I'm the former owner of a 2003 Hitchhiker II 26.5RL. At 28 feet, it was one of the smallest 4 seasons units designed for full-time use. I sold it in 2011, when I was no longer full-time with the idea that if I wished to travel like that again, it would likely be best to have something a little newer. I'm considering going full-time again but I'm not finding what I'm looking for, which is a 5th wheel with a heated basement storage area designed for full-time use that is less than 32 feet long. Any suggestions? Also, if this sort of thing is no longer made, I have considered the options of either buying a shorter, lower-quality rig and making due with the limitations and potential repairs such a rig would face being used so extensively OR buying an older rig and dealing with the repairs an older rig would need. Both options seem like a headache in different ways. I'm hoping I've failed to find the brand that has just the thing I'm looking for, however. Any input is greatly appreciated.

Doesn't Arctic Fox make some shorter units?

Seem to recall seeing a double axel lower 20s 5er, recently. It is built in BC but can't remember the builder.

agesilaus, Thank you for your suggestion of Artic Fox. Living in Florida, nobody locally seems to carry them so I tend to forget about that brand. A quick check of their web site reveals that they do currently make a 5th wheel that measures 29'5". I had a friend that full-timed in an Artic Fox. Thanks again!

Artic Fox 27-5L is 29.5 feet. You can probably find a dealer on the Northwood website.

I would also recomend an Artic Fox but how short are you looking.

Short 5er for full-time? | Good Sam Community

Bobbiet
Explorer
Jan 23, 2015
We also looked at those. Both have great reputations. Outdoors mfg is closer to us as we are in Idaho, but I couldn't get over the uncomfortable couch. Our Reflections 303 will be here in a month:).
J-mans_Dad
Explorer
Jan 19, 2015
Jodi,
Just got back from the local RV show.
We were impressed by the Grand Design RV's.
The mid Profile Reflection line has the 293 and 303 that are around 32'.
The super lite 27 and 29 are 30'-11" each
Grand Design Reflection Specs
Some of the Outdoors RV Glacier Peak line may fit your requirements.
those weren't represented at the show so I can't vouch for the fit and finish but was impressed by the Grand Designs.

Now only waiting for the right time to buy...
labren
Explorer
Jan 18, 2015
I have been looking at the Keystone Sprinter ... Model 269FWRLS ..... 32FT 7in

shipping weight 8510 - I think if you have a look at this, you will like what it has to offer.
stufarmer
Explorer
Jan 18, 2015
Why do people suggest things the Original Poster doesn't ask for..? Maybe it's me but under 30' means under 30'.

To answer the OP's question, I also agree with those that suggested the Arctic Fox 27.5. I believe after doing all the home work it's one of the best choices out there.
jjwms
Explorer
Jan 18, 2015
We full-timed for 10 years. 6 of those were in a HH-II that was 31 feet long with two slides. If we were to go back to fulltime we would seriously consider an Artic Fox because they are 4 season rigs. Granted they are more expensive but in our opinion one gets what they pay for. But floor plan you can live with is really the key. However, having said that, we would now also consider a good quality motorhome with slides about 33-35' long and pull our 2012 Jeep Liberty four wheels down.
Veebyes
Explorer II
Jan 18, 2015
Nothing wrong with traveling for the right one. The extra in travel time & cost is well worth not having remorse later it you buy local for the sake of saving a few dollars & time.

Don't forget to add those 2 extra feet to whatever the model number is. The higher you go in the 30s the more rapidly the number of sites available for that size decreases.
JodiG
Explorer
Jan 18, 2015
Thanks again, everyone! I have busily checked out the names and sites you have provided me. So far, I'm liking the Artic Fox 27-5L at 29'5" and Glacier Peak's F26RKS at 29'11". I guess I'll need to become a member of the Hitchhiker forum in order to take a look at that unit too. I wish the brands that most interest me were available at dealerships in Florida but for the right unit, I'd travel.
drfife
Explorer
Jan 17, 2015
We have and Excel 34IKE. It's 37.5' tip to tip.

We primarily camp at Texas State Parks. We've not had a problem finding a site.
jnharley
Explorer
Jan 17, 2015
JodiG, are you a member of the HitcHiker forum? Someone just posted about a 2008 HitchHiker LS that is around 28 feet. Supposedly gently used. Spouse died and widow is not interested in RVing.
jus2shy
Explorer
Jan 17, 2015
OK, now that I finally find myself in front of a proper computer, here is the link to Outdoors RV - Glacier Peak line. They have several models under 30' and I'm in the same boat. Will have a family of 4 and I figure that I want to fit in more areas. If we need more sleeping space, we can setup a tent.

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