Not only are travel trailers the most popular type of RV, but they are also the most affordable. More families than ever are heading out to create their own Great American Road Trip and, for many, it starts with the perfect RV. Buying a travel trailer can seem intimidating, but with the right information, it can be an exciting and empowering decision.
Large families are going to have much different needs than solo travelers. Families who love kayaking and biking will need different travel trailers than those who want to travel light and park in major urban areas. Travel trailers are built with solid walls, hitch to a truck or SUV and come in all shapes and sizes. They are safe and typically have slide-outs to create wide-open living spaces.
One of the benefits of traveling with a trailer rather than a motorhome is that when you set up camp, you can unhook the trailer and leave it set up while you use the vehicle to explore the area. When you travel by motorhome, you either need to drive your whole RV for sightseeing days or tow a separate vehicle behind it.
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Table of contents
- What is a travel trailer?
- What are the primary differences between travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers?
- How big are travel trailers?
- Is a travel trailer hard to tow?
- Where can you go camping in a travel trailer?
- Who are typical travel trailer owners?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a travel trailer?
- How much do travel trailers cost?
- What’s the best travel trailer for me?
- Best Travel Trailers For Sale at General RV
- Coachmen RV | Clipper 11000ROK Teardrop Travel Trailer
- Forest River RV | Rockwood Geo Pro G19FD Travel Trailer
- Forest River RV | RPOD 192 Travel Trailer
- Forest River RV | Salem Cruise Lite 273QBXL Travel Trailer
- Alliance RV | Delta Ultra Lite 274RKW Travel Trailer
- Keystone RV | Outback 341RD Travel Trailer
- Forest River RV | Wildwood FSX 210RTK Toy Hauler Travel Trailer
- Grand Design RV | Momentum 29GS Toy Hauler Travel Trailer
- Best Travel Trailers For Sale at General RV
- Is a travel trailer worth it?
What is a travel trailer?
Unlike motorized RVs that have an engine and can be driven on their own, travel trailers are pulled behind another vehicle. Travel trailers come in all sizes, including everything from tiny jelly bean-shaped models with a small kitchen in the rear to a full blown house-on-wheels, with multiple slide-outs and residential-sized appliances. Their length can vary, starting at 12 feet long and going up to 35 feet long or more. Weight also varies with the size, from as low as 1,200 pounds up to nearly 10,000 pounds.
Sometimes called a bumper-pull (when they first became popular in the early 1950s, they were attached to the bumper of the tow car), the modern travel trailer employs a hitch secured to the frame of your tow vehicle. This truck or SUV will include specialized hardware to make towing safe and easy. Travel trailers are relatively easy to set up once you arrive at your destination. You can unhitch it, leave it and still have a vehicle to explore.
What are the primary differences between travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers?
While travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers are all towable RVs, this is where their similarities end. There are some pretty significant differences between the three. Below are brief descriptions of fifth wheels and toy haulers and what makes them different from travel trailers.
Fifth Wheels vs. Travel Trailers
Fifth wheels are the largest towable trailers available and some rival motorhomes for the amount of space and the amenities they offer. In fact, they’re popular for full-time living as well as for traveling. They can have multiple slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, kitchens, bathrooms and an entertainment area. They often include an upstairs loft, above the truck bed, for sleeping. Fifth wheels can sleep up to eight people.
Fifth wheels connect with a U-shaped coupling mounted in a truck bed, which, generally, make them easier to tow. This can be attributed to the design of the fifth wheel and the kingpin hitch, which moves the load forward into the bed of the truck. However, because fifth wheels are so large, you’ll need a large pickup truck to tow it. For many fifth wheels, a half-ton truck like a Ford F-150 or Toyota Tundra with maximum towing capacities from 9,740 to 13,200 pounds GVWR will do the job. But many fifth wheel owners prefer a heavy duty truck like a Ram 2500 or a Ford Super Duty F-250, which tow a maximum of 12,760 to 18,500 pounds GVWR.
Due to their higher roofline, fifth wheels generally have higher interior ceiling height than travel trailers. In fact, fifth wheels typically have the highest ceilings of all types of RVs. Fifth wheels are often equipped with high-end features making them more expensive than travel trailers on the whole. When it comes to living full-time in an RV, fifth wheels are the preferred choice. They tend to have a more residential feeling providing a true sense of being home-away-from-home. However, due to the towing requirements that comes with fifth wheels, many consumers in the towable RV market will steer toward travel trailers because most everyday trucks and SUVs are equipped to handle towing them. You should always check your vehicle’s towing capacity before towing an RV, which you can do easily with General RV’s Towing Capacity Guide.
Toy Haulers vs. Travel Trailers
The sizes, prices and maneuverability are about the same for both toy haulers and travel trailers. Toy haulers are built on a sturdier frame and, therefore, can be much heavier than travel trailers. 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. They also have a garage area which can take away from the interior space of the trailer. The most common type of toy hauler is the fifth wheel, partly because it has a more secure connection to the towing vehicle. Certainly, if you have motorcycles, quads, sand toys or lots of recreational toys – like cross-country bikes, kayaks, inflatable boats, wind surfing equipment or other toys – then a toy hauler will meet your needs better than a travel trailer. However, toy haulers come in travel trailer floorplans with standard towing hitches, as well.
If you’re a traveling family, the extra space in the garage will provide extra sleeping spaces for the kids, as well as an indoor play area. The garage can also be converted to a space for homeschooling a young family. Pets are another reason you might choose a toy hauler. The garage area is also a great place to bring your wet, sandy or muddy pets inside, but still keep the dirt under control.
How big are travel trailers?
Travel trailers come in a wide range of sizes and styles. That said, most travel trailers typically range anywhere from 12 feet to 35 feet long. A simple, 12-foot travel trailer allows enough comfortable space for one or two people (most likely a couple). Meanwhile, a 35-foot trailer can allow enough space for up to 10 people to sleep comfortably. Every state has laws regarding the length, height and width restrictions of travel trailers. These all vary somewhat, but, generally, the consensus is that trailers must have widths no greater than between 8 and 8.5 feet.
Most states generally restrict RV travel trailer length to 40 feet, although some states allow for additional length, with a maximum of 43-feet-6-inches. This doesn’t include the tow vehicle. In most states, the maximum combined length is usually between 50 feet to 65 feet.
Travel trailers vary in weight from 1,200 to almost 9,000 pounds. They come in various lengths and builds, allowing for a diverse weight range. Smaller travel trailers have an average maximum weight of about 3,500 pounds (GVWR). Some larger travel trailers can reach more than 10,000 pounds when fully loaded.
Is a travel trailer hard to tow?
From Gen Zs to Boomers, RVing in a travel trailer, of any type, offers freedom and a sense of self-sufficiency. However, towing a travel trailer can bring some unexpected stress and safety concerns for first-time RVers. Trailers add weight and that added weight changes the handling dynamics and braking of the tow vehicle. That’s why you need to make sure your trailer and tow vehicle are properly matched.
The towing capacity of a vehicle is how much weight it can tow. The towing capacity is determined mainly by the type of axles the truck has and their ratings. Usually, towing capacity applies to SUVs and trucks, since most sedans or smaller cars don’t have large towing capabilities. Keeping your trailer’s weight in mind is integral as well. If your trailer weighs too much for your tow vehicle, it increases the stopping distance and likelihood of damage to your tow vehicle or RV.
There are two important weight-related factors when it comes to RV trailers: GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and tongue weight (TW). GVWR is the safe maximum weight of the trailer when it’s loaded for camping with water, fuel, supplies, and cargo. The TW is how much downforce the loaded trailer places on the hitch. Both numbers are displayed on the metal Federal Certification/VIN ID tag located on the front left side of a travel trailer. You can also find the specifications listed on the trailer manufacturer’s website.
Those two numbers set the basis for choosing the vehicle best suited for towing a travel trailer. Tongue weight of RV trailers, sometimes referred to as “hitch weight,” will be typically between 10 and 15 percent of the trailer’s GVWR. RV trailer weights can vary widely by brand, type and size. That’s why it’s important to narrow down these numbers to the specific trailer you plan to tow and then make sure those weights match your vehicle’s towing limitations. You can also find your vehicle’s towing capacity on General RV’s towing guide.
Where can you go camping in a travel trailer?
The options for where a travel trailer can go generally depend on the vehicle towing it. There are roughly 16,419 RV parks and campgrounds, both privately operated and publicly owned, in the United States, including 103,000 federally-managed campsites at national parks, 241,255 campsites dispersed across state parks and untold numbers in private facilities.
The Bureau of Land Management, or BLM, is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior that oversees more than 247.3 million acres of land. Much of it is available free to the public for dry camping or boondocking, without hookups to electricity, water or sewage. In fact, there are many lightweight travel trailers specifically designed for off-grid RV excursions.
Who are typical travel trailer owners?
Recent surveys show more than 11.2 million households in the U.S. own an RV. 38 percent of those RVs are travel trailers. Most commonly used during the summer and fall months, travel trailers are especially popular among young families and first-time RV owners. The vast majority of owners hit the road with their spouse and more than a quarter travel with children under 18 or a pet.
Studies also show very few travel trailer owners prefer to travel alone. Meanwhile, more than half of owners are female. State parks are the most popular option for travel trailer owners, followed by private campgrounds and national park campgrounds.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of owning a travel trailer?
Advantages of a travel trailer
Travel trailers have a lot of advantages that make them a popular RV choice. First, even newer travel trailers come with a much lower price tag than other types of RVs, making them a more affordable option. They also come in a wide range of lengths and sizes. If you already have a truck or an SUV, you can likely find a travel trailer you’ll be able to tow. Additionally, travel trailers also allow you to utilize the full space of the truck or SUV for passengers, storage or even additional toys – like ATVs or motorcycles.
Travel trailers are all about variety and the floor plan variety is no different. There are lots of options to choose from. For example, a floor plan with a bunkhouse is excellent for families with kids. Finally, with any trailer, being able to unhitch the RV and take the tow vehicle elsewhere is always the biggest advantage to travel trailers.
Disadvantages of a travel trailer
One major downfall of the travel trailer is towing experience. An uncontrollable sway is possible if proper sway control and weight distribution hitches are not used or if they are hooked up incorrectly. Since many require a weight-distribution hitch, bumps in the road can be much more noticeable with a travel trailer.
Another disadvantage is that travel trailers have less storage space than most other RVs. While many RVs have an abundance of outdoor storage space underneath, a travel trailer typically does not. That means if you want to bring something on your trip, it needs to fit inside your RV or in your tow vehicle. Along with storage, most travel trailers have lower weight carrying capacities, meaning you cannot bring along as much stuff.
Travel trailers also have fewer amenities than larger RVs, mainly due to their lower cost and weight restrictions. Even though they have high sleeping capacities, you cannot legally have passengers riding in a travel trailer. This limits, and may complicate, the logistics of large family camping trips.
How much do travel trailers cost?
A travel trailer is the least expensive way to enjoy a recreational vehicle or RV lifestyle. Travel trailers are significantly cheaper than motorhomes for the fact they have no engine and must be towed. Travel trailer prices can range from $10,000 to $200,000 for a travel trailer. On average, most new travel trailers cost between $20,000 and $50,000. The size of the travel trailer is the first factor — the bigger you go, the more you will pay. Brand, quality, features and amenities will also play into the final purchase price. If you’re trying to stick to a strict RV budget, don’t skimp on quality. Instead, choose an RV manufacturer known to make high-quality trailers.
Financial options for purchasing a travel trailer
A number of financial options are available when it comes to purchasing your travel trailer. 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 travel trailer 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 travel trailer 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 and stretch your dollars, so you can enjoy more adventures.
What’s the best travel trailer for me?
It is essential to determine the best travel trailer to suit your needs, aesthetics and dimensions on the outside and inside. You should select the right travel trailer your vehicle will be able to pull. Make sure the floor plan is suitable for your requirements. There should also be enough room to fit the things you’re looking for. Make a list of those things you’d like to take and make sure you have enough space.
Best Travel Trailers For Sale at General RV
Coachmen RV | Clipper 11000ROK Teardrop Travel Trailer
The Clipper ROK teardrop travel trailers by Coachmen RV are perfect for the adventurous couple or solo traveler with plenty of amenities and features to make roughing it way easier. A dropdown table creates two twin beds with storage, plus overhead cabinets throughout. A cassette toilet adds convenience settled in the wet bath with wraparound curtain. The kitchen is located outside at the rear hatch and includes a pull-out griddle and grill combo cooktop, a 3.3 cubic-foot refrigerator and a microwave oven. There’s also a hot and cold faucet and multiple overhead storage cabinets. Heavy-duty tires and electric brakes allow you to venture off the beaten path, and a 5K BTU air conditioner with 20K BTU propane furnace and optional solar package enable you to camp longer throughout the year.
Forest River RV | Rockwood Geo Pro G19FD Travel Trailer
The Rockwood Geo Pro G19FD by Forest River RV features a Murphy queen bed that creates all the space needed for a great couples travel trailer. After you’ve had a great night’s rest, fold up the bed to relax on the large sofa. Huge windows beside the dinette provide ample views, and the kitchen includes a three-burner cooktop, microwave oven and refrigerator. The full rear bathroom includes a linen closet and a Showermiser Water Saver system. Pass-through compartments, as well as other exterior storage, allow you to pack as much gear as you need. At 20-feet long and just over 3,000 pounds, the Geo Pro travel trailer is perfect for anyone that wants to hunker down at a great park or with solar-equipped boondocking for a length of time.
Forest River RV | RPOD 192 Travel Trailer
The RPOD 192 travel trailer by Forest River RV is designed for convenience and versatility. The front Murphy queen bed folds away easily to reveal a sofa during the day. The full rear bath includes a toilet and separate shower, plus a large linen closet. The kitchen is equipped with a two-burner cooktop, microwave, refrigerator and pantry. The large roof-mounted solar panel provides off-grid capabilities, and the tankless water heater provides instant hot water when it’s needed. Hot and cold exterior spray ports help keep mud and dirt on the outside, and a central vacuum system makes cleaning hassle-free when it does get in.
Forest River RV | Salem Cruise Lite 273QBXL Travel Trailer
While big enough for the whole family, the Salem Cruise Lite 273QBXL travel trailer by Forest River RV even includes a private bunkhouse with a set of bunk beds and another bunk with a Jiffy sofa. The bunkhouse is right next to the full bathroom with a walk-in shower. The kitchen is complete with a stovetop, double-bowl sink, oversized refrigerator and pantry. Enjoy meals at the plush dinette in front of a panoramic window for optimal views. Pass-through storage on the exterior will keep your outdoor camping gear protected and separated. Plus, enjoy the 16-foot awning and the outdoor kitchen for more time in nature.
Alliance RV | Delta Ultra Lite 274RKW Travel Trailer
The Delta Ultra Lite 274RKW travel trailer by Alliance RV is designed for adventurers who want the perfect mix of spacious living, high-end features and easy towability. At 31 feet, 11 inches in length and a dry weight of 7,200 pounds, this Delta travel trailer delivers everything you need for your next journey without compromise. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile ensures a smooth journey, while its robust build, using premium materials, exemplifies durability and class. Spacious, intelligently designed and lavishly appointed, the interior of the Delta offers a tranquil retreat from the outside world, making every moment on the road a pleasure.
Keystone RV | Outback 341RD Travel Trailer
Welcome to a world of unparalleled luxury and sophistication with the Outback travel trailer by Keystone RV. With a rear entertainment center including a 55-inch HDTV with fireplace below and dual sofa sleeper slides, you will enjoy a spacious living area that also includes theater seats. The middle kitchen offers full amenities including a pantry and 10 cubic-foot refrigerator. The bench dinette provides space to dine or work. Everyone will appreciate easy access to the double-entry bathroom, especially you when you are sleeping on the king bed slide out. Your family pet will have their own space, and you will find plenty of storage choices, plus there is washer/dryer prep if you want to the option to make laundry day easier. The on-demand hot water heater, fiberglass-backed linoleum floor with no carpet and the built-in pet kennel provide conveniences and comfort you will appreciate.
Forest River RV | Wildwood FSX 210RTK Toy Hauler Travel Trailer
Your favorite toys can come along on any adventure with the Wildwood FSX 210RTK toy hauler travel trailer by Forest River RV. A 3,000-pound capacity rear ramp door doubles as an outdoor patio with safety railings. Inside, 1,500-pound tie-downs keep your gear secure when you are on the move. The garage of the Wildwood FSX toy hauler travel trailer features two sofa sleepers that fold out of the way and a removable table to form a dinette. Head to the kitchen to prepare meals on the three-burner cooktop, microwave and residential refrigerator with a walk-in pantry for storage. You will feel right at home with a front private bedroom with a king bed and overhead storage. The 20K BTU furnace and A/C unit to keep you comfortable all year, and the large windows will make the whole RV feel bright and open. The EZ entrance includes an XL folding grab assist handle, and the power awning with LED lights provide an outdoor living space you are sure to love.
Grand Design RV | Momentum 29GS Toy Hauler Travel Trailer
The all new Momentum G-Class toy hauler travel trailer by Grand Design RV is lighter without sacrificing any comfort or spaciousness — thanks to the tall ceilings and slide outs. The 11-foot garage includes Happi-Jac rollover sofas with a table and a top bed, plus a flip-up pet dish for your furry friends. There is even a second entry door which leads directly into the garage. At the front, the primary suite has private access to the residential walk-in shower in the dual-entry bathroom. The main living and kitchen area offers everything you need and would want, including theater seating and a TV with storage above the refrigerator. The Insulation Package includes a heated and enclosed underbelly with suspended tanks, a high-capacity furnace, a moisture barrier floor enclosure and cabinet-mounted heat ducts. Each Momentum G-Class includes a fuel station with an interior and exterior gauge, a dovetail rear end and 2,500-LB tie-downs anchored into the chassis.
Is a travel trailer worth it?
There are many different types of trailers to suit a variety of needs — from tiny teardrops with galley kitchens in the rear to massive 39-foot trailers that can sleep up to 10 people. With a huge selection of floorplans and models, the travel trailer is a great option for your first RV; whether you’re a family of six or a solo traveler.
Owning an RV can lead to significant savings compared to the costs of a typical vacation with flights, rental cars, accommodations and meals. However, travel trailers, 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 towable 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 travel trailers for yourself. We have thousands of travel trailers 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 RV financing options and work with an RV insurance partner. Plus, you’ll find all the RV parts and accessories you need in our RV dealerships. We also have more than 600 state-of-the-art RV service bays across our nationwide network.