Types of RV Trailers

Pros and Cons of Different RV Trailer Types: Which Is Right for You?

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Graphics of different rv trailer types

There are so many different types of campers out there to choose from, and there is a lot to consider when evaluating the various RV trailer types to figure out which one is best for you.

What is the towing capacity of your vehicle, how much space do you need, how often are you camping and for how long, how many people will be camping? 

Each type of camper has its own set of pros and cons, it is important to look at each option and really consider the type of camping you will be doing. A couple only doing short weekend trips will likely look for something different than a family that goes on longer trips.

In this article I will go over the 6 different types of towable campers and what each of them has to offer.

Travel Trailers

Outside view of a travel trailer
Photo by Brooke Moeller @the_path_we_take

Out of all the different camper types, travel trailers will have the biggest variety in options. They have a wide range of sizes, coming in different lengths, weights, and amount of slide-outs. They have a variety of layouts, and can sleep anywhere from 2-10 people. Some have extra amenities like an outdoor kitchen. The smaller ones could also be towed by a midsize SUV or truck, while the larger ones will need a more heavy duty truck. Travel trailers are towed on the bumper leaving the bed of the truck open for other storage.Typically all will come with a bathroom, kitchen, sleeping area, and dinette or sofa. While the larger ones may have a dinette and sofa, bunkhouse, or even an office space. Whether you are a solo traveler, couple, or family, weekend warriors or full timers, you can find a travel trailer to fit your needs.

Pros

  • Variety in length: While the average travel trailer is about 20-30 ft long, they can be as small as 16ft and as large as 40ft
  • Variety in square footage: May have 0 slide outs giving a more compact experience, or may have up to 3 or 4 slide outs adding to the usable living space
  • Multiple types of layouts
  • More affordable than some other types of campers
  • Able to use tow vehicle for additional storage

Cons

  • The size you buy will be dependent on what your towing vehicle can handle
  • Larger ones can be harder to maneuver while driving and parking
  • Less storage space than some other options
Living area inside of a travel trailer
Photo by Brooke Moeller @the_path_we_take
Travel trailer bathroom
Photo by Brooke Moeller @the_path_we_take

Fifth Wheels

Outside of a fifth wheel camper
Photo credit: Thefarrisway

Fifth Wheel campers are the largest of the towable campers and are usually considered the easiest to tow despite their large size. They are a popular choice for full time RVing due to their size and residential-like amenities. They are also more likely to be equipped to withstand cold weather. Fifth wheels will have 2 levels; in most layouts the upper level will have the main sleeping area which will house a large wardrobe and even a washer and dryer. In the lower level will be the kitchen which often has residential size refrigerators, a kitchen island, microwave, and a stove/oven. The living area will have ample seating and even an office space. In the larger models you can find separate bunk houses, lofts and even a second bathroom. Fifth wheels require a special hitch that goes in the bed of the truck. Having the connection in the truck instead of the bumper helps make a smoother ride and towing experience.

Pros

  • Spacious Interiors
  • High Ceilings
  • Good stability while towing
  • Luxury amenities
  • Lots of storage space

Cons:

  • Requires a large truck, possibly even a dually
  • Needs a special hitch that takes up a large amount of space in the bed of the truck
  • Usually the most expensive of towable campers
  • Can be too large for some RV parks and campgrounds
  • Will require large space for storage when not using
Fifth wheel kitchen
Photo credit: Thefarrisway
Fifth wheel bedroom
Photo credit: Thefarrisway

Pop-up Campers

Outside of a pop-up camper

Pop-up campers are like a mix between an RV and a tent. They have a hard bottom and roof, but the middle is made of canvas, like a tent. They can be a budget friendly way to transition from a tent to a camper. Pop-ups are lightweight and can be towed by most vehicles, even a sedan. When fully extended they have a small kitchen, seating area/dinette, and 2 sleeping areas. Some may even have a toilet and shower, or an A/C unit. 

Pros:

  • Small and lightweight
  • Can be towed by most vehicles
  • Easy to store when not in use
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Limited storage space
  • Little to no insulation
  • Set up required at each campsite
  • Not allowed at some RV parks
Inside of a renovated pop up camper
Photo Credit: Lisa Rice

Toy Haulers

patio toy hauler
Photo Credit: bbandtherv
Outside of a fifth wheel toy hauler

Toy haulers are great for outdoor adventurers that want to take their toys out camping with them. Toy haulers can be towed like a fifth-wheel or travel trailer, but are considered their own class of trailer due to their garage space. In a toy hauler the back wall will open all the way up so items like dirt bikes, motorcycles, kayaks, or OHVs can be stored inside. The garage door can also be propped off the ground to act as a patio space. The fifth-wheel towing option can come with other fifth wheel amenities like a large kitchen, upper level sleeping area and extra storage, while the travel trailer option will be more compact and lightweight.

Pros:

  • Multi purpose space for living and storage 
  • Strong durable construction
  • Great for off grid camping

Cons:

  • Larger and heavier
  • Require larger tow vehicle
  • Can be more expensive than some other trailer types
Inside of a renovated toy hauler
Photo Credit: bbandtherv

Teardrop Trailers: 

Outside of a teardrop trailer

Teardrops get their name from their shape, they are very small and are ideal for solo campers or couples doing short getaways. On the inside will be a mattress, small TV, A/C unit, and a little bit of storage space. They are not large enough to stand up in, you will have to either be sitting or laying when inside. The back will open up to a small kitchen space, usually with a sink, 2 burner stove, mini-fridge, and storage. Some will have the ability to convert the inside from a sleeping area to a seating area. However, one big detail to note is that teardrops do not have a bathroom.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Can be towed by smaller vehicles
  • Minimal set up
  • Easy to store when not in use

Cons:

  • No bathroom
  • Small kitchen
  • Little storage space
  • Not self-contained
Teardrop trailer outdoor kitchen
Inside of a teardrop camper

Hybrid Trailers:

Hybrid camper outside

Hybrid trailers look almost like a travel trailer except they have 1 or 2 beds that fold out like a pop-up camper. They will contain most of the amenities a travel trailer has, like a bathroom, full kitchen, dinette, and sofa. However the bed will have canvas around it like in a pop-up camper. Hybrid campers are a great option for families seeking a balance between space and compact towing.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Light weight 
  • Self contained

Cons:

  • Canvas areas may be less insulated and require extra maintenance
  • Some parks may not allow campers that have any soft sides
  • Less storage
Inside of Hybrid Camper

Conclusion

There are so many choices when it comes to choosing the trailer that is right for you. Create a list of your wants and needs, and be sure to walk through a few different RV trailer types before choosing which is the best option for you and your family. Be sure to consider how many people will be sleeping in it, how long of camping trips you will be taking, the size of your tow vehicle, and any extras you’ll want to bring like bikes or kayaks. You also need to consider your budget and where you will store it when not in use. 

What’s your favorite RV trailer type? Let us know why in the comments below!

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