Fifth Wheels vs. Travel Trailers: Which To Pick

Two popular types of towable RVs are fifth wheels and travel trailers. The right fit for your family depends on many factors, such as budget and the size of your traveling party. Use the following guide to help make the decision between the camper types easier. 

If you need help deciding or want to shop fifth wheels and travel trailers for sale, visit 47 West Trailers. Our dealership is located in Troy, Missouri, and we also serve those in Columbia and St. Louis.

What's Your Budget?

Think about how much you want to spend on an RV. This budget should include the initial purchase of the camper as well as upkeep costs, such as gas and maintenance.

Travel trailers are the more budget-friendly option since they have lower sticker prices and lower maintenance costs. Fifth wheels usually cost more, but they also come with more spacious interiors and extra features. The key is finding the best bang for your buck. Focus on finding the camper that best matches your lifestyle so you aren't paying for space and features that you don't actually need.

What Are You Comfortable Towing?

Fifth wheels and travel trailers need to be transported with a tow vehicle. But the two campers offer different towing experiences.

Fifth wheels are usually considered easier to tow. The hitch style of a fifth wheel creates an overlap with the tow vehicle, which leads to a more stable towing experience. Travel trailers are more vulnerable to trailer sway and require the use of towing chains. Those newer or less comfortable with towing will want to consider a fifth wheel.

What Is Your Tow Vehicle?

The lightweight nature and hitching style of travel trailers allows them to be towed by most vehicles, including vans and SUVs. The hitch design of a fifth wheel means you will have to use a vehicle with a truck bed.

How Much Space Do You Want and Need?

Fifth wheels are more spacious RVs. The coupling system allows fifth wheels to be built wider, longer, and heavier than a travel trailer. Fifth wheels can accommodate a higher number of passengers, which is great for larger groups of travelers. The living space inside fifth wheels involves a more spacious kitchen, dining room, living room, and so on. If you want an RV with a larger interior, a fifth wheel is a great match.

Ready to shop fifth wheels or travel trailers for sale? Check out the selection at 47 West Trailers. If you aren't sure which type of RV best suits you, our friendly staff is happy to help. Tell us about what you are looking for and we can help you find the most compatible models. Explore our inventory online or at our dealership in Troy, Missouri. We also proudly serve those in Columbia and St. Louis, Missouri.