7 Key Differences Between Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers

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7 Key Differences Between Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers 

If you're thinking about purchasing a trailer or if you've had one in the past, you've likely been faced with a decision: fifth wheel or traditional travel trailer? There are definitely pros and cons for each one, and the model you choose depends on your needs, budget, and what you'll be primarily using the trailer for. There are a lot of factors to consider when you're making the decision, so it's important to weigh all of the pros and cons before purchasing your new home away from home. 

Before we get into the differences between travel trailers and fifth wheels, it's important to understand what they are. Traditional travel trailers are the most common type of trailer and are what most people think of when they picture a camper. They're towed behind a vehicle, typically with two axle hitches. They can be towed with trucks, powerful SUVs, and in some cases, crossovers (if the trailer is on the smaller side). They are pulled with a hitch that goes on the back of the truck so you can use the bed for storage and packing. 

On the other hand, fifth wheels are also towed behind a vehicle, but they use a specialized hitch that's installed in the bed of a pickup truck. Fifth wheel trailers have extra living or storage space that goes over the bed of the truck, making them an entirely different piece of equipment to tow to a destination. 

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's take a look at some of the key differences between these two types of trailers. 

Cost 

Cost is always an important consideration when you're making any kind of purchase, and RVs are no exception. In general, fifth wheels tend to be more expensive than travel trailers. This is because they're larger and have more features than travel trailers. If you're working with a limited budget, a travel trailer might be the way to go. 

However, it's important to keep in mind that the cost of a fifth wheel vs. a travel trailer also depends on the size and features that you're looking for. In some cases, you might be able to find a smaller fifth wheel that's comparable in price to a larger travel trailer. It really just depends on your specific needs and what you're looking for in an RV. 

Size 

Fifth wheels are generally larger than travel trailers. This extra space can be great if you're planning on spending extended periods of time in your RV or if you have a large family. The added space means that there's more room for storage, which can be extremely important if you're going to be traveling across the country or spending a lot of time camping. Plus, if you have a lot of kids, the extra sleeping space that goes over the bed of the truck can be a game changer. 

Again, on the other hand, some traditional travel trailers can be bigger than a fifth wheel – it all just depends on what you're looking for and what your budget is. 

Space 

As we mentioned before, fifth wheels have more space than travel trailers. This is because of the extra living or storage space that goes over the bed of the truck. If you're planning on spending a lot of time in your RV or if you need extra storage space, a fifth wheel might be a better option for you. They also tend to have more spacious amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, and even master bedrooms. If you're looking for something that feels more like a home, a fifth wheel will give you that effect. 

Function 

If you camp with a lot of toys like ATVs, dirt bikes, RZR vehicles, etc., a toy hauler fifth wheel would be the best option for you. The back opens up like a garage so you can store your bigger items without having to tow them separately! Plus, toy haulers often have the most room out of any trailers, so if you're looking for something spacious, this is the way to go. 

Towing 

Towing a fifth wheel requires a little more experience than towing a travel trailer. This is because fifth wheels are larger and heavier, and they require special hitches. If you're new to the camping world, you might want to start with a travel trailer so you can get used to the process of towing something behind your truck. Before you set out on the road, it's important to practice driving, parking, backing in, and maneuvering your travel trailer or fifth wheel. 

Hitch

One of the main differences between fifth wheels and travel trailers is the way they're hitched to your vehicle. Fifth wheels are designed to be towed by a pickup truck with a special hitch mounted in the bed, while small travel trailers can be pulled by SUVs and crossover vehicles. If you don't have a truck that's capable of pulling a fifth wheel, then your only option is a travel trailer. Fifth wheels also tend to be heavier, so you'll need a truck with a powerful engine. Your sales associate will be able to tell you whether your truck will work with the trailer you're looking at. 

Locations 

Another factor to consider is where you'll be doing most of your camping. If you plan on spending most of your time in RV parks with hookups, then a fifth wheel might be the better option. They require less maintenance than travel trailers and can be hooked up to water and sewer without any issues. Travel trailers are better suited for dry camping or boon-docking, since they're easier to move around if you need to find a new spot.

Fifth wheels are also better for those who plan to spend a lot of time in their trailer, since they have more space and amenities. Travel trailers are more convenient for those who want to be able to move around more easily or camp in different spots. 

There's a type of trailer out there that's perfect for you no matter what your needs and personal preferences are. Just make sure to do your research before making a purchase so that you end up with the perfect home away from home. We hope this was helpful in deciding which type of trailer is right for you.

Happy camping! 

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