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WTP-GC's avatar
WTP-GC
Explorer
Jul 09, 2017

New Trailer Recommendation

Our current fifth-wheel is starting to show a little age, and our family is growing out of it as our "everyday" rig. So we're looking to use it as a long-term/semi-permanent rig at some places we like visiting, and buying a new rig for our primary camping purposes. We've enjoyed having a fifth wheel, but our needs and uses have evolved since we started this hobby several years ago. For one, I'd like to have my truck bed space back ;-)

We've never shopped for travel trailers because our first rig was gifted to us and our current fifth wheel is the only rig we've ever bought. So, I'd like to enlist the help of others as we begin this search.

We're looking for an above-average quality unit, with good suspension, solid frame, and overall good structural rigidity. We are not concerned about weight at all. Some of the rigs our friends have purchased in the last few years just appear to be flimsy with pencil thin axles and weak frames. We'd like a rig between 26' and 32'.

In terms of amenities, we'd like an outdoor kitchen, exterior bathroom entry, no slides on the curb side (preferably) and 3 bunks or bunk-type options. Other than that, a u-shaped dinette would be nice, along with an awning that extends to the outdoor kitchen.

Finding a good floor plan is easy, but we're mostly concerned with the quality of the rig.

23 Replies

  • I don't think you beat an Arctic Fox/Northwood short of an Airstream. They have limited floorplans and I'm not sure how available they'd be in Florida, though.

    Look at some toy haulers too. The outdoor kitchen may be tough to find, but they are generally going to be heavier constructed because they're designed to carry more weight. Much larger tanks and an on-board generator would make dry camping easier if you're into that, and they're pretty flexible inside with the drop down rear bunks. You'll push it a bit with your desired length but just food for thought. The weight would be no concern with your Cummins pulling it, especially with the big hips.
  • Stay away from Forest River. They are junk!

    At least my new 2017 is

    Jack L
  • Northwood, Arctic Fox line. Very well built, insulated, we use ours off road boon-docking, there that tough. Most use them in structured camp grounds.