Truck camper or 5th wheel
Last kid graduates HS in 15 months and we’re planning on joining the road travel world. Have only tent camped up to this point and not sure where to start in the RV world. I’m really hoping to be abl...
Forum Discussion
If you are looking at towing a big boat, truck campers get complicated.
A big truck camper with a long overhang and a 28ft cabin cruiser, is problematic. The camper will eat up all the payload of the truck. Then you need an extension on the hitch to get past the truck camper overhang which lowers the hitch ratings. Even with a maxed out dually 1 ton, you have a good chance of being over the ratings.
- If you go with a small truck camper, there is less overhang and more payload available for the trailer. But for long trips, living space will be tight in the camper.
- If you go with a smaller boat (say a 18-20ft aluminum), you can get a big truck camper and with some careful planning you should be able to keep it within the trucks capabilities. Still a small space for longer trips but better.
- A medium size 5er (25-32ft) would be night and day better for everyday living but you are going to be limited to a smaller boat. You will also have to keep an eye on where you are traveling. Some states and Canadian provinces do not allow double towing.
If the big boat is a deal breaker, I would go with a medium/small size Class C motorhome. Check the tow ratings carefully and try to find one with a smaller overhang. Not all will work. You will want one with a more powerful engine.
Out of the box option: Trailerable houseboat....
