Coachmen Catalina: A Beginner’s Guide to RV Camping

Coachmen Catalina is a series of travel trailers and fifth wheels manufactured by Coachmen RV, a leading recreational vehicle manufacturer.

The brand offers a variety of models, including the Destination, Expedition, Legacy Edition, Summit, Trail Blazer, and more.

Each model has unique features, such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, outdoor showers, and solar-equipped and off-grid travel trailers.

Coachmen RV was founded more than 55 years ago by brothers Tom, Keith, and Claude Corson.

The company started small in a 5,000 square foot Middlebury, Indiana plant and has grown to become one of the most respected brands in the RV industry.

Today, Coachmen RV has manufacturing facilities in Middlebury, Indiana, and Centerville, Michigan, where they produce their Class A Motorhomes, Class B Motorhomes, Class C Motorhomes, Fifth Wheels, Travel Trailers, and Camping Trailers.

The Catalina series has become a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a high-quality, reliable, and affordable travel trailer.

With a variety of models to choose from, there is a Catalina for every type of traveler.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight, solar-equipped and off-grid travel trailer or a spacious fifth wheel with all the amenities of home, the Coachmen Catalina has something to offer.

Overview of Coachmen Catalina

Coachmen Catalina is a popular line of travel trailers that has been around for many years. The brand is known for its quality, durability, and affordability. Coachmen Catalina is a great choice for families and couples who want to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

The Coachmen Catalina line includes several different models, including the Catalina Legacy Edition, the Catalina Summit Series 8, the Catalina Summit Series 7, the Catalina Trail Blazer, the Catalina Expedition, and the Catalina Destination. Each model has its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

One of the key features of the Coachmen Catalina line is its construction. These travel trailers are built to last, with sturdy frames, high-quality materials, and expert craftsmanship. They are also designed to be easy to tow and maneuver, so you can take them anywhere you want to go.

Another great thing about Coachmen Catalina is its affordability. These travel trailers are priced competitively, making them accessible to a wide range of buyers. This means that you can enjoy all the benefits of RV travel without breaking the bank.

Overall, Coachmen Catalina is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the freedom and adventure of RV travel. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a first-time buyer, there’s a Coachmen Catalina model that’s perfect for you.

Dimensions and Weight

Coachmen Catalina is known for its spacious and comfortable interiors, but it’s also important to consider its dimensions and weight. Here are some key specifications to keep in mind:

• Length: The length of Coachmen Catalina varies depending on the model. For example, the 2023 Coachmen Catalina Legacy 263FKDS has a length of 30’11”, while the 2024 Coachmen Catalina 184BHS is only 21’1″ long.
• Weight: The weight of Coachmen Catalina also varies depending on the model. For example, the 2023 Coachmen Catalina Legacy 263FKDS has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 9,500 lbs, while the 2023 Coachmen Catalina 231MKS has a GVWR of 7,700 lbs.
• Height: The height of Coachmen Catalina is typically around 10-11 feet, depending on the model. For example, the 2019 Coachmen Catalina Trail Blazer 19TH has a height of 10.58 feet.
• Interior Height: The interior height of Coachmen Catalina is typically around 6-7 feet, depending on the model. For example, the 2019 Coachmen Catalina Trail Blazer 19TH has an interior height of 6.75 feet.
• GVWR: The GVWR of Coachmen Catalina varies depending on the model. GVWR is the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely carry, including its own weight and the weight of its cargo. For example, the 2023 Coachmen Catalina Legacy 263FKDS has a GVWR of 9,500 lbs.
• GAWR: The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) of Coachmen Catalina varies depending on the model. GAWR is the maximum weight that an axle can safely carry. For example, the 2022 Coachmen Catalina Legacy 243RBS has a GAWR of 4,400 lbs.
• UVW: The Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) of Coachmen Catalina varies depending on the model. UVW is the weight of the vehicle without any passengers, cargo, or fluids. For example, the 2023 Coachmen Catalina 263FKDS has a UVW of 6,596 lbs.
• CCC: The Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) of Coachmen Catalina varies depending on the model. CCC is the maximum weight that a vehicle can carry in addition to its own weight. For example, the 2023 Coachmen Catalina Legacy 313RLTS has a CCC of 2,027 lbs.

Overall, it’s important to consider the dimensions and weight of Coachmen Catalina when choosing a model that fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact camper or a spacious travel trailer, there’s a Coachmen Catalina model that’s right for you.

Interior Features

The Coachmen Catalina comes with a range of interior features that are designed to make camping as comfortable and convenient as possible. The interior of the Catalina is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of storage options and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

The kitchen area of the Catalina is equipped with a refrigerator, sink, and a range of cabinets and drawers for storing food and kitchen supplies. The seamless thermofoil countertops provide ample space for preparing meals, while the deep basin farm style sink makes cleaning up a breeze. The metal back-lit knobs range hood adds a touch of style to the kitchen area.

The interior of the Catalina is designed with comfort in mind. The master bedroom features a comfortable bed and plenty of storage space, while the dinette table and recliners provide a comfortable place to relax after a long day of camping. The Jiffy sofa is another comfortable seating option that can be easily converted into an additional sleeping space when needed.

The Catalina also comes with a range of entertainment options to keep campers entertained during their stay.

The premium JBL interior speaker system provides high-quality sound, while the multicolor LED strip and 4000 lumin LED interior touch lighting add a touch of ambiance to the interior of the RV. The fireplace is another great feature that adds warmth and comfort to the interior of the Catalina.

The interior of the Catalina is also designed with style in mind. The radius corners and seamless thermofoil countertops add a touch of elegance to the RV, while the hard valance window treatment and shades provide privacy and style. The Congoleum woodplank linoleum flooring is both stylish and durable, making it a great choice for camping trips.

Exterior Features

The Coachmen Catalina boasts a range of exterior features that make it a popular choice among RV enthusiasts. From the awning to the spare tire, the exterior of the Catalina is designed to provide convenience and comfort on the road.

One of the standout features of the Catalina is the electric awning, which allows for easy setup and adjustment. The awning provides shade and protection from the sun, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

The front of the Catalina features a fiberglass entry door with a friction hinge and a diamond plate rock guard. The door is durable and provides a secure entry point to the RV. The rock guard protects the front of the RV from debris and other hazards on the road.

The Catalina is equipped with stabilizer jacks and a Morryde StepAbove solid step system, which provide stability and safety when entering and exiting the RV. The jacks are easy to use and help keep the RV level on uneven terrain.

The RV also features privacy windows with G20 tinting, which provide privacy and protection from the sun. The windows are easy to open and close and provide plenty of natural light inside the RV.

Other notable exterior features of the Catalina include:

• LED strip lighting
• Rain gutters with drip spouts
• Premium JBL exterior speakers
• Exterior 110V G.F.C.I. protected receptacle
• Exterior RG-6 coax cabling
• Satellite prep
• Quick hookup D-ring
• Universal solar prep
• RV-Link 4G LTE remote connect

Overall, the exterior features of the Coachmen Catalina provide a convenient and comfortable experience for RV enthusiasts on the road.

Construction and Durability

Coachmen Catalina is known for its sturdy and reliable construction. It is built on a cambered structural steel l-beam frame that provides a solid foundation for the entire trailer. The frame is finished with a powder-coated paint that protects it from rust and corrosion.

The holding tanks of the Catalina are made of durable materials that can withstand the rigors of camping. The center of the trailer is designed to evenly distribute the weight, which helps to reduce the stress on the axles and tires. This design also makes the trailer more stable and easier to tow.

The battery disconnect switch is a convenient feature that allows the user to disconnect the battery when the trailer is not in use. This helps to preserve the battery life and prevent any unwanted power drain.

The Siphon 360 holding tank is a unique feature of the Catalina that allows for a more thorough and efficient cleaning of the black water tank. This system uses a special nozzle that sprays water in all directions, ensuring that every part of the tank is cleaned.

The LP tanks on the Catalina are flush-mounted, which gives the trailer a sleek and aerodynamic look. The flush mount design also helps to protect the tanks from damage during travel.

The flush mount baggage doors are another feature that adds to the overall durability of the Catalina. These doors are designed to be flush with the exterior of the trailer, which helps to prevent any damage from low-hanging branches or other obstacles.

Overall, the construction and durability of the Coachmen Catalina make it a reliable and long-lasting travel trailer that can withstand the challenges of camping and travel.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Coachmen Catalina is equipped with a range of smart features and connectivity options that make it easy for campers to stay connected and control their RV’s many accessories and systems. The OneControl Smart RV Tech Monitor Panel allows campers to access and control their coach’s many features using the OneControl mobile app.

When using the OneControl app with OneControl ConnectAnywhere™ or OneControl Wireless™, campers have the internet connectivity needed to control and monitor their coach’s many accessories and systems.

In addition to OneControl, the Catalina Summit Series 7 also comes with RV-LINK 4G LTE Remote Connect, WiFi, Booster, and Extender Prep. This feature ensures that campers can stay connected to the internet even when they are off the grid.

The Premium Audio JBL Aura Cube Multi-Zone Function Media Center and Premium JBL Interior Speaker provide high-quality sound for an enjoyable entertainment experience.

The OneControl Smart RV Tech Monitor Panel uses LCI OneControl – App to provide easy access to a range of features, including the RV’s lighting, heating, air conditioning, and other systems.

The panel is easy to use and allows campers to control their RV’s systems with just a few taps on their smartphone. The panel also provides real-time information about the RV’s battery level, water levels, and other important information.

Overall, the smart features and connectivity options on the Coachmen Catalina make it easy for campers to stay connected and control their RV’s many accessories and systems. These features are designed to provide a friendly and enjoyable camping experience and ensure that campers can enjoy all the comforts of home while on the road.

Pricing and Availability

Coachmen Catalina RVs are available for purchase at various dealerships across the United States. The prices for these RVs vary depending on the model, year, and location of the dealership. Prospective buyers can expect to pay anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 for a new Coachmen Catalina RV.

In addition to the initial purchase price, buyers should also consider the cost of propane, which is used to power the RV’s appliances. The cost of propane can vary depending on the location and time of year, but buyers can generally expect to pay around $2-$3 per gallon.

When it comes to floorplans, there are a variety of options available for the Coachmen Catalina RV. These include models with one or multiple slide-outs, bunk beds, and outdoor kitchens. Buyers should carefully consider their needs and preferences when selecting a floorplan.

Overall, the Coachmen Catalina RV is a popular and affordable option for those looking to purchase a new RV. With a range of floorplans and price points, buyers can find a model that fits their needs and budget.

Additional Information

For those interested in learning more about the Coachmen Catalina, there are a variety of resources available online. The Coachmen RV website provides detailed information about the various models available, including floor plans, specifications, and features. The website also includes a dealer locator tool to help prospective buyers find a dealership near them.

In addition to the Coachmen RV website, there are a number of social media channels where fans of the brand can connect and stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments. The Coachmen RV Facebook page, for example, regularly posts photos and videos of the Catalina and other models, as well as news about upcoming events and promotions.

For those who prefer more in-depth information about the Catalina, there are a number of online forums and discussion groups dedicated to RVing and the Coachmen brand. These forums can be a great resource for learning about the experiences of other Catalina owners, as well as getting tips and advice on maintenance and repairs.

Overall, the Coachmen Catalina is a popular and well-regarded travel trailer that offers a range of features and options to suit a variety of needs and budgets. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or just looking for a comfortable and convenient way to hit the road, the Catalina is definitely worth considering.

To Summarize

The Coachmen Catalina is a line of travel trailers that offers a range of features and amenities for campers who want to make the most out of their outdoor adventures. The line includes several models, such as the Summit Series 7, the Trail Blazer, the Expedition, the Legacy Edition, and the Destination Series.

One of the key features of the Coachmen Catalina is its construction. The trailers are built using high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigors of the road. They are also equipped with a range of safety features, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, to ensure the safety of the occupants.

Another important aspect of the Coachmen Catalina is its interior design. The trailers are designed to be comfortable and functional, with features such as spacious living areas, comfortable sleeping quarters, and well-equipped kitchens. They also come with a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, heating, and entertainment systems, to make camping trips more enjoyable.

In addition to its construction and interior design, the Coachmen Catalina also offers a range of customization options. Buyers can choose from a range of floor plans, colors, and options to create a trailer that meets their specific needs and preferences. This level of customization is one of the reasons why the Coachmen Catalina has become such a popular choice among campers.

Overall, the Coachmen Catalina is a well-designed and well-built line of travel trailers that offers a range of features and amenities for campers who want to make the most out of their outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time buyer, the Coachmen Catalina is definitely worth considering.