When you shop for an RV, your first step is picking what type of camper you want. Two common options are fifth wheels and travel trailers. Both offer unique advantages and the right one for you depends on what features matter most to your style of travel. Below we cover the differences between these RV categories to help you determine the right one for your family. If you want more information or want to check out fifth wheels and travel trailers for sale, visit RVs and Boats for Less, located conveniently in Chubbuck, Idaho, near Pocatello. We proudly serve those in Idaho Falls.
The Cost
Remember that the cost of an RV includes more than the sticker price. You’ll want to factor in long-term fees such as insurance, gas, maintenance, and repair bills.
Travel trailers tend to be the more budget-friendly option compared to fifth wheels. They usually cost less money upfront and they generally have lower maintenance fees. Fifth wheels have more complicated internal workings, which means more parts to break down and more costly repairs.
The Towing Experience
Ease of Towing
Another key factor to consider is how easy an RV is to tow. While 5th wheels are much larger, many folks find them much easier to transport due to their unique hitching style. A fifth wheel gets connected to a truck bed, which makes them more stable and less prone to swaying. You’ll feel more in control as you drive to your destination, which can be especially helpful if you are new to towing.
Travel trailers, on the other hand, are more prone to swaying. You will also need to attach towing chains to the travel trailer to serve as a back up in case the hitch fails.
Your Tow Vehicle
Not all tow vehicles can transport all types of RVs. Due to the unique hitching style, a fifth wheel can only be towed by a vehicle with an open bed. A travel trailer can be towed by any passenger vehicle as long as it has a compatible hitching style and can handle the weight.
The Size
Another factor in shopping for an RV is the size of the rig. Thanks to the secure hitch style found on 5th wheels, these rigs can be quite large. They can offer larger living rooms, increased storage space, comfortable bedrooms, larger kitchens, and all the space you need to fully feel at home on the road. Families will love their large number of sleeping arrangements and extra space. Everyone on the trip will be able to move around inside without stumbling over each other or feeling cramped.
Travel trailers tend to be much smaller in size. Their hitching style puts a limit on how long, wide, and heavy these rigs can be. Some offer slide-out options so you can increase their interior space, but it will still be much smaller than a fifth wheel. These rigs are better suited for smaller groups of travelers or those who don’t mind a more compact space.
We hope you found this guide helpful! When you are ready to look at travel trailers and 5th wheels for sale, visit RVs and Boats for Less. If you aren’t sure which model best suits you, our expert staff can help. Tell us your budget, the number of passengers you’ll be traveling with, your tow vehicle options, and any features you want. We can then suggest the type of RV that best suits your needs as well as specific models that can be a great fit. We are located in Chubbuck, Idaho. Stop by and visit us today!
