Thanks all for your replies.
Summarizing my answers to some of the questions asked:
- 8000 lbs. weight
This is Maximum Trailer Capacity (GVWR) (lbs.) weight.
Dealer recommended at. least 10,000 lbs towing capacity.
- Trailer vs. RV
An RV is still a consideration, one reason for the truck/trailer combo has already been mentioned, having a vehicle after getting settled at the campground.
Another one is that the p/u truck can be used for anything else that requires hauling, etc., e.g. working on the house, landscaping, etc.
My wife fell in love with the trailer we are eye-balling and while some of the RVs were nice too, none of them comes close (so I am told )
- Diesel vs. gas
While I know nothing about pickups, I know a lot about Diesels, there is no better use case for them than hauling and heavy load.
FYI: I am getting up to 35mpg with my Cayenne and 50mpg with my 328d wagon which puts a smile on my face every time I fill them up.
While you probably spend more on a diesel if you add everything up, I'd cringe about the single-digit mpg at the pump with a 7L V8 gas guzzler.
Also, all of my 7 RV rentals in Canada and the US and 3 Ryder truck rentals for cross-country moves were gas trucks, thanks but no thanks.
Will check out the links next.