A Comparison Between Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels
Towable RVs are a common sight at campgrounds. That’s because most of these models are affordable and easier to maintain compared to their motorized counterparts. However, choosing a towable RV can be daunting because you’ll have to decide between its sub-categories, like travel trailers and fifth wheels. Though travel trailers and fifth wheels may look similar, the fact is that they have many differences, and you’ll want to know a few of them before you decide on which one to buy. The Outpost RV is your local RV dealer with an extensive inventory of towable RVs for sale. Visit us in Middlebury, Indiana, to look at our collection, where we welcome our friends from Kalamazoo, MI.
But, before you visit us, here is a quick comparison guide between travel trailers and fifth wheels.
Affordability
An RV is an expensive investment and knowing your budget can help you pick the best model for you. While planning a budget, you’ll want to include the price of your preferred model, accessories, maintenance, insurance, and storage costs. Once you have the numbers with you, you’ll be in a better position to make your final decision.
Travel trailers come at a lower sticker price compared to fifth wheels. They are lightweight, compact, and cheaper to maintain, too. However, fifth wheels are luxurious and built to offer you the comfort you need while traveling. Also, if you regularly service your fifth wheel, you can rest easy knowing you’ll get many more years with it, making the investment worth every penny you spent.
Towability
A fifth wheel offers a better towing experience, even though it’s larger and heavier than a travel trailer. Its two-part coupling system creates a secure latch point letting you tow it easily. On the other hand, a travel trailer requires towing chains for additional security and is more prone to swaying in high winds.
Another point to consider before finalizing your decision is your towing vehicle. To tow a fifth wheel, you’ll need a pickup truck or another truck with a bed to install its coupling system. So, if you don’t already own one, you may have to buy one, which will mean an additional investment. However, to tow a travel trailer, you don’t need any specific type of towing vehicle. You’ll only want to ensure that your towing vehicle has a high enough weight rating.
Size
If you need a spacious RV for your trips, you’ll probably want to buy a fifth wheel. Travel trailers are roomy but they don't match the high ceilings and residential-like accommodations of fifth wheels. Also, fifth wheels have more sleeping areas, as well as more storage capacity.
Accessibility
Most fifth wheels come with multiple steps within the cabin like the ones that lead you to the bathroom and the bedroom. So, if you have a family member who has difficulty climbing steps, this may not be the RV you’ll want to buy.
On the other hand, a travel trailer tends to be more accessible. This makes it a fantastic travel option for families looking for a way to travel together.
Ready to look at towable RVs for sale? Visit The Outpost RV and let our team show you our collection of fifth wheels and travel trailers for sale. We’re in Middlebury, IN, and proudly serve all those from Kalamazoo. So, stop by today.