I just went through this. Will try to keep it short. Bought a new 2021 Silverado 2500HD Carhartt Editon LTZ in January.
Has just about every bell and whistle and diesel to boot. Thing is a monster. Was looking at upgrading to a 5th wheel sometime next year. Have a TT travel trailer that is 5400 dry. So lets say about 6000 with everything including 2/3 full clean water tank. I did have a 2020 Silverado TB LT with the 5.3 and 10 speed. Did not like the way it pulled my trailer, hence, got the 2500HD. But just purchased a 2021 GMC Sierra SLT 4x4.
Prices went crazy on the 5th wheels. Plus decided I want to retire sooner mainly due to my company is a gov. contractor so we were forced to get the jab. I have 9 months till I can retire so was not feasable to quit my job.
I will pull about 10 times a year. No more than 2 hrs away at the most. Won't be spending more than 3 or 4 days max camping at a time. Wife can't retire for another 8 years. Do the pros and cons.
It was nice to be able to pull just about anything I want.
Was nice to get alot of compliments on the pickup.
Turned alot of heads.
I was a real cool dude driving around in a big ass diesel pickup. Had Fuel Blitz wheels and bigger tires.
Has the surround cameras which were great when parking or pulling the trailer.
Its black. It was a real pain to keep even half way clean. We live in a rural area.
However, realized some things.
Took an acre to turn around.
Nearly got stuck in a few places cause it was almost too big to fit.
Had a big payment that would keep me from being able to get it paid off sooner rather than later, I will be able to pay off this half ton off in about 2 1/2 years vs 5
Half ton rides much better, and I steering is waaaaaaaay better. (which I already knew the HD rode rough and steering sucked. Pulled to the right 90% of the time even after re-alignment.)
I got the 6.2 with max tow package so have that little extra for towing. Was hard to find a pickup with this package.
Insurance is a hair cheaper.
Easier to get in and out for me and the wife, plus in and out of the bed to get the kayaks in the rack.
Fits under my carport and in garage while the HD didn't. Too long.
And its not black.
The realist in me won over. No regrets. If I was doing more pulling or had a true need for the HD I would have kept it but this half tone will do everything I need it to do plus some.
pics below of former ride and my current ride.
OP. you do what best feels right. What works best for you and your future.
Best of luck, keep us informed.