Travel Trailer vs. Fifth Wheel: Which One Is Right for Me?

When you’re hunting for a towable RV, two of the most popular options are fifth wheels and travel trailers. They are both outstanding choices, making it hard to decide which is best for your needs. So, if you’re torn between a travel trailer versus a fifth wheel, this post will help you make a more informed selection.

Read on to find out the similarities, differences, and features of these two distinct RVs to give you a clear picture of what they each have to offer. Also, discover which option is best for different types of RVers.

Travel Trailer vs. Fifth Wheel: Definitions

In case you’re unsure of what a travel trailer and fifth wheel are, here’s a quick rundown.

What is a Travel Trailer?

Travel trailers are the most popular type of non-motorized RV. They are towed by hitching the trailer to the tow vehicle’s bumper or frame hitch. These rigs come in a wide variety of floor plans, and their weights can be as light as 3,000 lbs or heavier than 10,000 lbs. They are approximately 12 to 40 feet long.

What is a Fifth- Wheel RV?

Fifth wheels are the largest, most spacious, and among the heaviest type of towable RVs. To tow, you need to connect it to a truck via a hitch mounted in the center of the truck bed as opposed to the rear bumper. Because of this hitch, they have a raised forward section. Lengthwise, they measure about 25 to 40 feet.

What are the Similarities Between a Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel?

Fifth wheels and travel trailers have a lot of similarities. The most obvious is that they both don’t have an engine, so they are pulled by a towing vehicle. Another resemblance is that they both come with most of the amenities of a home, including multiple comfortable beds, a kitchen, a full bathroom, climate control, dining and lounging space, entertainment features, and ample storage.

Again, with both fifth wheels and travel trailers, you’ll be able to detach the camper from your tow vehicle when you get to your campsite. Then, you can use your vehicle to explore or run errands without having to haul the massive trailer around. Financially, both of these towables almost always cost less to buy than motorhomes. Plus, they’re cheaper to insure.

What Are the Differences Between a Travel Trailer and a Fifth Wheel?

By the end of this section, you’ll better understand fifth wheel versus travel trailer pros and cons. Keep reading to learn the main differences between the two — and discover which type would be better for you.

Size

Fifth wheels are generally longer, most starting from 25 feet and maxing out at around 40 feet. Travel trailers, on the other hand, are more varied, and can be as short as 12 feet and as long as 40.

Heightwise, fifth wheels almost always come with significantly taller ceilings, although the headroom in the front area above the tow truck bed is significantly less.

Luxury Features

Travel trailers generally have fewer amenities than fifth wheels. That’s because manufacturers try to keep the weight low to ensure the rig tows safely. Fifth wheels, especially the massive models, come with the amenities of an upscale home, from spacious floorplans and multiple bathrooms to  dedicated office space and high-end appliances.

Slide-Outs

It’s common to come across fifth wheels that have three or more slide-outs, helping expand the already large interior. When it comes to travel trailers, you’re more likely to find just one or two slides.

Storage Space

The storage space of a fifth wheel is usually larger because its multi-level design opens up space underneath the living area. However, a fifth-wheel hitch will occupy a large percentage of your truck bed, which means you won’t be able to haul very much gear in the bed. With a travel trailer, however, you can use the entire truck bed.

Truck Requirements

Fifth wheels will always require you to invest in a 3/4-ton truck or larger. Yet, larger trucks have a larger price tag, plus they aren’t ideal daily drivers. Travel trailers, on the other hand, can often be pulled with smaller trucks, SUVs, minivans, and even cars, depending on the towing capacity and weight restrictions.

Ease of Towing

Small and ultra-light travel trailers tow better than fifth wheels. But when it comes to larger travel trailers versus fifth wheels of the same size, the fifth-wheel RV offers a more stable towing experience. That’s because it distributes the weight of the trailer evenly from a secure central anchor. If you ever need assistance on the road, it’s crucial to have a dependable towing company ready to help, especially when navigating tight spots or unforeseen issues during your trip.

Price

The price difference between a fifth wheel and a travel trailer is considerable. Buying a travel trailer typically costs between $11,000 and $50,000, while a new fifth wheel will set you back by $35,000 for a small model to over $100,000 for a bigger, more luxurious design.

Fuel Economy

Since fifth wheels have a much higher profile and are normally heavier, they aren’t great if you want to save on fuel. Plus, you’ll require a heavy-duty, gas-guzzling tow vehicle. So, if gas is usually more expensive in your state compared to the national average, fuel economy is an important factor to consider. Travel trailers can help you save on gas if you go for a lightweight option.

Travel Trailer vs. Fifth Wheel: Which One Suits Your Lifestyle?

The best way figure out which of these two RVs is perfect for you is to first determine exactly how you intend to use it. Let’s look at the best fit for different RVers and camping styles.

Best Option for Families or Large Groups

If you’ll be traveling with a big group of friends or family, a large travel trailer or fifth wheel will work just fine. But if you want an added level of privacy, the split-level layouts of a fifth wheel will come in handy. It helps block sound and makes each room feel a bit more private.

Best Option for Full-time RVing

A fifth-wheel trailer is ideal for full-time living. The separate rooms, upstairs master bedroom, multiple slide-outs, and wide array of amenities mimic the feel of a brick-and-mortar apartment, something most travel trailers can’t match.

Best Option for Boondocking and Visiting National Parks

Between a travel trailer and fifth wheel, the best option for going off the beaten track is a travel trailer. Many fifth wheels might be too big for many of the spaces at state or national parks. For example, their height can make it more difficult to maneuver them through areas with lots of trees with lower branches and their width with the slide-outs deployed can make it difficult to fit comfortably in certain campsites.

Best Option for Budget Adventurers

A travel trailer is more desirable for anyone who wants to keep the RVing start-up costs and future travel expenses low. That’s because it’s cheaper to buy, insure, and maintain, plus it doesn’t affect the tow vehicle’s fuel efficiency as significantly as a 5th wheel due to weight. Also, unlike a fifth wheel, you may not need to invest in a big truck if you go for a smaller travel trailer.

Best Option for Hauling Toys

If you want to bring your motorized toys or other outdoor gear so you can venture beyond the campground, buy a travel trailer. It’s a better option since it allows you to use the back of the truck to haul your toys. But you still have to be mindful of towing capacity and weight restrictions. A fifth wheel, on the other hand, occupies most of the truck bed. If you don’t mind sacrificing some interior space on your fifth wheel, consider a toy hauler, which is a giant fifth wheel with a spacious garage designed to carry auxiliary vehicles. There are also some travel trailer toy haulers.

Best Option for Spontaneous Travelers

If you’re the kind of RVer who loves to explore all kinds of places and events, whether in cities or remote destinations, a smaller travel trailer will serve you better. It can maneuver better in crowded city streets and reach off-grid locations without much trouble. Plus, finding parking spots at tailgating events or around tourist attractions won’t be a problem.

Best Option for RVers with Mobility Concerns

If mobility is a concern for you, pick a travel trailer. Many fifth wheels usually have some steps in the interior cabin–mostly to get to the bathroom and the master bedroom – so they aren’t a good fit for wheelchair-bound travelers. Furthermore, travel trailers sit lower than most motorhomes and fivers, making it less tricky to board.

Final Thoughts About Travel Trailers vs. Fifth Wheels

Now that you know what to expect from both of these towables, choosing between a travel trailer versus a fifth wheel doesn’t have to be a dilemma. They are both designed differently and aimed at different types of campers. So, before making up your mind, reflect on what type of RVer you are, the type of tow vehicle you will have, and which features are a must-have. Next, head out to your nearest RV dealer or RV show to check out the different travel trailer and fifth-wheel models. There, you can discover the type of RV that would be a great fit for you.