Best 5th Wheels – Luxury on the Road

| Last Updated: October 14, 2022

The Best 5th Wheels

For die-hard road trippers and long term campers, 5th wheels are one of the best RV choices out there. They're not only suitable for bigger families but also provide both luxury and comfort to larger groups. Since they offer a wide and spacious area, they also allow you to relax and plan longer trips anytime you want.

It's a common notion among non-road trippers that luxury has to be at home and life on the road lacks any leisurely extravagance. Nothing could be further from the truth, especially with fifth wheels.

In this article, we discuss everything you get in the best fifth wheels, from full RV camping experience to bunk beds, luxury kitchens, and even garage and workspace with Toy Haulers.

Getting a 5th wheel is a big investment, so we include all the necessary information you need in order to make sure you know what to look for. So, if you're looking forward to having a regular weekend of your dreams, or even thinking about getting one for full-time living, we recommend you give this article a thorough read.  

5th wheel camper

What is a 5th Wheel Camper? 

Simply put, a fifth wheel is a towable RV that's typically bigger and more luxurious than your usual pop up camper or the common travel trailer. It also requires a special gooseneck hitch that needs to be separately installed in the bed of your truck. And being so big, fifth wheels tend to require a much larger tow vehicle than any other trailer in the market.

In some ways, fifth wheels are similar to Class A motorhomes, and like Class As some boast large bathrooms and proper closets. Not only that, but some 5th wheels offer many grand and luxurious items, such as residential appliances, heaters, washer/dryer combos and much more.

Of course, there's also ample space for people to relax and sleep. All this makes the fifth wheel camper an ideal choice for any road trip. 

Why Do They Call it a 5th Wheel?

The term '5th wheel' comes from a very similar coupling that's used for four-wheel wagons and carriages. There's an additional wheel placed on the rear frame section, and it's this wheel that gives it its name ‘fifth wheel.’

luxury 5th wheel being towed

What is a 5th Wheel Best for? 

There are a many reasons people buy this luxurious and often expensive RV. It's not only used to create amazing experiences and memories on the road, but it can also be used as a home or business too. Allow us to explain...

Use a 5th Wheel for Luxurious Travel

The best use of an RV is that it can accommodate a large group or family for a camping trip. They're not only very spacious but also come with relatively higher ceilings, and sometimes with one or more slide-outs. 

As well as this, they boast large and attractive scenic windows that provide an excellent view of the outside. And best of all, there are many really attractive designs and upgrades available that allow you to customize your own 5th wheel.

Residence

The idea of living full-time in an RV, such as a fifth wheel, is gaining popularity. Many models offer high-end touches that allow you to make your 5th wheel camper as luxury as your home. Some models also offer space for additional cabinets and can easily house large electrical appliances, making them ideal to live inside full time.

Renting 

Buying a fifth wheel takes a certain toll on your purse, and if you don't use it often you probably aren't getting value for money. If that's the case, you can always rent your 5th wheel camper out to people and earn a good amount of money through it.

What Should I Look For When Buying a 5th Wheel? 

We have already established that a fifth wheel camper comes in handy for a few reasons. Now, it's to understand what you should look for when buying a 5th wheel. Always look at the principal features if you want to make the perfect investment. Here are some to look out for:

Purpose

Before anything else, you need to focus on the purpose behind your purchase. If you're looking to take your RV for camping trips regularly and demand luxury, you should definitely consider a more spacious and luxurious model. Of course, this will add to the cost, but if you can afford it, all the mod cons will enhance every trip.

However, if you are looking to rent your RV or use it to transport goods, you don’t need to prioritize luxury over comfort, so don't go spending too much on life's little luxuries. 

5th wheel being towed

Length

Once you've decided on the purpose, it's easier to identify the right length of RV for your needs. When it's full of all your cabinets, additional storage space, and other luxuries, it can take up a lot of space, so make sure you go for a 5th wheel with enough length, so you're not too cramped in.

Always consider who will be going with you. Is it just you and your partner, or do you have a family? Will friends be going along with you regularly? Many things to consider before you know what length 5th wheel you would like.

Some RV parks, caravan parks and campgrounds also come with length restrictions, so you need to keep this in mind.

Weight

The longer the fifth wheel, usually means the heavier it will be. But you have to consider the weight of your fifth wheel camper for different reasons. When considering the weight, you have to take into account your truck and how much its towing capacity is.

You'll need to do some calculations to determine the fifth wheel size and weight your truck can safely tow. You may also need to consider the trailer’s cargo carrying capacity if you're thinking of transporting goods in your trailer. 

Holding Tanks

Many people go camping for extended periods, and it can be a hassle if your fifth wheel camper only has a small holding tank. Many models only have tanks that hold water only for three to four days, so try get a 5th wheel that has a larger holding tank so you don't have to deal with it too often.

Review of the Best Fifth Wheels

It's very easy for people who are very enthusiastic about buying the best 5th wheel to be swayed by cheap marketing tactics. Many people end up choosing luxurious models that don’t actually provide that much comfort. This section will introduce excellent models that boast a plethora of amazing features without compromising on durability, safety, and comfort.  

Best Overall 5th Wheel:
Grand Design Solitude

Best Overall 5th Wheel: Grand Design Solitude

Pros

  • Heavy-duty tires allow for a smoother ride
  • Comes with a wooden truss-framed roof that is very durable
  • Racetrack ducting ensures the most efficient cooling possible
  • TPO roof covering won't chalk or streak
  • Underbelly is fully enclosed and insulated

Cons

  • Limited warranty

What Recent Buyers Report

When it comes to the Grand Design Solitude 5th wheel, you have to consider things like the cost and the design. Luckily for buyers, this model comes with a wooden truss framing that enhances strength. Many buyers praise the underbelly that's insulated on all sides, helping keep the warmth inside when you need it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you're looking for the best fifth wheel on the market, typically one name comes to mind. This model by Grand Design is known for its smooth construction that uses frames laminated aluminum. The roof benefits from fiberglass insulation and a layer of radiant foil insulation that covers the roof, and the main floor is triple insulated, all making for a very well constructed and insulated 5th wheel camper.

As for the decor, as you might expect, it's absolutely magnificent. Everything from the porcelain bathroom to the beautiful kitchen are simply magnificnet. The Grand Design Solitude comes standard with a 60" x 80" Queen bed, or you can upgrade to a King Size bed if you prefer. 

Bottom Line

The Grand Design Solitude is simply a luxury fifth wheel that we highly recommend. From amazing construction to super insulation you will be well protected inside. The interior is simply stunning with nothing left to chance. The only worry we have with this stunning 5th wheel camper is that you might not wan to go outside.

Forest River Wildcat Fifth Wheel

Forest River Wildcat Fifth Wheel

Pros

  • Comes with extra spacing
  • Power theatre seating comes with LED lights
  • Vehicle comes with a Maxx Insulation package
  • Arched roofs come with a high-profile radius wrap
  • ABP panels come with removable underbelly armor

Cons

  • Receiver hitch is relatively smaller

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers love the aesthetic appeal of this model, with many mentioning the massage seating and colorful LED lights setting around the theatre. They also appreciate that you can choose from a variety of purposes and enjoy greater customization. Many other reviews mention the high quality insulation package that comes standard with this 5th wheel camper.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The best things about this model are its construction and amazing spacious design. Good construction is absolutely non-negotiable when it comes to the fifth wheels. The use of durable and high-end material allows for greater longevity. On top of that, there are smooth and strong rear and front walls that allow for extra durability.

As you would expect it is decorated beautifully throughout with top quality materials and accessories. We could mention everything, but the hidden lift-up TV storage, arched roofs, Thomas Payne Theater Seating, and remote controlled electric fireplace all help set the scene of luxury.

Bottom Line

Quite simply, the Forest River Wildcat Fifth Wheel is stunning and durable. If you want to live in luxury while you're out on the road, you should definitely consider this model. Check the website out and see for yourself.

Best 5th Wheel for the Money:
Redwood RV Redwood Fifth Wheel

Best for the Money: Redwood RV Redwood Fifth Wheel

Pros

  • A hitch light is present on top of the pin box
  • Welded aluminum structure is used for the sidewalls
  • Four-step entry comes with an extra-wide 30-inch hinge door
  • Comes with a tongue and groove plywood floor for extra durability

Cons

  • Hitch light lacks durability

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers absolutely loved this fifth wheel. They commended both the exterior and the interior of the model, which is enhanced by the groove and tongue plywood flooring. They also like the aluminum structure that is properly welded to enhance strength. The sidewalls have also been complimented frequently by buyers.

Why it Stands Out to Us

There is a reason why this company has managed to build a loyal following in a very short duration. This is because it has never compromised on either efficiency or affordability. The model is built using the brand's F.I.T. 2.0 Technology which ensures a strong foundation. There's an extra-wide entry that allows easy access to the inside of the RV, too.

Of course, the vehicle is filled with quality materials and has been decorated perfectly. The brand calls its kitchens 'Dream Kitchens' and they are that. Home from home here, and it's simply somewhere you could happily spend time making some amazing meals for you and the family.

If it's a year round fifth wheel you're looking for, consider this one too as the heating and cooling system is as good as you can get

Bottom Line

First impressions are the last impressions and certainly the most important ones. The first time you enter this 5th wheel, you'll not want to leave. Luxury throughout, and very spacious, and best of all it's a very reasonable price.

Great 5th Wheel For Full Time Living:
KZ Durango Gold

Pros

  • Offers comfort in all areas
  • Has multiple slide-out rooms
  • Allows for numerous flexible updates
  • Can accommodate king beds and walk-in closets
  • Provides all residential furniture that comes in handy for the full experience

Cons

  • Not very luxurious

What Recent Buyers Report

Most people buy fifth wheels for camping and vacation purposes, and they don’t really look at it as a residential area. However, many buyers using their models as full-time living spaces loved getting their hands on this one. It not only allows for luxurious space but also contains everything that you need to live comfortably inside. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you are looking to live the dream, then this is definitely the right 5th wheel camper for you. It is undoubtedly one of the best fifth wheels in the market. Durango Gold is not only one of the most comfortable models in the market, but it also provides excellent residential features that make this model the perfect home. 

There's the chef’s kitchen, with a kitchen island, that allows you to cook comfortably in a large, luxurious space. The living area is just as luxurious and spacious. Theater seating with cupholders, USB plug, heat, massage, and power recline/decline really make for an amazing experience. A 65" television is standard, and a remote control electric fireplace really sets the scene. 

The bed is super size 70" by 80" so living here full time will not be a tight fit. And if all the above isn't enough to convince you, there's a portable decking area that is easy to set up and can fold away into one of the many storage areas when you're not using it.

Bottom Line

This is by far the best RV for full-time living. Luxury, quality and of course comfort is everywhere in this fifth wheel camper. We could go on., but you really have to look at the website to see its complete list of features.

Best Half Ton Towable Fifth Wheels:
KZ Durango Half-Ton

Best Half Ton Towable Fifth Wheels: KZ Durango Half-Ton

Pros

  • Suitable for all harsh climates
  • Very easy to tow and maintain
  • All floor plans are under 12000 pounds of GVWR
  • Allows you to choose from 11 different floor plans
  • Warranty covers everything from the hitch to the bumper

Cons

  • Towing it puts quite a lot of burden on a gasoline engine, which can add to the fuel cost

What Recent Buyers Report

Diversity is one of the best things associated with this fifth wheel camper, and buyers absolutely love that. They love the fact that they can choose from 11 different floor plans that are all under 12,000 pounds GVWR. Many also praised the model’s ability to provide double the coverage provided by other similar trailers. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you've always wanted to go fifth wheeling but have always ummed and aahed, then this is just the right one for you. This model is one of the latest additions to the company’s collection, and it offers pretty much all the features that you need to up your experience. The best thing is the mid-profile rig that is nicely equipped with above-standard features and a luxurious look. 

The company has also ensured that the interior matches that of the exterior. A sumptuous décor allows for excellent entertainment features to keep you happy and content all day long. What we really like about this one, however, is the option of 11 different floor plans. You can really make your own space here. 

Bottom Line

This is a beautiful fifth wheel trailer from Durango. it has the luxury you need and demand, and it's also made of high quality interior and exterior. Best of all, there are many different floorplans to choose from so you can really individualise your trailer.

5th Wheel Toy Hauler:
Montana High Country 381TH

Best 5th Wheel Toy Hauler: Montana High Country 381TH

Pros

  • Comes with large water tanks
  • Rear wall is double insulated to ensure durability
  • Wires are numbered and color-coded for convenience
  • Comes with roof rafters and seamless thick floor decking
  • All the walls and floors are welded with durable aluminum

Cons

What Recent Buyers Report

It is very important for buyers to feel content with their investment, especially when they have spent a large amount of money. And they certainly are happy with their choice. They are all praises for the large water tanks as well as the laminated rear walls that enhance durability. Moreover, they like the roof rafters that further add to its appeal.

Why it Stands Out to Us

A list that includes the best fifth wheels in the market would be incomplete without the inclusion of this excellent model. Its best features are that it comes with easy sweep master bedrooms that allow for easy cleaning and maintenance of the interior. The flooring is made of Vinyl, which gives it a smooth feeling and allows you to feel royal inside your vehicle. 

The bathrooms are spacious and come with a porcelain foot flush toilet. There is also an under-mount sink that keeps the hygiene intact. Not to mention, there is a skylight over the shower that makes the bathrooms very attractive. The seamless countertop is also worth appreciating.

Bottom Line

Comfort and luxury come together to make the best out of your camping experience. This Montana High Country model is known for its excellent floor decking. It also comes with a thick and seamless design that adds finesse to the interior. Moreover, the floors and walls are properly welded to ensure greater durability.

Best Mid Bunk Fifth Wheel:
Jayco 355MBQS

Pros

  • Comes with a standard LED fireplace
  • Provides a large and reliable drinking water station
  • Features standard dual-whisper quiet air conditioners
  • Electric auto-leveling enhances the safety of your model
  • Offers easy and quick upgrades so you can enjoy greater customization

Cons

  • Design adds extra length and weight to the trailer

What Recent Buyers Report

Nearly all buyers are very honest when it comes to opinions, and this is why we trust a lot of what they have to say. When it comes to this fifth wheel, they have praised the electric auto-leveling that enhances the safety of your model. Moreover, this Jayco unit offers quick and easy upgrades that allow buyers to enjoy convenience and customization.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is undoubtedly one of the best-selling fifth wheels in the market, and there are solid reasons why. The main reason why this model from Jayco stands out is that it offers ease of usage. This is because a full electrical system is incorporated into a design that makes everything accessible and running smoothly. The 'Smart RV' system is better than the standard system that is usually included in the unit. 

As soon as you enter the vehicle, you will see an excellent LED fireplace that makes the inside appear very cozy and comfortable. There is also diversity in flooring that allows you to choose the one that you like best. There are also standard dual-whisper air conditioners that provide the quietest operations.

Bottom Line

Of all the features that make this a unique model, the best one is most definitely the large water tanks. This is imperative to the success of a good camping trip. It features standardized dual-whisper air conditioners that keep the temperature very suitable. On top of that, there are LED fireplaces that keep the heating accurate.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 5th Wheels 

Advantages

Spacious

The best thing about this type of RV is that it offers an abundance of space - more than enough to cater to all your needs. You can not only sit and sleep comfortably inside, but you can also make use of the many storage cabinets, durable hard floors, and large water tanks. 

5th wheel and starry sky

Diversity

Not everyone wants to use large fifth wheels for camping only. Some people want to transport goods or even use them as temporary residential areas. For them, there are a plethora of options to choose from, and the floor plan options are endless.

Excellent Stability

One of the best things about fifth wheels is that they provide excellent stability when towing. They're not only smooth and easy to tow but you'll also experience relatively less sway. On top of that, the overall design makes the unit more aerodynamic, which further adds to its appeal.

Disadvantages

Of course, nothing is perfect.

Price

For starters, relative to other trailer types, the fifth wheels are very expensive. The cost further increases if you buy more luxurious models, or you buy a trailer that is longer in length.

Maintenance Cost

The initial cost of buying a 5th wheel is high, but maintaining it isn't cheap either.

Size

While large size is very much an advantage in most cases, the size of a large fifth wheel means you won't be able to enjoy the offroading and extremely remote areas you can with a truck bed tent, or even a small trailer.

5th wheel interior is absolute luxury

Redwood RV Redwood Fifth Wheel (Source)

Fifth Wheel Camper Comparison Overview 

Gooseneck vs 5th Wheel

Both these types offer different but equally appealing features, and for this reason it's often hard to choose between them. For starters, a fifth wheel hitch is much better for recreational towing than a gooseneck hitch. The latter is preferred for commercial and farming towing.

Fifth wheel hitches not only provide better stability but also appear smoother in their function. Gooseneck hitches are recommended because they offer a very minimalistic and invasive design. This makes towing relatively easier and safer.

5th Wheel Camper vs Travel Trailer

Travel trailers, as a general principle, are often smaller in size to fifth wheels. Smaller units are obviously easier and safer to tow. However, if you compare two models of similar size, you'll realize that fifth wheels are not only safer to tow, but they're also much easier to maneuver. This is mainly because the hitch point is at a very suitable location.

Another reason why people prefer the fifth wheels is because they offer an abundance of space for relaxing during camping trips. On the other hand, travel trailers may seem a bit congested because they come with restricted space.

playing frisbee outside 5th wheel camper

Motorhome vs 5th Wheel

Many people prefer fifth wheels because they offer more space for living and housing than motorhomes of a similar size. This is because the slides that exist in motorhomes tend to be shallow and decrease the overall space. The fifth wheel's actual square footage is relatively large, so it can house taller ceilings, and they also offer more diversity in their design and features.

However, many people are attracted to motorhomes because of their relative affordability when it. The costs required for their maintenance is also lower, and motorhomes tend to be easier to tow.

5th Wheel vs Bumper Pull

One of the most common types of hitch is the bumper pull. It's also known as a tagalong or a drag trailer and is quite popular among customers. However, many people find the name to be slightly misleading because the trailer doesn't have the capability to actually connect to the tow vehicle's bumper. What actually happens is that the tongue of the trailer fits over the ball hitch. It will also jut out from the frame of the vehicle in the direction of the rear end.

On the other hand, a fifth wheel is a very large trailer that will require a fifth wheel hitch to tow. Such units are also extremely heavy and require a very heavy and full-sized tow. Another important thing to note is that the coupling needs to be in the bed of the truck.

Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel

Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel

5th Wheel vs Class A

Class A is undoubtedly the biggest RV class trailer that exists and is synonymous with luxury. Such units are also extremely long and wide and can accommodate a lot of accessories that you might need during camping. However, they are also extremely expensive, and the maintenance costs are also very high.

On the other hand, fifth wheels are large trailers that many prefer because of their equally spacious and large design. 5th wheels also boast a plethora of important and luxury equipment inside. However, if you're looking for ultimate luxury and you can afford it, then you should definitely be looking at a class A trailer. 

Grand Design Solitude vs Keystone Montana

These are two of the most popular 5th wheel campers in the market and offer similar features. Grand Design Solitude is known for being one of the most spacious designs in the market. It comes with extremely tall ceilings and very deep cabinets, giving you ample space for other things like beds, tables, sofas. There's also a large scenic window and a full tall slide-out that further adds to its appeal.

On the other hand, Montana provides luxury, comfort, and convenience, all in the same design. It's synonymous with pleasure and is more suited for frequent and long travels, and it comes with a very good warranty. 

5th Wheel Tips, Tricks, and Hacks for Success

You can be a true pro when it comes to cars and bikes, but when it comes to huge vehicles, you'll definitely need to pick up a few other tips and tricks. These will not only help you enhance your experience but also help you practice caution on the road. Here are some of the top tips, tricks, and hacks that you need for success.  

Exhaust Pipes Tips

Many fifth wheel owners get annoyed when they have to deal with their pipes, making a lot of noise. This problem worsens when you've been driving the trailer for some time. A good way to avoid the situation is to reroute the exhaust pipes. However, before you make any modifications, remember that you might affect the warranty.

5th wheel being towed

Fifth Wheel Towing Tips

There's no point in investing in a model if you're unable to tow it properly. Here is a perfect tip to help with that: 

Hitch Tips

This is something anyone looking to drive an RV will need to know. You'll not only have to account for the weight of your RV, but you also need to add the weight of the vehicle used for towing. Together, these weights should never exceed the weight limit. In order to accurately weigh the vehicles, you can either use a CAT scale or a quarry scale.

Fifth Wheel Camping Tips

Camping is one of the top uses of the fifth wheels. Here are some tips that will definitely come in handy before you set off.

Weight Limit

This is critical to remember. Every model will come with a weight limit, and if you don’t want to end up in any accidents, it's recommended you don’t exceed it at any cost. Mostly, models offer a weight limit of 24,000 pounds or even more. This weight includes the weight of your trailer when you have everything in it.

Higher Altitudes

Like with any other vehicle, driving an RV at higher altitudes also requires special attention and focus. The higher the altitude gets, the more power will be needed by your truck's engine. For example, if you elevate a total of 1000 feet, your truck's engine will experience a three to four percent drop in power. 

One of the best ways to avoid any serious drop is to decrease the load on the trailer. You should start by getting rid of any non-essential gear or water tanks.

5th wheel and truck

People Also Ask - 5th Wheel Camper FAQs

Do 5th Wheels Hold Their Value?

If you sell your 5th wheel, the resale value isn't very high, and you'll especially face a sizeable drop in value after 5 years or so. The initial cost of the RV may be very high, but you can easily recover this cost if you account for your weekend trips and the money you would otherwise have to spend on accommodation and renting cars, so as long as you use your 5th wheel trailer, you should get value for for money.

How Long Will a Fifth Wheel Last?

Like any other vehicle, this also depends on how you treat your vehicle. Things like good and timely maintenance will definitely increase the longevity of the model. But, on average, a good-sized model will last around 10 to 15 years. The number of years increases when you buy higher-end models. 

Can You Live in a 5th Wheel on Your Property?

This depends on which state you are living in. Living in your RV on your own land is not illegal, but there are no absolute laws on how long you can live inside your RV. If you live in it permanently, you might be breaking the law in some states. 

What Size Truck Do I Need to Pull a 5th Wheel?

The weight capacity and model will determine the truck you need to pull it. A half-ton truck like the Ram 1500, or the Ford F-150, or even the Chevy Silverado 1500, is going to be enough to pull any fifth wheel. However, fifth wheels that are slightly longer and wider may require a Ram 2500 or a Ford F-250. 

Are 5th Wheels Easier to Tow?

This really depends on whether you are following some important tips and tricks required for easy maneuvering. A fifth wheel can be easy to maneuver and is considered very safe. This is because, compared to travel trailers, the hitch point is located at a suitable point. This makes the process of towing relatively easier for similar-sized models.

What is the Average Weight of a 5th Wheel?

The average weight of a common model will be around 12,700 pounds. This is the weight of an empty model that doesn't contain any additional gear or equipment. There are also some models that have an average weight of 24000 pounds when loaded. The largest wheel camper, however, weighs 16000 pounds when it's empty and unloaded. 

5th wheel floorplan


Why Are 5th Wheels So Expensive?

Anyone who looks inside a fifth wheel will understand the answer to this question. The trailers are expensive because they provide almost all the amenities of an apartment or a small house. There are tall windows, a massive ceiling, and hard wooden floors. Moreover, they come with large and spacious cabinets, thus making them excellent for a long and fun camping trip.

Do 5th Wheels Sway?

Contrary to popular assumption, fifth wheels don’t actually sway. This is because most of the weight is centered between the truck and the axles, so swaying gets eliminated automatically. 

How Tall Are 5th Wheel Campers?

The average height of a fifth-wheel trailer is anywhere between eight and ten feet. This is from the top of the trailer to the ground. The measurements can vary, depending on the model and the brand of the unit. However, it's illegal for a fifth-wheel RV to be taller than 13.5 feet in most states.

The Best 5th Wheels - Large and Luxurious Camping 

Luxury, comfort, and a plethora of fun is guaranteed every time you take your fifth wheel out on a trip. The initial cost of buying such a vehicle may be high, but you can always rent the RV out when it’s not in use.

You can also use it for storage and transportation purposes, but above all, you can take your family and friends on weekend trips without having to worry about hotels, accommodation, or transportation. 

That said, all the above advantages are dependent on whether you make the right choice with your investment. There are so many models in the market that it is impossible to pick one without proper research. We have included everything you need to know in this article. All you have to do is read it carefully and choose wisely.