Category: RV Reviews

  • Shop These Adventure-Ready Gifts for RV Kids

    Shop These Adventure-Ready Gifts for RV Kids

    Let’s just be real: RV kids are different. The world is their classroom. Mother Nature is their friend. And they collect experiences the way others collect things. Having traveled extensively in an RV full-time with two small children, I have gotten to know many other full-time families. Something I’ve noticed in all of their children is an abundance of creativity, resourcefulness, and adaptability. And the most important lesson they all learn first-hand? The world is at their fingertips. So what do you get a kid who already has it all? Well, here’s a hot take: Gifts for RV kids should help them explore the world they love.

    And yes, I’ve got a few good ideas which may come in handy right as the holiday season comes upon us. These five gifts for RV kids are full of wonder, adventure, and creativity. Which means they’ll love them.

     

    The Bug Box

    Bugs. It’s ironic that what my children are most fascinated by is what we try to avoid the most when we live on the road. This summer, near the French Broad River in Asheville, NC, we witnessed a gathering of Dobsonflies. For some, this would be a nightmarish scene from Indiana Jones come to life. (Image search it if you dare!) But for our brave and curious explorers, these creepy critters were a treasure they couldn’t keep away from.

    A bug box is an absolute must for any RV kid. All sorts of entomological wonders will find a temporary home in this box — whether it’s an arthropod with more legs than you can shake a stick at, or maybe little glowing fireflies in the summer nights.

    Just make sure they leave the bugs outside — or you might wake up to an unpleasant surprise!

     

    Audubon Field Guides

    I grew up with the rainbow colors of the National Audubon Society field guides on my shelf. These iconic books feature page after page of large color photographs of plants and animals from across the country, with brief, yet detailed descriptions to capture the imagination of my young mind. And today, my kids share that same fascination.

    On the road, RV kids will see more wildlife and natural phenomena than what people can find in a zoo or garden. Pairing those encounters with a shelf of resources will teach them that seeing an interesting thing is only the beginning.

    The original series of Audubon books can be difficult to find. For me, eBay is the most accessible method, but you can also visit a local bookstore with a used section — there will likely be at least one Audubon field guide on the shelf. Before you know it, you will have a complete collection to nurture those insatiably curious minds.

     

    Travel Watercolor Set and Postcard Paper

    This is my absolute favorite gift to give any traveling soul, child or adult. The Windsor Newton Travel Watercolor Set is particularly well thought out. The case is compact, perfect for travel; and the collapsible brush paints beautifully, is a joy to deploy, and capable of fine detail. The paints are high quality, with a lovely assortment of vibrant colors.

    As a family, our favorite activity during travel is painting the landscapes we encounter on the road. We have seen sunsets that would inspire the least artistic individual to pick up a paint brush. I can’t think of a better way to share those inspiring moments than by sending them to friends and family on these paintable post cards. These two gifts, paired together, are gifts that keep on giving.

     

    Junior Ranger Passport Book

    More than once, we have taken our family on the road full-time in our RV. And each time, the National Parks Junior Ranger Program was a cherished feature. The Junior Ranger Passport Book is a great accessory to this invaluable learning experience. With this book, RV kids can collect their destinations in a handy keepsake that can inspire future adventures.

    Living full time with kids in an RV is no easy task. The National Parks Junior Ranger program can offer your family endless avenues of exploration, familiarity in a new place, and the confidence to teach your kids on the road.

     

    Outdoor Play Tent

    One thing I like to give my kids space to do as much as possible is play freely. (Because of all the gifts for RV kids, play is really at the top of the list.) Something that they do often is mirror the world of adults around them, acting out real life situations. If they see their parents setting up their RV regularly, they will likely want to set up a little pretend home of their own.

    So while it may seem redundant, an outdoor play tent will keep them entertained for hours. Or maybe a folding RV camper play tent for them to set up while their parents are setting up the real thing!

  • Cutting Tools for Camping: A Boondocking Guide

    Cutting Tools for Camping: A Boondocking Guide

    Like anything else in life, having the right tools while camping makes a difference. A huge difference. And for anyone looking to go boondocking (or dry camping or minimalist camping), you’re not bringing a whole lot. Part of the idea is to make do with what nature makes available. Even with an RV parked nearby, a big part of being able to do that means that you’ll need cutting tools for camping. And five are absolute must-haves.

    The cutting tools for camping that you simply can’t do without are a folding saw, a buck saw, an axe, a camping knife, and a multitool. The trick is that these tools need to be small enough to pack up easily and safely, but they still need to be able to do their jobs efficiently. For example, a camping axe needs to be easy to pack and transport. But also, a great camping axe must be perfectly designed to make short work of splitting firewood. Perfectly designed axes are ergonomic, and have both a sturdy poll and an edge that stays sharp. There are a lot of camping axes on the market, but there are only a few great ones find that perfect balance — between weight and function — for RVers.

    Wandering in the Google-search forest for the perfect cutting tools for camping can be agonizing. Soooo many options. That’s why I’ve cut things down. This list is of edged tools that not only apply to camping, but that reviewers say they won’t camp without. Whether you need to build a campfire or fry up some freshly caught fish, these cutting tools for camping will be your best friend in whichever wilderness you park.

     

    A Folding Saw to Stash Away

    Corona RazorTooth Folding Saw

    Folding saws are one of the handiest edged tools to have in your camping tool kit. A good folding saw is easy to pack. Easy to deploy. It should be sturdy — and cut through branches and small logs in seconds. Because it does all these things, the Corona RazorTooth folding saw receives more love from reviewers than its jagged-toothed peers. Reviewers also loved its ergonomically designed grip and curved chrome plated 5SK carbon steel blade. It makes  slicing through logs fast and effortless. Plus, the RazorTooth folds into a locking cover to protect its sharp teeth when its not in use.

    Here’s another thing. The Corona RazorTooth folding saw’s six teeth per inch and curved blade are impulse-hardened. That means it should last through a lifetime of camping seasons. Even so, Corona sells replacement blades just in case you manage to break the blade. Overall, it’s easy to understand why reviewers regard the Corona RazorTooth Folding saw as an outstanding value purchase.

     

    A Buck Saw That Fears No Log

    Agawa Canyon 24 Folding Bucksaw

    A folding camping saw is enough to get you through branches and small logs. But when it comes to bigger logs (or downed trees), you’ll need a bigger, more substantial saw. A camping bucksaw is the perfect tool for this. (Especially when you don’t want the hassle — or weight — of a chainsaw.) The Agawa Canyon Boreal 24 folding bucksaw is durable bucksaw that’s designed to provide many camping seasons worth of high-performance cutting.  So much so that the company offers a lifetime warranty on every part of this saw except the replaceable stainless steel blade.

    The Agawa Canyon’s fiberglass reinforced nylon handle is available in two color options: yellow and green. The rest of the trapezium shaped frame is made of sturdy, lightweight aluminum. By the way, a simple lever design quickly folds this bucksaw neatly for storage when you aren’t using it. When it’s in storage mode, its sharp teeth are protected inside the frame to avoid damage. Reviewers loved the Agawa Canyon Boreal 24 folding bucksaw’s rugged design. And its sharp blade. And, of course, its ease of deployment. One reviewer said he loves using his so much he whips it out whenever possible. At just under 1.5 pounds, this bucksaw is easy to carry on hiking adventures too.  

     

    An Axe to Make Firewood Tremble

    19 inch Gränsfors Bruks Small Forest Axe

    As previously mentioned, a good camping axe needs to be lightweight and easy to pack. But equally important, it needs to be worth packing. In other words, it needs to be able to split firewood quickly — with as little effort as possible. Reviewers love that the Grãnsfors Bruks small forest axe does all this in a compact, yet functional size.  The 19-inch Gränsfors Bruks small forest axe isn’t cheap. However, it’s one of those camping tools that’s handcrafted to last a lifetime.  Each Gränsfors Bruks ax head is stamped with the mark of the smith who forged it.  

    Indeed the craftsmanship in this perfectly balanced axe is phenomenal. It’s probably the most beautiful tool you could have in your camping tool kit. Beauty aside, this axe is the ideal size to be useful without being cumbersome. Reviewers love how razor sharp this axe is. They also like that it comes with a leather cover to help ensure no one is inadvertently injured by that razor sharp head. With a 2.5-pound weight, it’s not the lightest camping axe out there, but it’s sharp blade and perfect balance make it the best axe by far.

     

    A Survivalist-Style Knife

    Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade Knife

    A great camping knife has to be sturdy, ergonomic, and stay sharp. And not just when you order it. A good knife keeps those qualities even after you use it to filet fresh caught fish, split kindling, and whittle sticks for roasting marshmallows. The Morakniv Kansbol fixed blade knife is a camp favorite, especially when it comes to choosing a tough, ergonomic, and multifunctional camping knife.  

    This knife’s 4.29-inch stainless steel blade is meant to stay sharp throughout the heavy demands of camping. In total, it weighs a measly 6.25 ounces. On top of being highly functional, the Morakniv Kansbol fixed blade knife comes with a survival sheath, which features its own integrated fire starter and a handy built-in sharpener. Reviewers also liked that the Kansbol comes sharp, right out of the box. But they were also impressed by the overall quality of the Morakniv Kansbol knife. Many reviewers described it as a great all around camping knife. 

     

    A Multitool to Handle Odd Jobs

    Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 Multitool

    Leatherman has long been renowned for providing the most versatile tools around —to have with you no matter what you’re taking on. And for good reasons: These well-made multitools have loads of features you don’t find in any other tool in its class. The Leatherman Signal 19-in-1 multitool is no exception.

    The Signal’s ability to provide every survival tool necessary to get through nearly any emergency was well appreciated by reviewers. It’s a fully featured tool. Reviewers found a lot to love about this surprisingly compact, 4.5-inch tool. For starters, they loved that it has a functional saw that can saw through small sticks. And, of course, there’s  it’s very sharp versatile knife which can be used for sharpening sticks, splitting kindling, or cutting food. The detachable ferro rod and striker are handy for starting a campfire. Not to mention always-useful Leatherman pliers that have a built in wirecutter. 

    The Leatherman Signal packs a lot into a tool that’s small enough to fit in a pocket comfortably. (It also has a built-in clip to hold it there.) However, if you don’t like having things in your pockets, it also comes with its own holster that you can attach to a belt, and a combination bottle opener/carabiner clip that allows you to clip it onto a backpack or belt loop. Reviewers felt even for its somewhat hefty price tag, the Leatherman Signal Multi-tool is a great value because it’s useful for so many camping tasks.

     

    Final Thoughts on Cutting Tools for Camping

    Like we said, having good tools makes all the difference — especially when you’re parked somewhere that you either have it or you don’t. The cutting tool for camping share certain qualities. They’re both functional and highly durable. Doing tasks around the campsite can be fun when your tools do the job efficiently and don’t quickly lose their edge or fall apart. Up front, it can be a real game changer. Having sharp, efficient tools makes it easy to enjoy camping tasks. And if you don’t believe me, just try the alternative. When your tools aren’t up to par, camping tasks are agonizing. But with these tools, you can cut that out altogether.

  • Top Cold Weather Jackets for Winter Campers

    Top Cold Weather Jackets for Winter Campers

    Finding a good cold weather jacket is a crucial part of gearing up to enjoy wintertime fun. After all, just because it’s cold out and you have that cozy RV cabin doesn’t mean that you need to stop playing outside. As a matter of fact, for many of us, winter signals the start of fun and fresh powder.

    However, cold weather activities like winter camping, skiing, hiking, ice fishing, or just playing in the snow are a lot more fun when you’re warm and cozy. So, what makes a great cold weather jacket? While everyone naturally have their own preferences, here are a few essential things to look for when shopping for dependable cold weather jackets. 

     

    What to Look for in a Cold Weather Jacket

    Let’s take the mystery out of your hunt. Here are the four main things that you  need to consider when you’re searching for the right cold weather jacket for you.

    1. Balance. A cold weather jacket needs to be waterproof and breathable.
    2. Hood. An adjustable hood can be worn as an additional measure to keep cold out.  
    3. Insulation. The best cold weather jackets have a layer of lightweight insulation (Thermalite™or fleece). A good insulating layer should keep you warm while still allowing freedom of movement.
    4. Pockets. Waterproof pockets mean you can stash gear and snacks. Or, you know, keep your hands warm and dry. 

     

    Even having this criteria, we get it. Searching for a warm and well-made cold weather jacket can be overwhelming. (Because, like a sleeping bag, you don’t want to find out you got it wrong the hard way.) There are so many jackets on the market. And they all claim to be the best. How can you know that a jacket’s really going to keep you warm when the mercury drops? 

    To make this process easier for you, we rolled up our sleeves — or maybe rolled them down makes more sense here — and got to work. After extensive research of online reviews (and my own Canadian cold weather experience), we’ve identified five cold weather jackets we can safely recommend for RVers parked in colder climes.

     

    The Top 5 Cold Weather Jackets

    Best Heated Jacket

    Fieldsheer Pinnacle Parka Jacket

    Wearing a heated jacket is like wearing a warm hug. (Right when you need one.) The jacket wraps you in coziness, even when you’re out in the cold for up to 10 hours. The Fieldsheer Pinnacle Parka does all that and more — because it’s also waterproof. Plus, it uses Fieldsheer’s mobile heating Bluetooth™  technology, which lets you control the functions of the jacket via a mobile device.  This makes it easy to have the heat set on high on a cold morning and then go to a lower setting as the day warms up. 

    The Pinnacle Parka jacket is a perfect cold weather jacket for a day on the slopes. You could wear a merino base layer, a fleece sweater, and the Pinnacle Parka, and you’d be good to go all day long — no matter what the weather brings. This jacket features six pockets, as well as a quilted liner containing eight heat zone elements. It also includes two hand pockets, two chest, two back pockets, and then one on each arm. Heating elements run on a 12 -volt rechargeable lithium battery, which lasts for two hours on its highest setting and up to eight hours on its lowest setting. Washing it is as easy as removing the battery and washing it on knit delicate. The Pinnacle Parka Jacket is available in both Men’s and Women’s sizes from XS to 2X.

     

    Best Packable Cold Weather Jacket

    The North Face ThermoBall™ Eco Jacket 2.0 

    Packable jackets are normally a middle layer. That’s important to think about. So, while the North Face Thermoball™ Eco jacket may look too thin and packable to be much use in cold weather, it’s actually perfect. This ultralight jacket has been engineered to keep you toasty warm when temperatures drop. Reviewers in Canada said that the Thermoball™  kept them warm down to -15ºC (5ºF). The Thermoball™ Eco jacket is also designed to repel water, but if it does get wet, its patented Thermoball™ insulation still keeps you warm. What’s more, it packs into its own chest pocket, making it easy to stow in a backpack or a large pocket. The Thermoball™ Eco Jacket is available in a range of colors in sizes from S to 5X for both men and women.

     

    Best Kids Cold Weather Jacket

    Columbia Arctic Blast™ II

    Good cold weather gear can make all the difference when kids play outdoors in winter. Not only that, smaller body size means kids are more susceptible to hypothermia in chilly conditions than adults are. So, it makes sense to keep them warm and dry with the best cold weather gear. (Mom’s everywhere are all in agreement.) The Columbia Arctic Blast II does just that. Plus, it’s loaded with other features that make it a perfect choice for a day on the slopes. 

    To start with, the shell of this jacket is made of waterproof fabric. So, it stays dry. Further, it’s insulated with recycled polyester insulation that’s engineered to retain body heat even when it gets wet. There’s no danger of the elements getting into this jacket either because it has an adjustable hood and a powder skirt. There are also a lot of little details in this jacket that make it a reviewer favorite. Reviewers especially love the reflective details and multiple pockets to stash gloves, snacks or electronic devices. This jacket is available in a range or colors for both boys and girls in sizes from XXS to XL.  

     

    Best Cold Weather Jacket for Ice Fishing

    Columbia Arctic Blast™ II

    You don’t have to be ice fishing to wear the Cabela’s Guidewear Men’s GTX Ice Parka, but you’ll appreciate having it when you are. This waterproof, insulated, Gore Tex™ jacket has everything you need to stay warm on the ice. Plus, there are a few extra features that make it perfect for fishing. Some examples are a built-in floatation system (just in case you need it) and 3M Thinsulate fleece lining to reduce bulkiness, making it easier to fetch snacks or fishing tackle from pockets . It also has big, fleece lined hand pockets with removable hand wipes attached to the front of them. Not only that but the GTX Ice Parka’s removable hood cinches down tight when the wind picks up and it features taped seams and plenty of pockets for storing fishing gear etc.

     

    The Best Women’s Budget Cold Weather Jacket

    Moerdeng Women’s Ski Jacket

    The Moerdeng women’s ski jacket surprised reviewers with its abundance of features as well as its quality workmanship and materials. It’s shell is a waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabric. And it features thick fleece insulation, so its perfect for layering over base and mid layers. This gives you the opportunity to add layers when it’s colder or remove layers as the day warms up. This jacket has multiple zipper pockets for stashing gloves, keys, or a phone. The detachable hood has faux fur trim. which is mostly there for fashion, but may add protection against chilly winds. 

    Reviewers appreciated that the lightweight insulation allows for freedom of movement and flexibility while being incredibly warm.  This cold weather jacket is available in 14 colors and sizes ranging from S to XXL. Many reviewers recommend sizing up, to allow for base layers. Overall, reviewers felt the Moerdeng women’s ski kacket provided outstanding value for its budget friendly price.  

     

    Tips For Dressing To Dressing Warm When It’s Cold Out

    You might be surprised to learn that it’s not actually the warm clothes that keep you warm. Instead, it’s many tiny pockets of air, warmed by body heat and trapped close to your body by the fibers of your clothes. When it’s cold out, cold weather clothing keeps you warm by trapping body heat and preventing cold air from getting in. Dressing in multiple layers makes it harder for body heat to escape. So, layers are an essential part of dressing to stay warm when the temperature drops.  

    You’ll need at least three layers of clothing to stay comfortable outdoors in the winter. Start with a base layer of moisture wicking material. (Stay away from cotton-even waffle-knit thermal cotton.) Cotton is disastrous as a base layer because it traps the moisture produced by your body when you perspire, keeping you damp, cold, and possibly hypothermic. Merino wool is the best option for a base layer-it has unsurpassed heat retention and moisture wicking properties. 

    Next, you’ll want to add a layer that prevents body heat from escaping. Wool, fleece, and down are all great for trapping body heat. Again, you’ll want to stay away from anything cotton when you’re trying to stay warm.  

    The outer layer keeps cold air and rain out, while being breathable. Many cold cold weather jackets have built in insulation that can be used on its own or in conjunction with a midlayer. In addition, a warm hat, gloves, and warm socks will help keep you so warm that you won’t be tempted to shuffle directly back into your toasty RV cabin.

  • 2025 Starcraft Autumn Ridge 26BHS Review

    2025 Starcraft Autumn Ridge 26BHS Review

    Today’s RV review is of the 2025 Starcraft Autumn Ridge 26BHS. This travel trailer can sleep up to ten people, with two of those getting the privacy of their own bedroom. While this floorplan is rather common, there are a few details that set what the Autumn Ridge 26BHS offers apart. 

     

    At a Glance: Autumn Ridge 26BHS

    The Autumn Ridge 26BHS is built in the most affordable way travel trailers are constructed. This style is referred to as stick-and-tin, which means that it uses wood framing and an aluminum skin. This is how traditional travel trailers have been built for decades. 

    Starcraft’s Autumn Ridge 26BHS would be a trailer that I could see families with children preferring. And one big reason for that is all of the sleeping opportunities. This build also has certain benefits, since Starcraft’s parent company, Jayco conducts an extensive predelivery inspection. (Which is pretty unique in the industry.) Starcraft RV also provides a three-year structural warranty, which is longer than that of most companies. 

    Overall, I gave this a three out of a possible five rating. There are a few things I wish Starcraft had done on the chassis, suspension, kitchen, and bathroom that would be worthwhile upgrades, but all of these are very common components in this price category.

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 10
    • Dry hitch weight: 750 pounds
    • Unloaded weight: 5,730 pounds
    • Cargo carrying: 1,770 pounds
    • Gross weight: 7,500 pounds
    • Exterior length: 30 feet 8 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet
    • Exterior height: 11 feet 1 inch
    • Interior height: 6 feet 9 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 42/32.5/32.5 gallons
    • Awning length: 16 feet

     

    Features We Love

    • Stick-and-tin build method makes this an affordable option
    • Leaf-spring suspension and entry-grade tires
    • Sleeping for up to 10 individuals
    • Front bedroom separate from main living space
    • Double-over-double bunks with privacy curtains and operable windows
    • USB charging ports at almost all sleeping positions
    • PVC roof membrane
    • Taller 6-foot, 9-inch interior height
    • Shower curtain (instead of a glass door)

     

    Benefits

    • Simplicity in repair. The aluminum skin with wood framing used in the build of this trailer is not only the most affordable way to build an RV but is also the simplest to repair if there is ever damage from an impact.
    • PVC roofing. The PVC roof membrane has the advantage of lasting a long time but can also be easily repaired with just simple repair tools available at any hardware store. 
    • Room for a crowd. The double-over-double bunks in the back can mean even adults might be candidates for sleeping in this space so if you bring in-laws (or little outlaws), this could be the place for them. 
    • A little privacy. The front bedroom is built with a sliding door on either side of a permanent wall, so you can close-off the rest of the trailer which might be especially essential with ten people occupying the space by day. 
    • Function over fashion. The shower curtain, as opposed to a glass shower door can also help add a little privacy. Further, with 10 people in one trailer, it’s much easier to replace a damaged shower curtain than it would be a glass shower door. 
    • Great heights. The taller 6-foot, 9-inch interior ceiling height not only offers a more spacious feel to the trailer, but that also translates into greater height in the shower. That makes this model something some taller campers might find more usable. 
    • USBs galore. All these USB charging ports are going to come in handy, particularly if you have younger people traveling with you, as everyone will have a spot to charge their devices overnight. 

     

    Challenges 

    • Small oven. This trailer is equipped with an oven but the smaller 17-inch (vertical) oven has a lot of hot spots and very limited space. While you might be able to bake cookies or a pizza (if you’re attentive), that’s about it. 
    • Extra attention to maintenance. Trailers built with aluminum sides and wood framing can last a very long time if properly maintained, but the uneven surfaces of this type of build means that an owner should pay particular attention to the seals around things like windows, doors and other breaches in the exterior. With proper maintenance many of this style of trailer can last decades, but maintenance makes an especially big difference this type of build. 
    • Plastic toilet. The toilet in the model I saw was plastic which means your visit to the bathroom will be a sonic treasure for all the other occupants of the trailer. These toilets also more difficult to keep clean. If you have 12-year-old boys camping with you, they may love it — which could be good or bad depending on your sense of humor. 
    • Vent fan. One the same subject the small vent fan in the bathroom’s greatest accomplishment will be making noise, not eliminating shower steam or odors. 
    • Tires. The entry-grade tires and simple leaf-spring suspension may be fine if you don’t put a lot of miles on this trailer. But I would consider an upgrade of at least the tires if you plan on doing a lot of towing. 

     

    Best for

    • This type of trailer would be great for a larger family that travels within shorter distances. With the affordable, wood-framed aluminum-skinned construction and entry-level tires and suspension, you’ll find the price of these to be quite budget-friendly. With sleeping for up to ten people, this could also accommodate the whole crew. 
    • This might also work for friends going camping as the double-over-double bunks in this can accommodate an adult. So hunting buddies could find this a good choice for a base camp.
    • Another group who might like this are seasonal campers who have a permanent spot and want something that can accommodate a greater number of people but aren’t as concerned about towing long distances. 

     

    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 Starcraft Autumn Ridge 26BHS.

     

    Sleeping Space

    Even without folding a couch or converting a dinette, the Autumn Ridge 26BHS has double-over-double bunks in the back. This would certainly be sufficient for one adult and each bunk offers privacy curtains along with household power outlets, a net bag and a window that can open for air flow. This size is intended for two people but, of course, that depends on the people.  You could easily sleep a mother-in-law in one of the bunks. And the lower bunk is pretty easy to get in to if she wants to come along for the adventure. 

    The booth dinette features a table that mounts on two poles which can drop down into a bed and the sofa, too, can jackknife into a bed. Neither of these are going to win awards for comfort. But if your younger campers wish to bring along friends, that might be good enough. 

    Whomever is making the payments on this is likely going to get the front bedroom. This space features a center wall divider between the chaos in the main living space and the bedroom. There is also a sliding door on either side. So, if you desired, you could close-off the bedroom entirely.

     

     

    Bathroom 

    The bathroom in the Autumn Ridge 26BHS has decent space inside, enough that modest people on your camping adventure can dry off and change clothes in here. As mentioned, I like the shower curtain instead of the more common glass shower door just because this is easier to change if it gets damaged. It also doesn’t feel as confining, and you could even change it based on your decor. 

    There is some storage in the bathroom here but not a lot. We use microfiber towels, which take very little space and dry very quickly. So, that might be the way to go for owners of this rig. 

    Something unusual here, too: There’s actually a lock on the bathroom door. 

     

     

    Living Area

    By my count, the Autumn Ridge 26BHS has sleeping for up to ten, but there’s only seating for six to seven. (Of course, that could depend on how wide the occupants of the jackknife sofa are.) At that, there’s dining space for just four. So, celebrating the great outdoors might be as much necessity as desire. 

    If your plans are to watch a lot of TV, this might not be the RV for you. The TV faces the middle of the rig, and, as stated, there isn’t enough seating if you fill up every sleeping space. The Autumn Ridge 26BHS doesn’t come with a TV, but I’ve found that lots of people commonly upgrade the TV in their RVs. Usually in pretty short order, too. So, with this model, at least you’re not donating a TV you just got to get a bigger/better version. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    The advantage of the 12-volt, DC fridge, as opposed to the propane-electric models of yesteryear, is that these fridges have more storage space for the given cabinet size. They’re also more tolerant of junior. You can see him now — standing there with the door open while he decides which color of magic soda pop he wants this time. 

    As mentioned, the smaller 17-inch (vertical) oven is not one of my favorites. They cook with a lot of hot spots and offer very limited space. 

    One standout is that there is an outdoor kitchen in the Autumn Ridge 26BHS. It has a bar-sized mini fridge that also has a rather large drawer. There’s also a mount for a griddle on the bumper, and I suspect that much of the food prep might take place out here. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    This camper is a relatively simple model. So, things like a heated and enclosed underbelly, tank heaters, and other items that might extend the camping season aren’t present here. Basically, once it starts to get where there are more than a few hours a day of freezing temperatures, the Autumn Ridge 26BHS is likely going to in storage for a seasonal hibernation. 

     

    Storage 

    One of the advantages of the Autumn Ridge 26BHS may actually be a disadvantage when it comes to storage. Considering how many people can sleep in this model, storage might be a bit tight. While there is a pantry right next to the 12-volt, DC fridge, that could be taken-up with spare clothing, towels, or what not for the people on the adventure. 

    Under the sink, there are some drawers and a bit of space. But I can imagine that space for stuff is going to be at a premium if you load this fully.

    A single front passthrough compartment provides the majority of the outside storage. There is a larger drawer in the outside kitchen, but exterior storage isn’t the strongest suit of this trailer. However, it is configured to sleep a lot of people, so that’s what you get this for. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Autumn Ridge 26BHS

    If you’re a family that gets away a few times a year (pretty common according to KOA’s camping survey) and much of that time is spent fewer than 100 miles from home, this could be a great choice. The price of trailers like the Autumn Ridge 26BHS can be very affordable and many dealerships cut the margins pretty thin. That way, they can sell them affordably because these trailers appeal to families whose RVing addiction is just getting started. 

    This is also a floorplan that many, many RV companies make. So shopping around might get you some features that might work better for you. I do like Starcraft RV’s warranty and roof build. Also, there are no glaring challenges with this trailer, other than the lousy 17-inch (vertical) oven and noise maker vent fan. But both of those are very common in this price category. 

    I would say with some attention to seals around windows and doors (and just basic maintenance) that this is a relatively simple trailer. It should hold up for years of use. With all the sleeping space here, it could certainly accommodate larger families. Overall, it’s a decent choice for camping season when the kids want to bring their friends. 

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Autumn Ridge 26BHS

     

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • The Most Sure-Footed Socks for Camping

    The Most Sure-Footed Socks for Camping

    Camping means spending time outside. Immersed in nature. Hiking or fishing. Or just cozying up around a campfire. So, whether it’s winter or summer, keeping our feet dry, comfortable, and blister-free is always crucial to a good time. And that means choosing the right socks for camping can make a world of difference.   

    Any seasoned camper will tell you how important having the right socks is to camping.  No matter what you’re doing, having socks that stay in place and wick moisture away from the feet is essential to avoiding blisters and skin problems. If you’ve ever made the mistake of wearing socks that slide down and/or bunch up, you’ll know how annoying it can be. This is especially true for activities that depend on your ability to be on your feet, like hiking or fishing. Thermal regulation is another issue to consider when it comes to choosing the right socks for camping. The right winter socks will keep your toes toasty and warm. However, the best camping socks for summer will be able to wick moisture away while keeping your feet cool.   

    Are there multi-purpose socks that can do it all — a single-solution sock? Not in our experience. Therefore, we researched the perfect socks for camping in five different categories: summer camping, winter camping, heated winter, hiking, and fishing socks.  So, your sock search could be over. We’ve done the research, and these are our results.

     

    Best Summer Camping Socks 

    Darn Tough Men’s Coolmax Hiker Boot Midweight with Full Cushion Hiking Sock

    Summer camping socks need to do three things: They need to keep your feet cool, dry, and cushioned. Darn Tough Coolmax socks do all that, plus they’re made with anti-slip technology to keep them from slipping or bunching. One of the best features of Coolmax hiking socks is that they take care of your feet, meaning you can wear them all day in your hiking boots without blisters — even on the hottest summer days.

    Part of the secret to this is their truly seamless technology. No seam will ever chafe your hardworking toes. The other part is the vegan synthetic yarns they’re made from. These Vermont-made socks are so long lasting that Darn Tough every pair comes with an unconditional  warranty. 

     

    Best Winter Camping Socks

    Sealskinz Raynham Aquasealz™ Waterproof All Weather Mid Length Sock

     

    Winter camping can often mean having wet, soggy socks and cold toes by the end of the day. Aquasealz waterproof, all-weather, mid-length socks ensure your feet stay dry and warm. They have unique technology for a sock.  Aquasealz socks have three layers (including a mid-layer of merino) that wick body generated moisture away while keeping water out. The result is that feet stay dry and toasty whether you’re slopeside or sipping hot toddies around the campfire. Washing Aquasealz is easy too: Just toss them into the washer and dryer with your other clothes. Reviewers love that these socks keep feet warm and dry, even under challenging conditions.

     

    Best Heated Winter Socks

    Fieldsheer Pro Merino Heated Socks Inisex

    Many of today’s RVs come all ready  for four-season camping. This means you can take advantage of the peace, serenity, and fun activities that are all part of winter camping. However, watching the Northern Lights is even more enjoyable when your toes are toasty and warm. Fieldsheer pro merino heated socks make sure your feet stay toasty and warm for up to 10 hours on a single charge of their 3.7 Volt Lithium-ion battery. 

    These heated socks are made from a merino/poly blend that gives them the ability to wick moisture away from the feet and resist odors to keep feet happy and cozy all day into the evening. One of the drawbacks of heated socks is that the wire-like heating element that makes them so cozy it gets uncomfortable after a while. But Fieldsheer pro merino heated socks boast slim internal heating elements that are so well cushioned that you don’t even know they’re there. 

    It takes three to four hours for batteries to fully charge via a universal USB charging port. That makes charging easy. Bluetooth connectivity through an app on your mobile device makes it simple to choose from three heat settings while you’re wearing them. It’s nice to be able to adjust the temperature setting, particularly if the day starts out cold in the morning, but warms by early afternoon.  

    With all of their benefits here’s no getting around the fact that if you want your toes to bask in the ultimate warmth and comfort of these heated socks, you’ll have to pay for the privilege. However, for those RVers who love winter camping, it’s well worth the price. 

     

    Best Hiking Socks 

    Darn Tough Men’s Merino Wool Hiker Midweight Hiking Socks

    Camping means opportunities to go hiking for many people. Whether we’re hiking a short distance or going on a multiday trip into the backcountry, our feet do most of the work. Any seasoned hiker will tell you good footwear helps you to stay upright and avoid injury. But the experience of having socks that slide around and bunch up in your hiking boots can make you wish you stayed home. That being said, Darn Tough merino wool hikers are made to make your feet so happy, that the rest of your body will follow suit.  

    Darn Tough merino wool hiking socks are made with temperature regulating merino wool that wicks moisture. This means your feet stay comfy and dry all day long — no matter what the temperature is. However, they have enough nylon and lycra to help them last for many years on the trail. As a matter of fact,  Darn Tough is so confident about their socks’ longevity, they offer an unconditional lifetime replacement warranty on them.  

    With that being said, it’s important to follow Darn Tough’s instructions when it comes to washing your merino socks to get the most wear out of them.  Here’s what they say: “Machine wash in cold water on gentle cycle with socks inside-out. Do not bleach. Tumble dry on low or hang dry. Do not dry clean.” 

     

    Best Socks For Fishing

    Grundéns Boot Sock Thermal

    If fishing is one of your favorite camping activities, but have problems with chafing and blistering from your boots, you’ll love Grudéns boot socks. These Merino Boot Socks are made to resist slipping around and bunching up in your boots. They’re made with 38 percent merino wool content. So, they are very insulating, as well as moisture wicking and antimicrobial.

    In addition, Grundéns puts nylon reinforcement in the heels and toes of these socks, so they’ll last for a lifetime. The company is so confident about the durability of their boot socks that they guarantee them for life with a lifetime replacement warranty. That’s really saying something about the company’s confidence in their product’s longevity. Grundéns boot socks’ above average thermal properties make them best suited for fly fishing in cold water but reviewers also love them for ice fishing.

     

    The Takeaways

    It’s important to look after your feet, no matter what you like to do when you’re camping. Merino socks are well loved by campers for their breathability and amazing temperature regulation. Sock manufacturers include a little nylon or polyester in their Merino based yarn to add durability and supportive comfort. The most comfortable socks for camping have cushioning around foot bed pressure points and elasticity to give them a great fit.  

     

  • 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range 322RLS Review

    2025 Highland Ridge Open Range 322RLS Review

    It’s a common question that many RV buyers face: fifth wheel or travel trailer? And behind that question are other questions. Do you want the conveniences, layout, and premium feel of a fifth wheel? Or do you prefer the fact that a travel trailer leaves the bed of your truck free for other things? The interesting thing about to the 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range 322RLS is that it gives you an answer to both questions. And the answer in both cases is yes.

    If you find it hard to believe that there’s a travel trailer blends perfectly with the best fifth wheels selling points, get ready. In that area, the Open Range 322RLS really hits a home run.

     

    At a Glance: Open Range 322RLS

    I gave the 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range 322MLS three and a half out of five stars. When I first walked in my impression was, “Wow!” And I was continually wowed by features and attention to detail in this travel trailer.

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 4–6 (depending on seating choices made)
    • Hitch weight: 1,280 pounds
    • UVW: 9,370 pounds 
    • CCC: 2,130 pounds.
    • Exterior length: 37 feet 7 inches
    • Exterior height 11 feet
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 50/114/31 gallons
    • Propane: 60 pounds
    • Awnings: 14 feet and 11 feet 6 inches (two awnings)

     

    Features We Love

    • High-quality suspension
    • Motorhome-style roof construction
    • Frameless windows
    • Wide-body stance
    • Pet-friendly features
    • Two desks
    • Cup holder-mounted trays on the theater seat
    • Reversible mattress
    • Metal tray on tongue

     

    Benefits

    On the Exterior
    • Great suspension. One of the things I encourage any RV shopper to do is start at the road and work your way up. While most RV companies are good at making pretty cabinets, the caliber of suspension can really change how much vibration is transmitted to the RV. And that can affect its lifespan. The Open Range 322RLS uses a cushioned Road Armor suspension that has greaseable bolts, which provides better long-term wear when properly maintained. It’s also shod with American-made Rainier tires. 
    • Roof construction. There are a lot of first-rate build features in this trailer including the roof construction, where the roofing material rolls over the roof and onto the side. This protects the edge where the wall and roof come together. It also tends to result in a longer-lasting RV. The sidewalls in this are vacuum bonded which tends to result in a longer lifespan. 
    • Pret-friendly. There were a few items on here specifically to address pets who travel with you. These include a leash latch on the outside to keep them at bay outside. But the best feature might be the Lippert Screen Defender. This is a reinforced mesh over the lower portion of the screen door. It keeps pets from damaging the screen but can also keep them from going through it. 
    • Tongue tray. The tongue of this trailer has a metal tray that can hold things like a portable generator or firewood. (Or whatever you like, really.) That tray flips up, and there is accommodation for two standard RV batteries beneath it. This transforms the tongue of this RV into an unusually useful space. 

     

    On the Interior 
    • Wonderful windows. The frameless windows are a premium feature. They use the glass to protect the seals from UV radiation. This reduces the amount of maintenance required. (And they also have a smoother appearance.)
    • Extra room. Most travel trailers are 96 inches in width (8 feet). But the Open Range 322RLS is 100 inches wide. It might seem like a small number, but this additional width really makes a big difference in how open and spacious this trailer feels. Combine that with the large windows and you have a winner. This also really plays-out in the sofa at the back of this rig. 
    • Two desks. More and more RV companies are recognizing how many of us are working from the road. Even so, this is the first RV I’ve seen with two desks — one in the bedroom and one in the main living space. Each had power outlets close by. 
    • Nifty tables. The Jayco family of companies have exclusivity on these nifty tables that just drop into the cup holders in their RVs. These allow you to lounge in the theater seats while your meal is in front. They also have a cup holder so whatever beverage you’re enjoying is still able to stay safely put. 
    • Mattress upgrades. When I was at Jayco, I was told that the company has made a significant investment in upgrading mattresses. And that was quite evident in this RV. The included mattress is very likely worth keeping and sports two sides: one firmer and one softer. I wanted to test it for an extended period of time … but was told that I had to leave when the facility closed. (Talk about sleeping on the job!)

     

     

    Challenges

    • This is a big and heavy travel trailer. That means whatever you’re towing with will also be big and heavy — and probably pricey. However, the Open Range 322RLS has all the comforts of a premium fifth wheel without having to navigate a set of steps to go to the bathroom. For those who might want to simply park this at a seasonal site, many RV dealers offer transport services. That way, you wouldn’t have to bring your own big pickup. 
    • For all the premium features on this trailer, I was really surprised to see the cheap vent fan in the bathroom. These frameless windows don’t open as far as the sliding kind, so many builders who employ this style of window also put a high-performance vent fan in their trailers. Not here. The bathroom has the dollar store-quality vent fan that really does little more than make noise. 

     

    Best For

    • Although the couch in the Open Range 322RLS folds into a bed (and you can swap the theater seats for another jackknife sofa), this really is a couples’ trailer. This model is especially great if the owners or passengers have any mobility issues. Unlike a fifth wheel, there are no steps to climb when heading to the bathroom or bedroom. 
    • For RVers who might be working from the road, the fact that the Open Range 322RLS has two desks — including one in the private front bedroom — means that you could use this as both a home base and a place to … write RV reviews. (Wink!) Or, you know, whatever work takes you on the road. 

     

    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 322RLS.

     

    Sleeping Space

    The front bedroom on the Open Range 322RLS truly feels separated from the rest of the trailer. It has a premium feel. The bed itself is in a road-side slide room with little nightstand tables on either side. Each has both household and USB outlets within reach. 

    The entire nose of the space is a very large closet, and there’s a wardrobe on the camp side with several drawers. Next to that is a space that could be a desk for work — or just a place to write how awesome RVing is in your diary. 

    A queen-size bed is standard but can be swapped for a king-size bed. Either mattress is a new model for 2025 and is a two-sided affair. It has a softer side and a firmer side that you can flip to match your preference. While it’s almost a joke how RV mattresses are just decorative, I would say many owners will likely keep this one. It felt quite comfortable — which is not typical in the RV space. 

    In the main living space is a couch that folds out to be a bed. But you don’t necessarily have to fold it out to take a cat nap. Taking advantage of the width of this trailer, there is a wide armrest on either side of the couch. These armrests have varying positions that they can tilt up and stay in. So, you could easily use this couch for naps or even for the night. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom in the Open Range 322RLS might not immediately seem unusual. But when you start pulling things open, there are a few surprises. The space is certainly sufficient to change clothes or make world-shattering decisions while seated on the throne of honor. There is also a door from the bedroom and another from the hallway. 

    In the bathroom, there is also a cabinet with multiple drawers. (So, this has more storage than many RV bathrooms.) There’s also a surprise pull-out shelf, which could be very useful if you’re doing makeup or doing your own dental work. (Maybe not that.) But the space is truly useful. Plus, there’s a bit of counter space and a medicine cabinet. The shower is more like what you’d expect in a fifth wheel with a seat and some shelves for soaps and such. 

     

     

    Living Area

    As an RV reviewer, I see a lot of RVs. So, trust me, it’s not typical that I say “wow” when walking into an RV. But I did when I came in here. The few extra inches of width really opened this space up along with a large slide room on either side. There’s the couch I mentioned (see Sleeping Space), which, if there were an RV couch award, it might get first place. The theater seats directly face the large TV and fireplace. And there’s a table with free-standing chairs for dining. 

    But you can snag one of those chairs as there’s a desk near the entrance of this RV. While some RVers nowadays are working full-time from the road, not all are but many will still want a place to pop open a laptop. (Some to tweak an RV review or share that review with all their friends on social media.) However you use it, the desk in the living space is a really nice touch. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    Likewise, the kitchen is equally nice. The Open Range 322RLS model I saw featured an optional residential refrigerator with water filtration. (Plus, an ice maker and water dispenser in the drawer.) Something I did not expect was a hatch on the outside of this rig to help with winterization or servicing. Smart. 

    There’s a large oven and three-burner propane stove, as well as a residential-sized microwave and a decently large island. On either side of the stove is a good-size counter. Combine that with the island and prep space is a strong suit here.

    In addition to the good indoor kitchen, there’s a good one outside as well with an included flat-top griddle and bar-sized fridge. This has a spray port with hot-and-cold water faucets, although there is no sink. But a bowl or small tote will solve that problem quickly enough. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    While this trailer shines in a lot of places, it really glows when the weather turns cold. The baggage doors are thicker than average and sealed to keep winter out. There is heat ducted to the underbelly and better-than-average insulation in the ceiling and underbelly to boot. Importantly, the sewer (gate) valves are also contained in the heated underbelly and the whole water docking station is enclosed and protected. 

     

     

    Storage Space

    At first glance, storage might not seem all that great when you only look in the front storage bay. But then you realize there is a second smaller storage compartment on the road side. There’s another one in the slide, effectively under the bed. 

    I already mentioned that tray on the tongue of this RV, which is an unusual and pretty great way to maximize storage for things you might not want inside — like a generator. 

    Inside, storage abounds with a closet in the front bedroom that spans the width of the trailer. This closet is also outfitted for a washer and dryer. There’s also some storage under the bed and a chest of drawers on the camp side wall of the bedroom. I mentioned the drawers in the bathroom which are an unexpected plus. The main living space is really chock full of storage with larger cabinets over the couch along the back, a large pantry with a motion-sensing light in it and plenty of cabinets and drawers in the kitchen. It may not seem apparent at first, but storage is a strong suit in this rig. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Open Range 322RLS

    If you can’t tell, I really like the attention to detail in this. With so many little surprises inside that will add-up to a better experience over the life of this trailer, I think this might be one that may not be on your radar, but it should be. Especially if you’re looking for a large travel trailer that you can spend a lot of time in. In fact, it might also be worth putting on your shopping list if you’re considering a fifth wheel. The Open Range 322RLS has much of what makes a fifth wheel great without the steps to the upper deck. 

    I have to admit I wasn’t expecting to find so many first-rate details in this trailer, and it makes me wonder why there isn’t more awareness of this brand. Compared to some others I’ve seen in this class, this one certainly has a lot of class but also a good number of class-leading features. 

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Open Range 322RLS

     

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Jayco Greyhawk 29MV Review

    2025 Jayco Greyhawk 29MV Review

    If you’ve been keeping your eyes open for a road-trip-ready Class C that can do it all, you’ll want to check out the new 2025 Jayco Greyhawk 29MV. This luxurious and versatile Greyhawk 29MV offers a floorplan with loads of amenities and lots of sleeping space. Beneath the cabin, there’s great chassis with an upgraded suspension. All of which adds up to an Class C that’s perfect for both road trips and family camping adventures. 

    The Greyhawk 29MV is built on a Ford E450 chassis with a sturdy TorqShift transmission, making it a powerful road trip machine. It also boasts plenty of sleeping space for kids or grandkids on the bunk over the cab and convertible dinette. At just under 33 feet long, the Greyhawk 29MV is short enough for camping in state parks and nimble enough to navigate grocery store parking lots when it’s time to restock. Also, its 7,500-pound towing capacity gives this Greyhawk the ability to tow a smaller vehicle for sightseeing or running errands. 

    I can’t wait to tell you more about this agile Class C, so let’s get rolling with this review. 

     

    At a Glance: 2025 Greyhawk 29MV

    While he Greyhawk is a well-appointed Class C, it’s not really designed for off-road use. Even so, its powerful chassis (with an excellent suspension system) does give it the ability to handle a light amount of off-road use. 

    In the kitchen, I also felt that the sink deserved a pull-down faucet. As far as appliances go, I’d love to see the small gas oven and microwave in this RV replaced with a more practical microwave/convection/air fryer. This would free up even more cabinet space. (Because there can never be too much cabinet space in any RV.) 

    Altogether, this 2025 Jayco Greyhawk 29MV offers pretty good value for an MSRP of $173,168.

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 6
    • GVWR: 14,500 pounds
    • Exterior length: 32 feet 6 inches
    • Exterior height: 11 feet 8 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
    • Towing capacity: 7,500 pounds
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 47/41/32 gallons
    • Fuel: 55 gallons 
    • Propane (onboard): 56 pounds
    • Awning: 16 feet
    • Slide-outs: 2 
    • Chassis: Ford E450 (7.3L V8)
    • Transmission: TorqShift
    • Off-grid power: 4,000-watt generator and 200-watt solar panel 

     

    Features We Love

    • Backup and side-view cameras (the latter being heated and remote-controlled)
    • Big camera/GPS monitor swivels so the navigator in the passenger seat can also easily see it as needed 
    • Comfy, power-adjustable captain’s chairs for driver and passenger 
    • Catalytic converter theft deterrent
    • Power entry step
    • Heated holding tanks
    • 32-inch LED smart TV in main living area
    • 24-inch LED smart TV in master bedroom
    • Power-reclining theater seats with armrest console (USB ports and built-in cup holders)
    • Queen overhead bunk has 750-pound weight capacity
    • Built-in roof ladder
    • Bumper storage for sewer hose
    • Two 15000-Btu air conditioners
    • 30-amp electrical service
    • Three-burner gas cooktop
    • Small oven
    • 10-cubic-foot refrigerator/freezer
    • Large microwave oven
    • Legless convertible dinette
    • Car seat tether in dinette seat
    • Outside shower
    • CPAP ready nightstands
    • USB port and wireless charging in master bedroom nightstands
    • USB ports and 110-volt power in overhead bunk
    • Pop up charging station with 120-volt power outlet and USB ports
    • 30,000-Btu furnace with auto ignition 

     

     

    Benefits

    • Small enough to navigate campgrounds easily but big enough to give you everything you need
    • Short enough to fit in smaller state park campsite
    • Boondocking ready with power options and 56 pounds of onboard propane
    • Front seats swivel to provide additional seating 
    • Living area TV is easily viewable from all seating areas
    • Queen overhead bunk with 750-pound capacity could easily fit 2 adults
    • Access to basement storage under queen bed
    • Convertible dinette adds sleeping space for two kids or one adult
    • Lots of kitchen counter space
    • Double bowl kitchen sink
    • Big refrigerator/freezer
    • Lots of storage for extended road trips or camping
    • 7500-pound towing capacity allows you to bring a trailer full of toys or a second vehicle for sightseeing or running errands.
    • Removable section of over cab bunk helps to keep the cockpit from feeling claustrophobic
    • Outside shower makes it easy to wash the dog 
    • Pet friendly surfaces
    • Separate powder room door creates privacy for shower
    • Queen bed in slide is usable when the slide is in
    • Underbed storage space in the master bedroom has basement access and could be used as a laundry chute.
    • Loads of storage everywhere
    • Lots of places to recharge devices
    • 200-watt solar panel keeps things charged when it’s sunny and the generator keeps you powered up when it’s cloudy
    • Comfortable cockpit with lots of visibility
    • Automotive glass window in the front cap offers a fantastic view to people sleeping in the overcab bunk
    • Power shade helps keep the top bunk from getting too hot
    • Big awning with LED lights adds lots of sheltered outdoor living space.
    • Hellwig helper springs will help body roll

     

    Challenges

    • Onboard propane tank should make it easy to refill propane, but, unfortunately, refueling stations for onboard propane are becoming hard to find these days, even though portable propane cylinders are easy to refill (for this reason, it would make more sense to have either two 30 pound propane or three-20 pound propane cylinders instead)
    • Privacy might be challenged in the shower when someone uses the half bath (especially if kids are involved)

     

    Best For

    • Two- to four-person families who want to take extended road trips or camping vacations and might occasionally have friends or family with them
    • Grandparents who want to visit grandchildren who live far away and have a self-contained guest house that doubles as a vehicle for camping adventures

     

    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 Greyhawk 29MV.

     

    Sleeping Space

    The Greyhawk 29MV has a comfortable queen bed in the master bedroom. Both sides of the bed have their own CPAP-ready nightstand complete with wireless charging, USB ports and a 120-volt power outlet. This in-the-slide, walkaround bed is completely accessible when the slide is in. So, if you need to pull into a rest area or a Cracker Barrel for a nap, you can do so without putting the slide out. (It’s always great to have options.)

    Nestled into the massive wardrobe on the wall opposite the bed, there’s an LED smart TV, so that you can unwind and relax with your favorite shows. The wardrobe itself contains lots of space for hanging clothes. But it also has plenty of storage for folded or smaller clothing with a multitude of drawers. 

    Above the bed, there’s even more cabinet space. This area is perfect for storing books, craft supplies, or whatever else you want to keep handy. Not only that, but under the bed, there’s what I can only describe as a laundry chute that goes into the basement cabinet below. Simply put a laundry basket in the basement, and hauling laundry through the RV on laundry day will be a thing of the past. (More on this later, but there is an impressive amount of storage in this fun Class C.)

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom in the Greyhawk 29MV is divided into two separate areas — across a hallway from one another. In one area, there’s a powder room with a toilet and vanity with loads of cabinet space and a modern-looking, stainless-steel sink. This little powder room offers storage in the vanity and medicine cabinet. On the opposite side of the hall is a glass walled shower. However, once the powder room door opens up across the hallway it secures on magnetic clasp. In that instant, it makes the whole area into one large bathroom and provides privacy for the shower. (Although that magnet certainly isn’t going to stop a kid from charging in.)

    By the way, it’s good to know this: The shower has enough space and headroom that big people won’t feel cramped and tall people won’t need to squat to get under the shower.

     

     

    Living Area

    The Greyhawk is Jayco’s top-of-the-line Class C. So, I expected that the furniture would be well laid out and comfortable in the living area. Although Jayco also offers the Greyhawk 29MV with a sofa, the model I had access to for this review had twin power reclining theater seats. It also had a legless, convertible dinette that quickly transforms into a comfortable double bed. 

    Most of the seating in the living area gets a good view of the 32-inch TV that’s mounted in the over-the-cab bunk. The exception is the rear-facing dining seat. However, this could be overcome by simply transforming the dinette into a bed and adding some throw cushions for family movie nights. Upholstery in the living area is stain-resistant, durable and pet friendly. 

    The swivel driver and passenger captain’s chairs make additional seating to the living area a snap. Outside, a 16-foot awning with an LED light strip helps to create a sheltered outdoor living space. An LP quick connect adds versatility to the space by allowing you to quickly hook up a grill for outdoor cooking. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen in the Greyhawk 29MV is one of the nicest kitchens I’ve seen in a Class C motorhome. The unusually spacious countertop is punctuated by a double bowl sink with a modern looking black faucet and a three-burner gas cooktop with LED lights. The sink has a stainless-steel dish dryer and a handy fitted cutting board too. Loads of cabinets and drawers provide plenty of places to store food, kitchen tools, plates, and cutlery. The 10-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator/freezer offers lots of cold storage space for beverages and food. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    Equipped with heated tanks, enclosed tank valves, two 15,000-Btu air conditioners/ heat pumps and a 30,000-Btu furnace, the Greyhawk 29MV is equipped to take you on winter camping adventures in all but the coldest places.

     

    Storage Space

    Class Cs don’t typically have a lot of exterior storage. The Greyhawk 29MV is no exception to this. There are two basement cabinets on this model that could be used to stow sporting equipment or other gear. Indoors, the Greyhawk makes up for its lack of outdoor storage with oodles of cabinet storage. There’s storage in the kitchen. Storage in the bathroom. And, as mentioned before, great storage in the bedroom area. In addition, both dinette benches flip up to reveal storage underneath that could be handy for items like bedding or board games.

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Greyhawk 29MV

    The Greyhawk 29MV is one of the most versatile Class Cs in its class. Jayco has designed and built this RV to meet the needs of families or couples who want a luxurious, roomy camper they can go exploring in. One of the Greyhawk’s biggest strengths is its ability to fit into state park campsites or go off grid for extended periods. If you’re looking for a fantastic RV for road trips or boondocking, throughout the year, you won’t want to miss this one.

     

    A very handsome cockpit.

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Greyhawk 29MV

     

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Jayco Pinnacle 38FBRK Review

    2025 Jayco Pinnacle 38FBRK Review

    Packed with luxurious amenities, this fifth wheel is one of the nicest I’ve ever seen. Outside, sleek, elegant lines and beautiful exterior paint hint at an interior full of wonderful surprises. Inside the 2025 Jayco Pinnacle 38FBRK, you’ll find jaw-dropping decor and amenities throughout. 

    The Pinnacle 38FBRK offers a fantastic floorplan. It contains a well-appointed kitchen, sumptuous living area, spacious master bedroom, and two bathrooms — all of which add up to what may well be the perfect home on wheels. (In this reviewer’s eyes anyway.) 

    Therefore, I’m pretty excited to share what makes this particular fifth wheel so fantastic. Now, let’s get rolling with this review and get into all the wonderful details. 

     

    At a Glance: Pinnacle 38FBRK 

    The 2025 Pinnacle 38FBRK is one of my favorite RVs from Jayco. (If you’ve read my other RV reviews, you know I don’t say this often. But I really love this RV.) Let’s talk about why. The Jayco Pinnacle 38FBRK meets the needs of its intended users with sumptuous style. For the most part, it’s a very towable RV — but only if you have the right vehicle to tow it. It’s a really heavy RV when it’s loaded up with water, propane, et cetera. So, the best truck for hauling it will be a one-ton or better pick-up truck. The majority of storage is on the inside, but there is a massive passthrough storage area at front. Having power drawers in this storage compartment would help keep stored items easy to access. 

    As mentioned, for me this fifth wheel began as something of a case of love at first sight. The Pinnacle 38FBRK’s exterior is gorgeous, sleek, and very classy. However, like true love, it’s what’s inside that really counts. How livable is this RV? Well, one step inside provides all the enlightenment you need. This model has a fantastic build and floorplan, filled with thoughtfully planned luxury amenities and quality features that make it full-time ready. 

    If you’re looking for a fifth wheel to use as either a full- or part-time residence, the Pinnacle is loaded with great value for $120,243 MSRP.

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 4
    • UVW: 14,995 pounds 
    • CCC: 3,005 pounds
    • GVWR: 18,000 pounds
    • Exterior length: 43 feet 10 inches
    • Exterior height: 13 feet 5 inches
    • Exterior width (with slides in): 8 feet 6 inches
    • Exterior width (with slides out): 16 feet 4 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 75/87/50/ gallons
    • Propane: 120 pounds (3 x 40 pounds) 
    • Awnings: 2 x 15 feet
    • Water heater 16-gallon DSI
    • Number of slide-outs: 4 

     

    Features We Love

    Exterior Features
    • Rated and warranted for full-time use 
    • Elegant exterior and beautiful paint with sparkly gloss finish
    • Aluminum framing
    • Six-point automatic hydraulic leveling
    • LED lighting on cap
    • Color-changing LED lights under awning
    • Thetford Sani-Con® Turbo waste evacuation system 
    • MORryde pin box
    • MORryde CRV4000 suspension system
    • Back-up camera and side cameras
    • 50-amp cord wheel
    • JayPort connection for table with outdoor grill
    • 3,000-pound towing package with a 300-pound hitch rating for towing an additional trailer with a small boat or other toys.
    • Built-in ladder to access walkable roof
    • Tow-vehicle-controlled LED signal and marker lights.
    • 42-inch outdoor TV under awning
    • Massive passthrough storage at the front with GFCI outlet and cable connections for TV 
    • Big storage area under front of RV
    • Central built-in vacuum
    • Battery disconnect switch
    • Satellite antenna with 5G Wi-Fi extender
    • Dexter axles with ABS and tow assist
    • Prepped for solar
    • Built-in sewer hose carrier
    • Enclosed and heated underbelly
    • Fully enclosed docking station with quick-connect outside shower port
    Interior Features
    • JayVoice voice-activated interior lights, exterior lights, A/C, and heat 
    • Plush power-reclining, sectional couch with snack trays, USB Ports, and beverage holders
    • 42-inch, 12-volt TV and soundbar 
    • Electric fireplace
    • Propeller style ceiling fan in living room
    • Residential-style, 12-volt refrigerator/freezer with French doors and water/ice dispenser
    • Four-burner residential style range with a full-size oven
    • Microwave convection oven
    • Dishwasher
    • Pull-out kitchen pantry
    • Integrated laptop desk in living room area
    • Free-standing dinette with table that expands to seat five
    • Pop-up power/USB Port towers throughout
    • Privacy screens on windows
    • Two bathrooms (one half and one full bath)
    • King bed prepped for CPAP on both sides
    • Big walk-in closet access through French doors at rear of RV
    • Prepped for a washer and dryer
    • 40,000 Btu Furnace
    • 5,000 Btu electric fireplace
    • Two whisper-quiet air conditioners

     

     

    Benefits

    • Very stylish and elegant exterior and interior design
    • Cavernous basement storage area has an outlet that could be used to plug in a portable refrigerator
    • Loads of storage throughout this RV
    • King pull-out bed on the sectional sofa provides comfortable guest sleeping for two
    • JayVoice lets you turn light, A/C, or heating on or off from bed or when your hands are full
    • MORryde suspension system protects the RV and its contents by allowing maximum wheel travel when going over bumpy road surfaces
    • Built-in desk with storage for laptops makes it easy to work from the road
    • Residential GE oven and cooktop, kitchen counter space with power towers, and dishwasher, let you prepare fantastic meals 
    • Loads of storage space in multiple kitchen pantries
    • Coat rack and shoe garage in the hallway
    • Cozy atmosphere in the living room
    • Half bath/powder room gives restroom options for guests or multiple users.
    • Huge spa-like shower with fold down wood bench allows plenty of room for movement
    • Big-people-friendly with high ceilings throughout, big interior areas, and furniture that allows them to stretch out
    • Thetford Sani-Con® Turbo waste macerating evacuation system eliminates the mess and hassle of emptying tanks (Thetford says it’s so clean that you won’t need gloves)
    • Large tank capacities and optional 5,500W Onan® Microquiet generator could make the Pinnacle boondocking ready
    • Beautiful hardwood cabinets with dovetail joints
    • Pet-friendly stain resistant fabrics
    • Residential-style light fixtures 
    • Massive cedar-lined, walk-in closet with motion sensor lights
    • Dual-pane awning style privacy glass windows can be left open when it rains
    • 16-gallon DSI water heater with Water Miser conserves water and weight (since there’s no hot water tank) 
    • Both 15-foot awnings have color-changing LED light strips to create inviting outdoor living space on warm summer evenings

     

    Challenges

    • At nearly 44 feet long and 13 feet 6 inches high, this is a very big RV that might be challenging for an RVer without a lot of towing experience 
    • Definitely requires a minimum of a one-ton truck for towing

     

    Best For

    • Singles or couples who want to live and travel in their RV full time while enjoying luxurious amenities
    • People who want a luxurious RV they can park at the lake for the summer as a cottage 

     

    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 Pinnacle 38FBRK.

     

    Sleeping Space

    This spacious RV has sleeping space for up to four people in the master bedroom and on a king-size, fold-out sofa. With that being said, the sectional sofa is so big and comfortable that a single sleeper could snooze away a night very comfortably without deploying the sofa bed. That makes it a perfect spot for a quick afternoon nap. But let’s have a look at what the luxuriously appointed master bedroom offers in this RV. 

    A Masterful Master Suite

    As you head toward the back of the Pinnacle 38FBRK, you’ll find the spacious master bedroom replete with a sumptuously comfortable king bed. Each side of the bed has a shelf with USB ports and plugins that could be used for either CPAP machines or charging devices overnight. Windows on either side of the bed open, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of fresh air while you sleep. In addition, there’s a handy built-in nook for books right beside the bed to keep bedtime reading materials within easy reach. 

    Across from the bed is a dresser with four roomy drawers and a secret storage tray beneath the top. Over the dresser is a 32-inch TV which has a storage cabinet on either side. But that’s not all the storage in the master bedroom. Lift the bed on its easy glide struts to reveal a meticulously crafted under bed storage cabinet that’s perfect for storing bedding or whatever else you need to store.

     

     

    Bathroom

    There are two roomy bathrooms in the Pinnacle 38FBRK floorplan. The centrally located half bath is across from the entry door. Inside, it has a beautiful vanity, ceramic toilet, and plenty of storage space in beautifully made country-white cabinets. This bathroom provides a spot to wash dirty hands when you enter the RV, and also provides guests with an alternative to going through the master bedroom to use the facilities there. 

    The master bathroom is frankly larger than ones found in many homes. This full bathroom has a big vanity with lots of storage and a modern looking sink. A porcelain toilet helps to preserve the very residential vibe of this fifth wheel. However, the real showstopper here is the spacious glass enclosed shower that’s tiled in appealingly neutral colored porcelain. A beautiful, flip-up wooden bench adds to the spa-like atmosphere here. A skylight over the shower adds height and provides lots of natural light. 

    A Second Kind of Beauty: Function

    The shower also features a Water Miser freshwater conservation system that recycles the freshwater that would otherwise drain into the gray tank while you wait for the shower to warm up. Instead of allowing the cool water that enters the hot water shower pipe to drain, the Water Miser recycles it back to the freshwater tank. Along with conserving water, this results in a much better shower experience. 

    Beyond an elegant pair of French doors at the rear of the bathroom is an amazing cedar-lined, walk in closet. This closet is (of course) replete with lots of shelves and closet rods to keep clothes and linens neat and well organized. Washer/dryer hookups are conveniently tucked into this closet. So it’s easy to just take items from the dryer and put them directly away.

     

     

    Living Area

    The living area of the Pinnacle 38 BRK is dominated by a sumptuous and comfy sectional couch that has an integrated power recliner and sofa bed. Upholstered in durable, yet ultrasoft fabric, the sectional is long and comfy enough to stretch out on for a midafternoon siesta. But it also has removable snack trays and cup holders at either end for when you’re not napping on it. 

    The entertainment center here is beautiful. A 5,000-Btu electric fireplace with a live edge wood mantle above it helps maintain the residential atmosphere. Over the mantle, a 60-inch TV with a sound bar is perfectly positioned to be viewed from anywhere in the living, dining or kitchen areas. It’s the little things that count too though. Overhead, a propeller ceiling fan and elegant residential style lights help to create the feeling of a real home on wheels. 

    A Place of Connection

    One of the coolest features of the living area is a pull-out laptop desk in front of expansive windows. It’s really well made, with dovetailed joinery and a beautiful built in storage area for laptops and other office essentials. A pop-up power tower keeps USB charging ports and 110-volt outlets handy too. It’s a great setup for both remote workers or just for catching up with family and friends via email or social media. 

    The dining table adjacent to the living room expands from a buffet-style hutch to seat from two to five people. The table is very easy to expand or retract as needed. While the dinette includes two upholstered chairs, Jayco also includes two additional folding chairs with this RV in case you need them. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    Jayco knows how important the kitchen is for many RV buyers. (Perhaps especially for those buyers who are looking at RVs they could potentially move into full-time.) As a result, the company has done some obvious work here designing a kitchen that people will fall in love with. The kitchen in the Pinnacle 38FBRK leaves absolutely nothing to be desired in terms of space and luxurious amenities. Fully-appointed with five appliances, lots of counter space, a big farmhouse-style sink, loads of storage. and a whole host of other goodies, the kitchen in this fifth wheel is ready for any chef. 

    The appliances in the Pinnacle 38FBRK include a residential-size, French-door refrigerator/freezer with a dispenser for filtered water or ice in the door. There’s also a residential-size GE gas oven with a four-burner gas cooktop. For more cooking options, there’s also a large convection microwave that is big enough to bake a pizza, cookies, and most casseroles. (Or anything else that strikes your fancy.)

    Plug-Ins, Prep, and Clean Up

    If you need to plug in an instant pot, rice cooker or other electric appliances there are 3 power towers in this kitchen that allow you to do so conveniently. With so many cooking options, there’s going to be dishes to wash. However, Jayco’s made this easy by providing a small but efficient dishwasher, located conveniently under the kitchen sink. 

    I loved that the oversized farmhouse sink has a window over it. While a lot of RVs these days have these big sinks, this one has multiple features that make it stand out. The features include a high-arching, pull-down faucet. (Perfect for filling big pots for soup or pasta.) They also include a glass rinser and a vegetable rinser. Not only that, but this sink comes with racks that fit in for drying dishes or rinsed veggies too.

    Cabinets and Pantries (Yes, Intentionally Plural)

    Storage space in the Pinnacle 38FRBK kitchen is found in hand-crafted, solid-wood cabinets and drawers with dovetail joints. There’s even a butler’s pantry — a tall cabinet filled with drawers and its own slide-out tray with handy access to the refrigerator. On the other side of the fridge are large pantry shelves to keep canned goods or snacks at hand. Next to that is a huge pull-out pantry that’s perfect for storing dry goods. 

    In this kitchen you’ll find banks of drawers with features like set ins and storage trays for cooking utensils and food wraps. A cabinet over the stove contains a unique hidden spice rack that keeps spices within easy reach. One feature I loved was the pull-out cutting board with a hole in it right over the pull-out waste bin. That way, food scraps can be scraped directly into the trash. (I wish all RVs had this because it makes life so much simpler.) Everything in the Pinnacle 38FRBK’s kitchen is done with such finesse and craftsmanship. Honestly, it left me … well … a little awestruck. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    Jayco’s has a zero-degree-tested climate protection system. It starts with double-batt insulation. And it features an enclosed, heated underbelly. As well as a 40,000 Btu furnace. And dual-pane windows and two heat pump air conditioners. So, yes, the Pinnacle 38FBRK is ready for four-season use. 

     

    Storage Space

    Even after downsizing, many full-time RVers wish they had a little more storage space. The Pinnacle 38FBRK was designed and built with so much storage space, that it’s unlikely you’ll feel this way. From the massive luggage bay and storage cabinet under this RV to oodles of interior cabinet storage, there is no shortage of places to put things in this RV. Upon entering the RV is a handy cabinet to hang jackets and store shoes. Above, there are even smaller cabinets for keeping hats and smaller items organized. The bathrooms have vanity cabinets and linen closets for storing toilet paper, towels, and other necessities. 

    The spacious walk-in wardrobe has enough space on shelving and hanging rods. So, most owners won’t be left making choices as to what they have to purge in order to fit their favorite outfits in. The master bedroom itself has cabinets, shelves along with a very organized under bed storage area.

    As already mentioned, the kitchen and living areas have storage thoughtfully integrated throughout inside cabinets and drawers. 

     

    Closing Notes on the Pinnacle 38FBRK

    Whether you’re considering hitting the road full-time or need a luxurious cottage to park at the lake, the Jayco Pinnacle 38FBRK should be on your list of possibilities. It has everything most full-time RVers want in a home on wheels. Not only that, but the build quality here is phenomenal. Jayco is clearly putting every effort into building RVs that will reach the market ready to enjoy. I love that every Jayco RV is inspected at their dedicated inspection facility to help ensure that customers don’t wind up with buyers’ remorse due to deficiencies in their new RVs. 

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Pinnacle 38FBRK

     

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Entegra Coach Aspire 44W Review

    2025 Entegra Coach Aspire 44W Review

    For those who dream of a life on the road but may be hesitant to leave the protection and luxury of your residential abode, get ready. This Entegra Coach diesel pusher embodies mobile TLC — that’s “tender loving care” — packaged into a tight and insulated rig. Built with a specific owner in mind, the 2025 Aspire 44W is made for full-time RV couples that don’t want to skimp on a single ounce of comfort. 

    Indeed, in the Aspire 44W, luxury takes on a whole new meaning — from genuine Italian leather furniture to hand-laid, porcelain-tiled flooring. Your countertops won’t even take a hit here. With 450 horsepower, the Entegra Coach Aspire 44W can haul your granite countertops up a steep mountain pass (with plenty of cavalry to spare). 

    Off the road, a good night’s sleep is the key to a happy life for lots of full-time RVers. And here, this Class A has few peers. The Aspire 44W includes noise-eliminating insulation. Which makes it easy to rest assured and rest well in its walkaround king-size bed. Comfort, comfort, and comfort! All in the foreground of an untamed, rugged landscape. What more could you ask for? 

     

    At a Glance: Aspire 44W

    The 2025 Entegra Coach Aspire 44W gets four and a quarter stars out of five. The layout is stunning, modern, and chic. Plus, it has more storage than my residential basement. Entegra Coach has gone above and beyond to provide residential creature comforts to its buyers. But in doing so, one or two elements of functionality and safety took a hit. (I’ll talk about those under Challenges below.)

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 4
    • GVWR: 49,000 pounds
    • GCWR: 64,000 pounds
    • Front GAWR: 17,000 pounds
    • Rear GAWR: 20,000 pounds
    • Tag axle gross weight rating: 12,000 pounds
    • Exterior length: 44 feet 11 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
    • Exterior height (with A/C and satellite): 12 feet 8 inches
    • Interior height: 7 feet
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 100/62/41 gallons
    • Fuel tank capacity: 150 gallons
    • Furnace: 65,600 Btu (Aqua-Hot)
    • Wheel base: 320 inches

     

    Features We Love

    • Valid air-leveling system with auxiliary air compressor
    • Safe View dash with 15-inch digital dash and 15-inch center console info-tainment center
    • Triple-layered insulation 
    • 5-inch thick floors with in floor heat (TLC for your toes on cold winter mornings)
    • Aqua-Hot 400D water and heating system
    • City and tank water-filtration system 
    • Onan® 10,000W diesel generator, with automatic start, on slide-out tray
    • Extensive solar capacity and functionality
    • 3 x 15,000 Btu A/C units 
    • Winegard WifiRanger Wi-Fi extender 
    • Starlink satellite internet system 
    • Motion-sensor security lights 
    • LED accent lights under all slide-out rooms
    • Outdoor 43-inch TV with tilt, swivel, and extendable arm (plus JBL radio) 
    • Window awning, slide awnings, door awnings, and patio awnings (awnings galore!)
    • Blind-spot monitoring indicators in chrome, heated, remote-control side-view mirror
    • Solar day shades and blackout night shades 
    • The Firefly multiplex system integrates your coach controls with mobile app connection available 
    • Valid 15-inch digital dash with quad core graphics processor, onboard diagnostics and ability to display traditional instrument cluster, 360-degree camera system or GPS navigation 
    • 15,000-pound towing capacity 
    • Portable Shark central vacuum system 
    • Ramco 360 HD digital camera system 

     

     

    Benefits

    • Peace of mind traversing steep mountains passes with Entegra’s side mounted radiators improving air flow to the engine (plus, the 3-stage engine brakes make going back down that pass easy and safe)
    • Decreased drive fatigue with EZ-Steer adjustable power steering assist 
    • Less stops during travel with a 150 gallon fuel tank
    • Driving in crosswinds made easier with EZ-Steer adjuster  
    • Host friends and family with two bathrooms, and elegant living quarters
    • Easy tank dumping with TECMA’s porcelain macerating toilets 

     

    Challenges

    • Porcelain tile in this unit could pose a safety hazard if any water or mud is introduced (slippery)
    • Placement of a television in the cockpit seems like it could pose a serious safety hazard to the driver (as a distraction); its position is directly in front of the driver’s vision
    • No oven (dishwasher provided instead)
    • Only two burners on the stove (seems odd for a unit this large)
    • Outdoor storage compartments are difficult to close

     

    Best For

    • Full-time or seasonal RVing couples that don’t want to sacrifice residential luxuries to live on the road
    • Single traveler that wants the luxury and space of home, all in a safe and comfortable ride

     

    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 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 Entegra Coach Aspire 44W.

     

    Sleeping Space

    The master bedroom in the Aspire 44W is a thing of beauty. A walkaround, king-size bed and gel memory-foam mattress are the embodiment of restful slumber. Solid top nightstands with outlets and charging ports on either side of the bed make this unit CPAP ready. The adjustable reading lights over each side of the bed means you can read that page turner well into the wee hours of the night without disrupting your partner.

    The storage in this room is definitely not lacking. There are three large cabinets above the bed and cabinets below each nightstand. Two vertical shelving units with pull-out drawers beneath them sit across from the bed, with a large TV nestled in the middle. A shelf sits below the TV with two wide drawers beneath it. 

    The 74-inch hide-a-bed in the living space will offer a good-sized sleeping option for visitors. After setting up the bed, I did find the extra couch cushions to be a bit awkward and cumbersome, with no good place to put them. Once the spare bed is set up, there isn’t much space to walk through the living area. With the only entrance being on the far end of the sleeper sofa, that could present some annoying moments while entering and exiting the unit if the bed is pulled out. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    This unit flaunts two bathrooms: one for guests and one jaw-dropping master bedroom on the far end of the rig. The spare bathroom has a lovely solid top counter with an integrated sink and accent lighting. Two mirrored vanities offer storage above the sink, with a cupboard and drawer below. Both bathrooms have porcelain TECMA macerating toilets, making your tank dumping ordeal that much easier. 

    Jaw-Dropping Details

    The master bathroom in the Entegra Coach Aspire 44W Class A is a showstopper. The stand-up shower has crystal clear glass sliding doors. With two sleek shower heads. And a teak folding bench! That still leaves my favorite feature in the entire 44-foot unit: a stackable washer and dryer unit discreetly placed behind a sliding door near the entry of the bathroom. 

    A large, mirrored vanity offers loads of storage in addition to drawers and cupboards below the sink. The sink has plenty of counter space on either side, which may arguably be better utilized as two sinks, so two people can brush their teeth at once. 

    Just icing the cake, there’s also a walk-in closet that sits at the far end of the bathroom with a sliding door fixture that mirrors the elegant ceiling light in the living space. Consistent with the rest of this unit, the master bathroom embodies artful elegance with functional elements.  

     

     

    Living Area 

    Luxury drips from every corner of this delectable rig. The furniture is creamy white, genuine Italian leather. (Whenever I hear the words “white Italian leather,” I immediately put all visions of dogs and kids aside. But ultimately, whether or not you want to combine such creamy white finery with kids or dogs, is up to you.) The cabinets are hand-sanded and stained maple. Upon opening some of the drawers in the living space, I was pleased to see dovetail connections, a small detail demonstrating refined craftsmanship. The elegant centerpiece light fixture on the ceiling is another reminder that you don’t have to leave indulgence behind to live on the road. 

    For entertainment, a sizable 50-inch Samsung television rises up from a pedestal across from the tri-fold couch at the push of a button. Having the option to lower the TV behind the sleeper sofa while not in use is really nice. 

    The Other Side of Luxury

    But even luxury has its challenges. If you value your hips, do not step onto this unit’s floors with wet or muddy feet. The impeccable hand-laid porcelain tile is smooth. Perhaps too smooth. And it could easily stage a slippery slope — falling straight into foul language. 

    Similarly, I suggest you make sure you leave the evidence of nature outside. Because if you bring it inside, your white, Italian leather interiors will be … not as white. Practical? Maybe not, but luxury follows its own rules.

     

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen in the Entegra Coach Aspire 44W comes with a multitude of indulgent appliances. These include a residential style fridge with a water and ice (crushed or cubed) dispenser. But for a rig of this size (and cost), I was surprised to find only two burners, and no oven. (There’s a dishwasher instead.) The countertop space feels a little crowded, with the counter on the right of the stove being tight up against the wall. 

    The storage space, however, is not lacking in the kitchen area. Even the drawers have drawers inside them. The overhead storage in the kitchen has two clever slide-out storage trays on sturdy tracks perfect for outdoor picnic gear. A dishwasher lives where I would prefer an oven, but having the option to wash dishes may be preferable to some. The cupboard below the sink pulls out with a trash can receptacle. The sink is perfectly simple with a large farmhouse basin, and a sleek faucet with a discreet pull-down sprayer.  

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    Dry camping in the Entegra Coach Aspire 44W will be a breeze. You may even forget you are boondocking in the middle of nowhere, with no electrical or water hookup. Want to park in Death Valley in the middle of summer? No problem. The 10,000-watt diesel generator will power all three of your 15,000 Btu A/C units. And the patio awnings, door awnings, window awnings. and slide-out awnings will offer plenty of shade. With two 200-watt solar panels and two L16 AGM batteries with a 3,000-watt Victron inverter, you don’t have to rely entirely on your diesel generator for powering your rig while boondocking. 

    Cold? No problem. The heated floors, heated storage units underneath the RV, and heated tanks will extend your camping season into the winter months. This rig is triple-insulated, with Aqua-Hot 400D hydronic heating using tubing to run hot liquid into heat exchangers that disperse heated air into living areas. Even your toes will stay warm on these 5-inch thick heated floors. Check and check.   

     

     

    Storage Space 

    This Class A diesel pusher has seemingly infinite storage capacity. I think a modest family could fit almost all of their possessions in this motorhome if they tried. A storage tray rolls out seamlessly from the belly of the beast, to easily access rows of Tupperware filled with your things. And the storage compartments are heated with Aqua-Hot 600 hydronic heating. The outdoor storage compartments open with push-button, power-unlatching baggage doors with LED indicator lights. They are a delight to open, but not so fun to close. You will need to put all your body weight into it. (Or deliver a full-bodied, Chuck-Norris-style kick.)

    Inside, you will find more storage capabilities than you will have a use for. Even the dinette has clever storage that rolls out from beneath the Italian leather seats. And if the storage in the master bedroom isn’t sufficient, the walk-in closet in the master bathroom should fill any deficit of space.

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Aspire 44W 

    A 15,000-pound towing capacity is nothing to shake a stick at. You could arguably tow another RV behind you. But the more obvious choice will be to tow your car with you. With a 450-horsepower engine and the engine coolant system in this rig, you should have an easy time towing a vehicle behind you. This is a really important feature if you plan to go out West, where the roads aren’t just steep in grade, but isolated in scope. (And often without cell service.) Speaking from experience, you don’t want your radiator blowing up in the middle of a steep mountain pass without cell service. It is not fun. The side-mounted radiators increasing air flow to your engines is going to give you peace of mind while you drive across the American landscape.  

    The on-road features of this unit quite possibly make it the easiest handling and quietest rig in its price point. The three-stage engine brake and powerful axle rating with independent front suspension and EZ-Steer adjuster are only a few of a plethora of features integrated with the chassis for a safe and comfortable driving experience.

     

     

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  • 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS Review

    2025 Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS Review

    If you’re looking for an amenity-packed fifth wheel — that you can tow with a half-ton — you owe it to yourself to check out the 2025 Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS. Even though it’s incredibly light, this RV doesn’t skimp on amenities or quality construction. The Roamer Light Duty is built on a rugged chassis with a great suspension system that is built to last for its lifetime. The roof is protected with durable, low maintenance PVC. Inside, it has all the luxurious features you expect to find in a fifth wheel

    So, let’s get rolling with this review of the lightweight, amenity-loaded Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS.

     

    At a Glance: Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS

    The Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS is one of four available floorplans in the Open Range Roamer lineup. All of the floorplans are designed to make practical use of space in a shorter fifth wheel. But the Roamer Light Duty 244RLS achieves this by combining a kitchen island into the living area. The island provides separation for the kitchen area, but its counter seating invites interaction with the camp chef too. It all works together to provide a functional and enjoyable space. 

    The biggest tradeoff here is in a loss of potential sleeping spaces for kids or grandkids. S, this 244RLS floorplan lost some points on versatility. Even so, it’s still a great fifth wheel that packs a surprising number of features into an lightweight fifth wheel. 

    Overall, this easy-towing 2025 Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS is an outstanding value. It has a comfortable, intelligently designed floorplan that includes plenty of storage space and comfortable furniture. It’s well worth its $61,230 MSRP.

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 4
    • UVW: 7,750 pounds 
    • Dry hitch weight: 1,390 pounds
    • GVWR: 9,600 pounds
    • CCC: 1,850 pounds
    • Exterior length: 28 feet 7 inches
    • Exterior height: 13 feet 2 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 55/60/30 gallons
    • Propane: 60 pounds (3 x 20-pound bottles)
    • Awning: 13 feet

     

    Features We Love

    • PVC roofing membrane
    • Automatic leveling with JT’s Strong Arms
    • Expandable 200-watt solar package
    • Power theater seats with central armrest with beverage holders and big removable snack trays 
    • Easy-to-deploy sofa bed
    • Tough, easy-to-clean upholstery and floors
    • 40-inch LED smart TV and entertainment center
    • Open underbed storage area
    • 10-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator
    • Three-burner gas stove 
    • TravelLINK® Bluetooth® RV control system that lets you control awning, lighting, slide-outs, and climate control from a smartphone
    • 2-inch, 3,000-pound receiver hitch at back
    • Basement storage
    • Efficient 30,000 Btu furnace
    • Tuffshell vacuum bond laminated walls
    • 6 foot 4 inch shower 
    • Pantry
    • Lots of kitchen storage
    • Hidden storage behind TV
    • Huge farmhouse-style sink with pull down faucet
    • Heated basement compartments 
    • Backup camera prepped
    • Prepped for a second TV in master bedroom
    • Exterior speakers
    • Two 15,000 Btu Air conditioners
    • Screen door guard to keep pets safe
    • Towel bars and toilet tissue holder are included in the bathroom
    • Solid step entry stairs

     

    Benefits

    • Half-ton towable 
    • Enough basement storage area to stow a generator for more power options
    • Basement storage could easily stow camping necessities like camping chairs, a screenhouse, golf clubs, and fishing gear
    • Exterior locks that are keyed alike means no more fumbling to find the right key
    • Compact but efficient floorplan
    • Fridge can be opened from either side
    • Pet friendly!
    • A great place for dog beds under the queen bed 
    • Tall cabinet under TV would be a great place to store bigger items like a cordless vacuum cleaner or bag of dog food
    • High capacity underbed storage area saves weight 
    • Having 20-pound propane bottles on slide-out trays in the basement makes propane refills easier
    • Pull-out trash under the kitchen sink keeps it handy yet out of the way
    • Sofa is long enough for most people to relax comfortably on while watching TV
    • Strong Arm Jack supports provide stability and reduce bounce/rocking when someone walks in the trailer

     

     

    Challenges

    • Half-ton towability will depend on both the payload capacity and the towing capacity of your pickup truck
    • Sleeping space is limited
    • Floorplan doesn’t lend itself to big family camping getaways
    • In order to cut back on weight, toilet is plastic instead of ceramic

     

    Best For

    • Empty nesters who want the stable towing experience added space, and extensive amenities of a fifth wheel without having to upgrade their pickup to a larger one 
    • Two- to three-person families that want to go camping while enjoying lots of creature comforts without having to upgrade their pickup truck to a larger one

     

    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 Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS.

     

    Sleeping Space

    The master bedroom of the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS holds a residential-size queen bed with a two-drawer nightstand on either side. Both nightstands are big enough to hold a CPAP machine with room to spare. Aside from the 110-volt plugin on each of them, there’s a very cool pop-up USB charger that also doubles as a wireless charging pad. The bed itself is so comfortable that I could have easily fallen asleep on it. A duo of overhead tap-style reading lights over the bed invite it to be used as a presleep reading lounge. Beneath the bed is a big open area that’s perfect for either dog beds or storage totes.

    The master bedroom has loads of handy storage options. To start with, easy-to-access, over-the-bed cabinets make a great place to stash books, extra blankets and bed linens. (Or anything else you want to bring with you.) Each nightstand has two decent sized drawers too — a great place to stow TV remotes, magazines or other items you want to keep handy. The wall at the foot of the bed holds a mirrored wardrobe cabinet with drawers underneath. The same wall is prepped to add an additional TV too. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The spacious bathroom of the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244 RLS has a wood-look vanity countertop and a step-in, plastic shower. The latter has enough room that bigger people will be able to enjoy a shower without feeling cramped. The plastic toilet here is tucked into a corner of the bathroom to save space, while still providing enough elbow room to sit comfortably. I love that Highland Ridge includes a towel bar, towel ring, and toilet paper dispenser. Little touches like these add up in this value-packed RV.

     

     

    Living Area

    The Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS has an open plan with shared space for the living room and the kitchen areas. With that being said, the living room gets twin power theater seats. Both with in-arm cup holders and a shared power station across from the entertainment center. Each theater seat also has a removable snack tray. But the snack tray doesn’t have to be just a snack tray. It could also easily hold a laptop to blend digital work or other activities. All with extreme comfort.

    A supremely comfortable sofa bed stretches along the rear wall of the fifth wheel — a spot that’s perfect for taking naps or watching TV. Both the theater seats and the sofa bed are upholstered in soft, stainproof fabric that’s ideal for camping. Conveniently, it is also pet-friendly, since it won’t attract pet hair or odors. 

    The entertainment center consists of a well-placed 40-inch LED smart TV with a built-in soundbar. Beneath the TV is a cabinet that could easily house a portable, electric fireplace. It could store tall items, like a stick vacuum cleaner, a bag of dog food, or dog toys. (If you haven’t figured it out, I have dogs.)

    Outside, a 13-foot power awning creates additional living space outdoors.

     

     

    Kitchen

    Highland Ridge has done a great job of utilizing every possible space to maximize storage space in the kitchen. Cabinets and drawers throughout the kitchen area help to ensure you don’t need to store the food processor in some weird location (like basement storage). Aside from oodles of cabinet and drawer storage, there’s a big pantry with spill protected shelves. But storage isn’t everything this RV kitchen offers. 

    White, marble-style laminate counters compliment a designer backsplash that stretches across the wall behind the three-burner gas cooktop. This area has plugins for appliances like a coffee maker or electric skillet to make it efficient for cooking. Beneath the stovetop is a gas oven that’s perfect for baking pizza or cookies. Above the stove a small microwave can be called into service when you need to reheat food.

    The Galley’s Efficient Geometry 

    The work triangle in this kitchen is very well-thought-out. That means minimal steps have to be taken to distribute food. Movement from the pantry or fridge to the sink or food prep area, and then to the stove, is all easy. The kitchen island with its big farmhouse-style sink helps to keep everything central. In addition, a neat feature is the sink cover/cutting board that fits over half the sink, creating more counter space in close proximity to the pull-out waste bin. 

    I also love that the 10-cubic-foot refrigerator opens from either side. This both helps maximize kitchen efficiency and keeps beverages within easy reach of couch occupants.

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    The Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS has a number of features that allow it to be enjoyed throughout the year. Four-season capability starts with construction. The Roamer Light Duty gets a respectable insulation package, ranging from R-9 in the side walls to R-38 in the ceiling and floors. The 30,000 Btu furnace is ducted into basement areas, which are double-insulated. This creates heated space that helps to keep the enclosed gate valves and freshwater system protected from freezing. 

     

    Storage Space

    There’s no shortage of storage space in the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS. Outside, two passthrough basement storage bays provide loads of storage space for sports and camping gear. Under the front section of this RV, another basement cabinet between the propane cylinder cabinets would be a perfect place to stash a smaller generator, perhaps especially one that operates on propane. A 2-inch, 3,000-pound hitch receiver complete with a four-pin connector could be used to haul a trailer full of toys or a boat. 

    Inside the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS, there’s oodles of storage space in cabinets and drawers throughout the RV. In addition to the storage mentioned earlier in this article, there’s storage space beneath the sofa bed that could be used for bedding, and there’s also lots of storage in the bathroom inside the two-door medicine cabinet and in the cabinet and single shelf beneath the vanity. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS

    Let me admit something. When I found out how light the Open Range Roamer Light Duty 244RLS was, I was prepared to be underwhelmed. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised and very impressed with the fit and finish of this model. With 16-inch wheels and an above average suspension system, a great floorplan, and lots of storage space, this RV is a great choice for either camping getaways or extended road trips. 

     

     

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