Fifth wheel trailers have become a popular option. Some say they are an overly popular option. Some conjecture that many current fifth wheel trailers owners would actually be happier and get more use out of a different type of recreational vehicle. So why do so many immediately turn to fifth wheel trailers as if they know exactly what they are looking for and what they need and as if the fifth wheel is the only way to get it?

It’s because it’s what they’ve heard of…it’s what they know. So while fifth wheel trailers are a viable option it is often a good idea for new and potential new RV owners to consider the basics like just what the different types of RVs out there are and what they are known for:

Class A: Constructed on either a commercial truck chassis, a specially designed motor vehicle chassis, or a commercial bus chassis, the Class A became even more popular when slideouts allowed for living spaces wider than the road. Slideouts were first offered in the 1980s.

Class B: Constructed using a conventional van with additions resulting in a raised roof, etc.

Class C: Constructed on a truck chassis with an attached cab section, the Class C is typically van based. Engines for the Class C are usually based on the popular Ford E450 engine, chassis and cabs although other popular choices include both Dodge and Chevy. Some of the larger Class C vehicles may be based on the Ford F650. The Class C is characterized by the cab-over option that defines the interior layout and allows for more spacious living quarters.

Fifth Wheel Trailers: Constructed as a trailer that is pulled by a tow vehicle, the fifth wheel requires a special hitch called fifth wheel coupling. The total length of tow vehicle/trailer is decreased by the fact that part of the trailer body extends over the bed or the truck.

Travel Trailer: Travel trailers are typically fairly lightweight and are designed to be pulled behind a tow vehicle.

Fifth wheel trailers are great. They provide a lot of benefits and options. But they are definitely not the only option available. If you find yourself immediately gravitating towards this type of recreational vehicle without first considering some of the other options take a step back and make sure that your reasons for leaning towards the fifth wheel are more substantial than…my brother has one or I see them on the road a lot.