We are Jess and Maddy, us with our dogs make up Our Wandering Pack. We are 20-something-year-olds who are burnt out from the nonprofit sector and are ready to live a life that brings us joy. To do this, we are transitioning from living in a traditional home and tent camping as much as humanly possible to living in a travel trailer full time. We did DAYS of research. Here is what we learned through our research on RVs – we want to share the knowledge with you in one spot!
When we began exploring RV living, fifth wheel trailers quickly stood out as a popular option. They’re known for their spaciousness and unique design, but they come with their own set of pros and cons. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes a fifth wheel trailer unique, explore its benefits and drawbacks, and help you determine if it’s the right choice for your pack.
What Is a Fifth Wheel Trailer?
A fifth wheel trailer is a type of RV that connects to a special hitch in the bed of a truck, rather than using a standard bumper hitch. This design provides better stability and a more secure towing experience. Fifth wheels are often larger and offer more luxurious amenities compared to travel trailers.
Why Choose a Fifth Wheel?
Advantages:
- Spacious Living Areas: Fifth wheels often feature multiple slide-outs, which create large, open spaces. You’ll commonly find residential-style kitchens, full-size bathrooms, and even separate bedrooms.
- Towing Stability: Thanks to the hitch placement in the truck bed, fifth wheels are easier to maneuver and handle better than traditional travel trailers, especially on highways and sharp turns.
- Ample Storage: The raised section at the front (over the truck bed) often houses a master bedroom or storage space, maximizing interior and exterior storage options.
- Luxury Features: Many fifth wheels come with high-end features, such as fireplaces, washer-dryer hookups, and even second bathrooms.
Challenges:
- Truck Requirement: You’ll need a heavy-duty truck capable of towing the weight of a fifth wheel, which could be a significant investment if you don’t already own one.
- Size Limitations: Fifth wheels can be quite large, making it challenging to navigate smaller roads or find parking in campgrounds with limited space.
- Hitch Setup: The fifth wheel hitch requires installation in your truck bed, reducing the available space for other cargo.
Who Is a Fifth Wheel Best For?
Fifth wheels are an excellent choice for families, full-time RVers, or those seeking a luxurious camping experience. If you’re looking for a spacious RV that feels more like a home, and you have a truck capable of towing it, a fifth wheel could be perfect for you.
Why We Chose a Travel Trailer Instead
While we loved the idea of the extra space and luxury of a fifth wheel, we ultimately decided against it. For us, maintaining the utility of our truck bed was a priority. We wanted the flexibility to store gear and supplies in the bed without the hitch taking up space. Additionally, as first-time trailer owners, the smaller size and simpler setup of a travel trailer felt more manageable for our pack.
Conclusion
Fifth wheel trailers are a fantastic option for those who prioritize space and luxury in their RV adventures. However, they do come with additional considerations, such as the need for a heavy-duty truck and the impact on your ability to navigate certain areas.
We hope this post helps you better understand what a fifth wheel trailer has to offer. If you’re considering one, think about your towing vehicle, storage needs, and how much space you want in your RV.
What do you think about fifth wheels? If you’ve owned one or are considering buying one, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Here’s to Adventures, Friendship, and the Road Ahead!
-Maddy&Jess
Our Wandering Pack 
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