Forum Discussion

NoraNora's avatar
NoraNora
Explorer
Aug 10, 2025

FULL TIME LIVING

My husband and I are newbies to the camping atmosphere and we have never owned a camper. We are moving to Alabama from Wisconsin for my husband's new job and we will be relocating every 12 to 18 months for his job. We feel the smartest way to do this is to live in an all weather camper. He wants to buy a fifth wheel. We have been looking and looking and researching makes/model. There many things  to consider but we find that Grand Design has great value for what you're spending. Alliance also has some great qualities along with Brinkley, however, both are quite costly. We want good structure. We want good quality and workman-designership. What do you have and like about yours or dislike? 

5 Replies

  • way2roll's avatar
    way2roll
    Navigator III
    Aug 11, 2025

    Good quality and workmanship is hard to find in the RV industry no matter what you pay and most aren't really designed for the abuse of full time living and harsh winters. And you aren't going to get it on a budget. This will be your home, spend the money, get an inspection and get a better quality RV. 

  • Scottiemom's avatar
    Scottiemom
    Nomad
    Aug 11, 2025

    Cold weather units are still not designed to live in during the rugged winter months you will find in Wisconsin. You will still deal with potentially freezing pipes, heating issues, etc. And it will cost to stay warm. Can it be done? Sure. People pile straw bales around their unit, put heating lamps underneath to keep the underbelly warm, add extend-a-stay hookups allow you to attach a larger propane tank, etc. But it won't be fun. You would be much more comfortable in an apartment or an actual mobile home. In warmer areas, it wouldn't be much of a problem. We had a 4-season Tiffin motorhome, but it was drafty and uncomfortable in really cold weather.

About Fifth Wheel Group

19,024 PostsLatest Activity: Aug 13, 2025