Due to the comfort they bring to travel, front kitchen fifth wheels are becoming increasingly popular. The addition of a kitchen to the trailer truly lets you experience the homely comfort while you are on the go.
The kitchens are well-equipped with everything you need. They feature countertop spaces, pantry storage, refrigerator, and stoves. And of course, a spacious dinette is typically present in the layout.
There are numerous options available to choose from with different designs, features, and layouts. This article discusses some of the best front kitchen fifth wheels available today.
We've also included a buyer's guide with information you really need to know before buying a front kitchen fifth wheel, or any other type for that matter. There's also a comparison overview and an FAQ section, so by the end of the article, you should be able to make a more informed decision.
Photo credit: rvingplanet.com
Are All Front Kitchen Fifth Wheels The Same?
No, all front kitchen fifth wheels are not the same. The difference is majorly on the basis of size, layout, and the interior of the wheeler. Some have a larger space with a minimalistic layout, while others pack a lot of features in a small space.
The interior design differs on the basis of the number of rooms, their positioning, and overall structuring and positioning of the furniture. Some fifth wheels are intended for use by fewer people and have limited space and furniture, while others can house a large number of people. Hence, in order to get the best deal, you must be fully aware of your requirements.
Benefits of Investing in a Fifth Wheel With a Front Kitchen
Fifth wheels with front kitchen are arguably one of the best RV types. They have plenty of features and can fit the needs of a wide variety of users. The main benefits you can reap from a front kitchen fifth wheel are as follows:
Privacy
With the kitchen at the front, that means the bedroom is moved to the back, allowing for privacy for couples with children or when inviting guests over. Being able to put guests in a private space is a nice option to have.
Palomino Columbus 388FK (Source)
Higher Ceilings
This benefit has less to do with the placement of the kitchen and the upside for the other rooms. With a kitchen in the front, the bathroom and bedroom are moved to the back, allowing for extra headroom with the taller ceilings making you feel less boxed in.
More storage
Owing to their tall interior, fifth wheels have storage space to offer. Usually, there is a large storage compartment under the floor of the RV and an additional storage area at the front. You can easily store your supplies and gear for the trip. Tents, food, luggage, etc., fit fine, and do not crowd the insides of the fifth wheel. With the kitchen at the front, your supplies are at the forefront of the vehicle for ease of access.
Feel of Home
This arrangement makes a fifth wheel feel more open and spacious akin to living in your own home or apartment. It is less boxy and more of a functional space you can enjoy together.
Why Did These Front Kitchen Fifth Wheels Make Our List?
When picking the best models of the front kitchen fifth wheel, we were looking for certain factors. The models that made our list feature factors like enough water storage, towing stability, and easy reversing that impart undeniable utility and convenience of use.
Heartland North Trail (Source)
Stable towing
We all know that an RV is as safe as its ease of towing. An unstable RV with inefficient brakes as well as a flinging RV are both equally dangerous and difficult to tow.
Fifth wheels with a front kitchen having a heavyweight are pinned right over the axle of a heavy-duty truck. Hence, the connection is not only strong but also stable.
However, all the fifth wheels on our list have stable overhead connections with the truck, allowing them to move fluidly behind the truck, following its exact motion. The presence of a direct connection instead of an intermediate hinge greatly adds to the overall towing stability and lowers the chances of the two vehicles crashing or the fifth wheel dangling behind the truck.
Large water storage capacity
This goes for both clean and waste water. Our featured front kitchen fifth wheels come with plenty of water storage space in large tanks. Most have separate tanks for fresh, grey, and black water. Hence, these models can be used for road trips and camping, or other long-route adventures.
Quick backing out
Often, when driving down unknown paths, we are not sure whether we would come across a dead-end or if the road would continue. With RVs, drivers need to be extra careful in planning their route since backing or reversing it could be difficult.
Due to their small towing setup, they need more space to be turned around; otherwise, they need to be backed out separately after disconnecting the hinge.
However, in all of our picks, the direct and overhead connection between the fifth wheel and the truck makes it very easy to back out or reverse. All the driver has to do is reverse the truck, and the fifth wheel follows the motion, unlike larger motor houses for which large space is needed to turn the driving vehicle around so that the RV can follow.
Review of the Best Front Kitchen 5th Wheels
For camping, cross-country expeditions, and intercity trips, front kitchen fifth wheels are popular. With such a vast market and plenty of options to choose from, it might get confusing to decide upon one option. A review of some of the best front kitchen fifth wheels might help ease the decision. For this purpose, this section reviews the top picks we chose based on function and layout.
Best Overall Front Kitchen 5th Wheel Trailer:
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel
Pros
Cons
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Specs
GVWR: 16500lbs
Dry Weight: 13700 lbs
Hitch Weight (Dry): 2915 lbs
Exterior Length: 42’2”
Exterior Height: 43’5”
Interior Height: 106-7/8”
Fresh water capacity: 75 gallons
Gray water capacity: 37 gallons
Black water capacity: 37 gallons
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Floor Plan
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Layout
Only one layout option is available for this model, but it is very well designed. Different areas are divided for ease of use. The sleeping area has a bed, a wardrobe, and an en-suite bathroom. Next to it is the sitting area with an entertainment center and comfortable tri-fold sofas.
The kitchen area lies next to the sitting area, boasting a fridge, microwave, plenty of cabinets, and a cooking range. An L-shaped dinette is also added to this space. The advantage of such divisions is that it allows for organization. Plus, it allows you to rest in peace as well, as you won’t be disturbed in your sleep by the sounds from the kitchen, which is a huge advantage for such small spaces.
Who Is The Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Best For?
This model would work best for long road trips. Routes that have fewer stopovers do not provide the option of frequent refilling or restocking. For this reason, the 75-gallon capacity of freshwater can suffice a family of four to five for three to four days.
Moreover, designated pantry space and a refrigerator also help with stocking enough food to avoid the need for frequent stopovers. This fifth wheel would be very suitable for a medium-sized family or a group of four to five friends.
Popular Features
Some of this fifth wheel's popular features are its well-equipped interior, double awning, and a couple of options available for both bed size and fridge size selection. Inside the RV, you will find a TV, a fully functional shower, wardrobes, and dressers. This allows the home-like organization of your luggage and prevents cluttering.
The kitchen, too, is very nicely equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, cooking range, and designated pantry space. Additionally, there is enough countertop space available to run multiple things at the same time. Lastly, depending upon your need, you can either choose between a king or a queen-sized bed as well as between a smaller and a larger fridge.
Runner-up:
Palomino Columbus 388FK
Pros
Cons
Palomino Columbus 388FK Specs
GVWR: 16709lbs
Dry Weight:
Hitch Weight (Dry): 2350lbs
Exterior Length: 41’2”
Exterior Height: 13’6”
Interior Height:
Fresh water capacity: 79.00 gallons
Gray water capacity:
Black water capacity: 39.00 gallons
Palomino Columbus 388FK Floor Plan
Palomino Columbus 388FK Layout
Palomino understands that the buyer wants to have a homely experience, and it delivers this. This front kitchen fifth wheel is one of the best equipped among our picks. It could have a king or queen-sized bed as the buyer wants, but that’s not all. The bedroom has a proper linen washer area that also includes removable drying racks for maximum space optimization.
A large area for the wardrobe, along with an additional shelf, is present along the wall. The bathroom is second to none and comes complete vanity with two washer sinks and a glass-enclosed showering area facilitated with a shower seat.
The entertainment room has two sofas and a large screen. The screen is visible from the dinette inside the kitchen, too, so that you don’t have to bring your food to the sitting room to enjoy the wall mounted TV. Lastly, the kitchen has a pull-out pantry, prep station, good counter space, and a full cooking range. All of these factors combined make for a very well-managed layout.
Who Is The Palomino Columbus 388FK Best For?
The model offers a very luxurious space while you travel. Everything is built and placed to match the needs of those who want unquestioned comfort in their RV. This fifth wheel is best for a small family of two to three but may be able to accommodate up to four people if the sofas are used for sleeping too.
Popular Features
In the kitchen, the Columbus features soft close cabinets and drawers to make your trip more enjoyable. The solid surface countertops also increase the longevity and homey feel to the space.
The 5000 BTU fireplace provides plenty of warmth and comfort when traveling in cooler temperatures. You can easily relax on the theater seats with USB charging for all your must-have devices. Another convenience feature is the tankless water heater which means you don't have a full water tank and never have to worry about running out of hot water.
Best Front Kitchen Fifth Wheel for the Money:
Keystone RV Cougar 367FLS
Pros
Cons
Keystone RV Cougar 367FLS Specs
GVWR: 11100 lbs
Dry Weight:
Hitch Weight (Dry): 2455 lbs
Exterior Length: 39’4”
Exterior Height: 12’5”
Interior Height:
Fresh water capacity: 81 gallons
Gray water capacity: 76 gallons
Black water capacity: 31 gallons
Keystone RV Cougar 367FLS Floor Plan
Keystone RV Cougar 367FLS Layout
With quite a spacious interior, this front kitchen fifth wheel could be designed according to the user’s needs, based on where they plan to go. Beds, sofa beds, an entertainment center, and a fully functional kitchen are the basic features, but you can upgrade the space with any of the six packages available.
Based on your need, you can get a more robust A/C, Wi-Fi connectivity, or design updates like glazed hardwood, etc. In either case, Cougar wants to give users the best experience. Moreover, a 20” awning is included in all designs for outdoor activities. A 70”x80” king-sized bed along with two sleep sofas are enough to cater to quite a number of people.
Who Is The Keystone RV Cougar 367FLS Best For?
A larger group of around eight people would find this fifth wheel suitable for their use. After that, depending on what they prefer, they can get customized interiors suitable for their adventure. Be it camping, luxury travel, or road trip in style, Cougar has buyers covered.
The water capacity is enough to serve around eight people, and so are the bedding arrangements. A king-sized bed could be shared between three people, while two double-seated sleeping sofas can take care of the rest.
Popular Features
Cougar has given quite some consideration to the attention to detail in this model. The resulting design provides maximum customer satisfaction and user comfort. Things like a linen washer and dryer, an 80+ gallon of fresh water capacity, and underfloor storage are some of the most popular features in this fifth wheel model.
When outside the RV, you can extend the awning and even use the optional free-standing dinette to eat your meals out in the open. Now, you can enjoy your trips in style, convenience, and comfort inside as well as outside.
Editor's Pick:
Forest River Sierra 38FKOK
Pros
Cons
Forest River Sierra 38FKOK Specs
GVWR: 15823 lbs
Dry Weight: 12823 lbs
Hitch Weight (Dry): 2256 lbs
Exterior Length: 41’9”
Exterior Height: 13’5”
Interior Height:
Fresh water capacity: 50 gallons
Gray water capacity: 134 gallons
Black water capacity: 52 gallons
Forest River Sierra 38FKOK Floor Plan
Forest River Sierra 38FKOK Layout
This model by Forest River is quite similar in layout to our first pick, except for a few differences. It also has the same three divisions of bedroom, living room, and the kitchen positioned respectively from back to front. But sofas can be turned into beds and are placed in outward extensions of the interior wall.
As well as this, the sink of the kitchen is installed on the island of the kitchen rather than on the side, leaving more space for kitchen countertops. There's also an addition of an exterior kitchen and a buffet cabinet. Safe to say, the outward extensions that house different furniture and appliances greatly enhance the space inside.
Who Is The Forest River Sierra 38FKOK Best For?
Up to six people will easily live in this fifth wheel. Those who want an adventure but still want the feel of home inside their RV will especially appreciate the sectioned areas of the fifth wheel. If you like cooking outside surrounded by nature’s views, then the additional exterior kitchen too would serve you well.
Popular Features
Who doesn’t enjoy the utility of an exterior kitchen? Being able to cook out in the open and enjoy the weather is one of the most pleasant experiences you can get on a vacation. This fifth wheel has an exterior kitchen equipped with a stove, refrigerator, microwave, and even an entertainment center that adds to the fun and increases space.
But that’s not all. There's tons of space in this RV, which is enough to house the luggage of six people and supplies for the trip. Two entry doors make access easy and also allow for cross ventilation of air.
Honorable Mention:
Heartland North Trail
Pros
Cons
Heartland North Trail Specs
GVWR: 6900 lbs
Dry Weight: 5400 lbs
Hitch Weight (Dry): 550 lbs
Exterior Length: 27’11’
Exterior Height: 11’4”
Interior Height: 8’4”
Fresh water capacity: 52 gallons
Gray water capacity: 40 gallons
Black water capacity:40 gallons
Heartland North Trail Floor Plan
Heartland North Trail Layout
Numerous different models with varying layouts are available in the North Trail series by Heartland. You can utilize the space however you want by selecting from the large variety. From multiple beds to the inclusion of sofas and chairs, the options are plenty. You can extend the kitchen or get models with more floor space.
Options like a dinette, additional pantry space, and open entertainment centers are widely available. A bedroom, kitchen, and an entertainment center are the shared feature among all layouts. Standard features also include a TV prep, exterior shower, pull-out kitchen faucet, spare tire, etc.
Who Is The Heartland North Trail Best For?
If you want a variety of different floor plans and designs the North Trail series could be for you. With a housing capacity of up to more than nine people, these RVs are built to protect against temperature changes, be used for long trips, and move through varying terrains.
Whether you're going on RV camping, a cross-country trip, or are simply interested in experiencing a trip in a fifth wheel, you can find a suitable layout that can act as your travel home.
Popular Features
The overall framing and construction of the RV are quite dependable with an aluminum frame and fiberglass skin. The AC and furnace can keep the temperature inside the RV as you want, while the thick walls provide insulation.
The option of more than one bed provides comfort for all and makes good use of space, depending on the group’s needs. Moreover, it is equipped with entertainment options like a TV, antenna, DVD player, AM/FM, etc.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying a Front Kitchen Fifth Wheel?
A few things, if kept in mind when deciding which front kitchen fifth wheel is right for you, can help with the decision making. It will also ensure that you get the best deal for your buck and that all your needs are covered by the model you select.
Number of people
When going on a trip, whether solo or with friends or family, you want maximum comfort. A space that falls short to house everyone soon becomes frustrating. Hence, always match the carrying capacity of the fifth wheel with the number of people you intend to share it with. The sleeping spaces such as beds or sleeping sofas must be enough in number for all users.
Storage space
Some travelers are heavy packers, while others are light. However, for traveling in an RV, you need more than just personal luggage. Food and supplies for the trip are also included in the luggage you carry. Therefore, to have a clutter-free interior, you must ensure that enough storage space for your personal belongings as well as supplies for the trip is present in the fifth wheel.
A larger group of people will require more space. Also, the closets and cabinets should be enough in number to house all your luggage so that nothing is left on the floor or on the tables with the chance of breaking upon encountering a bump on the road.
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel (Source)
Enough water carrying capacity
Nobody wants their RV to run out of water in the middle of nowhere. It completely disrupts the washing and cleaning process, making it very difficult to sustain living in the fifth wheel. Enough water carrying capacity is a key feature that all buyers must take into account. This not only depends upon the number of users but also on the frequency of use and number of stopovers that offer refills along the route.
If you are traveling in a large group on a route with scarce refilling stations, then buy an RV with large water carrying capacity. Black and grey water tanks are equally important as freshwater ones.
Common Issues with Front Kitchen 5th Wheels
Despite the extreme utility and convenience offered by front kitchen fifth wheels, there are some common problems are associated with it. It is better to know about these problems beforehand to avoid any inconvenience in the future.
Storage compartment under the floor
The pass-through storage present under the interior floor may be lying next to the heat duct. In case of improper insulation, your luggage or supplies might get damaged due to overheating. To counter that, you can replace the wall separating the two with an insulated material that does not transfer the heat from the ducts to the storage.
Jack-knifing damage
A fifth wheel offers easier turning with a wider angle compared to a bumper-mount trailer. But, with an inexperienced driver, the smallest of mistakes can result in huge losses.
In case the driver jackknifes the trailer against a surface, the impact will cause the trailer to bump into your vehicle. This could prove quite dangerous for the driver and destructive for both the RV and the towing vehicle. Hence, only experienced drivers must tow the fifth wheel.
Comparison Overview
Exploring the differences and similarities between different brands and types of fifth wheels helps to understand what feature is better and which vehicle is more suited for us. Thus, here we compare two of the renowned brands and the front kitchen against the rear kitchen in fifth wheels.
Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel (Source)
Jayco vs Keystone
Both of these are leading brands in front kitchen fifth wheels. Their designs have an intelligent layout with all the basic needs covered.
Similarities
- You can choose either a king or a queen-sized bed in either.
- Both brands offer entertainment centers and sofas for relaxing and unwinding inside.
- Both provide very spacious layouts for more comfortable settling.
Differences
- Jayco usually gives more countertop space than Keynote.
- A clear division between bedroom area, sitting area, and kitchen area is seen in Jayco’s design, while in Keystone, all compartments co-exist in an open space.
- Keystone offers six different packages to choose from for RV upgrade with appliances and luxury items, etc. Jayco has just one package.
5th Wheel With Front Kitchen vs Rear Kitchen
Fifth wheels differ on the basis of the position of the kitchen in the layout. As the name suggests, the kitchen lies in the front of the RV in the front kitchen and comes right after the towing vehicle. In rear kitchen wheels, the kitchen is situated back in the RV.
Palomino Columbus 388FK (Source)
Similarities
Both the layouts seclude the kitchen either to the front or the back to allow an uninterrupted flow of work.
Usually, the living room with the sofas and the entertainment centers lie in the middle of both the layouts.
Dinette is included in the kitchen area in the rear, as well as, front kitchen fifth wheels.
Differences
In rear-kitchen fifth wheels, you don’t get the big window in your bedroom or the living room and miss out on the chance of enjoying the views and scenery from the rooms.
Front kitchens feel the impact of bumps, and sudden stops more severely since they are situated right after the vehicle. This results in the rattling of utensils and might also lead to earlier loosening of nuts and bolts in the kitchen.
People Also Ask - Front Kitchen 5th Wheel FAQs
This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about front kitchen fifth wheels. This way, our readers will be more aware of the vehicle's different features and hence end up making an informed decision when buying a fifth wheel RV.
Forest River Sierra 38FKOK (Source)
Are Front Living Fifth Wheels More Expensive?
Front living fifth wheels are generally more expensive than other RV types. This is mainly because they offer a complete home experience and are also more securely attached to the towing vehicle. A secure connection ensures stable towing as well.
Also, this type of RV is designed more for permanent residence or long period travel trips. Therefore, they use the highest quality material. Even if they cost more, the investment is worth the value.
Is Forest River a Good Brand For 5th Wheels?
Yes, Forest River is among the top-tier brands dealing in fifth wheels. They have a range of different models with added features like an exterior kitchen or a swivel grill, which isn’t common among other brands. Forest River is among those brands that ensure not only comfortable living inside but also fun and utility in the exterior design.
How Much Does a Front Kitchen Fifth Wheel Cost?
Depending upon the size, interior, and water carrying capacity, the cost of front kitchen fifth wheels varies. For a brand new 5th wheel you'll be paying around $80k and more, depending on the size and fittings.
Are Front Kitchen Fifth Wheels Considered Luxury 5th Wheels?
Front kitchen fifth wheels are designed to feel luxurious. The kitchen's positioning up front keeps it out of everybody’s way and allows for peaceful working. It also leaves the end of the RV to be utilized either as the living room or the bedroom. Both are great options and provide a luxurious feel with the big back window showing beautiful views and open scenery.
The Best Front Kitchen 5th Wheels - At Home on the Road
Front kitchen 5th wheels make efficient use of space by secluding the kitchen so that not everyone is in the range of boiling waters and hot pans. It is especially useful for families and groups with children and pets.
They also give your RV that home from home feeling, and we're sure you'll love spending time in one. Before investing in a front kitchen fifth wheel, make sure that the model fulfills your needs, and provides comfort.
And remember to always do your due diligence, and we always recommend to go with a brand that has excellent customer service, because why would choose not to have one?
Anyway, we hope you enjoyed and found this article helpful. Happy traveling!
