Wood vs Veneer

I am looking at replacing the table in my SoCal Gal and I've been doing a lot of research. The table was originally a piece of plywood with laminate on top and metal siding. While looking into revitalized trailers I discovered a few people have replaced the table top with a piece of wood that they have painted and sealed. I started thinking that this might be a way to incorporate a table cloth without using cloth. I could paint the design onto the table top. However, I'm a little nervous that the sealer might make the table tacky to the touch and I certainly don't want that. I think it would be fine in the winter months, but what about those hot and muggy summers. I would be devastated to discover my hard work was ruined. If anyone has any thoughts on the topic I'd be happy to hear them. In the meantime, I guess I'll focus and flipping the axel so that it gives me a little more clearance on the bottom of my trailer. YIKES!