Category: RV Reviews

A lot of people who want to get into van life seek out Class Bs. But here’s something they keep in mind: For the same money (or less), smaller Class Cs — like the 2025 Jayco Redhawk SE 22 CF — are often a much better choice. With more power, space and usable features, the Redhawk SE 22CF gives it owners a great RV for life’s adventures. All with larger, more usable interiors than vans. 

So, with all that upside, you might be wondering if there’s any downsides. Read on for a balanced assessment of this Redhawk SE — and the type of buyer it suits best.

 

At a Glance: Redhawk SE 22 CF

I gave the Jayco Redhawk SE 22CF a rating of three and a half out of five. This model received strong marks for space utilization, Jayco’s warranty and inspection of their RVs, the value, and usability of this floorplan, along with cargo carrying capacity. Many of these smaller Class C RVs have very limited ability to carry cargo. That’s not true here. Unfortunately, the Ford chassis (or its Chevrolet counterpart should you go that route) are very long in the tooth. While that doesn’t mean it is poor, it does means that it lacks a lot of comfort and safety technologies buyers may find in newer builds. 

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 5
• UVW: 16,132 pounds 
• CCC: 2,368 pounds
• Exterior length: 24 feet 9 inches
• Exterior height 11 feet 6 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 44/40/31 gallons
• Awning: 13 feet

 

Features We Love

• J-Ride system
• Seatbelts at every seating position
• Jayco warranty
• Jayco predelivery inspection (PDI) process
• One-piece front cap
• Maneuverable size

 

Benefits

• J-Ride. Jayco’s J-Ride system improves ride and handling by upgrading suspension and handling pieces along with adding dampening in the steering system to improve both comfort and control in this RV. Handling is a common complaint in RVs, and Jayco’s improvements go a long way toward correcting this. The steering dampener, for example, reduces the amount of corrections you have to make while driving. This makes for a more relaxed journey. 
• Extra Lap Belts. While not mandated by federal motor vehicle safety standards Jayco goes the extra mile by putting lap belts at every seating position, including rear-facing seats such as in the booth dinette. Do know that most motorhome brands do not have a provision for child safety seat anchoring and that’s true here as well. 
• Warranty. Jayco has one of the best strong warranty packages in the industry with two years comprehensive and three years on the exterior build.
• Predelivery Inspection. Something we saw when visiting Jayco was their PDI facilities. Every single Jayco product goes through these facilities with hundreds of points of inspection on motorized rigs. While no RV is perfect, having a thorough inspection of the finished rig before it ever leaves the property does help ensure that an RV will have fewer issues initially.
• One-Piece Cap. While Ford (or Chevrolet depending on your choice) builds the van and cab, Jayco builds the RV portion of this rig. One of the highlights of the Jayco portion of this RV is the one-piece fiberglass nose cap. While some RV companies use a build that exposes seams to the direct force of the wind created as you drive down the road, this model’s one-piece cap is less susceptible to leaks and damage. 
• Maneuverable. At under 25 feet in length this RV is suitable for just about any camp site you can find. The size is not extraordinarily large so it’s reasonably maneuverable, yet it still provides decent interior space. 

 

Challenges

• Cooktop. A few things that I would change on this is the type of propane stove top. There are now two-burner models that are in line, as opposed to more of a splayed layout. These in-line burners allow for more counter space within a given size of cabinet. 
• Older Chassis Tech. The E-Series chassis from Ford and GM’s cutaway van chassis are both very long in the tooth so much of the modern safety technology wasn’t even invented when they were first on the scene. If you’re expecting a full suite of safety technologies, this is not the place you’ll find them. 
• No Child Seat Tethers. In some of the other Jayco motorhome we looked at, Jayco had provided tethers for child safety seats. But not here. I could see this RV appealing to campers who might want to include smaller children on the adventure. If that’s the case, they’ll have to figure out another way to get them to the fun. 

 

Best For

• Solo Adventurers. I have the privilege of working with a lot of people who are part of the Girl Camper fan base. And this almost exactly the type of motorhome many have told me they prefer. Many of these solo woman adventurers like the security of having the driving and camping portions of the RV lifestyle in one package. 
• RV Newbies. If I were going to choose an RV that was relatively simple for a rental fleet, this might be near the top of that list. It’s nice enough to have all the conveniences but isn’t burdened by technologies that would take a lot of explaining for a novice to use. 

 

Key Areas of RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Jayco Redhawk SE 22CF.

 

Sleeping Space

The floorplan of the Redhawk SE 22CF includes a single slide room that holds the bed. The bed itself is a short queen, measuring 60 inches by 70 inches. Further, the queen has a portion of the mattress that has to flip up to accommodate the slide room. 

There’s also a bed above the cab with a 750-pound maximum rating. While you might not be bringing two friends or relatives whose collective mass achieves this number, the fact that the space is able to accommodate that much weight really speaks to the build of this Class C. 

Lastly, there is a 42-inch by 70-inch bed that can be converted into a sleep space by folding down the four-place dinette. This might be tight for two people, unless of course they’re in grades that are represented by Ks or single digits. 

 

 

Bathroom

The bathroom on the Redhawk SE 22CF is off on the camp side in the back. While some corner baths are tight (to be expected), I found this one to have ample space to accomplish all the things you would come here for. There’s even enough space to dry off after a shower and change your clothes. The shower itself is a rectangular unit measuring 24 inches by 36 inches. Not bad. 

 

 

Living Area

When an RV is of this length, something has to give. And, in most cases, it’s the main living space. The same is true of the Redhawk SE 22CF. Essentially the only thing you have for seating is the four-place dinette, which is fine if you want to play a game or something. But it’s not the most comfortable place to kick back. 

In some of the motorhomes with the more modern van chassis, such as those based on Ford’s own Transit or the Ram ProMaster, the seats often swivel to face the main living quarters, but that’s not the case here. That’s a bummer because that would provide another comfortable place to sit and face your friends and family. 

Additionally, I suppose younger folks might love chilling in the overhead bunk. It happens to be where the 12-volt TV is. 

 

 

Kitchen

Once again, the smaller size of this Redhawk SE 22CF is also going to result in compromises. The kitchen space is one, but you still have everything you need. There is a two-burner propane cooktop and a convection microwave for meal prep. The single round-bowl sink is functional for your postmeal dishwashing process. 

There’s a glass cover that can cover the propane cooktop and a cover for the sink as well, which exponentially increases counter space in this RV. It’s not bad for the overall size of the RV, but it is limited. 

What could improve that somewhat is if Jayco used a two-burner in-line cooktop instead of this model. That in-line stove takes up much less counter space while still providing about as much cooking space.

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

Surprisingly, the Redhawk SE 22CF isn’t bad for shoulder season camping, such as early spring or late fall. But I don’t know if I’d go when it’s subfreezing. There are 12-volt heating pads on the holding tanks to minimize freezing. However, all the water connections are right on the outside of the rig. So, you’ll want to be careful being hooked to shore water if the temps are getting pretty cold overnight. And you’ll definitely want not to be connected to shore water if it’s regularly below freezing. 

 

Storage Space

For the size of the Redhawk SE 22CF, the storage is surprisingly good. Outside there are several compartments, which are made of a plastic material, that can easily accommodate all the things you’ll want to store outside that are camping necessities. I was also surprised to see the square bumper that many of us use to store the sewer hose (keeping it out of the other storage spots). 

Inside, this Class C really shines. There’s storage over the dinette, a decent pantry and a large closet in the bedroom as well as several drawers. The kitchen, too, has overhead cabinets, a couple of drawers, and some cabinet storage. If you’re not bringing others along (who would sleep over the cab of this RV), the overhead cap, too, could add to your storage equation. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Redhawk SE 22CF

Every coin has two sides and that’s an apt description of the Ford E350 chassis that this model is based on. It is powered by a very large gasoline V8. It is a proven machine that has good cargo carrying capacity. While some Class Cs have very limited cargo carrying capacity, this one does not with over a ton of capability for bringing your stuff and your friends. The flip side of that is that it’s a platform that’s been in production for a long time so some of the newer conveniences and ergonomics are not here. 

However, some Class B vans that I’ve seen are many tens of thousands of dollars more than this. And even at that price, they don’t offer the spaciousness, cargo carrying capacity, or storage you’ll find in the Redhawk SE 22SE. Further, that big hulking V8 won’t be challenged if you decide to tow a car along for your daily driving duty. 

Overall, I think this is a great value that offers a very usable interior and surprising storage. 

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Redhawk SE 22 CF

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

Perfect for RVers that don’t want to pack light, the 2025 Highland Ridge Range Lite 252RB is a manageable travel trailer that has storage to spare. (And if you’re new to RV shopping, let me tell you, that is rare in a unit this size.) So, if storage is a big factor in your camper search, you can check that off your list. Combine that storage capacity with the Range Lite 252RB’s four-season features and extra sleeping space, and you just may have your dream rig. 

This lightweight unit can be towed with a half-ton truck. The design of the Range Lite 252RB embodies comfort and function. (You can certainly see the function with the  cleverly dispersed storage throughout.) Suitable for full time RV couples with or without kids, or single RV travelers that don’t want to leave anything behind, this rig is also allows natural light to illuminated a spacious interior.  

 

At a Glance: Range Lite 252RB

I am rating this travel trailer with a four out of five. There are some things that I really like about the Range Lite 252RB, combined with a few that aspects that feel underutilized. I think the living space is the most spacious and well-lit interior I have encountered yet. The clever storage and beautiful design will captivate you. The kitchen is lovely with pressed membrane countertops. 

But while the trapezoidal countertop offers places to put things, there is no real place to do things. Other aspects of the space feel a bit mysterious at times, but for many buyers, I think it would be the perfect fit for their daily intended use. 

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• Hitch weight: 755 pounds
• UVW: 6,185 pounds
• CCC: 1,315 pounds
• Exterior length: 30 feet 9 inches
• Exterior Height: 10 feet 6 inches
• Exterior Width: 8 feet 1 inch (with slide-outs 11 feet 1 inch) 
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 45/58/29
• Propane: 2 x 60 pounds
• Awning length: 20 feet

 

Features We Love

• Magnum roof system and PVC roofing membrane (walkable!)
• Enclosed protected docking station 
• Xtend Solar 1 package (with option to upgrade)
• Sleek 12-volt, 10-cubic-foot fridge
• Flush mount range (with option for extra counter space)
• Pressed membranes countertops
• Flush floor slide-outs
• Butcher block wood accents 
• Easy-to-pull-down blackout shades
• Wi-Fi router 
• Lightweight, towable with a half-ton truck 
• Dual door entryways 
• Solid swing-down step 
• Outdoor fridge 
• Clever dinette construction offers a longer than normal bed conversion (for once, a dinette bed that an adult can fit on!)
• Bed is CPAP-ready 

 

Benefits

• Stunning interior with butcher block wood accents, natural light and chic/modern decor
• Residential space with a roomy floor plan throughout the unit
• Safe entry and exit with a solid swing down step 
• Extended camping season with built in insulation, solar capabilities, and 30,000 BTU furnace
• No need to pack light with ample storage 
• Lightweight trailer doesn’t require a heavy-duty vehicle to tow it

 

Challenges

• The walk in closet is dark and feels unintentional. I think it would have been much better used as a bunk house or workspace — or a bunk house that doubles as a work space. Right now, it feels a bit more like a time-out room. 
• The floorplan feels somewhat underutilized, with functional elements lacking in certain areas.
• Middle of the night bathroom potty breaks will mean walking to the other end of the RV, as the bathroom and bedroom lie on apposite ends.

 

Best For

• Full-time RV couples who want room for a few visitors and space to store all their stuff
• Single full-time travelers that have specific storage needs
• Weekend warriors with kids
• Four-season campers who want to extend camping into the colder winter months

 

Key Areas That RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Olivia de Soria, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Highland Ridge Range Lite 252RB.

 

Sleeping Space

The bedroom of the Range Lite 252RB embodies comfort, storage, and a spacious residential feel. The bed offers a nightstand with storage on either side. There are also large cabinets above the bed, and two longer, mirrored wardrobes on either side. The end tables are topped with beautiful butcher block, with outlets and pop-up USB charging ports. More storage is available under the bed, with gas-strutted hinges that  make access a breeze. Across the bed sits a large wardrobe, with even more storage for clothes and shoes, and anything else you may want to bring along. The bed is CPAP-ready and has two reading lights above each side. 

The dinette converts to a bed, with a standard conversion system. I found this to be the easiest dinette conversion yet, even with all the fancy new high tech folding legless tables out there. This was straightforward and quick. And the cushions were easy to arrange. (No evil Tetris games required.) There’s also a unique added feature of this dinette: It’s long. Most dinettes feature the table facing short ways, making for a shorter bed that only kids can sleep on. But the dinette in the Range Lite 252RB features the table facing long ways. This transforms into a bed that can comfortably fit a modest-sized adult. 

Assessing the Sleep Situation

If you are traveling full-time with kids however, a dinette bed conversion may get old, and feel somewhat unsustainable for life on the road. Everyone is different, but I find that even if it’s small, a designated space or bunk that kids can call their own goes a long way. It can ensure their sense of security and comfort amidst a lifestyle that lacks control and reliability. That being said, I think the dinette sleeping situation would be suitable for weekend warriors with kids, but it might not be sufficient for full-time travel with kids.   

 

 

Bathroom

Located at the far side of the Range Lite 252RB, the bathroom feels large and roomy. Butcher block adds finishing touches to the decor around a small bathroom sink. The sink space feels a little tight, but the shower space makes up for it with a roomy and residential feel. The stand-up shower unit has French, rounded glass doors with a flexible shower head and a sky light above. A mirrored vanity above the sink and a cupboard below it both offer storage for towels and bathroom essentials. 

 

 

Living Area

As a full time RVing family, my No. 1 favorite feature in a unit is natural light. This unit has so much natural light, you can feel the vitamin D filtering in through the numerous oversized windows. The only space lacking in this feature is the large windowless walk-in closet near the bathroom. The rest of the interior is beautifully designed with cleverly arranged storage and functional elements. 

The 40in TV in the living space of the Range Lite 252RB has Bluetooth, a sound bar, and a built-in stereo. The flexible TV arm allows for versatile viewing angles, and reveals hidden storage behind it. The TV is a modest size, emphasizing the natural energy that this unit emboldens. There are numerous storage compartments above and below the TV, as well as easy access compartments in the dinette seats. The power reclining theater seats across from the TV have rotating optional tables attached, increasing table space for you or your guests. USB ports and 12-volt outlets are conveniently placed throughout the space.

 

 

Kitchen

At first glance, the kitchen here is roomy and functional, with a stunning sink in the limelight. But at second glance, you realize that function doesn’t really follow form here. The lovely countertop spaces on either side of the farmhouse-style sink are oddly trapezoidal shaped. And this is not conducive to culinary tasks. If you were to stand on the opposite side of the sink, you might find the countertop more better suited for kitchen work, but then you would be up against the doorway. There isn’t any additional countertop space available in this kitchen.

The sink is very attractive, with a large stainless-steel basin inclusive of a drop in cutting board and rolling dish rack. The faucet is equipped with a sleek pull-down sprayer. The three-burner propane stove, with a microwave above and an oven below, will ensure that you can comfortably cook for family and guests. The slightly oversized 10.7-cubic-foot Invision fridge has a seamless design, matching the sleek black trim throughout the unit. 

Consistent with the rest of this unit, the kitchen has more than adequate storage here with cabinets and drawers above and below all the appliances. There is also a tall, narrow and deep pantry to the left of the fridge. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

Like so many RVs in 2025, this unit offers extensive features to help extend your camping season and take advantage of solar energy. The PVC roofing material is not only walkable (making it easier to clean snow and ice off), it also reflects the sun making the unit easier to keep temperature controlled. The Xtend Solar 1 package comes with a 200-watt panel with a 30-amp charge controller to keep the fridge and the lights on while you are dry camping. There is an option to upgrade your solar capacity if you plan to boondock more extensively. 

The Range Lite 252RB is also made with Tuffshell walls. These are vacuum-bonded laminate walls with block foam insulation. This clever construction will cut down on morning condensation and keep your rig temperature controlled. 

 

Storage Space

The Range lite 252RB unit is definitely not lacking in storage space. A large walk-in closet boasts tons of storage space for clothes, bath linens, or even books and kids’ toys. This would be a great place to store homeschooling books and curriculum items if you are taking your kids on an extended vacation. Outside there are two storage compartments, one of them offering pass through access. The master bedroom, consistent with the rest of the unit, offers quite a bit of storage options for a unit this size. Flat out, I’d give the Range Lite 252RB a top storage rating.

 

 

Closing Notes on the Range Lite 252RB

Space-wise, the walk-in closet near the bathroom is a great add-on to this unit. But it does feel somewhat underutilized. I think for the perfect someone, it may fit a niche requirement — like a tiny jeweler’s bench or extra storage for craft hobbies. But as it stands, it feels somewhat dark and unintentional. Of course, as a remote working mother of two, I see a perfect place for a dual workspace that converts to a bunk house. But for someone else it could be the perfect little nook for something. 

The spacious and illuminated interior of this rig could make a full-time RVing couple or single traveler really happy. If I had to pick three words to define the Highland Ridge Range Lite 252RB travel trailer, it would be space, light, and storage. And those words are pretty appealing to any RVer.

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Range Lite 252RB

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

Where do you want to go? That’s the only issue Jayco wants you to have with the luxurious Precept 31UL. This road-trip-ready RV was built in response to extensive customer feedback. The 2025 Jayco Precept 31 UL starts with a bold floorplan and adds everything you need for safe, comfortable road trips — with family or without. 

This smaller Class A is designed to give you a premium driving and handling experience, one that even those who are new to driving a larger vehicle will enjoy. Navigating most state parks or grocery store parking lots won’t be a problem in the Precept 31UL due to its nimble size and its JRide Plus handling system. 

So, let’s get this review on the road and have a look at this brand-new offering from Jayco.

 

At a Glance: Precept 31UL

If you’re looking for a great Class A motorhome for under $225,000, the Jayco Precept 31UL is a great value at $219,265. The Precept 31UL has a lot going for it, which is why I have rated it at four and half out of five. To start with, it’s a nimble, powerful beast that would be genuinely fun to cruise down the highway in. It has a living area that features a TV on a televator that rises above the four-seat dinette. It’s just fun to press a button and have a TV that pops up, seemingly out of nowhere. 

But that’s just the beginning of a spectacular amenities package here. We’ll get more into that later. Instead let’s talk about safety features. The Precept has a smoke detector, propane leak detector, and a carbon monoxide alarm. 

However, one safety feature that it does lack is a second door for egress. I’ll give Jayco credit for an emergency egress window, but given that the majority of people buying Class As are over 50 years old (and probably not as mobile as they once were), climbing out a window in an emergency egress may be slow going at best. It would make better sense to add a second door somewhere on the RV. (Perhaps on the driver’s side.)

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 6
• GVWR: 22,000 pounds 
• GCWR: 24,000 pounds 
• Exterior length: 33 feet
• Exterior height: 12 feet 10 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 72/40/50 gallons
• Fuel tank: 80 gallons
• Propane (on board): 56 pounds 
• Awning: 16 feet
• Exterior cargo capacity: 108 feet of storage

 

Features We Love

On the Exterior

• 2- to 3-year warranty on everything in the motorhome
• New front cap with LED headlights lights and accent lights
• Bilsteen steering stabilizer
• JRide Plus handling
• Quiet ride technology (in a smaller Class A — what?!)
• Koni FSB shocks to improve ride and reduce body roll
• 22.5-inch tires
• 22,000-pound Ford F53 chassis 7.3 liter engine
• 120-inch windshield with 32-inch wipers for great visibility 
• Backup camera and side cameras
• 108 feet of storage in exterior storage bays
• Side-mounted, slam-latch doors on exterior storage bays
• 200-watt solar panel on roof
• 6000-watt Yamaha generator
• Walkable fiberglass roof
• Built-in ladder 
• Vacuum-bonded laminated materials used in exterior walls that have been vacuum pressed with 144 tons of pressure for 16 to 18 minutes (so that delamination becomes impossible)
• Cage-around catalytic converter to deter theft

 

On the Interior

• Big camera/navigation monitor screen
• Plush, comfortable, and power-adjustable driver and passenger captain’s chairs
• Pull-out passenger-side desk
• Firefly total control system with app controls all functions remotely
• Winegard Wi-Fo booster and 4G mobile hotspot on roof
• 15,000-Btu-ducted air conditioner with heat pump at front and 13,000-Btu AC with heat pump in bedroom area
• 50-amp power cord
• Sirius-XM prepped
• Windows have residential-style wood trim and day night shades
• JBL sound bar 
• Big farmhouse-style sink with flexible rubber faucet
• Three-burner gas stove 
• 21-cubic-foot fridge/freezer with French doors and water dispenser
• Solid-surface countertops
• King bed with CPAP ready nightstand on each side
• Roomy shower
• Nightstands with wireless charging pads and USB ports
• Cassette blinds that are super easy to deploy 
• Lippert 4000 series windows 
• Solid hardwood cabinets
• Front seats swivel and have a shared cocktail table
• Outside shower for rinsing dirty people and dogs
• 24-inch TV in master bedroom
• Power theater seats with USB ports
• 40-inch TV on a lift system next to dinette 

 

 

Benefits

• Luxurious Class A experience for under $225,000
• Small enough to navigate campgrounds easily and get into most campsites 
• Gas chassis will be less expensive to maintain/repair than a diesel
• No tag axle or air brakes
• Mid-sized but well designed so it’s easy, fun, and intuitive to drive
• Cockpit is well laid out with everything within easy reach
• Backup camera makes backing into campsites a breeze
• Insulated for a quiet drive 
• Front seats swivel to add extra seating 
• Boondocking ready with big storage tanks and a generator that’s plumbed to the gas tank.
• Efficient 10-gallon water heater replaces up to 30 gallons of hot water per hour
• Loads of exterior and interior cabinet storage space lets you have it all with you
• Window seals are protected from sun damage
• Residential feeling tinted windows offer privacy
• Roll-down shades in cockpit area make it easy to block out the sun and enjoy privacy
• Pull-out passenger side desk allows passenger to work from the road
• Televator TV stores out of the way when not in use
• Sink cover converts sink into counter space and/or hides dirty dishes
• Power theater seats are perfectly positioned for watching 40-inch TV
• Well insulated for winter camping
• Comes with a winterization package
• Powder room allows guests to use the toilet and sink without going into the main bedroom area

 

Challenges

• TV in the living area will be difficult to watch from the dinette
• So comfortable and easy to drive that it might be hard to stop traveling

 

Best For

• Couples or families that want to take extended road trips/vacations in a luxurious Class A that doesn’t break the bank
• Couples or families that want to use it for weekend trips 

 

Key Areas That RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Lynne Fedorick, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Jayco Precept 31UL.

 

Sleeping Space

In the master bedroom, there’s a fantastic king bed with CPAP=ready night stands on either side. Wireless chargers and USB ports for electronic devices help keep you connected. Storage cabinets above the bed, storage underneath, and a massive wardrobe on the opposite wall help ensure that you can bring all your necessities with you wherever you decide to go.

The Precept 31UL also has a power drop-down bunk in the living area, which gives overnight guests a comfortable queen size bed that is rated for 750 pounds. In addition, the legless dinette folds into a comfortable sleeping area for two. There are also storage benches underneath that could hold bedding or guest luggage. 

 

 

Bathroom

The bathroom in the Precept 31UL gives you either one or two comfortable spaces, depending on how you configure it. The bathroom has a powder room with a vanity sink and porcelain toilet behind a wide door located across from a spacious glass-enclosed shower. The door can be opened across the hallway to create one big open bathroom with a shower. 

The shower is definitely roomy enough that anyone under 6 foot 4 inches will have plenty of headroom. Ample storage space for towels, toiletries, and toilet paper is available in hardwood vanity cabinets and drawers. There’s plenty of space for smaller items in the oversized medicine cabinet above the vanity. 

Light from the bathroom window is reflected by the mirrors on the medicine cabinet, creating the illusion of a big space in what might otherwise seem like a very cozy little half bath. Privacy from the outside shouldn’t be a problem. Both privacy glass and a dark window shade work with the height of the RV to help maintain both modesty and privacy (and everyone’s composure). 

 

 

Living Area

Jayco offers a choice of either a sofa bed or theater seats. The model I reviewed had power-adjustable, reclining twin theater seats with cup holders and USB ports for charging devices. The theater seats are right across from the TV. This works perfectly for cozy nights with a good movie and a big bowl of fresh popcorn.

The cushy driver and captains’ chairs spin to join the living area and have good vantage points for watching TV too. Both of these power adjustable chairs can share a snack table/work surface that can be set up to use when needed. Campers on the queen bunk also get a view of the TV.

The legless dinette features a 38-inch-by-70-inch table and can seat up to four people comfortably. I love that the upholstery Jayco chose for the Precept 31UL living area is family- and dog-friendly. That’s because it’s both stain- and spill-tested. And it’s resistant to both.

A 16-foot awning provides a sheltered outdoor living area complete with an entertainment center that includes outside speakers and a 40-inch LED HD smart TV mounted on a swivel bracket for viewing from multiple angles. An outdoor LPG connection for an outdoor grill or fireplace eliminates the need to bring a portable tank along. 

 

 

Kitchen

The L-shaped kitchen in the Precept 31UL has a surprising amount of both counter space and storage. It’s an impressively efficient little kitchen with a super-efficient work triangle. The 21-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator/freezer is located on the wall opposite to the kitchen sink, so you can take produce from the refrigerator, take a step to wash it in the sink and then turn prepare it for cooking on the three-burner gas cooktop, in the microwave, or in the RV-size gas oven. I love the innovative long flexible rubber spout on the kitchen faucet as an alternative to the pull-down faucets used in most RVs. 

Food, dishes, utensils, and cooking tools could all be stored within easy reach in plenty of solid hardwood cabinets and drawers. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The Precept 31UL is definitely four-season capable. Having said that, a Class A would not be my first choice of RV for navigating challenging surfaces like snowy mountain roads. This RV has lots of all-weather amenities to get you through the heat of summer and chilly winter temperatures. Jayco responded to customer suggestions by adding extra insulation to keep both hot and cold weather out of the RV. Inside, two ducted air conditioners with heat strips move cool or warm air around inside. The heat strip is especially handy for quickly taking the chill off on fall or winter mornings. If it’s really chilly you can use the 30,000-Btu gas furnace to get the interior of the Precept 31UL nice and cozy. 

Outside, tank valves are in an enclosed compartment and heating pads on holding tanks help to keep everything flowing when temperatures drop below 32 degrees.

 

Storage Space

This little Class A boasts an impressive amount of storage. Storage starts with lots of exterior passthrough storage. Outside, cabinet storage bays open with hassle-free, side-mounted doors with keyed alike locks. Side-mounted doors let you store and access everything in the cabinets easily. 

Inside, the Precept 31UL has storage throughout. Both the living area and cockpit get overhead cabinets that could allow easy access to board games or road trip snacks. There’s also lots of cabinet and drawer space in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Lift up the king bed, and you’ll find a respectable amount of storage underneath. I was surprised that there aren’t any struts under the bed to keep it in place while items are stored or removed. Having to lift and hold a bed to access stored items can be pretty annoying.

The dinette bench seats also provide storage for bedding or other items underneath. Other than the lack of struts under the king bed, I was really impressed with how Jayco fit so much storage into this mid-size Class A.

 

 

Closing Notes on the Precept 31UL

The Jayco Precept 31UL is a fun RV that’s clearly designed for carefree road trips or extended camping vacations. Inside and outside, the aesthetic is fun, lighthearted, and ready for adventure. Jayco’s kept everything in the cockpit convenient and within easy reach and given this RV features like easy handling, sway control, and beefy 22-inch tires. All of this adds up to an RV that promises to be so intuitive and fun to drive that you just might have a hard time going back home. 

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Precept 31UL

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

According to several studies, many RVs only get out a few times a year. What’s more, many of those road trips don’t average over 75 miles from home. Needless to say, if you’re one of those typical RV campers, a high-end RV might not make sense. For those models, the price connects to the amount of time you plant to use it. But if you simply like the occasional RV trip, you need a different kind of RV model. And the 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range Conventional 22MLS just might be it. 

Why exactly is that? Keep reading.  

 

At a Glance: Open Range Conventional 22MLS

I rated the Open Range Conventional 22MLS as a three out of five. This is a popular floor plan for a reason. But while many details really were good, there were also a few things that I believe could have been done better — all without creating a much more expensive RV. 

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• Hitch weight: 500 pounds
• UVW: 5,265 pounds 
• CCC: 1,435 pounds
• Exterior length: 27 feet 5 inches
• Exterior height 10 feet 7 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 42/40/40 gallons
• Propane: 2 x 20 pounds
• Awning: 18 feet

 

Features We Love

• PVC roof membrane
• 3-year structural warranty
• Kitchen storage
• Furnace vents relocated to cabinets

 

Benefits

• Many towable RVs use a membrane-style roof, but the PVC roof on this trailer has the advantage of carrying a lifetime warranty. Further, if you do happen to damage the membrane, you can repair it with things you can get at any local hardware store. 
• Despite being on the more affordable side, this trailer still carries a three-year structural warranty. 
• There’s a lot of storage in the kitchen on this for a smaller trailer, including drawers, cabinets, and even a pantry. 
• It’s a common practice in the RV industry to have furnace vents in the floor of the RV, but that means you’re kicking dust and pet dander into the space all year. (And then smelling them as they get heated as the weather gets colder.) Highland Ridge has moved the vents up into the cabinets instead, so this won’t be the case in the Open Range Conventional 22MLS. (This is a pretty significant change that’s much appreciated.)

 

 

 

Challenges

• This is a pretty simple entry-level trailer. And while it’s decently equipped, you should know that the basic leaf-spring suspension and budget-brand tires are something to keep an eye on. These less elaborate suspension systems tend to transmit more road irregularities to the trailer itself. That makes them less well suited for those who plan to do extensive towing. 
• Some of the details inside, including exposed fasteners on the dinette, really stated quite obviously that this trailer was built to a budget. 
• The low-grade vent fan in the bathroom isn’t going to do much to clear steam or odors. Which means it might be something to update early on. I wish the manufacturer would just put in a better fan from the factory. 

 

 

Best For

• The Open Range Conventional 22MLS provides an affordable way to enjoy the RV lifestyle. With many RVers only traveling relatively short distances and not getting many uses in a year out of their RVs, this could be a great choice. It’s especially suited for the wide majority of couples who want to step into an RV to get away — without camping on the ground.
• If you’re able to store this on your own property, this would be a great alternative to a guest room for visiting family and friends. 

 

Key Areas of RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range Conventional 22MLS.

 

Sleeping Space

The Highland Ridge Open Range Conventional 22MLS is essentially a one-room RV. In short, the sleeping space is in the same area as the rest of the interior. This is fine if you and your travel companions are on a similar sleep schedule. There is also a booth dinette that might accommodate a guest for a night or two but, really, this is a couples’ camper at heart.

 

 

Bathroom

There is actually a relatively decent amount of counter space in this bathroom. (Which is not typical.) Additionally, there is a cabinet at the back as well as a cubby space plus a proper medicine cabinet. 

As I’ve mentioned in a lot of other reviews, I’m not a fan of the low-performance vent fan in the bathroom. In my estimation, these do little more than make noise. 

The shower is a rectangular unit with a shower curtain, which I prefer over a glass shower enclosure — especially because it provides a little privacy in this one-room floorplan. Lastly, the toilet has enough room to even be friendly toward bigger campers who might be described by comedian Gabriel Iglesias as … fluffy. 

 

Living Area

I can see that Open Range Conventional 22MLS owners would likely appreciate the reclining theater seats on the road side of this RV. Those seats feature a power reclining function. They also have USB power outlets in them to keep your devices in top form. 

Across from the recliners is a TV flanked by storage and below that, a four-place dinette that makes into a bed. This floorplan offers decent camp-side window coverage so you can watch the goings on at camp from the dinette. 

 

 

Kitchen

The kitchen in the Open Range Conventional 22MLS is an L-shaped unit with a larger 12-volt refrigerator, three-burner propane stove, oven, and microwave. There are enough cabinets and drawers in this along with a pantry that even cooks who like cooking gadgets might be happy that they can find a place for their stuff. Much of the back wall of this model has counter space for the camp chef to utilize. And there’s also a larger sink. 

However, one big challenge in this kitchen is the 17-inch (vertical) oven. I talk about this in almost every RV where I find it. But this kind of oven really doesn’t have much room for anything more than pizza or cookies. And even these tend to have significant hot spots. So, with this oven, frequent rotation is the word of the day. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

While the underbelly of this is enclosed and heated, four-season campers should note that the gate valve for the sewer is exposed. That could limit how low the temps could go to retain full usability of this RV. However, the Open Range Conventional 22MLS might be well-suited for three of four seasons. (Depending on where you live in the country, course.) 

Concerning off-grid capability, many buyers simply camp in RV parks or places with full hook-ups. So, the fact that this RV has no solar may not be a big deal. There are decently large holding tanks at 40 gallons for fresh, gray, and black, but the 12-volt fridge will easily consume the equivalent of one 100 amp-hour battery over a 24-hour period. You could certainly install solar charging or use a generator, but that’s not installed from the factory. (Which is still fairly common.)

 

 

Storage Space

Storage on the Open Range Conventional 22MLS is not bad at all. There is a good passthrough storage compartment in the front. There’s also pretty good storage inside this rig. As mentioned, the kitchen surprises and surpasses expectations with plenty of overhead cabinets, drawers, and even decent counter space. There’s also a pantry closet — and even a cabinet and a cubby in the bathroom. 

Beside the bed is hanging storage on either side, but there are no drawers specifically for the bedroom. There is open storage above the bed. Plus, the bed lifts up to reveal a storage compartment, but drawers aren’t here specifically for the bedroom. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Open Range Conventional 22MLS

These stick-and-tin campers use traditional building materials, which are easy to deal with from a manufacturing standpoint. The big advantage here for buyers is that it makes models like the Open Range Conventional 22MLS more affordable. Overall, this model’s build quality was good, but some buyers are wary of the Schwintek slide mechanism. There were a few minor details, like mismatched screws on the dinette, but nothing extraordinarily bad. This is pretty common for an affordable camper. 

 

Suspension and Tires

This features a simple leaf spring suspension and import-brand tires. This is very much a cost-focused system and could be just fine if you do shorter trips closer to home a few times a year. But if you travel more, these simple suspensions transfer more vibration and road surface issues into the trailer, which doesn’t help with longevity. There are also no maintenance points on these suspensions, so it is smart to inspect them regularly. 

 

 

An Affordable, Entry-Level Trailer

I get to see a lot of RVs. These range from simple, basic models to elaborate units that might be something a celebrity would own. The Open Range Conventional 22MLS is more on the affordable end of that equation, but the layout is effective. There’s good storage inside. And the interior is pretty pleasant with those power recliners. For a vast majority of RV buyers hoping to get into a travel trailer, this is likely going to make their shopping list with its combination of affordability and functionality.  

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Open Range Conventional 22MLS

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

For those looking for a very large toy hauler, it would be hard to beat this Jayco Seismic 399, a new model for 2025. With 13 feet 6 inches of garage space and enough sleeping capacity for nine people (along with two bathrooms), this toy hauler certainly looks great on the stat sheet. But what’s even better is that the attention to details and a number of features you’ll discover in the Seismic 399 make it a great choice in real life. 

 

At a Glance: Seismic 399

While this is truly an enormous toy hauler, that works for some people. (Specifically, people who have toys and love fifth wheels.) If this is what you’re looking for, I would say the 2025 Jayco Seismic 399 is a four out of five. There is so much attention to detail in here and so many things Jayco has done right that it’s hard to find fault with it in this size range. However, there is one thing that may lead to swearing, if you’re parked and have the slides out. 

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 9
• Hitch weight: 3,370 pounds
• UVW: 14,950 pounds 
• CCC: 5,540 pounds
• Exterior length: 45 feet 11 inches
• Exterior height: 12 feet 8 inches
• Exterior width: 7 feet 2 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 106/87/87 gallons
• Propane: 60 pounds (in two tanks)
• Awnings: 2 x 11 feet, plus a full-width awning over the patio deck

 

Features We Love

• Dexter Tow Assist system
• JaySMART lighting system
• High-quality suspension and tires
• Rear service panel for the refrigerator
• Fueling station with standard fuel handle
• Rear patio deck with three season patio doors
• Kitchen design and appliances
• Premium interior feel
• Jayco moved the furnace vents off the floor for 2025
• Cargo area with additional sleeping capacity and separate bathroom
• Norco Exact Slide mechanism on main slide room
• Observation camera in the cargo bay

 

 

Benefits

On the Outside

• Dexter’s Tow Assist system 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 it can make for much safer towing.) Another feature is the ability to track mileage with this system which can help with routine maintenance. 
• Jayco pioneered their JaySMART lighting. (The acronym stands for Safety Markers and Reverse Travel.) This system flashes upper and side marker lights when you activate the turn signal. It visually notifies other drivers to the fact that this big beast is about to make a turn or change lanes. 
• The suspension on this RV Rota-Flex King Pin Box, Dexter Axles with ABS and sway mitigation, Dexter heavy-duty shackles with wet bolt fasteners and bronze bushings and 17.5-inch Uniroyal H-rated 16-ply tires. (Got all that?) The Dexter heavy-duty shackles with wet bolt fasteners and bronze bushings help resist the wear and tear of towing. The Uniroyal tires provide a safer ride, far fewer repairs and much less sway. Further, the cushioned shackles reduce vibration and road irregularities that transmit into the RV itself thereby improving longevity. 
• The service panel behind the refrigerator enables you to access the back of the fridge for service or winterization without having to take the whole thing out. 
• The fuel station in this allows you to fuel-up your toys in the field and also provides fuel for the built-in generator. There’s a proper fuel handle like at a gas station and a fuel pump. 
• Out back the ramp that you would use to drive in your toys can also double as a patio deck complete with side railings. There is also a three-season glass patio door with windows that open. That way, you can leave the deck down the entire trip and still block off Mother Nature. 

On the Inside

• With the design of the kitchen, it would be possible to create nice meals even if you brought eight of your closest friends. 
• Many toy haulers have a very stark or industrial feel to the interiors. That’s not true at all here with upscale touches in the main living space, bathroom and bedroom. These spaces are a very pleasant place to spend time. 
• For 2025, Jayco moved the furnace vents to the cabinets, off the floors. This means you won’t be kicking in dust and debris all season for that very special odor when the furnace kicks on as the temps go down. 
• Like most fifth wheels, this one features an upper deck with a private bedroom. But there are also two drop-down beds in the cargo area on a power lift mechanism. One of those can go from opposing couches to a bed quite easily. This cargo area bedroom/living space also has a half bath. So, it’s a great place for kids.
• Norco’s newer Exact Slide mechanism is unique. The system is designed to support using the space even when the slide is in. This is unusual as almost all towable RVs specifically recommend not going into the slide when it’s retracted. 
• There is a provision to install both rear- and side-view cameras in this rig, but another spot for an observation camera in the cargo bay. You could use this to keep tabs on the things you’ve loaded as you travel down the road. Or you could also use it to keep an eye on rambunctious hooligans sleeping in the cargo hold. You know, the “quit teasing your sibling” kind of hooligans.

 

Challenges

• There is a sewer dump port right under the main slide room on the road side. This will require you to undergo a bit of contortion to get to the gate valve. (It’s also could potentially cause an abundance of foul language — prompting you to have to buy one of those “I’m sorry for what I said in the campground” shirts.)
• Common to a lot of fifth wheels, the vent for the stove is so high on the wall I doubt most people will open it. I would like to see the return of the type of vent where you can open/close it from the inside of the trailer. Leaving this open will likely cause the flap inside to eventually blow off. 

 

 

Best For

• Travelers who want to bring large toys like side-by-sides, dirt bikes and that sort of thing will love this. The Seismic 399 offers storage space and cargo carrying capacity to accommodate those types of things. But there are also plenty of places to bed down for the night and great off-grid functionality. So, this would be a great accomplice for those who love off-roading or trail riding. 
• RVers who travel extensively with a work or hobby that needs a lot of space will love the amount of space the Seismic 399 provides. For example, we have a friend who does chainsaw wood carving. (Yes, that’s a real thing.) The Seismic 399’s large cargo bay would be a great place to work his trade and stash his tools, while the rest of the trailer would still provide nice accommodations. 

 

Key Areas of RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Jayco Seismic 399.

 

Sleeping Space

The bedroom on the upper deck (common with many fifth wheels) features a queen-size bed in a bed slide. The nose of the Jayco Seismic 399, at the front of the bedroom, features a full closet. There is also a secondary closet that is plumbed to accommodate a stacking washer and dryer. 

On top of all of that (literally), there’s a loft in the living space that a younger traveler would probably absolutely love. (It would likely be a fort by day, bedroom by night.) If you don’t have such a youthful camper with you, it’s easy to use this to store things as well. If you have more people and need more beds in the living area, there is also a fold-out bed as part of the large L-shaped sofa. But you may not need, because there’s more sleeping space in the garage.

About That Garage (Photos Under Storage Space)

In addition to the bedroom, loft, and foldout sofa, there are two larger beds in the cargo area that drop down by power-lift mechanisms. One of those are two couches by day and a bed by night; the other is a large proper bed. That last bed would be a good spot for a couple of adults to sleep comfortably. The folding couch/bed below does have some padding design that serves as a better couch surface, but it could provide a lumpy sleeping surface. (Which may be fine for younger campers, but adults might not be so thrilled with this.) 

Overall, there are beds for nine individuals, and I could see at least four of those places being quite accommodating for full-sized adults.

 

 

Bathroom

The Jayco Seismic 399 follows the pattern found in most fifth wheels with a bathroom upstairs that incorporates a large, pleasant walk-in shower. There’s plenty of space around the toilet, and the bathroom is large enough that you could close the two doors that access it and change clothes. The two doors in this bathroom have one entry point into the upstairs bedroom and a second one into the hallway. 

There’s a second half bath downstairs in the cargo area that features a toilet and sink. Additionally, there is secondary plumbing in this area to accommodate a washer-dryer, which means there are two washer-dryer hook-ups. Perhaps one job possibility is a laundry service at RV parks, although the intention is probably to only hook up one laundry pair, not two. 

 

 

Living Area

This is another area this trailer really shines in the Jayco Seismic 399 with a plush-feeling L-shaped sofa. That sofa has two reclining positions which face the entertainment center and electric fireplace. On the road side, the portion of the sofa that faces directly into the camper is the one that folds out to a bed. The upholstery on this has a really nice feel. Jayco has assured us that it’s safe for this kind of RV being treated to minimize the chance of staining. 

I really like the reconfigurable table system in this trailer. It can go from a short two-person table to a longer one able to easily accommodate five people. Rather than having leaves it has hinged sections that pull out with the table, which is an easy process. 

 

 

Kitchen

Like the rest of the living space, the kitchen in the Seismic 399 portrays an upscale vibe. The kitchen itself is a U-shaped affair which results in a lot of usable counter space. There’s a three-burner propane oven and plenty of drawers and cabinets. For 2025, Jayco has upgraded the drawer builds on these trailers to a tongue-and-groove style build which is a much higher-quality way to put drawers together than what is common in most RVs. 

I also really like the sink they chose, which features an integrated glass washer and a number of drop-in pieces that can be used to dry or clean dishes more easily. Further, one of these drop-in pieces is designed to work with a waterfall-like sprayer to wash veggies. Of course, the faucet incorporates a sprayer and pull-out head as well. This is quite literally more useful than the kitchen in my own house (and gives me ideas for remodeling). 

I really enjoy these pull-out pantries like the one in here. This increases the amount of storage by using the depth of the pantry.

There’s a large 17-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator in here, which is as large as many residential units. But it has an additional advantage: It’s able to run without kicking on an inverter. 

Something unique to Jayco products is called the JayPort, which is a two-inch receiver hitch but in the side of the trailer. Jayco includes a flat-top propane griddle with this trailer that mounts in this place. This is nice and sturdy but also positions the griddle away from the body of the camper. Nice. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The Seismic 399 has undergone zero-degree testing in the Dometic freeze chamber, proving you can camp safely and comfortably all year round, even in snowy conditions. Taking it one step further, the Seismic also undergoes weather chamber testing from zero to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. With Climate Shield zero-degree tested weather protection, the Seismic 399 has a fully-enclosed and heated underbelly, double-layered fiberglass batt insulation, and double-sided, bubble-foil radiant barrier insulation for best-in-class results. 

 

Storage Space

One of the biggest reasons to get something like this is because of the huge garage in the back, which is absolutely a component of storage space. But Jayco has added a decent-sized front passthrough space in here as well. Other than that, there isn’t much exterior storage. 

Inside there are plenty of cabinets and drawers for the kitchen and the front bedroom. There is a loft accessible above the kitchen which could be a great sleeping spot for a younger traveler but could also be used for a lot of storage if you don’t have such a person with you. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Seismic 399

It seems pretty clear to me that Jayco has really been paying attention to what customers are saying with the attention to detail and number of improvements to the Seismic line for 2025. While some of these changes, like the dovetail drawer construction, might seem minor they will make a difference in the long run on this RV. 

As a professional looker-atter of RVs, I see a lot of companies just plodding along, but it’s clear that Jayco is making investments in improving the quality and usability of RVs like this. 

Now, this is way too large an RV for many campgrounds, particularly on public lands. And this is a very heavy rig. So, something like this won’t serve all campers, but if a large toy hauler is what you want, I think you’d be mistaken not to consider this one. 

 

 

Make Your Move

Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Seismic 399

 

What Other Campers Are Saying

Read the best reviews by owners. Search for an RV Model

Want to dip your toes into the fifth wheel pool, but not sure that you’re ready to make a full commitment? (You know, the buy-a-larger-truck kind of commitment.) The 2025 Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT is a half-ton fifth wheel that just might be the right depth. Fifth wheels, with all their amenities and features, can be a rabbit hole of excessive cost and weight. But unlike most of its class, the Eagle HT offers only a little less and a huge advantage — increased towability. 

The Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT means you won’t have to go all in with your assets — or driveway space. For future owners with half-ton or three-quarter-ton trucks, you may even be able to tow it with what you already have. 

This unit, from the Jayco Eagle HT fifth wheel line, is perfect for full time RVers who love hosting friends. Or who just want to bring the grandkids along for the weekend. The spacious living and warm elegant light fixtures offer an attractive ambiance to entertain friends or family for dinner— or an extended weekend. A tri-fold sofa pulls out for when the kids or grandkids are visiting. 

There’s so much more, so let’s dive in.

 

At a Glance: Eagle HT 28CRT

I gave this RV a rating of four out of five. The 2025 Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT has many of the great features that only fifth wheels can offer. But naturally, a few sacrifices were made in the process. The floorplan is among my favorites, with a spacious well-lit interior, additional sleeping space, and a gorgeous kitchen. But some lightweight construction elements felt a little flimsy. I’ll detail a few of these more fully below.

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• Hitch weight: 1,960 pounds
• UVW: 9,515 pounds
• CCC: 1,835 pounds
• Exterior length: 32 feet 11 inches (overall length); 31 feet 10 inches (pin to bumper)
• Exterior height: 12 feet 4 inches (no A/C) ;12 feet 6 inches (with one A/C); 13 feet 1 inch (with two A/Cs)
• Exterior width: 8 feet 1 inch (no slide-outs); 13 feet 1 inch (with slide-outs)
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 52/82/45
• Propane: 2 x 30 pounds
• Awning length: 15 feet

 

Features We Love

• Helix-ducted, whisper-quiet 15,000 Btu A/C (with option for second A/C)
• Tows up to 3,000 pounds to bring along your toys or car (in states that allow it; most of them only allow one tow per vehicle) 
• 12-volt USB ports throughout the unit
• Thicker and wider Olympic mattress in master bed 
• Flush Floor slide-outs 
• Hot-cold, quick-connect sink outside for cooking outside
• NuvoH2O high-end water filtration system 
• Lippert Ground Control 3.0 automatic-leveling system 
• MORryde Step Above entrance steps with blue led lights
• CPAP-prepped bedroom
• 3,000-pound tow rating for towing motorcycles or other toys along behind you (if your state allows a 2nd tow; most don’t)
• 5-inch Magnum Truss roofing (walkable!)
• 35,000-Btu heater 
• Tankless water heater 

 

 

Benefits

• Outdoor kitchen with JayPort Quick Connect
• Quiet interior with whisper-quiet A/C technology
• Safe entry/exit with MORyde entry steps 
• Space and luxury that only fifth wheels can offer, but without the excessive weight
• Beautifully arranged kitchen with residential appliances and adequate countertop space 

 

Challenges

• This rig is technically towable with a half-ton, but it would be better towed by a three-quart-ton or full-ton vehicle. (Because you don’t want to be traversing a steep mountain pass wondering if you’ve pushed the limit too far.) 
• Master bedroom is cramped and contains little storage.
• Some aspects of the unit seemed flimsy on account of opting for lighter materials.

 

 

Best For

• Full-time RV couples who want the space and luxury of a fifth wheel, without the weight and cost that most fifth wheels come with
• Weekend warriors with kids that don’t want to commit to a more heavy-duty tow vehicle 

 

Key Areas That RV Trader Reviews

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Olivia de Soria, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.

So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT.

 

Sleeping Space

The bedroom in the Eagle HT 28CRT is beautifully lit, with a picture window above the bed blanketing the space in natural light. The butcher block accent here is handsome, adding an attractive sophistication to the bedroom. The room is also CPAP-ready, a convenient feature for many that need it. You can rest well on the Olympic bed which is eight inches thicker and six inches wider than most RV mattresses. 

The floorplan in this room, however, takes a small hit. Honestly, it feels somewhat cramped. There is a place to attach a TV across from the queen walkaround bed, but if you do attach one, there will be absolutely no space to walk around the bed. The dresser/drawers next to the bed are also cramped. You will need to be standing next to the drawers to get anything out of them, as they pull out directly into the bed. 

Additionally, when I pulled the closet door open, the magnet strength almost broke the small wooden strip that the doors adhere to. Some elements of this camper feel like they lack durable construction. For example, the drawers are constructed with unfinished plywood. So, while you are shopping for a surprisingly light fifth wheel, it doesn’t hurt to ask yourself why it might be so light — and what amenities or structural components were sacrificed in the process. Overall, the storage and floorplan in the master bedroom feels a bit inadequate and clumsily placed. There is, however, hefty amounts of storage underneath the queen bed, made easy to access with a gas assist hinging mechanism.

 

 

Bathroom

In alignment with the bedroom, the bathroom in the Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT has a stunning butcher block countertop. Striking black accents are found throughout. The large, mirrored vanity has storage behind it. Additionally, the sink has plenty of space in the cabinet and drawer beneath it. There is an additional closet flanking the shower, with room for all your towels. The shower feels large and luxurious, with a residential-style glass door and faux marbled tile. 

 

 

Living Area

Inside, the living area and kitchen are bathed in the natural light that pours through the of many oversized windows of the Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT. The kitchen feels open and inviting — exactly like a kitchen I would want to cook in. 

Where the bedroom area feels somewhat cramped, the living and kitchen area more than make up for it with a commodious lounge area. There are plenty of seating areas for friends or family. You can easily seat eight people, with six of them eating at a table or rotating TV table inside. A tri-fold pull-out couch, two theater seats, and a dinette all feel comfortably integrated within the space. USB 12-volt charging ports are sprinkled throughout the living space. (Even better, they’re all in discreet, cleverly arranged areas.) 

The sleek and artful light fixtures above the dinette are one of my all-time favorites. The system is built in with JAYCOMMAND, giving you full access to key operations within your unit, without even getting up off the couch. The functionality of this communal area checks all the boxes. 

 

 

Kitchen

The kitchen is cleverly laid out. (Again with plenty of light to bask in.) The unit comes with a standard 10-cubic-foot, 12-volt fridge. The fridge is 10 to 13 percent  more efficient on battery and has a freezer that is five degrees colder than the competition. The stove is equipped with three burners with a microwave above it, and an easy-to-clean oven beneath it. A knife rack is cleverly installed behind the range. A tasteful island sink sits in the middle of the kitchen/living space extending the countertop space available in the kitchen. It offers a plethora of storage and ties the space together with an inviting feel. 

The sink itself is a thing of beauty. It houses a large farmhouse basin equipped with a glass washer, a sleek and discreet pull-down sink sprayer, rinse station, and a drain adjustor button. It also has a multitude of uses with a variety of drop-in sink basins. There’s a rinse sink basin and a solid-bottom sink basin (to give you the option of a divided sink). Or you could just use the giant rectangular basin as is. Having the option of different sink functions is so much nicer than a permanently divided sink. The island exemplifies beauty and function, with plenty of cabinet space and drawers underneath the stunning white marbled countertops. 

 

 

Four Season Capabilities

The heated underbelly and tank heaters in all modern Jayco fifth wheels, are one of many features that will help extend your camping season. The Stronghold VBL vacuum-bonded, laminate-wall construction offers a lighter build with high-density, block-foam insulation to help extend your RV camping season. Enjoy double-layer, batt insulation in ceiling and floor, and double-sided, radiant-barrier insulation in the roof floor and behind the cap. The Magnum Truss roof system is the toughest. Its walkable roof is made from PVC material, and is prepped and ready for an Overlander Solar Package. Withstanding 4,500 pounds, you can walk on the roof with confidence, and feel safer in snow and hailstorms. 

If you are planning on taking some extensive dry camping trips, this unit has an option for an extreme weather package. This includes heat tape and heating pads, but it is an added feature. The solar package is also an added feature. Without it, the Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT does not come solar-ready.

 

 

Storage Space 

As a whole, I think the Eagle HT 28CRT has enough storage for a full-time traveling couple. As mentioned earlier, the bedroom is ultimately lacking in storage, and some of the storage areas seem flimsily built and clumsily arranged. There is, however, that large storage compartment underneath the bed, with gas assist struts for ease of access. 

The bathroom has an additional closet that is quite large, helping to make up for any deficit in the bedroom storage capacity. The living and kitchen area have a good amount of storage with plentiful cabinets and drawers and added storage under the kitchen sink and dinette seating. A convenient shoe closet is also located near the entryway of the entry unit. There is also a large and convenient passthrough storage compartment underneath the unit. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Jayco Eagle HT 28CRT 

The NuvoH2O water filtration system is a feature that Jayco recently came out with. It’s a triple-cartridge system with a salt-free, citrus-filter softener that prevents and removes scale build up. With this new system, you can enjoy tastier, healthier, and safer drinking water — whether you are dry camping or connected to city water. 

The JayPort is also a new feature that I feel is worth mentioning. An outdoor kitchen isn’t always included inside a unit, but with the JayPort, you can enjoy the use of an outdoor kitchen without having one fully installed in the underbelly of your unit. The JayPort is compatible with a propane stove and can be easily connected with the LP quick connect. 

 

 

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