We are Jess and Maddy, and together with our dogs, we make up Our Wandering Pack. We are just two regular people who were burnt out in the nonprofit workforce, who are looking to live a life that focuses on adventure, friendship and allows us to explore the world we call home. (Our first official OWP trip was to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro!)
The lifestyle transformation we are aiming for required us to do days of internet searches to understand the travel living community better. Here is a quick guide to all things Toy Haulers!
If you’re curious about toy haulers, this post will explain what they are, who they’re best for, and their pros and cons. Whether you’re an adventurer with a collection of outdoor gear or just looking for a versatile travel trailer, we’ve got you covered.
What Is a Toy Hauler?
A toy hauler is a type of RV (either towable or motorized) that includes a built-in garage area. This extra space is designed to carry “toys” like ATVs, dirt bikes, kayaks, or other large gear. It’s a perfect option for people who want to bring their adventurous lifestyle on the road.
The garage space is often separated from the living area by a solid wall and can double as a multi-purpose room—think office, guest room, or even a mobile workshop.
Types of Toy Haulers
Generally speaking, toy haulers come in two main categories- Towable or Motorized.
Towable Toy Haulers
- Travel Trailer Toy Haulers: These are lighter and smaller toy haulers designed for towing with a truck or SUV. They’re great for casual adventurers who don’t need the biggest setup.
- Fifth Wheel Toy Haulers: These are larger and attach to the truck bed with a gooseneck hitch. They offer more space and luxurious amenities, making them ideal for full-time RVers with lots of gear.
- See our post about Fifth Wheels if your Pack is leaning this way!
Motorized Toy Haulers
- Some Class A and Class C motorhomes include garage space in the rear. These provide the convenience of a drivable RV combined with the storage capacity of a toy hauler.
- For more information about Class A or Class C motorhomes in our blog about RVs and motor homes!
Pros and Cons of Toy Haulers
Pros:
- Built-In Storage: Perfect for adventurers who need space for large gear.
- Versatility: The garage can serve multiple purposes, from an extra bedroom to a workspace.
- Durable Interiors: Garage areas often have tougher, easy-to-clean materials.
- Great for Entertaining: Many toy haulers have fold-down patios from the rear ramp.
Cons:
- Heavier Weight: Toy haulers tend to be heavier than standard RVs, requiring a larger tow vehicle.
- Reduced Living Space: Some designs sacrifice interior living areas to make room for the garage.
- Fuel Efficiency: Larger size means more fuel consumption for towing or driving.
- Price: Toy haulers can be pricier than traditional RVs due to their extra features.
Who Should Consider a Toy Hauler?
Toy haulers are ideal for:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Those who bring ATVs, motorcycles, or watercraft on their travels.
- Full-Time RVers: Looking for extra storage or multi-use space.
- Remote Workers: The garage can be converted into an office.
- Families: The extra room can serve as a private space for kids or guests.
Why We Didn’t Choose a Toy Hauler for Our Pack
As much as we love the versatility of toy haulers, they didn’t align with our current needs. Since we’re not traveling with large equipment like ATVs, the extra garage space wasn’t a priority. Plus, the larger size and weight of most toy haulers made them less appealing for our first RVing adventure.
Conclusion
Toy haulers are the ultimate adventure rig for packs that value storage, flexibility, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re hauling gear, creating a mobile workspace, or adding room for your growing pack, toy haulers have so much to offer.
Does your pack travel with a toy hauler? What’s your favorite feature? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear from your pack!
Continue to enjoy the Adventure, Friendship and the Road Ahead.
-Maddy&Jess
Our Wandering Pack 
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