So I've noticed that a lot of manufacturers use their model number as an indication of length which is normally different than what's in the TT specifications of "length". Example: The Jayco Jay FLight 287bhsw shows a length of 33.5 ft. If you were asked "How long is your travel trailer?" or you were to state that "My travel trailer is ___ft" would you say 33 ft or 28 ft?https://www.jayco.com/products/travel-trailers/2017-jay-flight-slx/287bhsw/And then you have dealers that list the same model at 28 feet:https://www.rvtrader.com/dealers/Pan-Pacific-RV-Centers-Morgan-Hill-3030202/listing/2017-Jayco-Jay-Flight-287BHSW-120357364https://www.rvtrader.com/dealers/Valley-RV-Supercenter-2919884/listing/2017-Jayco-Jay-Flight-287BHSW-121428721https://www.rvtrader.com/dealers/Richardson%27s-RV-2930748/listing/2017-Jayco-Jay-Flight-287BHSW-120114788

I use 35 ft - the length of my trailer from bumper to hitch. Though, admittedly, I do sometimes claim the 32 ft from the model size :-)

The length would be 33 1/2 and the model would be 287bhsw. Maybe the model has something to do with something (inside maybe) but it has nothing to do with the overall length.

Trailer lists as 33ft6inches. That I what I go with. Our trailer model is 316RLS which is the square footage so basically of no use.

I'd go with the longer dimension since campgrounds tend to stuff RV's into too small a site anyway. The longer dimension at least gives you a chance to fit in your trailer and tow vehicle.

When I started looking at trailers, I thought that the number in the model might have some correlation to the length. But now, I think that the manufacturers just pull a few numbers out of a bucket, slap a couple of letters on that might correspond to the type of trailer and then wing the rest.

What do you use as the "length of your travel trailer"?

camp-n-family
Explorer
Apr 26, 2017
DW says "size matters" so I always go with the longer length.
rbpru
Explorer II
Apr 27, 2017
It really does not matter if your TT is 25 or 27 feet. I have found the model numbers are just a suggestion anyway.

My box measures 24 ft 7 in at its widest point so I tell folks it is a 25 foot. I supposed the bumper and the hitch could be added.

Most campgrounds I have been at seem to judge the lengths as Smaller 25 ft or less, Midsize 30 ft or so, Large 45 ft or more.

Storage lots that pack the TTs close may need a more accurate figure.
colliehauler
Explorer III
Apr 27, 2017
RAMwoodworks wrote:
So Hybrid owners should include the length from tent to tent?
I would, who sleeps in a hybrid folded up.
BB_TX
Nomad
Apr 27, 2017
Have not measured it. Specs say 34'-8" so I always say 35'. Don't want to understate and get put in a site too short.
KD4UPL
Explorer
Apr 27, 2017
If making sure it will fit in a garage I'd go with the actual measured length.
If paying for a campsite or a wash by the length I'd go with the smaller of actual or model number length.
JesLookin
Explorer
Apr 27, 2017
I don't like to lie so I say that my 27-5L is 30 feet long. That is the length front to back.
Camper_G
Explorer
Apr 27, 2017
I use ball to bumper for length.
nuckledragger
Explorer
Apr 27, 2017
My model number is 2650BHS. The box is 26.5 feet and the overall length from bumper to hitch is 29.5 feet. If paying for something based on length I say 26.5 feet, if making sure in can fit some where I say 29.5 feet.
Downwindtracke1
Explorer
Apr 27, 2017
Box length, their isn't much living space on the hitch A-frame.
afidel
Explorer II
Apr 27, 2017
RAMwoodworks wrote:
So Hybrid owners should include the length from tent to tent?

Yes, though if I was looking for a site in say Yellowstone and fit in the only available spot based on bumper to ball but not bunk to bunk I might give the shorter measurement.