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AcademyRoad's avatar
AcademyRoad
Explorer
Oct 10, 2013

Bunkhouse Recommendations?

We just got our truck and are now looking for a 5th wheel with a bunkhouse plan (3 or 4 bunks) that we will take our family of (currently) 5 across the country. Are there any particular makers/floorplans to look for or stay away from? Or are most 5th wheels made the same? Is Forrest River a reputable maker? Sorry if this is a basic question.... we are new to this!

Our truck is an '06 F350 King Ranch 4x4 diesel.

Truck has ~7 foot bed. Which makes us wonder if we need a sliding 5 or not? We've read a 6 foot bed needs a sliding hitch but 8 foot does not.

We prefer not to have a 40 ft 5er. Neither of us are very experienced in towing anything, so we are hoping to find what we want closer to the 30-34 ft size. Hopefully we become comfortable pulling that quickly. Wanting to stay under $35,000 if we can.

15 Replies

  • We just bought a Jayco 375BHFS has its own bunk room with plenty of space for kids. Even a couch in their room turns into bed, I thought it was the nicest Bunhouse I've seen yet. Very spacious throughout. We get it in 2 weeks, good luck,

    Ris
  • It is hard to answer without knowing the basic specs on your truck. Year, Make, Model, Cab type, bed length, fuel? All make a difference.

    Two things to keep in mind:

    All truck salesmen lie about towing capacity.

    All trailer salesmen lie about loaded weight.
  • I think today's manufactured RV are all pretty well made, and very similar. 5ers can be very expensive as well as reasonably priced based on size and interior decor and design.

    Forest River is a reputable company. In your search, consider how much your tow vehicle is capable of handling, both the amount that can be loaded into the bed of the truck and the amount it can actually pull. And also consider how well the rig can stop also.

    If you are considering a specific manufacturer go visit a dealer that sells them. Web site images are nice and full of information, but there's nothing like actually stepping inside and experience the moment. It helps if you can identify what floor plan you like, and after you find the floor plan, then start comparing against different manufacturers.

    The last step is to compare floor plans and models against the cost you're willing to pay. Once you've been through these steps, you'll be able to plunge with confidence.

    Others will chime in. Consider everything everyone will present to you. At the end, the decision will still be yours. Good luck in your quest, and enjoy this journey too. It's very exciting studying, planning, and searching for the right camper! It really is!