Choosing an RV type that best fits your needs and lifestyle can be a difficult decision. With so many options to choose from and hundreds of brands, types, and styles, it can feel overwhelming!
In this article, we are covering the pros and cons of fifth wheels vs. travel trailers. Towable RV types are a great option for those who want the flexibility of the separation between your vehicle and your living space. And with the many options available for each type of RV, you have plenty of floorplans, sizes, and weights to choose from. Let’s dive in.
Fifth Wheels vs. Travel Trailers at a Glance
Fifth wheels and travel trailers are both popular and attractive RV options for both full-time and part-time RVers. Here are the specs at a glance:
- Fifth wheels are larger and offer more storage, but they’re also heavier and more expensive.
- Travel trailers are smaller, offer less storage, but are more nimble and affordable.
There is no one “best” option, because with RVs, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.
In this article, we will discuss travel trailers and fifth wheels and their pros and cons to help you decide which option is best for you, your needs, and your lifestyle.
Fifth Wheels Overview
Fifth wheels are the largest towable RV option. They range in length from around 30 feet to upwards of 40 feet and offer more storage space than any other towable type.
Fifth wheels attach to the tow vehicle in the bed of the truck, which offers a secure and stable ride with a more even weight distribution.
Fifth wheels are ideal for large families who need plenty of living and storage space, and they’re also ideal for full-time RVers who want all the comforts of home on the road. Let’s cover the pros and cons of fifth wheels.
Pros of Fifth Wheels
1. Enhanced Stability and Towing Safety:
Fifth wheels offer superior stability when towing due to the hitch mechanism that connects directly over the truck’s rear axle. This positioning helps distribute weight more evenly and reduces swaying, making it easier to control, especially in windy conditions or on uneven roads.
2. Spacious and Luxurious Interiors:
With their unique design, fifth wheels often feature high ceilings, multiple levels, and larger living spaces compared to travel trailers. This structure allows for more luxurious amenities, including full-sized appliances, expansive storage options, and sometimes even washer/dryer setups.
3. Clear Separation of Living Spaces:
The multi-level layout often provides a distinct separation between living areas and the bedroom, which can enhance comfort and privacy, making them ideal for long stays and full-time living.
4. Ample Storage:
Fifth wheels typically come with extensive storage capabilities both inside and out. The design allows for larger storage bays under the living quarters and more generous interior storage solutions, accommodating the needs of full-time RVers.
5. Better Suited for Seasonal Living:
The construction and insulation of fifth wheels makes them more suited for use in various climates, particularly in colder weather, compared to travel trailers. This makes them a great choice for RVers who travel year-round or live in their RVs seasonally.
Cons of Fifth Wheels
1. Need for a Specific Towing Vehicle:
Fifth wheels require a pickup truck with an appropriate hitch setup, which can be a significant additional investment if you don’t already own a suitable truck. The larger the fifth wheel, the more expensive the truck you will need.
2. Reduced Mobility When Hitched:
When attached, fifth wheels are significantly longer and can be more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, such as narrow roads or crowded campgrounds.
3. Higher Overall Cost:
Generally, fifth wheels are more expensive than travel trailers both in initial purchase and upkeep. Their size and features also lead to higher fuel costs due to decreased fuel efficiency.
4. Height Restrictions:
The taller profile of fifth wheels can limit access to certain roads and underpasses, making route planning more critical.
5. More Challenging Setup:
Setting up a fifth wheel can be more complex due to its size and the need for precise leveling, especially on uneven terrains. This might require more time and effort at each stop.
Travel Trailers Overview
Travel trailers are also a great RV choice due to their wide range of sizes, prices, and towing requirements. These trailers mount to a bumper hitch and can be towed with a variety of different types of vehicles.
Travel trailers are smaller than fifth wheels. The size range for travel trailers starts below 20 feet in length and can be as long as 35 feet or longer, so there is a wide range of floor plan options available.
Since travel trailers are smaller in height, they typically have less exterior storage options than a fifth wheel. However, depending on the size of the travel trailer, you may find plenty of interior storage with many cabinets, drawers, and hidden storage under beds, benches, and more.
Small travel trailers can be towed with something as small as a sedan, while larger travel trailers will require a truck to tow them.
Due to their smaller size, travel trailers are less expensive than fifth wheels. This makes them ideal for part-time RVers and beginners because they are affordable, more nimble, and have a wide range of sizes and types to choose from. Let’s look at the pros and cons of travel trailers.
Pros of Travel Trailers
1. Versatility in Towing Vehicles:
Travel trailers can be towed by a wide variety of vehicles, not just pickup trucks. This includes SUVs and, in some cases, even sedans, depending on the trailer’s weight. This flexibility allows more people to choose RVing without needing a specific type of towing vehicle.
2. Variety of Sizes and Layouts:
Travel trailers come in a broad range of sizes, from small teardrop models that are ideal for solo travelers or couples, to large models that can accommodate entire families comfortably. This variety ensures that there is a travel trailer to fit nearly any need and budget.
3. Cost-Effectiveness:
Generally, travel trailers are less expensive than fifth wheels both in upfront cost and maintenance. This makes them a more accessible option for those who are budget-conscious but still want to enjoy the RV lifestyle.
4. Easier Maneuverability in Campsites:
The overall length of travel trailers is typically shorter when detached from the towing vehicle, making it easier to fit into tighter campsite spaces and maneuver in campgrounds.
5. Lower Profile:
The lower height of travel trailers compared to fifth wheels means they are less susceptible to wind resistance and can be easier to handle in windy conditions, as well as being more fuel-efficient.
Cons of Travel Trailers
1. Stability and Handling Issues:
Travel trailers can be more prone to swaying and bouncing on the road, particularly in windy conditions or when being passed by larger vehicles. This can make towing more challenging and require additional equipment like sway control bars.
2. Smaller Storage Capacity:
Compared to fifth wheels, travel trailers generally offer less storage space, especially in the smaller models. This can be a limitation for full-timers who need ample space to store belongings.
3. Limited Interior Space and Ceiling Height:
While there is a variety of layouts available, travel trailers typically have lower ceilings and less spacious interiors than fifth wheels. This can make them feel cramped, especially when living in them full-time or traveling with multiple people.
4. Fewer Luxury Features:
Travel trailers are often more utilitarian and offer fewer high-end amenities and luxury features compared to fifth wheels, which are generally designed to be more like a home on wheels.
5. Hitch Weight Limits:
The hitch of a travel trailer bears less weight than a fifth wheel, which can limit what you can carry in terms of both the trailer’s total weight and the distribution of weight inside it.
Fifth Wheel vs. Travel Trailer: Which Is Best For You?
Choosing between a fifth wheel and a travel trailer depends on your towing vehicle, space needs, budget, and travel style.
Fifth wheels offer greater stability and spacious interiors, ideal for those who live in their RV full-time or in one place for extended periods.
Travel trailers are more budget-friendly and flexible to tow with various vehicles, suitable for frequent movers and smaller families. Consider your long-term RV goals, storage requirements, and personal preferences to determine which type best fits your lifestyle.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, so choose based on what meets your needs. Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on RV types to learn more about the different styles of RVs!
For more information on towing and weight ratings, take a look at these blog posts:
Truck Buyers Beware: Understand Your Ratings for Safer Towing
RV Towing Guide: How Big of a Camper Can I Tow?
SAFETY IS IN THE NUMBERS | Trailer Towing With a Van or SUV
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One Response
I tried about all of them in my 20 years (10 full time) weird thing is, I liked my Fiat 500 towing my mini micro square tear drop the best. My one before my current 30’ MH. I wanted more comfort.