Category: Buying

Like the birds, many RVers head south for the winter in a pattern called snowbirding. As part of escaping the harshest part of winter, many hundreds of thousands of people use their RVs to head south for warmer climates. Places like Florida, California, Texas, and Arizona are targeted destinations for these people. And for good reason. You probably don’t have to bring more than one pair of long pants. (If even that.) But here’s the thing. If you’re parking the RV in place for a season, you better really like that RV. And that’s a big reason why many snowbirds are drawn toward luxury fifth wheels. 

Personally, this winter I headed to the deserts of Quartzsite, Arizona for the annual RV show — and I was joined by myriad others doing the same thing. On the other side of the country, flocks of shoppers were doing the same thing in Tampa at the Florida RV Supershow. In both places, thousands of shoppers were looking  for a way to upgrade their RVing experience with one of the newest luxury fifth wheels in the industry.

And from what I’ve seen, there are seven luxury fifth wheels that make a superior nest for snowbirds. But first, just for a moment, let’s talk about what makes luxury fifth wheels what they are.

 

What Defines Luxury Fifth Wheels

A big part of the definition of luxury includes creature comforts. You know, make life — wherever you park — more enjoyable. Nice kitchens that enthusiastic cook will love. Uncompromising bedrooms and bathrooms. A decent amount of space with nice seating for at least four — when you might want to do some entertaining. That kind of stuff.

We also favored luxury fifth wheels whose warranties covers full-time use. While most RV warranties assume the rig will be used only recreationally, many of these premium fifth wheels are actually covered for use full-time. And their interiors are designed accordingly with more premium appliances, sometimes including dishwashers and provisions for washer-dryer units. 

The Criteria We’ve Used for Luxury Fifth Wheels

The fifth wheels I’ve chosen for this piece are ones I’ve reviewed in the past and which stick out in my mind as being nicer rigs with full features and good design. Each of these is a unit that I wouldn’t mind living in full-time. And many snowbirds are doing just that. (Or at least living in warmer climates until they approve of nature’s handling of the weather enough to return north.)

To keep things unbiased, this list is in alphabetical order based on the name of the manufacturer. 

 

Snowbird Luxury Fifth Wheels: An A-to-Z List

Alliance RV Valor 42V14

As a newcomer, Alliance RV has really impacted the industry. A big reason why that they have a very direct line to customers. And they use it to do some things differently. First of all, the plumbing. In this RV, Alliance has created what is called a home run to a manifold for every water fixture in the RV. That design feature ensures separate runs for both hot and cold water. If you find a leak in your plumbing at a fixture, you can simply shut off that water line without affecting the rest of the RV. 

The electrical in this RV is similar. (Sort of.) Alliance intentionally wires all their RVs such that the wiring is specifically color coded and uniformly coded from one of their trailers to the next. This isn’t typical either, and this type of intentionality means that repairs are both easier but also less likely. (Which is great if you’re snowbirding one place for a season.)

I’ve always suggest that you look under an RV before you look in it. And here you’ll find heavy-duty 7,000 Dexter axles with 8,000 springs, heavy-duty shackles and MorRyde CRE3000 components. 

Like the Jayco Seismic (more on that in a bit), the Valor 42V14 also features a large fold-down party deck on the side in addition to the one created by the rear loading ramp. 

Length: 44 feet 11 inches • Dry Weight: 15,989 pounds • GVWR: 20,000 pounds

 

 

DRV Mobile Suites 41FKRB

DRV is a company that has focused on building fifth wheel trailers that are designed for full-time living. The company operates in a premium place in the market, so things like high-quality plumbing fixtures are part of their DNA. They also have larger half-inch plumbing and a whole-house water filtration system. 

Another unusual thing about how these are built are the walls which are 3 1/4-inch thick. (Most RV walls are 1 1/2 inches thick.) They are also built with aluminum studs and fiberglass insulation. The aluminum studs are glued and screwed together and the outer wall is a fiberglass which is gel coated and features an Azdel backer. 

These units also feature disc brakes. Unlike a lot of fifth wheels, the front landing jacks are painless meaning they just can be moved to where they need to be without inserting pins in the legs. Among the Mobile Suites 41FKRB highlights are also three A/C units, a rear bedroom, and front kitchen (over pin).

Length: 43 feet 6 inches • Dry Weight: 19,440 pounds •  GVWR: 21,500 pounds

 

 

Jayco Eagle 355MBQS + Seismic Luxury 4113

Earlier this year, RV Trader got to spend some time at Jayco looking at a few of their offerings. Two absolutely earned a place on this list — the Eagle 355MBQS and the Seismic Luxury 4113. Both of these RVs benefit from Jayco’s longer warranty at three years for the exterior, two year end-to-end. I also got to tour Jayco’s predelivery inspection facilities. The company really has stepped-up this process with each Jayco unit that leaves the factory having been scrutinized by a team of inspectors. 

I also like that these units incorporate Dexter Tow Assist which uses technology from Bosch to provide anti-lock braking and sway mitigation on this trailer, a significant safety advance in towable RVs. While newer vehicles all incorporate anti-lock braking, this is a newer feature in towables and can make for much safer towing. Another feature is the ability to track mileage with this system which can help with routine maintenance.

 

Jayco Eagle 355MBQS

This model features a midunit room that can be an office, sleeping space, or a den — which provides great versatility. This can also be great for families or travelers with friends who visit overnight. 

Length: 42 feet 4 inches • Dry Weight: 12,830 pounds • GVWR: 15,250 pounds

 

 

Jayco Seismic Luxury 4113

This fifth wheel combines the functionality of a toy hauler with a luxurious feel. A very nice layout features a deck on the side as well as the ramp deck common in toy haulers. Being a toy hauler,it offers the opportunity to bring along things like motorcycles or other smaller vehicles or many full-time RVers use the cargo bay as an office or hobby space. 

Length: 45 feet 8 inches • Dry Weight: 15,815 pounds • GVWR: 20,695 pounds

 

 

Keystone Montana 3623EB

Keystone’s Montana is a very popular line of fifth wheels — and for good reason. Keystone RV has a group called their Innovation Lab, which looks at some of the pain points associated with RVs and then resolves them. Things like better air-conditioning ducting for quieter operation with residential filtration, unique man-made flooring composites, intentionally-built wiring systems, and more are features that set Keystone apart. 

Recently, I got to look at a Montana model that addresses another pain point: e-bikes. The Keystone Montana 3623EB features a compartment specifically designed to accommodate e-bikes which includes a power outlet to charge those bikes. While you can clearly use this for other purposes, the fact that it solves the issue of what to do with e-bikes on the road shows the kind of thinking that happens at Keystone. 

Keystone is also one of the only RV companies that owns a chamber to test their RVs for climate-readiness with the ability to freeze or heat the chamber to see how the RVs handle the temperatures. 

Length: 40 feet 2 inches • Dry Weight: 13,835 pounds • GVWR: 16,725 pounds

 

 

Luxe Elite 39FB

Luxe is unusual in that they predominantly build units to order and sell factory-direct. So whatever you see that you like in this particular unit, or don’t, you can probably have built more to your taste. As with all fifth-wheel manufacturers, there are a number of floorplans and lengths to choose from.

On the subject of those slide rooms, and all the slide rooms in Luxe models, they actually do not have an overlapping flap on the outside when closed. Instead, the slide rooms fit flush with the exterior of the coach much like the door of a car. This is the first time I’ve seen that and it does make a really clean look. 

The exteriors of these are all painted and you can choose almost any paint colors you prefer. If you like the idea of a solid color that can be done. If you like the swishes and swirl,s that can be done, but, somehow, those seem more attractive on the examples I saw rather than what you’d typically see in the form of stickers on many RVs.

The company makes several lines of fifth wheels with the Luxe Elite series being the largest. Some are more compatible with full-sized pickups. 

Length: 40 feet 10 inches • Dry Weight: 18,000 pounds • GVWR: 24,000 pounds

 

 

Palomino River Ranch 393RL

Palomino’s River Ranch line is truly unusual in that the entire upper deck is one level from end-to-end. This layout makes these trailers more like a motorhome in that there is no upper deck, per se, and the entire lower portion of the exterior of the RV is storage. 

One of the other unique features of these is the use of a Coleman Mach air-conditioning system that is more commonly found in mobile offices. Rather than being placed on the roof, this system is under the floor and features a residential-style filtration system while using ducting that is similar to how a home is ducted. 

The ceiling in these units is seven feet from end-to-end, and the trailers feature residential-grade appliances throughout. Since the whole living space is on an upper deck, these also feature an entry space/mud room of sorts, which can be another bonus if you’re out camping in the desert with so many of the rest of us. 

Length: 42 feet 4 inches • Dry Weight: 14,844 pounds • GVWR: 17,999 pounds

 

 

One More Thing …

Some of these fifth wheels are quite large, and there’s a community of people who have repurposed commercial trucks (think Peterbilt, Kenworth) to tow these larger fifth wheels. This actually makes sense. These larger rigs can now be quite comfortable to operate and offer incredible towing capability. So, if you’re going the luxury fifth wheel route, it might be worth considering.

There’s nothing wrong with, and we all do it. Daydreaming about buying a new rig is as natural as breathing. But beyond fantasy Class As and hot new RV reviews, how do you really know you’re ready to buy your next RV? Are there any tells that give away the fact that it’s time for a trade? Well, I’ve sleuthed this out for you. I have five signs that you’re ready to buy your next RV. 

How do I know, you ask? (Hmm… you already sound like a savvy buyer.)

Let’s just say I have some experience in this area. (Which is this article hits close to home for me.) We had two of the same travel trailers for the past few years. So, you’re wondering, “Why two?” (You are an inquisitive one.) Well, We got the first one, but someone rear-ended and totaled it. (No humans were harmed in the process). Then we liked that one so much, we got the same trailer. Minus the damage, of course. 

But recently we went back to Indiana to pick up a completely different floorplan because, after a couple years with the same one, it was time for a change. So, how did we know it was time for a new RV? We showed all the signs. (And maybe you do too.)

 

You’ve got the fever!

No matter how good the RV you have is, once you catch the fever, the only cure might be to buy your next RV. If you find yourself slowing as you pass the RV dealership. Or if  you’re spending a lot of time on RV Trader looking at RVs that might more closely match what you have in mind, that may be all it takes. 

For us, we were at an RV gathering where there were a bunch of new RVs out there.Aand we were walking through the various floorplans and one of them just hit us. We had to have it. 

The funny thing, it was a model we had seen before, but some changes to the 2025 layout for were so compelling that we made the switch. 

 

They fixed “those” things.

No matter what RV model you have, there are certain things about it that are just annoying. Perhaps you realized that you love cooking in the RV, but … the oven’s too small. Maybe you thought that outdoor kitchen was going to be used all the time, but … you’ve found it never gets used — and you’d just rather have the storage space. 

Or, perhaps, you want an outdoor kitchen after all. 

The things that might have been just small annoyances at first keep becoming ever more annoying until they become a pain point. Those things, alone, could get you to start looking at RVs that are designed, built or configured differently. But sometimes it’s the same model coming back into your life. But, you know, way better than before.

 

Your RV no longer fits your camping style.

Lots of people buy lots of RVs with a vision of how they’ll use it. Sometimes they’re spot on in this decision making process. But other times they’ve missed the mark. 

For example, let’s say you have a big, beautiful glamper but find the allure of off-grid camping to be tugging at your heart. That RV that’s out in the driveway is just too big to take on forest service roads. You want to be more adventurous. 

Or, perhaps, that teardrop just doesn’t fit your camping style after all. Those RV parks with hot tubs and music are more where you’d like to be, but they only allow larger RVs. 

Another very valid situation is that you find yourself wanting to camp for more of the year, but the RV you have is not well suited to cold weather camping. Or the one A/C unit on the roof of your current RV just doesn’t have the oomph to keep you cool on those warm summer adventure. 

 

Life has outgrown your old RV.

One of the things we can’t ignore is that change is inevitable. The RV you have now may have been perfect for the circumstances in your life when you bought it, but things may have changed. Perhaps children moved out, or got tired of camping with mom and dad. Perhaps retirement means more time to travel. Or, you might even have found an employer where you can work remotely and you can define ‘remotely’ on your terms. 

Whatever the case, life changes can mean it’s time to go RV shopping. There are so many great choices out there that there’s something for you no matter how life changes. 

 

You’ve seen a friend’s camper. And it’s better.

We do a lot of group camping and that can be a great deal of fun. But it can also get expensive. 

Friends and relatives will inevitably have different RVs and one of the most enjoyable things about group camping is touring others’ rigs. While the things that you could tolerate in your own RV might have seemed like just little inconveniences, once you’ve seen how others’ RVs have conquered that pain point, it might just stick in your mind. 

You know what happens. At first, it’s no biggie. But you think about it. And it comes back and you think about it more and more. 

And the next thing that happens is that you’re RV shopping because that shower that was too small but still okay is now confining chamber of torture and you have to get an RV with a bigger shower. Nothing else in the world matters. 

Or something like that. If that’s that case, or any of the above, it just may be time to buy your next RV.

Through the holidays and into the new year, there comes an opportunity for what is called a stretch goal — one that reaches about as far as possible, even bordering on the unrealistic. You know what I’m talking about. The RV you buy the second you’ve made it. And these seven fantasy Class As make perfect stretch goals for any RV enthusiast. (After all, if Santa didn’t get you these already, there may be a limit on the rewards for good behavior.) 

So let’s take a look at some  motorhomes to consider as you’re compiling your own list of fantasy Class As. Some come with a hefty price tag, but others may be less of a stretch than you’d think.

 

Topping Our List of Fantasy Class As

Bob Tiffin Limited Edition Allegro Bus

Tiffin Motorhomes are a hallmark brand that have been built under the watchful eye of founder Bob Tiffin since the first day the company opened its doors. While the brand is now part of the Thor family, founder Bob is still part of the picture. And this tribute model is targeted at just 82 units. That’s it. 

This model is based on the Tiffin Allegro Bus. It’s a 45-foot-long motorhome powered by a Cumins L9 diesel engine shifting through an Allison six-speed automatic. Beautiful. Part of what makes this model unique is an exterior paint job, which evokes images of the Rocky Mountains as well as Bob Tiffin’s favorite car, the Packard. 

While some might be intimidated driving something of this size, they shouldn’t be. This motorhome is remarkably comfortable to drive along America’s highways. Things like adaptive cruise control, air suspension, huge windshields, and so much more really do transform the driving experience. All things one would expect to top a list of fantasy Class As.

But the real treat is inside these RVs. They feature a bath-and-a-half, heated tile floors, and lavish interiors. This is definitely an RV for entertainers. Theater seats sit opposite a couch that is all upholstered in ultra leather. There’s also a pull-out dining table and a kitchen that is a great place for those who enjoy culinary creation. 

A More Reasonably Priced Dream

If taste is Tiffin but your budget is more mainstream, perhaps you might consider putting Tiffin’s Open Road Allegro on your shopping list. While not as lavish as the signature model, you still get the ownership experience the company is noted for. But the Open Road is a small RV built on Ford’s gasoline-powered chassis. 

These are both much more affordable and also shorter and narrower than the Bob Tiffin or other Tiffin diesel pusher model but offer many of the same amenities in a less costly package. 

 

 

4 More for Your RV Dream List

Newmar King Aire

One of the more extravagant RVs you can find is Newmar’s King Aire. These large diesel pushers feature things like Italian leather furniture that include heated theater seating with a built-in massage function. On the subject of heat, the tile floors in these stay nice in colder climates. That is, thanks to radiant heating. For those summer months, the three air conditioners on the roof offer plenty of chill. 

Something these large Class A motorhomes are known for is their lavish interiors. And this is no exception. There are quartz countertops, oak cabinets and premium appliances from brands like Viking. While name dropping on brands, you’ll find Bose on the audio systems and four TVs including one outside. 

Of course, this kind of collection of brands and materials is beyond what Santa can give. So, no surprise he didn’t leave it under the tree. These often start at over $1.6 million. If you just looked at your significant other in shock, perhaps one of Newmar’s other offerings are more in line with your reality. In fact if you want to stay in the diesel pusher category Newmar’s own New Aire will save you almost a million bucks with a starting price of only $623,935. 

 

Entegra Cornerstone

Entegra’s Cornerstone has been one of the better selling Class A diesel pushers for years. Starting at just under a million dollars, you still get things like leather massage chairs for both driver and passenger. 

The 2025 Cornerstone features a redesigned cockpit. It includes a digital instrument panel and second infotainment system plus a heads-up display. These also incorporate a camera suite that enables 360-degree view. All of which makes driving these large rigs a bit easier. 

Entegra is part of the Jayco family and I recently got to tour their facilities including the Entegra customer service facility that’s should be on line by the time you read this. I was pleasantly surprised by the investment the company is making into improving what they do so the fact that this is the best-selling diesel pusher isn’t a big surprise. 

 

Newell Coach

Some RVs are built on an assembly line-like environment. Others are more individually shaped. And Newell is one of those special companies that work with buyers to make something that reflects them. So, if you do choose to put a Newell on your list of fantasy Class As, know that it might involve a wait. (Like any true romance.) 

But even that has it’s advantages. Buyers have the chance to work with the company, specifying your own interior details and materials. That means when it arrives, it will be yours and yours alone. The company does use standardized floorplans. (You have to in a production environment.) But the details and facets of what they build are individual. 

While most of the big Class A diesel pushers are based on either a Spartan or Freightliner chassis, Newell is one of the only companies that builds their own chassis and body. The bodies are steel on these and were created with the help of Porsche design. They also a generator that’s about double the size of what everyone else is using. So ,you could literally power your own Newell and someone else’s RV. No problem. 

Some of the things I’ve seen owners ask for include a pressure washer on board so they a keep the custom paint jobs on their motorhomes looking new. They also put a camera at the fuel bay so you can tell when you’ve pulled up properly to the pump. 

Where Dreamers Can Become Buyers

Rather than having a network of dealerships, Newell makes several show coaches every year. They then take them to large public events, such as NASCAR races. There they are opened up where folks can come in and dream. Enough of those dreamers become buyers so that there’s a two-year waiting list. But the fact that many, many people traipse through these show coaches shows how durable and high-quality the materials are that they are built with. 

The company does have a network of service bays, however. Should you need service, you don’t have to go back to Oklahoma to accomplish that. These Newell coaches are well over $2 million each, but the company has been around for over half a century and doesn’t seem to be slowing down. 

 

Coachmen Euro

Let’s say that Bitcoin investment hasn’t panned out the way your friend said it would. That and your penny stocks are still worth pennies. No worries. There are Class A motorhomes for all budgets, and one of the ones we saw earlier in 2024 was the Coachmen Euro 25EU. 

This rig would also work if you don’t like the look of a large tour bus. It has a very angular and international feel to the outside. There’s a bedroom slide in here to accommodate the king-sized bed. But the main living space and kitchen do not have a slide, at least not in the model we saw.  But there is a couch opposite the theater seats and the front captain’s chairs turn around so you do have the opportunity to enjoy the company of friends or loved ones. (Or look that penny stock person in the eye when those promises don’t come to fruition.)

There are a good number of Class A gassers based on this same chassis, but this one really stands out in the styling department and has a pleasant interior to boot. 

 

I figured since I was extra, extra good all year (quit laughing!) I’d add a couple of RVs to the list that might really be something different. One is a look at the future, the other reminds me of those 1950s movies with the cyclops characters. 

 

2 Class As for the Future (We Hope)

Thor Hybrid Prototype

You may have already seen images of this on social media. But I actually got to drive the Thor Hybrid prototype at the RV Open House, and it seems to be a realistic look at what could be. 

This motorhome is a prototype based on the Harbinger chassis. Harbinger is a company that makes electric chassis for the commercial truck industry so they’re already building these. What Thor did was add a four cylinder gasoline generator to the equation so you have the ability to drive further than what the EV-portion alone could do. Plus, you also now have a gasoline generator aboard. 

If you’ve driving an electric vehicle, then you have an idea of what this is like. Plenty of power from the get-go and rather silent operation. I actually pushed this rig a bit around a test track and it handled and drove admirably. The idea of having an EV with an internal combustion engine as a back-up isn’t totally new. (Railroad locomotives have been doing something similar for decades.)

With emissions laws cracking down, this makes a lot of sense. And, honestly, from the standpoint of camping in a motorized RV, the fact that you have a generator and huge battery also work out. You have the battery for powering all the features in the RV and then a gas engine in case you’re being a little too generous with the AC unit. This belongs on this list because I think it was actually a reasonably realistic prototype. We shall see. 

 

Marchi Mobile eleMMent Palazzo Superior

 

 

With a name like Marchi Mobile eleMMent Palazzo Superior you might expect something different. Well, you’d be right. The company has nailed different to be sure. This very, very unusual motorhome is actually a two-story vehicle that is only built to order with a cyclops-inspired round front windshield and an open upper deck. 

As you would expect, it comes with all of the typical amenities, including several flatscreen TVs, a great kitchen and a bedroom that includes a king-size mattress with a rather palatial decoration as the headboard. But it has more than a few features to set it apart, like an integrated wine cabinet, a spa-like bathroom with a rainfall shower, and a massive couch that stretches over 12 feet. 

The second-story open-air deck is something that I thought was pretty nifty and something I wish others would do. Of course, there’s a sun shade over the deck, but I can imagine parking near Oktoberfest and watching the revelers walk into that festival and stumble out. Oh, did I mention the company is in Austria? Also, can you imagine navigating a 45-foot diesel pusher through Austria? Don’t worry – they’ll ship one to the US if you want. 

Since each of these is built to order the company can’t be overly specific about pricing but the word is that your starting number is upwards of $3 million. 

 

After a whole year of buying and selling on RV Trader, lots of folks want to know: What were the most popular RVs of 2024? We understand why. If you’re buying, it’s good to know that you’re following — or bucking — a trend. And if you’re selling, woo! It’s especially nice to know if your RV is a hot commodity.

So, let’s kick mystery to the curb and lift the veil on RV Trader’s most popular RVs of 2024! We looked at the top RVs that have garnered the most views from off-grid dreamers, deal hunters, and research-savvy sellers. That means that these results were not just searched. Listings of these top models were selected and viewed more than their peers on RV Trader.

Now, like all online shopping, why you’re viewing what you’re viewing is ultimately a you question. But these five RV models were the most popular answers for RV shoppers and sellers in 2024. And that’s something a lot of us that are still buying and selling RVs out there want to know in 2025.

 

No. 5: Grand Design Reflection

We’ve seen Grand Design’s more affordable and varied line of travel trailers on the unseen part of this list (the Grand Design Imagine came in at No. 9), but an even larger number of you are looking for the more premium product from Grand Design. We’re talking about the Reflection series. 

This upscale travel trailer brand has proven popular. It has a reputation for good insulation, which can extend your camping season. That, combined with it’s four-season capability, is another reason they’re one of the most popular RVs. Grand Design claims that these are tested from zero to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, 

Grand Design absolutely does a good job with floorplans. These often include innovative features that others take some time to copy. Newer Reflection fifth wheel models also incorporate anti-lock brakes, an important safety feature. Plus, many of these models feature large, spacious interiors with premium features. Simply said, the Reflection can elevate any camping experience. And lots of folks are looking to do just that.

 

No. 4: Winnebago View

The Winnebago View has been in production for quite a few years. So, it’s no wonder it fits nicely in the top five of our most popular RVs list. Offering the performance and efficiency of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform (more on that soon), the View combines a nicely-appointed interior with a manageable size. The latter makes it easier to handle and perfect for visiting those National Park campgrounds that some larger rigs can’t get into. 

Since the View has such a long history, you can find these in more affordable prices despite their more upscale appointments. That is, if you’re looking for a used rig. 

There are also some nifty new floorplans in the View family. One even features ample storage in the back for bikes or other cargo. 

Older Winnebago View models tend to hold up well. The exteriors feature full body paint instead of stickers. Further, the durability of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis is hard to beat, which is another big plus. It’s not unusual to find some pretty nice looking older Winnebago Views for sale. So, it’s no wonder they’re one of the most popular RVs. 

 

No. 3: Newmar Dutch Star

Newmar is another of those cornerstone motorhome brands that has stood the test of time. Newer models are large diesel-powered Class A models with opulent interiors and a plush feel. But, go back enough years, and you’ll find older models with gas engines. And many still have a lot of life left in them. 

Among the reasons we suspect many of you are hunting for the Newmar Dutch Star is to embark on full-time living. With so many of the included features and functions in these motorhomes, they’re quite up to the task. Washer/dryers, central vacuums, and premium materials all make full-time RVing a pleasant experience indeed. The premium driving features and powerful diesel engines in the newer models just add to that. 

 

No. 2: Tiffin Phaeton

There was a time when the TV show “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” was a popular watch for a lot of people. Perhaps those same people are now hunting a motorhome on RV Trader. Because the Tiffin Phaeton is a new star on that show. 

Once again, the Tiffin brand is back on the list and for good reason. Until recently, the Red Bay, Alabama company was the pride and joy of the Tiffin family. These Class As are very high quality RVs that are fully outfitted with premium quality and high-end features. Even now founder Bob Tiffin is still in the picture. And there are plenty of examples of relatively new Tiffin Phaetons here on RV Tradaer that are gently used. 

In fact, a model that’s just a few years old could be a relative bargain in today’s market. With premium, upscale interiors, these models convey a sense of luxury and style. Quite simply, the Tiffin Phaeton embodies the full complement of useful and extraordinary features. Which is why it makes for such a luxurious camping experience. 

These kinds of RVs often cater to those who have chosen to live the RV lifestyle full-time. Nut, no matter how often you get to use the rig, it’s pretty much guaranteed to be something worthy of that old TV show. 

 

No. 1 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Far and away, the most viewed RV on RV Trader is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Now, we understand: This is a broad category. So, let’s look at a few aspects of it. First, while some segments of the RV market may not as strong as they once were (the pandemic spike!), van life is still something a lot of people are interested in. And that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter tops our list of most popular RVs bears that out. In 2024, more people were viewing it on RV Trader than anything else.

 

Matchless Versatility

There are so many ways you can outfit a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. So, that may explain why this is such a popular view on RV Trader. Many RV companies start with a Sprinter in van form and then outfit them into campers. You can think of things like the Winnebago Solis, for example. These vans offer all the things you’d want in a camper — kitchen, bed space, toilet, and shower. But it all comes in an overall footprint that’s not much bigger than some larger cars. That means you get all the ability to camp but still retain your ability to park one of these in the same parking space as people in their private vehicles. 

The other unique thing is that you can be as stealthy as you like. Some of the RVs based on Sprinter vans look much like a vehicle a tradesperson would use. So, sneaking an overnight in some parking lots are possibilities in some cases. 

Another interesting use case is people with families whose children are involved in group activities like bands or sports. Some of the ways RV companies have configured offerings on the Sprinter chassis makes them a good way to shuttle those offspring to the event. All while still having a clean bathroom and a kitchen to prepare snacks once you’re there. And, since you can park in the same parking lot as the other parents with SUVs and such, there’s another reason to love these. 

 

A Powerful Name

As much as these Class B vans are available in relatively compact and less adorned stylings, you can also get larger examples that are rather luxurious. There are some pretty elaborate examples of RVs based on the Sprinter chassis, including offerings from Airstream and Grech RV that provide quite luxurious trappings and features wrapped in the Sprinter’s shell. 

Potential buyers also might be viewing these because of the Mercedes-Benz branding. Mercedes-Benz has long been a leader in vehicle safety systems. And the Sprinter is not excluded from that. While base Sprinter models are more marketed toward the trades, you can absolutely find models that are lavishly appointed and incorporate every modern safety technology on the market.

Something some already know is that Mercedes-Benz also has a long history of creating some very capable off-road vehicles, like the Unimog. While a Sprinter isn’t quite the backwoods conquerer, it is available with all-wheel-drive, which can make those winter skiing trips much more accessible. 

 

Rigged for Upfitting

Then you get to the upfitter stage. Since there are so many of these Sprinters out there all over the world, there is also a very healthy aftermarket world ready to sell you just about anything you want. 

You could start with a bare Sprinter van and outfit it as creatively as you like. There are companies that offer interior and exterior features so you an tailor your van to whatever capability you’re interested in. Not just things like storage and organization, either. There are companies who will gladly customize your Sprinter with very capable off-road pieces and others who will do a fantastic job of powering the van with solar and lithium battery systems that offer incredible boondocking functionality. 

More than just about any other platform, the Sprinter offers the ability to start in one place and go almost as far as you can imagine. With the number of RV companies offering campers based on this platform to the huge volume of aftermarket support, it’s no wonder it tops our list of most popular RVs. 

 

Behind Everything, the You Question

But the most important question remains: What are you looking for? Are you hunting for a weekend camper … or something to go hunting Bigfoot? Is off-grid prowess your thing  … or do you just want to head for the hills for a weekend away? Or do you want to be the parent with the best vehicle at the children’s sporting events? The good thing is the Sprinter is capable of supporting any of those lifestyle choices and so much more. 

This is America, so let’s honest. Our first inclination to almost anything is that bigger is probably better. We want big sodas. Massive TVs. And RVs that are loaded with both amenities and storage. The thing is, in the RV world, every extra thing is weight. And the bigger it is, the bigger the vehicle has to be to tow it. (Which means you might need a truck or a bigger truck). But what if you want to go old-school American. You know, pioneering. Traveling light. Are there RVs that you don’t even need a truck for? Are there RVs that you can … tow with your car?

Rest easy. It’s not a dumb question. There are a decent number of smaller trailers that you can possibly tow with the car you have now. (Folks with adventure-focused vehicles like Subarus and Jeeps especially might appreciate some of these units.) These trailers stand out for for their ability to be easy towing. And garageable. And, always love this, affordable. All while being rather functional RVs.

But first …

 

How Do I Know What I Can Tow?

Always a great question. Car and RV salespeople alike are going to tell you that your car can pull a surprising amount. (You might be quite surprised by the number in your manual even). But there’s another number that’s even more important than pull. It’s carry. 

You see all trailers rely on the tow vehicle to carry about 15 percent of their total weight.  Fortunately your vehicle will tell you how much weight it can carry with a placard somewhere near or in the driver door jamb. So, know this number before you make any trailer decision. Remember that you have to consider what’s in the vehicle. Got tents and Porta Potties? Got your in-laws and your Saint Bernard? All of that counts against the available capacity of your vehicle’s cargo carrying. 

 

The Oft-Forgotten Towing Factor

Another important consideration is the wind. If you’ve noticed that all vehicles are starting to look alike, there’s a reason. They’re designed to cut through the wind. But a big, boxy trailer typically isn’t. S, the larger the front of the trailer, the more power it takes to overcome the wind resistance. 

There’s more to it (and your vehicle’s owner’s manual likely will talk about “frontal area” on anything you can tow), so you might have to dig the manual out of the storage locker. But that’s not a bad thing. 

So, know that I chose these smaller trailers not only because they’re light, but because they also won’t create a tremendous amount of drag as you tow with a car. 

Now. let’s go lite and take look at five trailers you can tow with a car. 

 

5 Trailers You Can Tow with a Car

SylvanSport Go Easy TraiLOFT

Sylvan Sport, out of North Carolina, builds some very innovative towable campers. And the SylvanSport Go Easy TraiLOFT is absolutely that. The Go Easy is a very light trailer that can be used to carry kayaks, bicycles, or even that load of green waste down to the garbage dump. This very flexible trailer is designed to enjoy the great outdoors. However, it can also be used when you just got that huge TV or a new fridge at the local home improvement store. So, it truly is a problem solver. 

But what is really cool is that you can combine this flexibility with SylvanSport’s LOFT roof-top tent. And now you’re truly ready for outdoor adventure. 

If you’re truly planning on bringing lots of stuff with you, it might be possible to put the roof-top tent on your vehicle and have the entire Go Easy trailer for bikes and camping gear. The very compact size of this trailer means you could forget it’s behind you when you tow with a car. Even so, the capabilities and incredible flexibility of this design are unmatched. Plus, it’s useful both for getting away from it all. (And, mentioned, for a lot of tasks around the house.) 

In addition to the standard version, there’s also a Go all-terrain model which offers more functionality. Its wheel and suspension package that makes it an ideal companion for off-road vehicles. 

Length: 10 feet  • Height: 2 feet 11 inches (empty trailer) • UVW: 235 pounds • MSRP $3,695

 

 

Jumping Jack Jump Up Explorer 4×6 Utility

Jumping Jack trailers are another example of someone taking a utility or flat-bed trailer and making it so much more. The Jumping Jack Jump Up tent trailer is available in several sizes, but the smallest one fits in our criteria here. What you have is an open utility trailer that you could also use for home improvement projects. (Or for helping that friend move, if you mistakenly answered the phone.)

But don’t be fooled into think that’s all this is. There’s also an entire tent system that fits into the trailer. So, now you’ve got an RV as well. But what really caught my eye is that, with the tent collapsed into the trailer, there are walls that fold over the top of the tent that enable you to still carry things. Not just little things, either, but things like kayaks, e-bikes, and even ATVs. 

As for being an RV, the tent itself sets up really easily. You simply flip the sides over which reveals the tent. Then you pull the tent up. It sort of springs into position pretty easily and quickly. Tents nowadays are so different than when I was a kid, but we just needed to keep the dinosaurs at bay. 

Length: 10 feet 2 inches • Height: 4 feet (empty trailer) • UVW: 950 pounds • MSRP $8,495

 

 

Rockwood Tent OTG 190TG

Rockwood is an unusual company. They build everything from these very small pop-up tent trailers to large, luxurious fifth wheels and travel trailers. New for 2025 is the company’s OTG series tent trailers, which are intended to be an alternative to camping in a tent. Since these are soft-sided pop-up tent trailers, there is some of that tentiness (Just to keep you feeling at home as you transition to RV life.)

The smallest of these is the 190OTG, which offers no water and no propane system. It’s simply a dinette and a 60-inch by 80-inch queen-size bed in a pop-up trailer. The dinette in this folds down to be a 33-inch by 80-inch bed. There’s a dining table with the dinette, of course, but a second table could serve as a bed-side table, kitchen table, or whatever. 

That table has an open space below it where the portable toilet is stored for transport. There’s also a bit of cabinet space in here. This is a very simple trailer but might be a great transition from actual tent camping into the beginning of the RV lifestyle. 

Length: 13 feet 10 inches • Height: 4 feet 10 inches (closed trailer) • UVW: 980 pounds • MSRP $8,995

 

 

Aliner Scout Lite

Aliner products have been a fixture for four decades now. These pop-up A-frame style trailers are very small and garageable when folded down. But when the top is deployed, they provide surprisingly spacious interiors. 

One of the biggest hurdles many people have when considering one of these is how difficult it might be to raise the roof, but that’s not the case at all. Even the most diminutive camper will find that they can raise the roof without difficulty. (It’s done with the assistance of built-in struts.)

This is the smallest offering from Aliner. You can also get models with dormers that further expand the interior. Even so, the Aliner Scout Lite can sleep up to four friendly folks with a couch at the front that converts to a 56-inch by 76-inch bed and a dinette at the back that can become a 46-inch by 76-inch bed. 

Since this is a hard-sided trailer when fully deployed, more campgrounds are comfortable with these. These are still well made with composite walls and a torsion axle suspension along with a high-performance ceiling vent fan. 

Length: 13 feet • Height: 5 feet 2 inches (closed trailer) • UVW: 1,190 pounds • MSRP $19,445

 

 

Blue Mountain Campers Appalachian

This might be the most traditional offering in this collection as the Blue Mountain Campers Appalachian is actually a more traditional fully enclosed trailer. While it has an almost teardrop shape, it’s really configured a lot like a pickup camper with the entrance at the rear. 

The North Carolina company boasts that the exterior of this trailer is all human-made composites to reduce the chance of water damage. The interiors are a very pleasant birch plywood. There are other examples of premium components including the dual-pane windows. This trailer also offers optional heating and air conditioning as well as a 12-volt mini fridge. 

Like the rest of this group, these can fit into a garage, but that means that the interior height is just five feet. However, a lower height also makes for less wind resistance so you have to take your compromises as they come. 

Length: 13 feet • Height: 6 feet 8.5 inches • UVW: 1,570 pounds • MSRP $13,850

 

 

When I Tow with a Car, I Should Remember …

One of the common things about these little campers is that they may have fewer features than larger RVs. Missing from the list of features on most of these are toilets, refrigerators, and cooking surfaces. 

As someone who loves traveling, we have a fully-featured travel trailer. However, we also sometimes camp completely off the grid using our pickup camper and tent. When we do that, we have a whole list of great camping accessories that complete this package. So, we really don’t feel like we’re missing anything. The same packing principles would apply if you had a more minimalist RV that you can tow with a car.

These small, high-quality trailers can be a great way to get out and enjoy this country’s beautiful places while still having a great place to sleep. 

Thinking of buying your first RV? You’re sure to have lots of questions. If you visit one of the many spaces online where RV owners and dreamers congregate, you’ll hear many of the same queries pop up over and over. But you may wonder: Which questions are actually import if you’re buying your first RV?

Well, you’re in luck. Drawing on my experience working at an RV dealership (and as a full-time RVer myself), here’s are the seven questions new RV buyers always seem to ask– including the questions to ask themselves. (Let’s start with the latter first.)

 

“Where and how will I be using this RV?”

Working at the dealership, I saw a lot of buyers come in with a list of questions only to get distracted by the beautiful interiors and totally get off track. Can’t blame them. The latest interiors are a far cry from the brown and bland of years past. Some rigs are approaching designer home status. (Well, almost.)

Compiling a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves is a great way to start the shopping process, but it really starts with you. How you will use your RV? Are you going to go a few weekends a year to developed campgrounds? Headed to sporting or music events? Are you considering camping off-grid or boondocking in places with fewer services?

These questions matter. For example, if you plan to only stay at campgrounds that have a full suite of facilities, then you don’t need to have those amenities in your trailer. Conversely, you’ll want to have larger water tanks and solar panels if you foresee a lot of boondocking in your future. Make sense? Good. Glad you’re tracking.

 

“How much room do I really need?”

Many folks buy the biggest RV on the lot. And that’s because a lot of them think of their growing family, with  tweens or teens being part of the picture. But be honest: Are the younger people in your life really going to be part of this RV adventure? Don’t base your purchase on something that only happens once in a blue moon. On the rare occasion you need something different (or bigger), you can always rent. Part of the joy in having an RV is the spontaneity it affords you. That ability to get out there at the drop of a hat! A smaller RV can be towed by more vehicles, and is more maneuverable and cheaper on fuel.

Instead, I suggest buying a camper where you can use all the space and features for the majority of your adventures, with additional capacity as an extra. For example, many RVs can accommodate the occasional guest on dinettes and in folding couches. There are a few where bunk spaces can also be converted to offices and that sort of thing.

Tip: Pretend Like You Own the Place

When you inevitably find yourself within the shiny interior of an RV at the dealership, take a moment to pretend like you own the place. Well, to be precise, go through the motions of using the function and features of each and every space. Can you wash your hair in the shower? How do you make the bed? Is there enough room at the dinette for you and your crew to sit and talk? Can you use the kitchen to prepare a meal? By physically acting out these daily activities, you can pinpoint challenges or successes that will become either ongoing moments of joy or continual frustrations after buying your first RV.

 

“What’s my lifestyle?”

The seating configuration in an RV can significantly affect how you utilize that rig. Some offer comfy spaces to convene and watch a movie. Others might be better at game night. Ask yourself: How many people do you usually travel with? How do you spend your days? Are you someone who might like to watch a movie on a getaway? Or would you more likely be outside at the campground?

Or, how do you feel about cooking? Some kitchens are absolutely fantastic, but many RV kitchens wouldn’t be a great place to film one of those food shows unless it’s a tiny space challenge episode. For example, if you like to bake, the small ovens in many RVs are most effective at leaving you with a head full of steam, since a batch of cookies will often include both burnt and raw examples.

Tip: Research Who May Offer the Same Floorplan

Before you ever step onto an RV lot, know that any time a floorplan is created, and it sells well at all, someone else is going to build the same floorplan. So, if you fall in love with a certain layout, it doesn’t mean that you’re now committed to one model — or even one brand. (Know that is probably a surprise if you’re buying your first RV, but it’s so useful to know.) You can shop across the market and get the best match for your requirements. You might be surprised at what you find. the way each manufacturer envisions a floorplan can result in a very different RV, even when things look identical on paper.

 

“What’s the best brand? And who’s the best builder?”

You’ll often read about avoiding the big RV brands. The idea is that they all offer the same thing, just marketed differently. But in fact, both Forest River and Thor (two of the four big RV families) encourage the brands under their umbrella to compete not only in the open market but also within the company’s ranks.

Each individual brand within a conglomerate targets a different segment of buyer. There are absolutely brands that zero-in on price, and others that focus on quality. But if you’re buying your first RV, how do you tell which is which? One way to tell is to contact people with used RVs of the type you’re considering and see what their experience has been. If you already have a few models in mind, you can find owner reviews online. Or, to get some initial inspiration, why not check out some expert reviews?

 

“How is this RV built?”

Though many ask about the quality of a builder, far fewer ask about how an RV is built. And this is something you’ll absolutely want to know the answer to when you’re buying your first RV — because the caliber of the build will greatly affect your camping experience.

I always recommend starting where the RV meets the pavement and working your way up. Look at the quality of the tires and suspension an RV company uses. On towables specifically, there are many RV companies using off-brand tires and low-grade suspensions. I recently got the chance to ride in various RVs with different suspensions to see how that affected things. It was eye-opening. You’ll definitely feel the difference on normal highways.

Tip: Make Four-Season Capability a Factor

While you’re under the RV, look at how it’s insulated. Some RVs are absolutely designed to weather cold camping and others are not. Many companies use fancy names to imply that their campers are winter-ready, but the proof is in a certified temperature rating. This requires testing in a climate chamber, however, so not many models are tested. But a specific rating is worth seeking out if freezing temperatures are frequently part of your itinerary.

 

“How busy is the dealership?”

The caliber of an RV dealership makes a tremendous difference in the overall experience you will have. A dealership with sufficient service techs and a willingness to work with you on warranty items is important.

You will have warranty claims, and the way the dealership handles those will absolutely make a difference. For example, if you have a leaky plumbing fitting and the dealership is so busy that they can’t attend to the issue for six weeks, there goes a lot of the camping season.

Check the ratings on your local RV dealership before buying your first RV. A chat with the service manager might also be revealing.

 

“What are my financing options?”

Oddly enough, first-time RV buyers don’t often ask about how to finance their purchase. While some dealerships offer very competitive financing, not all do. And this is where you want to do a little legwork of your own.

I suggest establishing a relationship with a local credit union that does RV loans. You’ll know where you stand so you can set your budget appropriately. RVs are considered a luxury purchase so the rates and terms of RV loans can vary dramatically.

If you know the rate and terms you qualify for before you step into an RV dealership, you can confidently choose the better deal.

 

“Is there such a thing as the ‘perfect’ RV?”

I’ve seen lots of people, armed with their list of models, non-negotiable features, and crucial amenities, shop for an RV – and then buy something different. Sure, there may be one or two essential things that inspired you to take the plunge in the first place, but know that there is no singular perfect RV out there for you. Be open-minded when you’re shopping and explore your options, and remember that as you become a more experienced RVer, your tastes may well change.

Wherever you want to go, the best RV is one that lets you have incredible adventures and makes you want to get out there every chance you get.