It's time for us to start the process of getting a new camper. We're always on the hunt for the "perfect" one even though we know it does not exist :) Our problem is we have been unable to find anything that is not OMG plush and luxurious. We just want to camp; we're not ready to live in it, but everything we have seen just has too many bells and whistles. We're limited to two dealerships in our immediate area and I've been unable to find anything online that is nice, but not over-the-top. I'm sure I'm just looking in the wrong places. So, does anyone on this forum know of a brand of 5th wheel that might suit our needs? We're fine with used as long as it's not too old. Our current model is a 2005 Durango and the new ones are just too fluffy. We'd like a toyhauler for all our junk, but even those a seem a bit more stylish than we need. I appreciate any input. Thanks!

Both Forest River and Thor offer a lot of different models in prices all over the spectrum. Living next door to a FR factory and having owned one for 10 years I personally favor FR products. If you have a chance, also look at Northwood Mfg products. Lots more durable that the competition for the dollar.

When you look at the manufactures websites there is often the Luxury models and then there are the more basic. As an example when you look at Heartland they have more basic models like the Sundance. I suspect "flash sells" for many buyers. The profit margin is probably higher on the luxury models as well.

I'm familiar with Forest River and Thor, but not Northwood. I'll search those more thoroughly.It seems the websites don't show many of the just basic models. They tend to have about three examples of the decor listed for all models and it's all seems to be on the luxury end. I think they want to hook you with fireplaces and office nooks so you'll forget what you really want. When I look on craigslist,etc. the ones for sale are often really luxurious. I suspect the "flash" did catch their attention and now they can't pay the piper. Those easy monthly payments tend to add up.

FWIW, a good portion of toy haulers tend to be more utilitarian simply because they're likely to get hard use and be dirty, so need to be easy to clean. Interesting that most Aussie FW's tend to look like they were furnished by Ikea, but that's not bad if you're in a dusty/muddy environment. :-)Lyle

Sounds like you are looking for a Puma type fiver. Check them out, great value for the $$$. They have a fiver called a 29bh I think. It's a dual slide bunkhouse and you can often find them in the 18-22k range depending on options. They are a great bargin in the fiver market and they make pretty good quality. Thanks!Jeremiah

Looking for a "plain" 5th wheel | Good Sam Community

17 Replies

Ford_Man
Explorer
May 06, 2015
Cougar, Outback or Larado by Keystone might be a good choice.
261daystogo
Explorer
May 06, 2015
I appreciate all the input here! I have a few more things to research now. Thanks!
spadoctor
Explorer II
May 05, 2015
since you already have a Durango look at the Sportsman also a KZ (Thor) product. Your current dealer can get it for you
RobertRyan
Explorer
May 04, 2015
laknox wrote:
FWIW, a good portion of toy haulers tend to be more utilitarian simply because they're likely to get hard use and be dirty, so need to be easy to clean. Interesting that most Aussie FW's tend to look like they were furnished by Ikea, but that's not bad if you're in a dusty/muddy environment. :-)

Lyle

That is why Caravans here, have very shiny interiors, easy to clean, look bright and modern
FlatBroke
Explorer II
May 03, 2015
Yeah, got tired of bells and whistles. Had two fifth wheels that were full of e'm. Bought the one used we have now, not a lot of bells and whistles but built a ton better and plumbing a wiring is Installed like the builder built it for themselves.
magic43
Explorer
May 03, 2015
It all depends upon your "bells and whistles". Allen Camper Manufacturing is building an Idle Time 219RKS for us that we will pick up in a couple of weeks. We "travel" more than we "camp".
Curly2001
Explorer II
May 03, 2015
Agree with Heartland. They offer some pretty base type models for the money.
Baja_Man
Explorer
Apr 30, 2015
Jack_Diane_Freedom wrote:
You may be able to order the floor plan you want and 'delete' most of the fluff from your factory order.

I agree on the basics of a Puma bunkhouse. The 29BHDS is however a bit more than $18-22K. I am actually considering this unit myself.....

http://www.beaumontrvs.com/pre_owned_detail.asp?veh=3887254

If the MSRP is $39,142....is't the expected price around 30% off MSRP, making it $27,400? It appears to be the best bang for the buck during my search of Jayco, Rockwood, and Keystone.

However, the difference in price between the $37K Jayco 29.5BHDS is due, in part, to the fiberglass sides it has vs the aluminum sides of the Puma.

Not sure of quality vs Jayco, only from what I've read on various forums
GON2SKI
Explorer
Apr 30, 2015
Not aware if Northwood AF has a toy hauler in their floor plan options. They built a solid basic unit that is noted to hold up to rough travel. Even the short rigs are quite heavy.
TXiceman
Explorer II
Apr 30, 2015
For a quality unit with no fluff, look at the Arctic Fox and Northwood lines.

Ken