Fifth Wheel Recreational Vehicles

A fifth wheel trailer gets its name from the coupling component or hitch that sits on the back of a towing vehicle. It’s used to connect to the trailer, and in this way, it works almost like an extra (or a “fifth”) wheel. The hitch is designed very similarly to the type of hitch coupling that is used for semi-trucks. It’s highly durable and can be used to pull large and weighty loads. The fifth wheel design is extremely stable and easy to drive. Because the hitch allows you to turn, you aren’t locked into moving around with the hefty body of a truck, and this makes it an easy transition for people who are used to driving smaller pickup trucks or regular cars.

Like most RVs, the average lifespan of a fifth wheel is 10-20 years. However, if kept in good condition, your fifth wheel camper can last over two decades. As your fifth wheel ages, you may find it hard to find any replacement parts you need, though. Take good care of your fifth wheel to make it last for years to come, so you can continue to make memories with it.

These requirements are different in each state. Most states prohibit passengers from riding in a fifth wheel while it is being towed, but some states, such as California, do allow it under certain conditions. Make sure you are familiar with your state’s requirements. If you are making a cross-country journey, research the requirements in each state that you plan to pass through. Some common restrictions include the age of the passengers who are allowed to ride and the type of exit that you must have on your trailer. You may also be required to wear a seat belt while riding in a towed fifth wheel. Fifth wheels tend to have more space than other types of RVs, so it can be tempting to want to move about the living space while on the road. Remember, though, that safety comes first, and a moving trailer can be a safety hazard, especially to small children.

The price of a recreational vehicle can change dramatically depending on the season. Winter is usually the best time to invest in a new RV, but fall is also a good time. You will likely spend more money on an RV if you choose to purchase in the spring or summer. Many people want to sell their RV’s in the cold months because of the cost to store the vehicle. The difference in price will be more dramatic in the northern states because they experience a greater difference in climate between seasons. For the best price, consider beginning your search for an RV at the end of summer, and try to make your purchase during the months of October through January.

To pull a fifth wheel, your truck will need to have a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) that is more than the weight of the truck and the trailer tongue. It is also generally a good idea to get a truck with an eight-foot bed when you are pulling a fifth wheel. This will give you enough space for the trailer to hang over the back of your truck without hitting your back window. If you have a smaller fifth wheel, you may be able to use a smaller truck, but it’s important to make sure that the trailer is hitched firmly. Consider using a slider hitch that will give you flexibility. A slider hitch will come forward while the vehicle is being driven to adjust for the center of gravity, and it will move backward so the trailer can swing out when you need to make a tight turn.