If you’re sure the RV lifestyle is something you want to be a part of, a fifth wheel is a great way to jump right in because of the advanced features and versatile floorplan options. Fifth wheels are unique in that they connect to a hitch inside the bed of your pickup truck rather than to a hitch near your rear bumper. This gives these trailers a totally different shape than other trailers, with a gooseneck up front. This actually makes for a larger turning radius and some added stability when towing, since the connection is centered over the truck’s rear axle and the center of gravity is closer to the tow vehicle.
Fifth wheels can range from the low 20s in length to over 40 feet. The dual-level structure adds more separation between living areas than other types of RVs offer, making for a residential, almost apartment-like feel.
So, why make one of these your first RV? Here are some of the reasons.
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You hope to travel with a lot of gear.
Their unique shape allows for more storage inside and out. Their height and sometimes wider body (102 inches on our Pinnacle, for example), allows manufacturers to find a great balance of living and storage space--extra and deeper cabinetry and closets--plus large pass-through exterior storage areas that are accessible from both sides of the coach. You can fit large outdoor gear for the campsite or activities in these exterior spaces. With a fifth wheel, you always have the bed of your truck available too.
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You’re really tall or looking for a lot of living space.
The fifth wheel’s shape naturally allows for more height inside the coach. Fifth wheels also come with multiple slideout rooms (as many as six in a Jayco fifth wheel), which make for an even more open feel and more functional spaces.
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You want a luxurious experience on the road.
There’s actually a commonly known sub-class of fifth wheels called luxury fifth wheels. Fifth wheels that fall into that category rival very expensive luxury Class A motorhomes, but at much lower costs. These include things like a washer and dryer, electric fireplaces, custom woodwork, ceiling fans and stainless steel appliances, just to name a few. Our Pinnacle and North Point models will give you an idea just how luxurious these can get. -
You plan to travel with young kids.
The bi-level construction of a fifth wheel allows for up to three distinct living spaces. For example, the 325BHQS Eagle floorplan has a master bedroom in the front, a large main living area in the middle of the coach and a separate bunkhouse in the rear. You and the kids can each have your own space. If you’re traveling with very young kids, there’s the added bonus of allowing the kids to nap in one room without disturbing them as you go about your day.
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You hope to stay at destinations for longer periods of time.
The fifth wheel is ideal for extended stays. In addition to the variety and space of the available floorplans that make staying in one place comfortable, fifth wheels come with some of the largest water, battery, and waste capacities, requiring less upkeep. It’s also nice to be able to disconnect your tow vehicle to explore your surroundings or run errands.
Explore the full lineup of Jayco fifth wheels to learn more about what this kind of trailer has to offer. The Eagle Half Ton was named Best of Show by RV Pro at the most recent National RV Trade Show.
