Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a total beginner, deciding which RV is right for you can be a difficult decision. Ask yourself these questions to narrow down your search, so you can find the perfect RV to fit your lifestyle.
WHAT VEHICLE WILL YOU BE USING TO TOW YOUR FIFTH WHEEL?
While travel trailers attach to your vehicle using the conventional hitch ball system found on most trucks and SUVs, fifth wheels use a special hitch, which can only attach to the bed of a pickup truck. Because fifth wheels tend to be larger and heavier than travel trailers, you’ll need a pickup truck with a high tow capacity. That said, many people find that towing a fifth wheel is easier than towing a travel trailer because of the way it is hitched.
WHAT SIZE FIFTH WHEEL DO YOU NEED?
Fifth wheels have a different floor plan design than other trailers, so while they tend to be slightly larger in length, they have additional living space over the bed of the truck. Because of this, many fifth wheels are split-level with high ceilings, which creates a spacious living space within. While towability will play a large role in determining which size fifth wheel to choose, there will still be an array of floor plans, sizes, amenities, and sleeping capacities to choose from.
DO YOU PREFER SLIDE OUTS?
Fifth wheels tend to be incredibly spacious, and floor plans can include up to six slide outs. They also tend to have more RV storage space than travel trailers. Because of their open design, they offer all the accommodations of a motorhome with a separate, detachable tow vehicle for exploring, which make them perfect for full-time RVers and adventurers.
WHAT TYPE OF FIFTH WHEEL FLOOR PLAN ARE YOU INTERESTED IN?
While most fifth wheels are split-level, there are different floor plans available, with the main variable being whether there’s a front bedroom or a front living area. Some fifth wheels have two bathrooms, as well as outdoor kitchen areas, and even toy hauler garages.
DO YOU HAVE A BRAND PREFERENCE?
Lazydays RV is the #1 Fifth Wheel Dealer in Florida, and with the nation’s largest selection of RV brands, you’ll find the perfect fifth wheel regardless of where your brand loyalty lies. Choose from top brands like Forest River, Grand Design, Keystone RV and Open Range.
SHOULD YOU BUY A NEW OR USED FIFTH WHEEL?
Depending on your price range and RV travel needs, you’ll need to choose between a new and used model. If you do decide to buy a pre-owned fifth wheel, keep in mind that previous owners might not always follow proper preventative maintenance schedules. Because of that, you should only purchase from a dealership you trust and you’ll always want to do the proper research before buying, as warranties tend to vary based on age.
Head over to a Lazydays RV dealership in Tampa, Florida; Tucson, Arizona or Denver, Loveland or Longmont, Colorado to find the perfect fifth wheel for your RV travel needs. You can also check out our other guides, The Ultimate Guide to Travel Trailers, The Ultimate Guide to Pop-Up Campers, and The Ultimate Guide to Class A Motorhomes. Happy travels!
