Recreational vehicles are growing in popularity with adventurers of all ages, and fifth wheel RVs are perfect if you want to quickly hook up and take off. Whether you like to keep camping simple at your local campgrounds and state parks, you are a recent retiree who wants to hit the open road and explore or you are ready to splurge on luxury, there are fifth wheel floor plans for every need.
A fifth wheel is a home on wheels that offers the most spacious accommodations and luxurious amenities of any other type of towable RV. Unlike a motorhome, fifth wheels tow behind a heavy-duty truck, giving you more mobility than a Class A or Class C RV. Fifth wheel RVs are also a cost-effective alternative to the expensive and ongoing costs associated with hotel lodging, eating at restaurant and traveling by air.
Fifth wheels are great for larger families and for those who want some privacy while camping. The roomy interiors are also perfect for hosting get-togethers with friends and family. Additionally, they offer a smoother driving experience with less sway, so they work well for longer trips.
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Table of contents
- What is a fifth wheel?
- What are the primary differences between fifth wheels, travel trailers and toy haulers?
- How big are fifth wheels?
- Is a fifth wheel easy to tow?
- Where can you go camping in a fifth wheel?
- Who are typical fifth wheel owners?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a fifth wheel?
- How much do fifth wheels cost?
- What’s the best fifth wheel for me?
- Before you buy: 10 Best Fifth Wheels at General RV
- Is a fifth wheel worth it?
What is a fifth wheel?
Fifth wheels are split-level RVs that must be towed by a truck with a special hitch. Typically, a fifth wheel will have a living space or bunk area on the lower level and a private bedroom that hangs over the truck bed. Fifth wheel RVs are available in all sorts of styles and sizes. The smallest fifth wheels have less than six feet of headroom and are just large enough to squeeze in a wet bath. The largest fifth wheels weigh tens of thousands of pounds and must be towed with a semi-truck cab.
Fifth wheel travel trailers are great because they offer both the flexibility of a towable vehicle, as well as the comfort and luxury of super-sized RVs. If you plan to spend more time on the road, then you will want to make sure you have enough space for long comfortable trips, as well as some amenities for those rainy days. Even if you’re only a weekend warrior, a fifth wheel gives you plenty of extra leg room to feel comfortable anywhere the road may lead. If you have a family with children, a fifth wheel can give you a little bit of extra privacy.
What are the primary differences between fifth wheels, travel trailers and toy haulers?
When it comes to choosing between travel trailers versus fifth wheels, there are not many differences. Fifth wheels and travel trailers each have their unique advantages. Determining which fits best for you depends on how you want to travel.
Travel Trailers
Fifth wheels and travel trailers vary greatest when it comes to length. They are available in a bigger range of lengths — from 12 to 35 feet. You can get the same roomy feel of a fifth wheel with a large travel trailer, but you also have the option to go much smaller. The smaller options allow you to tow with a smaller vehicle, like an SUV or light pickup truck. In other cases, you may be able to tow with a mid-size truck rather than a full-size truck. On average, a fifth wheel weighs somewhere between 10,000 and 15,000 pounds. In contrast, travel trailers tend to weigh 3,000 to 12,000 pounds.
Fifth wheels have an unparalleled amount of storage compared to other types of RVs. The longer an RV, the more outdoor storage bays it has available. In addition to more exterior storage bays, fifth wheels are often equipped with a basement of sorts. This term refers to large pass-through areas that can accommodate long items, such as paddles, surfboards, etc.
Additionally, fifth wheels have the greatest variety of floor plans. The placement of slide outs can make a huge difference.
Toy Haulers
The main difference between toy haulers and fifth wheels is seen inside the RV. With a toy hauler, you will have a large garage space that often transforms into a living area with couches or beds when not being used to haul toys and gear. With a toy hauler, it’s not just about living in or camping. It’s also about getting your golf cart, ATV, motorcycle, dirt bikes or other toys to the campground.
Toy haulers are built on a sturdier frame and, therefore, can be much heavier. The dry weight for the average toy hauler is around 10,000 pounds, but models can range from 4,000 pounds up to 15,000 pounds. If you’re a traveling family, the extra space in the garage will provide additional sleeping areas for the kids and an indoor play area. The garage can also be converted to a space for homeschooling a young family. Furthermore, pets are another reason you might choose a toy hauler. The garage area is a great place to bring your wet, sandy or muddy pets inside, but still keep the dirt under control.
How big are fifth wheels?
Fifth wheel RVs often stretch anywhere from 30 to 45 feet in length. Many families opt for fifth wheels because they’re usually some of the largest travel trailers. Fifth wheels can vary widely in weight, with the smallest starting at around 2,400 pounds and going up to 24,000 pounds. It’s critical to have a heavy-duty truck — and a fifth wheel hitch — to tow them.
Unfortunately, not every fifth wheel will fit in any RV park. Many older parks have not updated their campsites to reflect the length of newer RVs. Even some national park campgrounds can’t accommodate an RV more than 30 feet long. If you plan to stay in state parks and national parks often, you may want to consider a short fifth wheel. Many RV parks across North America can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet long, but be aware that those spaces may be limited. Each National Park across the U.S. has its own set of rules and regulations regarding RV lengths. Make reservations in advance.
Is a fifth wheel easy to tow?
While travel trailers attach to your vehicle using the conventional hitch ball system found on most trucks and SUVs, fifth wheels use a special hitch which can only attach to the bed of a pickup truck. Because fifth wheels tend to be larger and heavier than travel trailers, you’ll need a truck with a high towing capacity. Before purchasing an RV, check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) for the fifth wheel and compare it to your truck’s towing capacity. If the GVWR is heavier than the towing capacity, you’ll either need a bigger truck or a smaller RV.
That said, many people find that towing a fifth wheel is easier than towing a travel trailer because of the way it is hitched.
Where can you go camping in a fifth wheel?
Due to their size and weight, fifth wheels are best suited for a campground or a campsite that is easy to access. Most of these trailers are not equipped for wandering too far off-road, although that doesn’t mean they can’t be used for boondocking in a remote location. You’ll just need to choose the right place to accommodate a towable RV of this size.
Most fifth wheels come with fresh, grey and black water tanks, but they can vary widely in size. Some tanks as large as 75 gallons, which provide plenty of capacity for camping off-the-grid for an extended period.
Who are typical fifth wheel owners?
Trailing only conventional travel trailers, fifth wheels are the second most popular RV types, accounting for 20% of RV owners. An RV Owner Demographic Profile from Go RVing shows young families make up 27% of fifth wheel owners, while 34% are Millennials or Gen Zs and 24% are first-time owners.
Fifth wheels are, on average, used roughly 30 days out of the year. They are used most often in summer (85%), followed by fall (61%), spring (50%) and winter (36%). Just over half of fifth wheel owners prefer to stay at private campgrounds or state parks, while a little more than a third favor national parks or campgrounds.
In terms of demographics, 46% are between the ages of 18 to 34, while more than half of all fifth wheel owners are 55 and older. 59% of those with a fifth wheel are female, and 41% are male.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a fifth wheel?
Popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts, fifth wheels make it easy to take the whole family camping in comfort. Outfitted with numerous amenities and features, these RVs quickly become your home away from home.
Advantages of owning a fifth wheel
Tow Vehicle Doubles as Transportation
While some motorhome owners will use their RVs for alternative purposes like remote work or tailgate parties, they’re not ideal for a quick trip into town or short getaway. Conversely, with a fifth wheel, the truck that tows your RV doubles as transportation both during and after a trip. When you are in-between camping trips, your truck can also act as a primary vehicle while your RV is stored.
Safe Towing Option
One of the benefits of a fifth wheel versus many travel trailers is how much safer they are to operate. A fifth wheel holds the weight of the RV in the bed of your truck. This makes it easier to maneuver the RV and increases the stability of the fifth wheel when in motion.
Extra Space
For large families, a fifth wheel is the perfect choice. Most fifth wheels feature a lofted sleeping space above the truck bed. This extra space is typically designed as a primary bedroom or a multi-bunk area. Additionally, fifth wheels frequently feature slide outs, which can be equipped with even more sleeping options.
Versatility in Amenities Offered
There’s no limit to the amenities a fifth wheel can offer. The large body space provides ample room to host all of the extras. If you want to take your dream kitchen on the road, or if you cannot do without your own personal bathroom, a fifth wheel is an excellent choice.
Less Vehicle Maintenance
When you purchase a motorhome, such as a Class A, B or C, you commit to upkeep on a second motorized vehicle. This means double the oil changes, fluid flushes and general vehicle upkeep. While there are still some maintenance tasks associated with owning a fifth wheel, such as replacing tires as needed and keeping moving parts lubricated, there is far less maintenance than a traditional motorhome.
Disadvantages of owning a fifth wheel
Requires a Capable Vehicle
Normally, it doesn’t matter what size your personal vehicle is. For example, you can drive a small Toyota Corolla as your daily commuter. However, when you choose a fifth wheel, you will need to ensure you have a truck capable of towing the RV. Fifth wheels require a heavy-duty truck that can not only handle the weight of the RV, but can also safely stop it. If you don’t already own the right vehicle, this can require a second investment.
Separation Between Driving and Living Space
When you are towing a fifth wheel, you will be separated from your living space. Unlike a motorhome, you cannot simply run into the back of the RV and hop back into your seat. You will need to pull off the road, exit your truck and enter the fifth wheel to access the kitchen, bathroom or bedrooms. Most states prohibit passengers from riding inside fifth wheels while driving, mainly due to safety concerns..
Needs Ample Storage Space
When you aren’t using your fifth wheel, you will need to find a place to store it. Unlike a small camper van or pop-up trailer, fifth wheels take up a decent amount of room. If you don’t have the space at home, this might require renting a storage unit or RV storage space during the off-season.
How much do fifth wheels cost?
Because they’re extended travel trailers instead of motorhomes, the best fifth wheel RVs come at competitive prices. Expect to spend between $25,000 and $150,000 for a fifth wheel RV. Extra features and higher build quality will cost more. Not all fifth wheels are classified as being a luxury model. In fact, there are many models that are basic and designed to appeal to tradesmen and construction workers who want the comforts of home, but don’t necessarily care to pay extra for leather furniture and hot tubs.
A fifth wheel typically costs more than a travel trailer, as it provides a bit more amenities and a better driving experience. It’s a better option if someone wants to try full-time RVing. Fifth wheel prices tend to vary depending on the make, year and amenities that are included.
Another factor to consider is storing your RV when it’s not in use. If you do not have the space to store your RV on your property, you’ll likely need to rent space from a storage facility. On average, it costs between $50 to $200 per month to store an RV, with the actual cost influenced by various factors. The average cost to store an RV indoors is roughly $135 a month, according to Sparefoot, a self-storage marketplace. Naturally, the size of an RV can greatly influence the cost to store it.
Financial options for purchasing a fifth wheel
A number of financial options are available when it comes to purchasing your fifth wheel. While some may pay in cash, most will finance their purchase over the course of several months. Monthly payments can be reduced by providing a large down payment at purchase. This could also help secure a lower interest rate, leading to even more savings in the long-term. Many RV dealers and banks offer great financing options.
Creating an RV budget will help you stay within your financial boundaries and help narrow your fifth wheel RV search. Be sure to also include parts or accessory upgrades, regular preventative maintenance and RV insurance in your budget. You will also need to account for storage costs if you are unable to store your fifth wheel on your property when not in use. RVing is growing in popularity at an exponential rate because it can be enjoyed on nearly any budget. Read about some ways to save money while RVing.
What’s the best fifth wheel for me?
Offering superior space, amenities and maneuverability compared to other towables, fifth wheel RVs are a popular choice for travelers who want it all. If you’re looking at trailers more than 28 feet long, a fifth wheel is probably the better choice. They have higher ceilings with multiple levels and can be situated better when you are pulling them.
If you’re looking for an RV that’s spacious enough for the entire family, you’ll definitely want to check out the best fifth wheels General RV has to offer.
Before you buy: 10 Best Fifth Wheels at General RV
Alliance RV
Paradigm 395DS | Fifth Wheel
The Alliance RV Paradigm 395DS fifth wheel is designed to offer ultimate comfort and convenience for large families or groups, with sleeping space for up to eight people and a range of versatile features that everyone will love. A front private bedroom features a king-size bed, a large front wardrobe and easy access to the front bath, complete with a large shower and dual entry. The spacious kitchen houses a 19 cu. ft. residential refrigerator, a pantry and a dinette with four chairs. The living area features a 50″ Smart TV, fireplace and ample seating with a dual reclining loveseat and sofa sleeper. The rear private bedroom comes with a queen bed, two closets and its own Smart TV – perfect for guests or family members.Above the rear bedroom is a multi-purpose loft accessed by ladder, offering a great option for additional storage or extra sleeping space that kids will love.
Brinkley RV
Model Z 3300 | Fifth Wheel
Three slide outs produce an open and airy feel in the Brinkley RV Model Z 3300 fifth wheel. The chef will enjoy a residential microwave, 16 cu. ft. refrigerator, plus a large kitchen island complete with dual trash bins and dog bowls. The tri-fold sofa that extends to a large bed for guests, and theater seating is across from the hidden TV and fireplace. The front private bedroom is ultra-accommodating with aking bed slide out, sliding dresser top with hidden storage, TV and a front wardrobe with shelves and a shoe rack. This mid-profile Model Z fifth wheel brings you clean lines and an upscale look with plenty of style, like the automotive-grade front cap. An abundance of storage, hot and cold showers and wide stance leveling jacks are all key exterior features.
Grand Design RV
Reflection 362TBS | Fifth Wheel
Comfort and convenience are the themes throughout the Reflection 362TBS fifth wheel by Grand Design RV. The front private queen bedroom includes a slide out with drawers and a linen closet, plus an entrance into the dual entry bathroom. A second private queen bedroom at the rear has a loft above it, plus a slide with a closet and drawers, and its own half bathroom. The kitchen island houses a deep sink and pull-out trash cans. Residential appliances make cooking a breeze, and the pantry adds storage space. A booth dinette and theater seating each are within view of the entertainment center with a fireplace and 40” TV. The Arctic 4-Seasons Protection Package will extend your camping season year-round and MORryde suspension provides a smooth ride on the road. You will feel right at home in a Reflection fifth wheel with residential cabinetry, solid surface countertops, a spacious shower and residential bedrooms.
Solitude 390RK | Fifth Wheel
There’s room for the whole family to relax in comfort in the spacious Solitude fifth wheel by Grand Design RV. The raised rear kitchen features stainless steel appliances including a built-in oven, an oversized pantry and the raised bar top with two chairs that overlook the middle living area. Two tri-fold sofas and theater seating make up the living area with an LED Smart TV and fireplace below. The front queen bedroom is on a slide out for more floor space, with a slide top dresser and front closet for storage. Camp year-round thanks to the Weather-Tek Package including a 35K BTU high-capacity furnace, an all-in-one enclosed and heated utility center and a fully enclosed underbelly with heated tanks and storage. Inside, premium roller shades, hardwood cabinet doors, solid surface countertops and residential finishes throughout make you truly feel at home.
Forest River RV
Impression 238RL | Fifth Wheel
The Impression 238RL mid-profile fifth wheel by Forest River RV is designed for comfort through quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The rear sectional sofa has a sleeper sofa and theater seat attached around an entertainment center with a 40″ TV. A hidden door leads to a 30″ x 74″ flip-down bunk with a pad below it, all housed within a slide. The kitchen has plenty of countertop space on the swivel bar top with four bar stools. The full bathroom includes a walk-in shower with a skylight for added natural lighting. The front private bedroom has a queen bed with VersaTilt technology and wardrobes on either side, plus there is a closet that is prepped for a washer and dryer. The exterior includes upgraded E-rated MAXXIS tires, custom exterior graphics package and insulated slam latch baggage doors. There is also an enclosed docking station, an outside shower and a 100W roof solar panel for off-grid capabilities.
Wildwood Heritage Glen 375FAM | Fifth Wheel
With two private bedrooms, the Wildwood Heritage Glen 375FAM fifth wheel by Forest River is built for ultimate comfort. The rear queen bedroom features a loft above with two bunk mats and storage, and a full bathroom with a second entry door. The front private king bedroom features a closet the width of the fifth wheel with washer/dryer prep, a dresser with hidden storage and a convenient bench.
The middle living area is designed around dual opposing slides for added space, theater seating and a table and chairs, plus a large kitchen island and residential appliances. Relax by the fireplace for a cozier feel and the walk-in pantry is perfect for snack storage. Thehorizontal plank linoleum flooring is unique, beautiful and durable, and there are gold-accented faucets with stainless steel sinks in the bathrooms for added luxury. More convenient features include the high-end, solid surface countertops, an RV Airflow System providing at least 25% better airflow and solar prep for off-grid capabilities.
Keystone RV
Alpine 3011CK | Fifth Wheel
Alpine fifth wheels by Keystone RV are designed for a new generation of campers who are looking for contemporary styling, unique floorplans and modern amenities. Designed like no other luxury fifth wheel, the Alpine offers a residential feel with high ceilings, almost 7-foot-tall slide outs, 100-inch wide-body construction and panoramic frameless windows. All Alpine models are warrantied for full-time travel. A center island with a sink fills out the kitchen with residential appliances, and you can easily entertain with a hide-a-bed sofa sleeper and theater seating with a fireplace and storage behind a Smart TV. The private suite features a dual entry bath including a linen cabinet and large shower, plus a king bed slide out that includes storage underneath, a large closet, dresser with a Smart HDTV and area prepped for a stackable washer and dryer.
Arcadia Super Lite 294SLRD | Fifth Wheel
It’s easy to see why comfort and luxury are prioritized throughout the Arcadia Super Lite 294SLRD fifth wheel by Keystone RV. The kitchen features premium appliances like the 21″ Furrion range with Piezo ignition, 10 cu. ft. refrigerator and microwave. The rear living area offers a more at-home feel with a rear entertainment center with a fireplace, theater seating and plenty of space to move about thanks to the opposing slide outs. There is also a free standing dinette and an XL sofa sleeper that extends to a king-size sleeping space. The full bath includes a large shower with a glass door and a skylight for more standing space, and the front private bedroom includes a queen bed, a wardrobe slide and an end table with an outlet and a USB port. The Arcadia Super Lite fifth wheel is easy to tow, features unmatched storage and boasts oversized windows.
Prime Time RV
Crusader 295BHS | Fifth Wheel
A rear private bunkhouse and spacious floor plan make the Crusader 295BHS fifth wheel by Prime Time RV perfect to camp with a larger group. Double-size bunks with overhead storage can sleep up to four, plus a desk with drawers below provides space if you need to get some work done. The front private bedroom has its storage within the wardrobe slide, plus there are dual nightstands. The combined kitchen and living area includes a three-burner cooktop and residential appliances, as well as theater seating and booth dinette. Other stand-out features include storage cubbies, hidden pantry behind the entertainment center and the outdoor kitchen. Crusader fifth wheels also come standard with dual 15,000 BTU A/C units, a 35,000 BTU high capacity gas furnace, a tankless on-demand water heater and the Extreme Thermal Package Plus, making your camping season year-round.
Jayco RV
Eagle HT 29DDB | Fifth Wheel
The Jayco RV Eagle HT 29DDB fifth wheel can be towed by a half-ton truck, meaning there’s no need to invest in a large tow vehicle with a powerful engine and high towing capacity. At a lower price point, lower weight and smaller size, the Eagle HT Fifth Wheel is the perfect option for someone dipping their toe into fifth wheel ownership. Eagle HT fifth wheel come equipped with GE Appliances, reflecting the luxury found in every Jayco RV. The front bedroom features an Olympic bed that is six inches wider and eight inches thicker than standard options, and includes dual wardrobes and TV prep. Double-size bunks in the rear features a wardrobe for your guests.
Is a fifth wheel worth it?
If you already own a truck capable of towing a heavy load, a fifth wheel could be an affordable entry into RV ownership. Another advantage of towable RVs is that you only have one vehicle engine to maintain, compared to a Class A or Class C motorhome with a tow car.
Owning an RV can lead to significant savings compared to the costs of a typical vacation with flights, rental cars, accommodations and meals. However, fifth wheels, like any RV, also come with long-term maintenance costs, storage fees and other expenses to consider.
Finally, choosing the right RV comes down to meeting all of your needs, including price points. General RV’s experts can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. Visit your local General RV dealer to explore our huge selection of fifth wheels for yourself. We have thousands of fifth wheels in stock including all the best brands from top manufacturers. After you’ve found the perfect RV, we’ll provide a personalized orientation to get you on the road with confidence.
Our goal at General RV is to be your premier RV partner and your one-stop shop for all your RV needs. For your convenience, we have in-house financing options and work with an RV insurance partner. Plus, you’ll find all the RV parts and accessories you need in our Supercenters. We also have more than 600 state-of-the-art RV service bays across our nationwide network.