. They are wired into the existing taillight circuit so that all four taillights work together.

The difference is dramatic; the added lower taillights appear more than twice as bright as the factory taillights because they are oriented vertically so they point directly to the rear. In real life the difference appears even greater than shown in this photo. In my opinion, these added taillights are in the optimal location for safety. (Dec 2018 update: I’ve heard indirectly that in the near future Safari Condo is going to change the Alto taillight position to where my added ones are placed.)

When viewed from inside, the taillights are just below the level of the bed, in an area that is generally used to store pillows and bedding. To protect the taillight wiring and prevent materials from snagging on them, plastic covers were fashioned and held to the wall with Velcro.

Ventilating the bathroom space

The Alto comes with a very effective ceiling vent fan, located in the center of the roof. But the small bathroom space not only lacks a window it also does not have its own fan. Not optimal, in my opinion. Quality RV Solar installed a Ventline Vanair 6.25” 12V ceiling fan , wired to the bathroom ceiling light, which greatly improves the ventilation. It has its own switch on the fan housing so with the ceiling light on the fan can be turned on and. The noise level is quite tolerable. A handle on the fan makes it easy to raise it to open it to the outside and pull it closed in case of rain. Definitely a worthwhile addition!

Added fan to the left of the factory ceiling light in the bathroom. Photo courtesy of Quality RV Solar.

More storage on the tongue

Removing the factory battery on the tongue — because the new solar system batteries were placed inside — resulted in space being available for a storage box. I bought a MaxxTow 2.27 cu ft  box from trailer.com. In that location, very close to the hitch, it is proving extremely useful as a place to keep items related to hitching such as the caravan mover wheels. Also stored in the tongue box is a scissors jack for trailer tire changes, emergency reflectors, some tools, hitch ball grease, and gloves.

Taking the factory battery off the tongue reduced the weight on the tongue. Trailer tongue weight should be 10% to 15% of the gross trailer weight. To compensate, I had multiple 19 lb 0.25” thick steel plates cut to fit in the tongue box and use them to fine tune the tongue weight.

(Left) Storage box from the side, just forward of the front wall of the trailer. (Right) Storage box from the front, tiny propane tank (emergency use only, haven‘t used it yet!), electric tongue jack and caravan mover wheels in place. Photos courtesy of Quality RV Solar.

Letting electricity do the work

Like most trailers, the Alto comes standard with a manually-cranked tongue jack. But why not let electricity do that work? The photo above shows the Stromberg-Carlson 18” lift 2500 lb jack  installed. In the world of trailer jacks, a 2500 lb jack is a lightweight, but then so is the Alto; it is more than adequate (and in fact I could not find a less powerful electric tongue jack). It comes with a hand crank in case the motor fails. The electric tongue jack makes hitching/unhitching a bit faster and easier.

Because we have so many “devices”

We need a lot of USB ports to charge them all; iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, removable LED cabinet lights. Quality RV Solar added 8(!) 2.1A USB charge ports under the dinette table near the factory 120V and 12V outlets. That necessitated adding another fuse box.

(Left) 4 dual outlet USB ports. (Right) Added fuse box. Photos courtesy of Quality RV Solar

Night lighting convenience

At night in a dark campground, without a flashlight the step at the trailer door can be hard to see. This added LED light on the underside of the floor of the trailer below the door illuminates the step. It is controlled by an added switch just inside the door, and a dimmer control adjusts the intensity.

(Left) LED light above the door step. (Right) Control switches just inside the door. Photos courtesy of Quality RV Solar

Handling a hot campsite

The Alto trailer walls consist of two sheets of aluminum with a plastic honeycomb core, and the windows are double acrylic. So there is some insulation, but not a lot. In a hot environment the interior can get pretty warm. Some Alto owners use Aluminet shade cloth  to reduce heat transmission into the trailer. We bought two pieces, one to cover the forward or aft wall, one for use on a side wall, had Keder cord sewn onto them and mounted additional Keder rails where needed to hang the shade cloth from. It does make a difference!

An easy way to add cabinet lighting

Even with the trailer’s interior lights on it can be difficult at night to see into the kitchen cabinets.  We found an easy fix, these inexpensive LED rechargeable motion-sensing closet lights . First apply the included magnetic strip, then attach the light to it. When you open the cabinet door, the light comes on. When it stops sensing motion, like after the cabinet door is closed, the light turns off. Since they are LED they draw very little current, but they are quite bright. Recharge them as needed with the included mini-USB cable. Only one drawback; out of the 9 lights we bought, 4 of the magnetic strips separated from their adhesive backing. A bit of Super Glue solved that problem; not applied to the trailer but to the adhesive backing and magnetic strip.

And bringing up the rear…

Over the past four years we have become used to having the rear view camera image displayed continuously in our Tesla Model X; the wide angle view is very useful when going backwards and forwards. Of course when towing the view to the rear of the car is blocked. One solution is add-on side view mirrors, but I think a better solution is a rear view camera mounted on the back of the trailer and a display inside the car. I settled on this  TadiBrothers wireless system  (SKU97586) with a display that attaches to the car’s rear view mirror. The camera has a built-in transmitter that broadcasts a video signal that is picked up by a small receiver that I placed below the passenger seat. The receiver is connected to the display through a cable. I thought it made sense to use the car’s rear view mirror location for the rear view camera display, since when towing the car’s rear view mirror is useless; the trailer is in the way!

I was concerned that the wireless signal might have difficulty transmitting through the multiple layers of aluminum that would be between the camera and the receiver in the car, so I got the “Long Range Wireless (95 ft)” option, and to get the best possible image also got the “Upgrade camera to CCD (High Def)” option. I have had several times while towing where the rear view camera image disappears from the display for a second or two, but it’s a rare occurrence. The image isn’t as sharp as I hoped it would be but it is sufficiently clear to be usable.

While the system works well enough to be useful, I would not recommend this particular model. For some unknown reason, the image on the display in the car is upside down. The rear view camera on the trailer is definitely mounted correctly; it is not upside down! I contacted TadiBrothers support but they could not solve the problem and eventually just stopped responding to my emails.. There is no control to invert the image to correct the problem.

I did not want to return the unit because the camera was already mounted on the trailer and the hole that was drilled in the rear trailer wall for the 12V power wires to the camera was sealed with a waterproof material that would be very difficult to get off.

My solution was simple: invert the display that clipped on to the rear view mirror in the car. Then the rear view camera image was right side up. The touch controls on the display are upside down but I can still use them.

I’m happy to be able to have the trailer rear view camera image displayed in the car all the time when towing. But I hope there are better systems on the market than the one I bought.

Next:  Towing with a Tesla

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4 thoughts on “ improving the already impressive alto trailer ”.

Thank for all the good information. Looks like you have done a terrific job making your RV the way you want it.

Pingback: Camping 100% electric = no propane | Electric Travels

How durable is the outside skin. Is it like an Air stream and easily dented?

The Alto’s “skin” is aluminum like an Airstream, but it is double-walled with an insulating “honeycomb” structure between the two pieces. I have no idea how much force it takes to dent an Airstream so I can’t compared the two trailers in that regard. Of course it is possible to put a dent in an Alto if sufficient force is applied. After about 10,000 miles of travel with my Alto, the only dent I see is a very small one that occurred when a strong gust of wind flung the door up against the trailer wall.

So I don’t consider Alto trailer wall dents to be a serious issue. I have observed many Airstream trailers at campgrounds and have seen a lot of dents. Aluminum is certainly softer than steel, but obviously is a lot lighter. Still, Airstreams are very heavy for their size: an Airstream “Basecamp” trailer of about the same length as an Alto weighs about 75% more!

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Safari Condo Alto Travel Trailer

The Alto by Safari Condo are the perfect travel trailers for those looking for lightweight travel, sustainable materials, spacious interiors, and more!

Each model's shell is made entirely from aluminum panels, and there is an aluminum floor and frame for added durability. The interior furnishings are made from composite materials so they'll last longer, and there are large windows to let natural light indoors. There are R-Series models with a retractable roof and compact design, F-Series models that are more spacious, plus an A-Series model that is aerodynamic and the most efficient trailer in the Alto lineup. 

Answer the call of adventure in an Alto travel trailer by Safari Condo!

Travel Trailer

• Length: 21 ft 0 in
• Weight: 2543 lbs

1 Available Now!

• Length: 17 ft 9 in
• Weight: 1877 lbs

• Length: 17 ft 11 in
• Weight: 2485 lbs

• Weight: 2353 lbs

• Length: 24 ft 0 in
• Weight: 2933 lbs

• Length: 17 ft 3 in
• Weight: 1949 lbs

• Weight: 1991 lbs

Enter your location to find RVs nearest you

Alto Features:

Standard Features (2024)

• Alto trailer 17 R and F series GVWR 3 000 lb. (1 360 kg) (R1713, R1723, F1743 Only)
• Alto trailer 17/21 GVWR (F Series 3500 lb. (1 588 kg)/ A Series 3700 lb. (1678 kg)) (F1743 Expedition, F2114, A2124 Only)
• Electric brakes
• Flexiride suspension
• Mini weight distribution kit w/2" hitch ball (optional) (N/A on F2414)
• 6000 lb. weight distribution kit w/2" hitch ball (Optional on F2414 Only)
• 13" aluminum wheels w/radial tires (optional on R-Series Only)
• 15" aluminum wheels w/radial tires (optional)
• 15" aluminum spare w/radial tires (Optional on A2124) (Std. on all other models)
• 15" Black aluminum wheels w/radial adventures tires (F1743 Expedition Only)
• 15" galvanized steel wheels w/radial tires and moon wheel covers (A2124 Only)
• 15" galvanized steel spare w/radial tires
• 13" aluminum spare w/radial tire (optional on R-Series Only)
• 13" galvanized steel spare w/radial tire (optional on R-Series Only)
• Azure blue metallic color (optional)
• Silver metallic color
• Sliding step
• Portable front pedestal table (N/A F2114, A2124, F2414)
• Removable front int./ext. table 46 in. 37 in. (F2124, F2414 Only)
• Removable front pivoting triangular table (A2124 Only)
• Storage cabinet w/pull-out shelves (R1713, R1723 Only)
• Storage cabinet w/pull-out shelves and drawers (N/A R1713, R1723)
• Upper front storage cabinet (1.7 ft.) (R1713, R1723 Only)
• Opening front window with shade/screen combo (Optional on R1713, R1723) (Std. on all other models)
• Front upper bed (28" x 76") (Optional on R1713, R1723 Only)
• Rear upper bed (28" x 76") (F1743, F1743 Expedition Only)
• King size to twins convertible bed ( 72" x 76"; R1713) (81" x 76"; F2114, A2124, F2414)
• Rear queen size bed (Only R1723; 60" x 76", F1743, F1743 Expedition; 60" x 81")
• Rear electric upper bed (F2414 Only; 54" x 77")
• Front bed (Sizes vary by model)
• Privacy curtain (Optional)
• Rear window screen
• Side door screen
• Rear side window screen

Appliances (Electrical and LPG)

• Single 20 lb. LPG tank w/gauge and LPG detector (N/A F1743 Expedition, F2114, A2124, F2414)
• Double 20 lb. LPG tank w/gauge and LPG detector (Optional on R1713, R1723, F1743) (Std. on all other models)
• 2-burner LPG flush mount stove w/glass lid
• LPG space heater 11500 BTU (Truma Varioheat) (Optional)
• LPG instant water heater (Truma AquaGo Comfort Plus) (Optional)
• LPG/electric space and water heater (Truma Combi Eco Plus (4kw) (N/A on F2114, A2124, F2414)
• LPG/electric space and water heater (Truma Combi Eco Plus (6kw) ( F2114, A2124, F2414 Only)
• 3.1 ft. LPG and 120V (2 way) built-in fridge (N/A F2114, A2124, F2414)
• 4.3 12V built-in compressor fridge (Optional) (N/A F2114, A2124, F2414)
• 6 ft. LPG 12V and 120V (3 way) built-in double-door fridge (F2114, A2124, F2414 Only)
• Built-in microwave oven (Optional)
• 30 A 120 V Electrical Inlet
• 45 Amp Lithium Converter/Charger (N/A F1743 Expedition)
• 2000 W Pure Sine Wave Inverter W/80 Amp Charger (Std. on F1743 Expedition) (Optional on all other models)
• One Group 24 Lithium Auxiliary Battery Self-Heating (100 Amp)
• Two Group 24 Lithium Auxiliary Batteries Self-Heating (100 Amp) (Std. on F1743 Expedition) (Optional on all other models)
• Battery Monitor W/Battery Charge State (%)
• 220 W Of Solar Panels (2x 110 W) W/Regulator (Optional) (N/A F1743 Expedition)
• 440 W Of Solar Panels (2x 220 W) W/Regulator (Optional) (N/A F1743 Expedition)
• 380 W of solar panels (4x 95 W) w/regulator (F1743 Expedition Only)
• 570 W of solar panels (6x 95 W) w/regulator (Optional on F1743 Expedition Only)
• Probe-Free Level Indicator (Potable/Black/Grey Water, And Battery)
• Ext. fresh water inlet w/tank: capacity 100L 
• European stainless steel sink w/glass lid and 12 v pump
• Grey water tank: capacity 92L
• Fixed flush toilet with black water tank: 54L
• Toilet wash down spray
• Exterior shower outlet 
• Interior shower (N/A on R1713)

Entertainment

• 19" LCD HD TV/DVD combo w/remote (Optional)
• TV antenna - WiFi booster ready (Optional)

Comfort and Convenience

• Tops (electric roof with rigid side walls) (R-Series Only)
• Automatic 12V variable speed roof vent w/remote
• Maxx fan automatic 12V variable speed roof vent w/remote (Optional)
• Heat pump/air conditioner - floor-mounted (10150 BTU) (Optional)
• Air conditioner - roof-mounted (13000 BTU) (Optional on F2114 Only)
• Removable awning 13" x 7' 6" classic model w/3 vertical poles (Optional on R1713, R1723, F1743 Only)
• Box awning - wall (Std. on F1743 Expedition) (N/A R1713, R1723, F1743) (Optional on F2114, A2124, F2414)
• Vehicle certified to the CSA Z240 RV series standards
• Front folding 2-bike aluminum rack (Optional) (N/A A2124)
• Rear folding 2-bike aluminum rack (Optional on F2114, A2124, F2414 Only)
• Roof Rack (F1743 Expedition Only)
• Rear Ladder (F1743 Expedition Only)
• Front stone guard (coroplast) (N/A A2124)
• Caravan mover system (Optional) (N/A F2414)

Please see us for a complete list of features and available options!

All standard features and specifications are subject to change. 

All warranty info is typically reserved for new units and is subject to specific terms and conditions. See us for more details.

Due to the current environment, our features and options are subject to change due to material availability. 

Manu-Facts:

Sustainable travel isn’t just our business. It’s our mission. The wellbeing of our community, our teams and the planet guides all our decisions. That’s why we’ve challenged ourselves to build quality vehicles that retain their value for longer and reduce the environmental impact of travel.

Our motorhomes and travel trailers are among the lightest and most aerodynamic on the market. As a result, they help reduce non-renewable energy consumption. We also use sustainable and recyclable materials, minimize manufacturing waste and offer eco-friendly equipment options like solar panels. With your help, we want to be part of the solution.

Our primary objective is to allow everyone to keep traveling in a more sustainable way—now and for many years to come.

Safari Condo Problems : Expert Opinion

The Safari Condo may have some problems that need attention. The Safari Condo is a popular choice for camping and outdoor enthusiasts.

However, like any other RV or camper, it may have its fair share of problems that need to be addressed.

From minor issues like faulty electrical systems or leaky faucets to more serious concerns such as engine troubles or structural damage, dealing with these problems promptly can ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

We will explore some common Safari Condo problems and provide helpful tips on how to troubleshoot and fix them.

By understanding these issues and knowing how to tackle them, Safari Condo owners can be better prepared for any challenges that may arise during their outdoor adventures.

Leaks And Water Damage

Poor sealing

– Roof and window leaks

– Plumbing issues

One common problem with Safari Condos is poor sealing, leading to leaks and water damage. This can be particularly problematic when it comes to the roof and windows, as leaks may occur during heavy rain or even a simple car wash.

The inadequate sealing can also result in plumbing issues, such as leaks in the water supply or drainage system. These problems can cause significant damage to the interior of the Safari Condo, including mold growth, rotting of wooden panels, and deterioration of furniture and appliances.

It is crucial to address these sealing issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the overall condition of the Safari Condo.

Electrical System Malfunctions

The Safari Condo is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering comfort and convenience for camping adventures.

However, like any recreational vehicle, it may encounter some electrical system malfunctions. One common issue relates to battery problems.

Low battery voltage can lead to a range of problems, such as dim or flickering lights and unreliable power supply . It’s important to regularly check the battery voltage and ensure it is properly charged and maintained.

Another electrical issue that can arise is wiring problems . Faulty or damaged wiring can cause various issues, including short circuits and intermittent power disruptions . Regular inspection and maintenance of the wiring system can help mitigate these problems.

Inverter and generator failures are also known to occur. Faulty inverters can result in unstable power output , affecting the functioning of appliances and gadgets.

Similarly, if the generator malfunctions , it can lead to power outages or inconsistent power supply . Proper servicing and troubleshooting can help address these issues.

Structural Integrity Concerns

The Safari Condo may have some structural integrity concerns that potential buyers should be aware of. One of the problems reported by owners is frame and chassis issues.

This includes body cracks and deformities, which are not only unsightly but can also compromise the overall stability of the vehicle.

Additionally, suspension and axle problems have been reported. These issues can lead to a bumpy ride and potential safety hazards on the road.

It is important to thoroughly inspect the frame and chassis of the Safari Condo before purchase to ensure there are no existing problems.

If there are any concerns regarding the structural integrity of the Safari Condo, it is recommended to consult with a professional before making a final decision.

Proper inspection and maintenance can help address these problems and ensure a safer and more enjoyable camping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions On Safari Condo Problems

What is the warranty on a safari condo.

Safari Condo offers a warranty. The specific details and coverage may vary.

What Are Common Problems Faced With Safari Condo?

Common problems with Safari Condo include water leaks, electrical issues, and limited storage space.

How Can I Fix Water Leaks In My Safari Condo?

To fix water leaks in your Safari Condo, inspect and reseal windows and roof joints, and replace damaged or worn-out seals.

To sum up, while Safari Condors offer many benefits like compact size and ease of tow, it’s important to be aware of potential problems that may arise.

From insulation issues to limited storage space, these challenges can impact the overall camping experience.

However, by conducting thorough research, addressing any concerns, and making informed decisions, adventurers can still enjoy the freedom and convenience that Safari Condors provide on their outdoor journeys.

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