Category: Reviews

  • 2025 Jayco Jay Feather 26FK Review

    2025 Jayco Jay Feather 26FK Review

    This bright and airy travel trailer beckons the nature lover. The 2025 Jayco Jay Feather 26FK will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized, offering an ambience that feels in line with the outdoor experience. The myriad large spacious windows throughout the entire unit make the floorplan feel even bigger than it is. If vitamin D is what the doctor ordered, then this 2025 Jay Feather will be medicinal. And here, the kitchen taking center stage. 

    This is the only rig I have encountered that has a plethora of counter space behind the sink — all basking under the light of a picture window. The space just begs for plants and other homey items that would normally only fit in residential living quarters. The kitchen is a nurturing space for culinary artisans. The Jay Feather 26FK truly stands in contrast to most RV models that make cooking a daunting task of elbow bumping on tight, dimly lit countertops.  

    The amenities in the Jay Feather 26FK lend themselves to comfortable, full-time RVing, complete with four-season capabilities and residential appliances. The dinette/full-size bed conversion means you can bring the grandkids along for the weekend. There will be plenty of places to store their toys, with ample amounts of storage inside and outside of the unit. 

     

    At a Glance: Jay Feather 26FK

    I rated the 2025 Jayco Jay Feather 26FK travel trailer with a score of 81 out of 100. As a lover of all things bright and sunny, I can’t get enough of the energetic and spacious aura this unit embodies. Every room feels airy and equipped with all the creature comforts of home. Dry camping would be a breeze in this fully equipped and insulated unit. There is storage space aplenty for full-timers, and some extra for the grandkids when they come to visit. A few finishing touches caught my eye that needed a more thorough follow-through. There is no designated working space here, but if your work is in the kitchen, and food is the music of your instrument, then this rig is for you. 

    [review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Jayco Jay Feather 26FK” description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.” overall_score=”8.1/10″]

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 4
    • Hitch weight: 925 pounds
    • UVW: 7,065 pounds
    • CCC: 1,435 pounds
    • Exterior length: 31 feet 9 inches (overall)
    • Exterior height: 10 feet 4 inches; 11 feet (with A/C)
    • Exterior width: 8 feet; 11 feet (with slides out)
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 54/60/30
    • Propane: 2 x 30 pounds 
    • Awning length: 20 feet
    • MSRP: $49,785

     

    Features We Love 

    • Spacious countertops and kitchen space 
    • Radiant barrier insulation with heated underbelly and tanks
    • Solar package available; also solar-ready
    • Ample and thoughtfully dispersed storage 
    • Flush slide-outs (for once I didn’t trip on the lip!)
    • 15,000 Btu A/C 
    • Three-burner stove 
    • USB ports thoughtfully installed throughout the unit
    • Option to upgrade to a king-size bed
    • 60,000 Btu on-demand, tankless water heater 
    • 4,777 Btu electric fireplace 
    • Option to upgrade to a second A/C unit

     

     

    Benefits

    • Energetic space with a naturally lit interior 
    • Residential cooking experience with extra countertops and luxurious appliances
    • Enough storage for full-time RVing
    • Extended camping season with four-season capabilities 
    • Easy towing with a half-ton vehicle 

     

    Challenges

    • Some finishing touches found in drawers and in storage were sub-par with unfinished plywood
    • The kitchen sink is divided. Some buyers might find one large unit to be more suitable, with the option to insert a divider. 
    • The Velcro attachment behind the dinette cushions feels hastily attached and doesn’t look as though it’s meant to last long.

     

     

    Best For

    • Full-time RV couples or weekend warriors that want the residential amenities to follow them on the road, with four season-capabilities.
    • Campers that are specifically looking for luxurious amenities and a spacious floorplan with a homey kitchen to work in. Let’s face it, some people require (and deserve) an excess of kitchen countertop space. (Don’t sell yourself short! You need what you need, and your work in the kitchen is worth it.)

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space 

    The Jayco Jay Feather 26FK sleeps up to four people. The breakdown is simple: The master bedroom sleeps two, and the convertible dinette table sleeps two more. It should be said, however, that the convertible dinette would realistically sleep two children comfortably, but probably not two adults. My kids actually loved sleeping on the converted dinette in our RV, even more than their bunk house. 

    The Jay Feather 26FK’s dinette converts in the most interesting way. The bottom half of the table has a series of spring mechanisms and reticulates with ease becoming a half-sized table. And if you can spare the table for a bit (and you have grandkids visiting), it’s a perfect size for kids to play on in the living room floor. They would love to sit down and do some crafts or just play pretend at their little-people-sized table before going to bed. The Velcro on the dinette cushions however feel hastily attached. It doesn’t look like it’s intended for longevity. It’s a small detail that may be unimportant to some, but I find details like this can often shed light on the attention paid to other elements of the rig that aren’t quite so visible.  

     

     

    Master Touches and Ticklish Details

    The master bedroom in the Jay Feather 26FK is open and spacious, equipped with ample storage all around. The spaces felt intentionally laid out and utilized for maximum storage without crowding the room. The windows are extra-large in this room as well. This allows light to flood the unit. (More on that elsewhere.)

    There is a perfect little nook for a TV to be installed above the window in between the closets. The nook allows the TV some breadth, so you won’t hit your head on it after it’s been installed as you walk around the bed. (This is an issue in many other units!) There are two large closets with drawers beneath opposite the bed. A lovely little window nook sits between them.  I think a small cushion could double this nook into a tiny bench. The drawers in this bedroom are numerous and spacious. The wood of the drawers, however, are made from unfinished, cheap plywood. Watch your hands, you might get a splinter.  

    The master queen bed has plenty of space to walk around. The bed has an ambient blue light strip above the headboard, and even more storage cupboards above that. A shelf on either side of the bed is equipped with USB ports and outlets, making it CPAP-ready. Underneath the bed is a huge storage compartment. Accessing the compartment is a breeze with the gas strutted lifts. But here, you will encounter that cheap unfinished plywood again, which the mattress sits on. And this time I did get a splinter while handling it. 

     

     

    Bathroom 

    The passthrough bathroom in the Jayco Jay Feather 26FK is another example of a residential style space in a travel trailer. The stainless-steel, integrated sink basin has a large, mirrored vanity above it with storage space behind it. There is another large cabinet underneath the sink. The single doors on the oversized cabinets enhance the spacious layout in the bathroom. The toilet sits in the corner, with a single door, dual-corner shelf above it. The shower is a luxurious roller-style, stand-up unit with rounded frosty doors that open independently. The showerhead is flexible with a lovely skylight above the unit. 

     

     

     

    Living Area

    The spacious floorplan in the Jayco Jay Feather 26FK beckons for full-time living. Every aspect of the design lends itself to a comfortable daily experience. From the light, ample storage, luxurious amenities, and seamless entertainment system, you will find nothing lacking in comfortable daily life here. 

    A cushioned seating arrangement flanks both sides of the dinette, with easy access storage underneath the couch compartments. The theater seating offers powered recliners, and removable rotating tables with drink holders. The entertainment system sits directly across from the lounge chairs, with a furnace below the smart TV, and storage between the two. A feature here that I find handy is the independent control of the sound system — both inside and outside the unit. Oversized windows, consistent with the rest of the unit, make this space a joy to be in.

     

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen is the gem of the Jay Feather 26FK. If you are afraid to leave a fully functioning kitchen at home, have no fear. This unit will ensure that your culinary mastery continues to flourish on the road. The seamless countertops and large windows offer the perfect ambience for any creative endeavors in the kitchen. The oversized cabinet doors and drawers add to the spacious feel. The large drawers and cupboards are a defining element of the functional space here. 

    My favorite feature in the whole unit is actually behind the kitchen sink. There is so much countertop space for putting plants or other homey things you normally wouldn’t have space for in an RV. The stove also has a glass fold-over function for even more countertop space while you aren’t using the burners. This area was designed to look and feel like home. The spacious countertops are matched with bounteous storage. There is a knife rack behind the three-burner stove, and an 11-cubic-foot, 12-volt, double-door fridge with a sleek and shiny glass exterior. 

    My only beef with the kitchen here is with the divided sink. Every time I find myself with a divided sink, I only end up using half of the sink. It would be nice if the sink had a farmhouse basin, or an option for a divided insert bin. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    If you are worried that all the oversized windows will heat up the unit, have no fear! The whisper-quiet A/C will keep you cool. (There’s also an option to add a second unit in this RV.) The whisper-quiet description is no joke. After I walked into the RV, I looked for the controls to turn the A/C on, before I realized it was already on! I just couldn’t hear it. 

    In the wintertime, all that light will cut down on your need for outside heat. And if you’re plugged into power, give your propane a break and use the Innoflame electric heater underneath the TV. It will add warmth and ambience to this already cozy living space. The four-speed, MaxxAir-powered roof vent increases air flow and ventilation in the unit. 

    The unit is solar-ready, prepped for the Overlander 2 solar package (inclusive of two 200-watt solar panels and a 30-amp controller.) But to my knowledge, this added feature requires installation at additional cost. Basic solar capabilities provide a huge bonus. Especially when your schedule turns upside down for reasons beyond your control. 

    This unit is Climate Shield tested and approved, with radiant-barrier insulation added to the floor, front wall and roof, and forced heat ducts running into the underbelly area where holding tanks are located. Your camping season can extend well into the colder months with these added features. 

     

     

     

    Storage Space 

    The arrangement of living space feels intentionally thought-out in almost every aspect of the space. The storage areas are no different, having been thoughtfully arranged to provide ample spaces for all your things, while the oversized cabinets add to the spacious feel throughout. There is a long double-door closet near the living room door for hanging coats and other items, with a spacious drawer at the bottom that could be perfect for shoes. It is really handy to have a place to put raincoats, shoes, or other coat-rack type items near the entrance of your rig. It’s an underrated feature that isn’t always available in motorhomes! 

    The kitchen has quite a bit of storage for an RV of this size, and the outdoor storage space is passthrough, saving a lot of headaches and back-tweaking moments with your larger items. The master bedroom and bathroom also appear thoughtfully arranged with plenty of storage available throughout, including a large space underneath the master bed. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Jay Feather 26RK 

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Jay Feather

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

     

  • 2025 Jayco North Point 382FLRB Review

    2025 Jayco North Point 382FLRB Review

    For those RVers that have gone all in with their nomadic endeavors, a fifth wheel offers a big payback. If you’re going to take that leap, you might as well go big, right? And the 2025 Jayco North Point 382FLRB certainly does that. This model provides a payback that you could enjoy daily in the RV life. This fifth wheel is for full-time RVers that want to host the whole family on vacations — and wow them with their luxurious rig. The comforts of residential life are not only met — they’re exceeded. (Does your couch at home have a butt warmer? No? Neither does mine. But this one does.)

    With a gross vehicle weight rating of almost 18,000 pounds, engineers of the North Point 382FLRB  developed a unique handling package with suspension, braking systems, dependable axles, and other on road features for your safety and comfort while towing. Rest assured: The North Point 382FLRB was made to ride well.

    After setting up camp, you can turn the spotlight on entertaining friends and family in the fully equipped outdoor kitchen, or on the four-burner stove inside. After dinner, everyone can take their pick of three cozy couches and watch the game on a 50-inch (button-deployed) TV. The features here are too bold and beautiful to be enjoyed by your and your partner alone. The sleeping capacity of eight beckons friends and family, while the outdoor security cameras help ensure everyone’s safety.  

     

    At a Glance: Jayco North Point 382FLRB

    My rating for the North Point 382FLRB is high. Justifiably so. One of the few things holding this model back is the lack of natural lighting. But altogether, this design fulfills the needs of nomadic full time RVers that want to bring the kids and grandkids on extended weekends. It would also fit the bill for weekend warriors that want to bring family members along. The North Point 382FLRB is a showstopper, with special attention paid to the kitchen’s residential functions and space, and a luxurious living area. If you are looking for an RV that will make you forget you ever left the comforts of home, this unit checks the boxes, even exceeding those comforts in some areas.  

    [review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Jayco North Point 382FLRB” description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.” overall_score=”8.2/10″]

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 8
    • Hitch weight: 2,970 pounds
    • UVW: 15,280 pounds
    • CCC: 2,715 pounds
    • Exterior length: 43 feet 10 inches (overall) 42 feet 1 inch (pin to bumper)
    • Exterior Height: 12 feet 6 inches (without A/C); 13 feet 3 inches (with A/C)
    • Exterior Width: 8 feet 6 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 75/82.5/74 
    • Propane: 3 x 40 pounds
    • Awnings: 14 feet and 14 feet (two awnings)

     

     

    Features We Love

    • The MORryde® rubberized axle suspension and the pin Box with a combination rubber isolator and chucking reduction system help reduce vibration and road shock. 
    • Dexter Tow Assist, with antilock braking and sway mitigation
    • 21-cubic-foot residential fridge, with 1800-watt inverter 
    • Fully functional tailgate camp kitchen (with pull out counter space)
    • Outdoor entertainment system 
    • RoadVac central vacuum system (by Intervac design)
    • Conventional microwave with built in air fryer
    • Four-burner stove in kitchen!
    • A master bathroom and a guest bathroom 
    • Show-stopping master bathroom 
    • Sleek strip lighting back light throughout the unit offers a unique and modern camping ambience
    • King-size walkaround bed in master 
    • Helix ducted cooling system with whisper-quiet A/C
    • JayVoice (voice-activated system can control lights and A/C without lifting a finger, or even standing up from your comfortable seat)
    • Furrion backup camera, side-view observation and security monitor system
    • Residential convection microwave with built-in air fryer 
    • Jayco’s new Nuvo H20 whole-house, three-cartridge water filtration system in the passthrough storage provides purified drinking water and ice. 
    • Furrion tankless water heater 

     

     

    Benefits

    • Peace of mind and comfort during your towing experience with the handling package reducing road shock and increasing the longevity of your tow by cutting down on wear and tear 
    • A residential experience with spacious interior and decadent amenities
    • Easier clean up with the in-house vacuum system
    • Safety needs are met across the board here —from the back-up camera, the security monitor driving system, to the security cameras that to monitor the surroundings at night
    • Smooth ride with innovative shock and vibration eliminating technology
    • Ambient lighting with strip lighting installed behind appliances and furniture throughout the unit, perfect for evening time lounging indoors
    • More time spent outside with a fully functioning outdoor kitchen and entertainment center
    • Endless entertainment with a residential kitchen, large seating capacity and two bathrooms

     

    Challenges

    • The 102-inch wide body may feel intimidating to drive down the highway. 
    • This heavy rig will require a heavy-duty vehicle to tow it.
    • Dimly lit interior (lacking in natural light, but not synthetic light) 
    • The dining room table feels just a little bit tight when fully extended.
    • Not enough indoor tabled seating for eight, only enough for six to eat at a table if you are at max capacity and everyone is eating inside. 
    • It boasts a “flush-floor” slide-out design, but I tripped at least twice on the lip of the “flush floor” slide out. 
    • The ceiling height is a little short when entering the master bathroom from the master bedroom. (Tall people may need to duck while passing through.)

     

    Best For

    • Full-time RV couples that want to camp with the luxuries of home, and space for friends and family, all in a safe and comfortable tow.
    • Weekend warriors or seasonal RVers that want to wow their friends and family with space age luxury and camping extravagance.  

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    The master bedroom in the North Point 382FLRB boasts a whopping king-size walkaround bed, with ample storage for full-time living. Across from the bed, there are two long, mirrored wardrobes with drawers underneath. Between those drawers sits a perfect little bench atop two drawers. (I love the additional seat here, because sometimes you just need a place to sit in your room that is not a bed.) Above the bench is a nook for a modest TV that won’t impede your ability to walk around the bed. 

    Inside the wardrobe is an option to lift up some of the shelves, in case you prefer a taller storage space for hanging dresses or long shirts. Upon opening a drawer in this bedroom I was met with handcrafted dovetail joints, a reminder of the high-quality construction that this unit embodies. I believe that small details like this can shed light on the construction of other, less obvious parts of the unit. They could have easily put unfinished, splintery plywood in the bones of these drawers and cabinets, but instead they chose to exemplify craftsmanship in places where not everyone might notice. (That is something I can put my money behind.)

    In the living room, there are two couches opposite each other that fold into sizable beds, comfortably sleeping four kids — or extended family and friends. If kids are staying in this RV with you, rest assured knowing that the kitchen and spare bathroom are accessible to them without disrupting your morning beauty rest in the king-size master bedroom on the other end of the unit. And the raised floor plan of the living space also gives the room a delineated appeal for guests staying over. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The North Point 382FLRB is equipped with two bathrooms. That makes this unit a great choice for traveling families that don’t want to share their bathroom with kids. (I get it. I mean, sometimes a girl just wants to brush her teeth alone, without two kids underfoot.) The cozy little guest bathroom is tucked on the edge of the kitchen, for guest use. It is fully-equipped with all the essentials and storage. It is cleverly placed, at the edge of the kitchen where it can be accessed without disrupting the master bedroom. 

    The master bathroom is jaw dropping. It is a suite in itself, packing enormity in full force. You might even be able to fit a treadmill in here and still be able to perform all your daily ablutions. I can say from all my years of residential experience that it is probably twice as big as any residential bathroom I have ever had. This is just another example of how the North Point 382FLRB will quickly make you forget that you are living in an RV. You may even be making an upgrade from your residential life into this unit. 

    The dual sinks in the bathroom can comfortably fit two people without bumping elbows. The vanities are warm and back-lit, offering you a gentle start to your morning. There are plenty of drawers and cabinets to store all of your bathroom amenities, as well as hooks to hang your towels. The larger tiled shower is show stopping, with enough space for two, and a lovely wooden folding bench with a skylight above.

     

     

    Living Area

    From the kitchen, the living area of the North Point 382FLRB is a few steps away, elevated in height and luxury. One thing I find unique and surprisingly tasteful, is the delineation of the kitchen and living space. When I’m at home, in a residential house, I like to be right in the middle of the action while I’m cooking for everyone. Our kitchen and living room are one, and in a residential house that floorplan functions nicely.

    But in an RV, cooking for guests in the middle of a living space can feel cramped and overwhelming. I welcome the option to have a separate, distraction free space for camp cooking. But if you want to be included in the party, no worries! Simply push a button and the TV will lower into a pedestal, reintegrating the kitchen and living space. Amazing! The duality of functional spaces is a treat to witness.

     

    Amenities Galore! 

    The amenities and spacious seating arrangement under ambient strip lighting sets the mood for comfortable time spent indoors. You will love hosting friends and family in this unit. Right before the football game starts, you can reach behind the sofa and push a button to deploy the TV from the pedestal separating the kitchen space. It’s a showstopper. And if you are a full-time traveling family, your kids will never want to leave the comforts of this living space. If there is a chill in the air, the heating option on the theater seats will give your bum a little warming action. The power recliners and butt warmer will keep you on the couch, cozy and comfortable until the weather is ripe for exploration.  

    My only beef with the living space is the lack of natural light. The windows are small and sparse. For some that may not be an issue, but for me it’s a problem. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    Packing an RV refrigerator with all the essentials for preplanned meals usually requires a lot of sacrifice in a standard sized RV fridge. But here, in the North Point 382FLRB, eliminating bulky vegetables during your meal prep will no longer be a necessary sacrifice. This unit comes with a 21-cubic-foot fridge. The convection microwave is equipped with an air fryer, above a four-burner stove on a 24” range. Your work in the kitchen is appreciated in the North Point 382FLRB! 

    I have to say that one of my favorite functional and feng shui elements of this RV’s design is the island/sink. I think it ties the space together and highlights fun features like the glass washer, vegetable finder, and button-activated drain adjustor. Nowadays with modern appliance designs, a sink is a thing of beauty. So, why shouldn’t it be in the center of a room? The island also offers a hefty amount of additional storage in the drawers and cupboards underneath it. 

    The dinette shares space with the kitchen, under a small window near the entrance. It is cleverly constructed to roll out with ease, extending leaf by leaf to accommodate more guests. Fully extended, it will comfortably seat four. Others will need to sit in the living space available upstairs if the RV is at full capacity. The theater seats have rotating TV tables attached to the arms that will accommodate two more for eating. That leaves a tabled seating deficit of two, if you are at full capacity of eight. A great feature in this unit is the fully functioning outdoor kitchen equipped with a sink, two-burner stove, fridge, counter space, and drawers that pull out on durable tracks.

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities 

    The layout of this design and warm ambient interior lends itself to spending time inside. So, if you plan to be somewhere with a harsh climate, whether it be too hot or too cold, the North Point 382FLRB is designed to keep you comfortable and entertained indoors. Let’s face it, a trip to the beach in the summer is great, but only during the early hours of the morning, and the twilit hours of the evening. 

    This unit comes ready for the Overlander 2, 4, or EXT Solar Package, each inclusive of 200-watt solar panels, controllers, and inverters, allowing you to keep your appliances running off grid. The heated underbelly and heated tanks are another feature that will extend your camping season well into the colder months. The innoflame electric heater is a great option for when you’re plugged into power and want to conserve propane.  But if you do need to use your propane tanks for heat, you will have three 40-pound tanks at your disposal, keeping you from frequently refilling at the store. 

     

     

    Storage Space 

    The storage available in this is plentiful and intentional. Two passthrough storage compartments underneath the rig lends itself to ease and convenience. The outdoor kitchen also has a quant and clever drawer to hold some extra cooking tools. The king-size master bed lifts with hydraulic assisted ease offering massive storage space, easy to access, in the bedroom. For a sleeping capacity of eight, you will not lack in storage. Of course, this feature is subjective to every person. Some people travel light, and some people travel heavy. But whether you are packing heavy or light, there should be all the space necessary for eight people to bring along their functional necessities, toys, and creature comforts. 

    There is a tall closet near the entrance door with a deep compartment for shoes. It comes with shelves that collapse so you can use the storage in different ways, depending on the season. In the winter you may want to collapse the shelves and use the space for long coats, but in summer you can use more shelves for smaller things.

     

     

    Closing Notes on the North Point 328FLRB 

    One of my favorite features in this unit is Jayco’s new Nuvo water filtration system. Living on the road usually requires sacrificing things like filtered water. But more and more, families are starting to feel the importance of clean, filtered drinking water. I appreciate having that option on the road. 

    Another feature that I love is the security camera function. Whether you are camping in an area with extreme wildlife, or near a highly trafficked greenway or city park, it can really pay to have a security monitoring system for peace of mind and added safety.  

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your North Point 382FLRB

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Jayco Redhawk 26M Review

    2025 Jayco Redhawk 26M Review

    Made with full-time RV couples in mind, the 2025 Jayco Redhawk 26M is perfect for a life on the road — or hosting friends and family on extended weekend getaways. Kids or grandkids would love the over-the-cab bunk with a panoramic window. Just a little imagination will transform this bright and picturesque bunkhouse into a spaceship, landing in worlds unknown. If you plan to go far, know that your ride will be smoother and safer thanks to the JRide handling package. And if durability and longevity is on your checklist, allow me to introduce a novel Class C feature: a leak-free front cap with a seamless, one-piece design and an automotive bonded panoramic window. 

    The Jayco Redhawk 26M has gone all in, offering a spacious and cozy interior, with all the amenities of home. The kitchen and living space are combined, showcasing residential comforts such as the large three-burner range in the kitchen, as well as a cozy entertainment system with a fireplace in the living area. With a 7,500-pound towing hitch, you can tow a car. This allows you to explore your destination more nimbly after setting up your rig. 

    Stated simply, modern durability and safety features are a highlight in this Class C. Now, let’s take a closer look.

    At a Glance: Redhawk 26M

    I gave the 2025 Jayco Redhawk 26M a rating of three and three quarters out of five. Similar to the Entegra Coach Esteem 29V, the Jayco Redhawk 26M puts its best foot forward when designing a liveable, luxurious interior with a comfortable ride in mind. 

    However, I do feel that for a passenger capacity of five, more storage and a private master bed area would be appropriate. If any of those five people staying in the unit are kids, it could be a challenge getting everyone to bed at the same time. The master bed, the dinette-bed, and the over-the-cab bed basically all share the same space. 

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 5
    • GVWR: 14,500 pounds
    • GCWR: 22,000 pounds
    • Exterior length: 28 feet 8 inches 
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
    • Exterior width (w/ slides out): 12 feet 2 inches 
    • Interior height: 7 feet
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 43/40/31
    • Awning: 19 feet
    • Propane: 41 pounds

     

    Features We Love

    • JRide handling package 
    • Automatic, hydraulic-leveling jacks
    • Power management system
    • Button-activated, Murphy-bed conversion
    • Option for dual 13,500 Btu A/C units (or one 15,000 Btu unit)
    • Child safety tethers in the dinette and seatbelts in all interior seating
    • 9-inch Sony infotainment system with tilt feature in the drive side
    • Hardwood cabinet doors and drawers throughout 
    • Safety net for the over-the-cab bunk that’s easy to install and remove (don’t forget to use this no matter the age of the kids!)
    • Modern farmhouse interior design
    • Roof ladder (with walkable roof!)
    • Sleek, frameless windows 
    • Side-view cameras providing full view of sides while switching lanes 
    • Easy-to-deploy Murphy bed
    • Outdoor shower for muddy paws and sandy toes

     

     

    Benefits

    • Smoother, safer, and quieter ride with JRide’s computer-balanced drive shaft, and Hellwig’s helper springs and rubber-isolation body mounts. 
    • Full-time liveability with a spacious interior
    • Great kitchen that’s fully equipped to host friends and family 
    • Ability to wow your kids or grandkids with the jaw dropping over-the-cab bunk — and its grand view (who needs a TV when you can soak in a panoramic view of the rugged American landscape?)
    • Safe entry/exit with automatic electric, powered-entrance steps
    • Muscle to tow a car behind you with the 7,500-pound hitch

     

    Challenges

    • There is no way to separate the master bed from the additional living spaces, aside from a small curtain available over the front cab bunk. So, bedroom privacy can easily be interrupted if you have kids or grandkids along. Altogether, there is no real bedroom space, which means everyone has to go to bed at the same time.
    • There’s not enough storage for guests or a family that fills the full five-person occupancy. 
    • The dinette was somewhat challenging to convert, with the numerous cushion arrangements turning into an evil Tetris game that I lost.  
    • Tabled seating capacity (four, at the dinette) doesn’t match the sleeping capacity (five).

     

     

    Best For

    • Full-time RVing couples with kids and/or grandkids that may visit from time to time 
    • Weekend warriors who enjoy hosting friends and family
    • Single full-time travelers that want to have visitors 

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    The clever Murphy bed in the living room comes down with ease at the push of a button. But because the bed is a drop-down Murphy, it lacks the storage above, and beneath that many other designs in this size can offer. The bedroom storage is generally confined to a narrow (but deep) wardrobe in between the Murphy bed and the dinette. There are two additional storage spaces in the lower portions of the couch. (But these are not accessible when bed is in use.) The entertainment center across from the couch/Murphy bed has some cabinets above it and a fireplace below it.

    The bed itself is very cozy with warm ambient strip lighting overhead. USB ports are built inside the cabinets above the bed and in the nightstands beside the bed. These sleeping quarters are CPAP ready. If you have guests, it might be a squeeze to fit everyone’s things in the provided storage areas

    The over-the-cab bunk checks the box for most adorable kids bunk yet. The panoramic window makes it feel like its own little world. There is a clever net that is easy to install for keeping the kids from rolling out of the bunk in their sleep. The bunk has an incredible 750-pound rating, so it can be used for storage as well. The curtain helps separate the space — a little

    Dinette Difficulties

    The dinette folds into a bed that can accommodate one small adult — or two small children. However, I did not enjoy converting the dinette into a bed. The specs on Jayco’s website describe an easy folding legless table, but I was met with a single leg construction that required some back crunching and manhandling. After putting the table in place, you must embark upon an arduous game of Tetris with a myriad of couch cushions. I was also unimpressed by the layer of unfinished plywood peeking out from between the cushions of the dinette. A little attention to detail goes a long way in my RV-shopping book. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom in the Redhawk 26M lies at the far end of the RV, with a foot flush toilet and a stand-up shower. The sink sits on a long countertop, providing plenty of space atop two large shelves and a cupboard under the sink. A large vanity offers storage above the sink as well. The shower insert is a standard no frills design with a flexible shower head. 

    An accordion-style folding door separates the shower from the rest of the space. The lower lip of the shower was quite a bit higher than other RVs I have encountered, and I had the pleasure of tripping over it not once, but twice. There is a nice, large skylight above the shower offering plenty of natural light to see by. 

     

     

    Living Area

    The living area in the Jayco Redhawk 26M has a roomy atmosphere. It feels expansive, and cozy with the modern farmhouse design. The frameless windows flood the room with natural light, and the panoramic window at the front end feels like a dreamy RV commercial. The hardwood cabinet doors and drawers add an artful craftsmanship to the design. 

    The kitchen is integrated with the living space across from the dinette. One couch that doubles as a Murphy bed sits further down the unit. Across the couch is a large smart TV entertainment system, with hardwood cabinets above and a fireplace below. With a seating capacity of six, you can entertain guests from the campground or friends and family visiting. If you are planning to cook for all your visitors, know that the tabled seating capacity doesn’t match the sleeping capacity. Five can sleep in the unit, but only four can eat at the table. (And that is assuming that everyone will want to cram into the dinette.) Some folding TV tables or removable couch tables might be appropriate in this motorhome.   

     

     

    Kitchen

    The all-in-one Furrion three-burner range has an oven underneath and a large microwave above it. A folding-glass top doubles the range as additional counter space. A sleek 10-cubic-foot, 12-volt fridge is conveniently placed next to the stove. The stainless-steel kitchen sink is divided, where I personally prefer a larger, single basin sink. The faucet is simple, without a pull-down sprayer. The cabinets in the kitchen are lovely, white and big. They offer a modern, spacious design aesthetic with LED ambient strip lighting below the pressed countertops. The backsplash behind the stove is an attentive addition.  

    The kitchen storage consists of hardwood cabinets above and below the appliances. There are also four drawers to the left of the oven. There is also a narrow and deep pantry on the far side of the fridge that would be great for canned goods and spices. I love the small unassuming cabinet above the entry door. The countertop space is a little slim, with one small area between the sink and the stove being your only real workable option. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    The roof, floor, and sidewalls are made of Tuffwalls. This vacuum-bonded, laminated material has bead-foam insulation (R-24 max roof, R-9 max floor, R-5 max walls) to keep the morning chill and condensation at bay. The tanks are also heated in this rig. 

    Barring harsh winters, this unit will be great if you are looking to extend your camping season. An electric fireplace is a great option to cut down on propane in the colder months. In the summer, keep cool with a 15,000 Btu A/C. If you are planning to be in extreme heat, you can upgrade to two 13,500 Btu A/C units. The folding windshield and power shade can really make a difference in dangerously hot areas. While your solar panels are soaking in the rays and powering your appliances, you and your partner can stay safe and cool with two A/C units, and a shaded cab area.

    The 200-watt solar panels with a dual controller and a second house battery will open a window into the world of boondocking. The solar capabilities and power management system are made to take you far, unveiling America’s untamed wilderness for your sightseeing pleasure. 

     

     

    Storage Space 

    I do feel that there is a sufficient amount of storage for either a single full-time traveler or a full-time RVing couple. But for a sleeping capacity of five, it might be a squeeze to store everyone’s things. The bedroom doesn’t have a separated space, so the storage is confined to a small double wardrobe off to the side. The entertainment area offers cabinets above the TV, which are helpful; but due to the placement of the furnace, there is no additional storage below the TV. 

    There is, however, 21-cubic-feet of exterior storage, including a passthrough storage compartment below the rig. The over-the-cab bunk is spacious, and baggage can be stored there with a guest given the 750-pound weight rating. And if no one is using the bunk, it would be a great place to store things permanently. (Although it’d be a shame to cover that lovely panoramic window.) 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Redhawk 26M

    The on-road features of this unit are worth noting. The JRide handling package features a computer-balanced driveshaft, standard front and rear stabilizer bars, and Hellwig helper springs and rubber isolation body mounts. All this together delivers a quiet and comfortable ride. 

    Also, Class Cs are historically famous for a leaky front cap and window. The new seamless, one-piece front cap design and automotive-bonded window is a breath of relief to the warranty claim department. There have been zero warranty claims since the design’s inception. Huzzah for a leak-free Class C!

     

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Redhawk 26M

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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  • 2025 Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS Review

    2025 Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS Review

    If you have a family, it’s common — and awesome — to want to share the RV experience together. But it’s also common for families to have a smaller tow vehicle, such as an SUV. And there are not that many great RV choices with these parameters. Fortunately, Jayco has a trailer for those families: the 2025 Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS. This model sleeps up to eight, features a very usable outdoor kitchen, and comes in around 4,500 pounds (dry weight). This in itself tells a compelling story about the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS. 

    So, you may ask, where’s the compromise? Let’s dive into the details and talk about the strengths and limitations of this lightweight travel trailer. 

     

    At a Glance: Jay Feather Micro 199MBS

    I rate the 2025 Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS three and quarter out of five. One of the real surprises is that this little camper packs a lot of sleeping spots. Even so, some people really don’t like Murphy beds — and especially don’t like examples that head east to west. (Someone has to sleep in the corner.) 

    Another major plus is the off-road tires it comes with. That, with higher ground clearance and torsion axle suspension, mean that this trailer is set-up for finding adventure off the beaten path. So, the individual who seeks this kind of adventure may be just fine with the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS, regardless of the orientation of their sleeping arrangements.  

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 8
    • Hitch weight: 635 pounds
    • UVW: 4,505 pounds 
    • CCC: 1,245 pounds
    • Exterior length: 23 feet 1 inches
    • Exterior height 10 feet 6 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 55/30/30 gallons
    • Propane: 2x 20-pound portable tanks
    • Awning: 15 feet

     

    Features We Love

    • Jayco warranty and predelivery inspection process
    • Higher ground clearance and torsion axle suspension
    • Azdel substrate in the wall lamination
    • Lippert quick drop stabilizer system
    • Full outside kitchen
    • Wider ladder and roof rack

     

    Benefits

    About the Build
    • Warranty and predelivery inspection. Jayco’s warranty is longer than most with two years on the full trailer and three years on the exterior structure. Another big plus is that Jayco has purpose-built a number of facilities that fully inspect every RV they make using an extensive checklist called predelivery inspection (PDI). These are separate from final manufacturing and test all the systems and the finished build of their products. The company reports that early warranty claims are reduced with this process. This process is not at all common in the RV industry. 
    • Lamination. Laminated RVs, like this one, use a sandwich of materials to create the walls. In this case Jayco employs Azdel as a component of this which is a human-made product that is impervious to water damage. This kind of build material can also help an RV last longer and Azdel has better sound insulating properties than the Luan that some RVs use in the wall build. 

     

     

    Outdoor Features
    • Off-road capabilities. If you truly do plan to go off road or to places where the road ends and the trails begin, the Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires are worthy accomplices in this kind of adventure. I also really like the torsion axle suspension which uses a rubber core along with torsion bars to provide a much smoother ride in a towable RV. The less jarring and jiggling the RV is subjected to, the better it is for the RV. 
    • Stability. Lippert’s quick drop stabilizers offer a significantly more stable support than traditional stabilizer jacks. What’s more, they’re rated to be used with a power driver like your electric drill. While we all use a power driver, these are actually built to be used with one. 
    • Outdoor dining. You could argue that the prospective owner of this kind of trailer is out seeking adventure and, thus, more likely to spend time in the great outdoors. As such the outside kitchen in this rig features a flat-top griddle and bar-sized refrigerator along with a hot and cold spray port. This is basically all you need to prepare meals under the stars and the sky. And this is a well-designed outdoor kitchen. 
    • Roof access. The wider ladder on the back of this rig is easier for someone to climb up to access the roof, where you’ll also find a roof rack to store things like kayaks and such. But another benefit of the wider ladder is that you can use it to hang towels and swimsuits after a splash in the lake. 

     

     

    Challenges

    • East-to-West Murphy bed. Not everyone loves this. And there’s a reason why. As I’ll mention in the Sleeping Space section, this orientation pushes one sleeper into a pocket against the front cap. With means that they probably don’t need to be the one who takes a lot of bathroom breaks at night. 
    • Limited indoor living and cooking space. Every RV has its strengths and weaknesses. The Jay Feather Micro 199MBS is designed to get you outdoors with all your people and have room for everyone to sleep at the end of the day. But this model is also made to push you outdoors. Even the cooking area is more impressive outside. Inside, it’s not the kind of place where everyone can chill, cook, or entertain. That’s definitely not the intent behind this design.

     

    Best For

    • Families with smaller tow vehicles. This could be a great choice for someone who has a family, likes adventure but doesn’t necessarily have a huge tow vehicle. With sleeping for eight, this might be a good match for some capable SUVs and half-ton pickups. Of course, it’s always wise to know what your tow vehicle can pull and also what it can carry as the tow vehicle carries about 15 percent of any travel trailer.
    • Pet companions. Another group you might not think of are people who like to travel with pets. The lower bunk on this can flip up so those pets who like to sleep in crates might be very pleased with that lower space. The lower bunk might also be a good spot for pets with two-legged travelers taking to the upper bunk. 

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    The thing that makes or breaks trailers like this is the Murphy Bed. This bed is located in the front of the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS. By day, you have a couch. But, remove the back cushion and flip down the platform, and boom! There’s a 60-inch-by-76-inch bed. Now, it should be noted that this is a “pocket” bed. That means that one of the two people who could sleep here has to sleep against the front of the trailer. So, it’s always best to choose the person who most frequents the bathroom in the middle of the night to take the outer spot. 

    There are also two double-over-double bunks at the back of this little trailer, each able to accommodate two people and support 600 pounds. Each of these bunks measure 42 inches by 72 inches. So, full-sized adults might get their own bunk. With that in mind, each bunk does have a window that opens for air flow plus both household and USB power outlets. 

    One of the nifty things about these bunks is the built-in ladder. This ladder folds into itself so you don’t have to worry about storing it. It’s a nifty device. 

    If you really want to max out the sleeping capability of this rig you can also fold-down the u-shaped dinette for yet another bed for two. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom offers a decent amount of space given the exterior of this rig. While some smaller trailers don’t have a sink, this one does. And there’s good space around the toilet in here. 

    The shower is interesting. There’s a panel on a retractable mechanism much like the window shades in some homes, but this one is an unusual woven-looking material. I like this better than glass doors since this won’t break. (Which would, you know, leave glass all over.)

     

     

    Living Area and Kitchen

    With a space of this size, it’s probable that the occupants will be outside enjoying the beautiful places. The living space in the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS is pretty small. However, when the bed is up there is a couch and you have a U-shaped dinette. So, you may be able to seat all the people you can sleep. 

    There’s also a nifty plastic table that slides in under the bottom cushion of the couch that can be used indoors or out. This might be where the couch sitters enjoy a meal, but you might also use it for prep space as the kitchen has almost none. 

    There is a three-burner propane cooktop and a small sink along with a convection microwave. But there’s no propane oven. There is a new larger 12-volt refrigerator for 2025 that features the freezer on the bottom. 

    But the kitchen that might get the most use is the one outside. That kitchen sports a flat-top griddle, small refrigerator, and hot-and-cold spray port. While there isn’t a proper sink, a basin or bucket can serve that purpose. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    In line with the adventuresome appearance of this, the Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS has radiant-barrier insulation in the floor, front wall, and roof, and forced heat ducts that run into the underbelly area where the holding tanks are located. Jayco tests the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS to ensure it can hold ambient temperatures between zero and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

     

    Storage Space

    The answer to the question about storage space depends heavily on how you use this trailer. If you’re going to bring seven others with you, storage space is going to be really tight. But there is space under the lower bunk and drawers under the front couch. Small cubbies are placed in the compartment that holds the Murphy Bed, and there are cabinets the full width of the trailer over the bed/couch in front. 

    But the Murphy Bed, drawers under the couch, and spot for the folding table inside the trailer really cut into the size of the passthrough storage up front. 

    There is a rack on the roof of the trailer. So, that would be where you might put some items, but I would imagine this would be more of a place for things like kayaks and such — rather than the toolbox and black tank supplies that often find a home in passthrough storage bays. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Jay Feather Micro 199MBS

    From the standpoint of build materials and methods and interior design, this trailer has a lot to offer. This is not necessarily the trailer to choose if you and your crew are seeking a camping experience where you’re sitting back watching movies or reading books. 

    But if what’s outside is what’s in your heart, then this could be the perfect catalyst for that sort of getaway. 

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Jay Feather Micro 199MBS

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS Review

    2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS Review

    As a compact travel trailer, the 2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS surprises. It has  plenty of space for family or friends. Not only that, but there’s also plenty of room for everyone’s stuff — in both exterior and interior cabinets, a huge pantry, and under-bed storage compartments. The Jay Flight SLX 263BHS also has loads of family-friendly amenities — all while keeping things simple and light. 

    This model’s lightweight design is coupled with a dual-axle suspension that helps make the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS easy to tow — and to back — with almost any half-ton truck. Whether you’re looking for a starter RV or you’re wanting to downsize from a larger RV, there’s a good chance that this travel trailer has everything you want in a family-size travel trailer. 

    Now, let’s get rolling with this review, so I can tell you all about the 2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS.

     

    At a Glance: Jay Flight SLX 263BHS

    The Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS has a lot going for it. Near the top of the list: It’s a well-made family RV. Its practical features and excellent construction are perfect for simplifying the camping experience to make wonderful memories with the family. Practical amenities, extensive sleeping and storage space, and impressive workmanship all combine to make the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 263BHS trailer a truly fantastic value at $39,143 MSRP. 

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 9
    • UVW: 6,356 pounds 
    • GVWR: 7,600 pounds 
    • CCC: 1,244 pounds 
    • Exterior length: 32 feet 7 inches
    • Exterior height 10 feet 6 inches (with A/C) 
    • Exterior width: 8 feet (11 feet with slides out)
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 52/39/39 gallons
    • Propane: 2 x 20 pounds 
    • Power retractable awning: 20 feet
    • Solar power: 200 watts

     

    Features We Love

    • Outdoor kitchen with beverage fridge and LP quick connect
    • Tankless, on-demand hot water heater 
    • Shower water miser and bathtub
    • 600-pound weight capacity on each oversized bunk
    • Queen bed and bunk have under-bed storage 
    • Oversized pantry
    • 8-cubic-foot refrigerator 
    • Interior designer decor with a lakeside-cottage feel
    • Battery sensor that automatically switches between lead acid batteries and lithium batteries
    • Walkable, low-maintenance PVC roof
    • Prepped for a ladder
    • Double kitchen sink
    • Three-burner stove
    • Power tongue jack

     

    Benefits

    • Separate vanity and shower/toilet rooms to tamp-down competition for the bathroom on busy mornings
    • Lots of storage space for food, clothing and gear
    • Outdoor spray port could be handy for showering muddy kids and dogs
    • Bathtub for washing little campers
    • Bunks are 6 feet 4 inches long with a 600-pound weight rating, making them suitable for adults
    • Large storage spaces under the bunks and queen bed
    • Plywood construction is more durable than the moisture- sensitive OSB of MDF that’s frequently used in travel trailers
    • TV can easily be mounted on the wide pantry door
    • Great workmanship throughout
    • Bedroom has lots of storage with wardrobes on either side of the bed, plus a spacious hidden wardrobe
    • Pantry lets you store enough food to feed nine hungry campers
    • Outdoor fridge lets you store beverages separately
    • Having an outdoor kitchen area under the 20-foot awning extends living space 
    • Vinyl flooring in driftwood colors so it always looks relatively clean

     

     

    Challenges

    • Bigger people may feel cramped in the smallish bathroom.
    • The shower isn’t as high as some of Jayco’s other offerings. (Campers over 6 feet 2 inches could find themselves squatting a little.)
    • There are no towel bars in bathroom area.
    • The toilet is plastic, which some buyers may not prefer.
    • The 8-cubic-foot refrigerator is on the small side.
    • TVs are optional, which may not be the preference of some buyers.
    • Pantry has corner shelving to maximize storage space (However, this might be practical in a travel trailer because items would otherwise quickly land on the floor during travel. Cargo nets could be the solution for this.)
    • There’s no privacy from the living area for bunks.

     

     

    Best For

    • This would be a fantastic trailer for extended families who love to get together for camping vacations. 
    • This model would be a fantastic RV for value-conscious families who are new to RVing because it’s well made, simple, and affordable. 

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    Despite the fact that it is a lightweight, compact travel trailer, the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS makes sure there will be no shortage of sleeping space. Just to the left of the entry door are two oversized double bunks. Built with a solid, 600-pound weight capacity, each of these bunks could sleep two adults. The bunks are outfitted with four-inch mattresses, and have USB ports and 110-volt outlets for charging electronic devices. The mattress of the bottom bunk lifts up to reveal a large storage area that could stow clothing or other gear. 

    The master bedroom in this RV features a walkaround queen bed with a night table on each side outfitted with 110-volt outlet. Lifting the mattress reveals an under-bed storage space. I loved that Jayco installed struts so you can avoid holding the bed up with one hand while you extract needed items from the storage compartment below. Above, two mirrored cabinets with removable shelves provide storage on either side of the bed. However, closing the door of the bedroom reveals a hidden surprise — it’s a cute little closet that would be perfect for hanging jackets, storing footwear, et cetera. 

    Both the fold-down dinette and the flip-down sofa in the main living area of the RV provide a potential for three additional sleeping spaces, so the Jay Flight SLX BHS263 has enough sleeping options that everyone gets a bed. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom in the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS does the job with a practical design. The vanity area is a separate space from the bath/toilet area. This makes a lot of sense, especially when nine campers are all getting ready for a fun-filled day. The vanity has a small amount of storage for cleaning supplies, but the two-door medicine cabinet offers enough storage for toiletries.

    Opening a second door reveals a shower with a bathtub that would be handy for bathing little campers (or even the family dog). The shower itself is on the shorter side, so those over 6 feet 2 inches could feel a little cramped. 

    The Shower Miser is yet another practical touch in this RV. The Shower Miser helps to conserve water by recycling clean water back to the freshwater tank as you wait for hot water from the showerhead. This both saves the freshwater supply and prevents the gray tank from filling up. 

    The toilet in the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS is weight-conscious plastic instead of easy to clean ceramic. There isn’t a lot of elbow room around it, but it’s practical and does the job it was meant for nicely. 

     

     

     

    Living Area

    As with many RVs, this RV has a living area that’s shared with the kitchen. However, the living area in the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS is also shared by the bunkroom. (An easy fix for this would be the addition of curtains around the section of each bunk that faces the main living area.)

    With that being said, the main living area houses a comfortable bench-style dinette and a sofa bed. The humongous pantry door is set up to mount a large TV that would be easily viewable throughout the RV. A preinstalled port in the pantry door gives access to TV hookups inside the pantry. The pantry itself offers a lot of storage space and plugins for a cordless vacuum cleaner, or camping necessities in addition to the usual pantry items. 

    I love that the living area gets lots of light, owing to the designer decor scheme, which features bright colors and cheery white-barn, board-style walls. It really gives this RV a cute, summer-cottage vibe. 

    Outside, a 20-foot power awning adds a wealth of shaded outdoor living space. It also adds a fridge and two big drawers in the outdoor kitchen for easy access to beverages and snacks. \

     

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen in the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS features a corner double sink with a pull-down faucet, and lots of storage space in cabinets and roomy drawers. I love the flip-out storage caddy for sponges and scrub brushes. The 8-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator is on the small side for most RVs these days, but especially for one that’s designed to accommodate up to nine campers. However, there’s lots of room to bring along a portable refrigerator or cooler if more refrigerated storage is needed. Other appliances include a three-burner gas stovetop, a small microwave, and a small oven that’s just right for baking a yummy pizza or other goodies for hungry campers. 

    Who wants to be inside when they’re camping? As I previously mentioned, the simple outdoor kitchen of the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS helps keep camp chefs happy with 110-volt power, a beverage refrigerator, and a propane port that could connect a Blackstone grill or a barbeque. Additionally, two large drawers are big enough to store items like food preparation tools and even snacks. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    Equipped with a MaxxAir fan, ducted air conditioning, and a propane furnace, the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS is definitely ready for three seasons. However, four-season capabilities will depend on where it’s manufactured. That’s because only those trailers manufactured in Indiana get an enclosed underbelly. Others would require the addition of skirting to get them through colder winters. 

     

    Storage Space

    It’s a fact of life: Camping with lots of people requires a lot of storage space. And that’s something the SLX 263BHS has in spades. Outside, there are three basement luggage cabinets (including a pass through cabinet) to keep camping and sporting gear handy, Inside there are plenty of places to stow things. There’s easy-to-access under-bed storage, an oversized pantry, loads of kitchen cabinets, and drawers and bedroom storage cabinets too. That adds up to a lot of places to store stuff, but it’s still not all the storage space in this RV. Because there’s also considerable storage areas under both the flip-down sofa and both dinette benches. There, you can store away bedding, board games, or whatever else you need out of sight. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Jay Flight SLX 263BHS

    Jayco has really done a great job here in terms of design and function. I was especially impressed with the use of furniture grade plywood for the beds and the quality craftsmanship throughout this RV. It’s clear they set out to create a simple, practical RV that would be a great entry-level value for those who are new to RVing. This RV is well made with just the right number of amenities to enjoy the great outdoors with the family. 

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Jay Flight SLX 263BHS

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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  • 2025 Entegra Coach Esteem 29V Review

    2025 Entegra Coach Esteem 29V Review

    In this reviewer’s eyes, Class C motorhomes definitely win first prize for the coziest RV type. I don’t know about you, but when I think of a Class C, I think of snug interiors set in the foreground of a red and rugged landscape. Today’s Entegra Coach model combines luxury and coziness — all while tying up some loose ends that so many Class Cs are known for. The 2025 Entegra Esteem 29V is made to accommodate families and ensure they arrive at a thrilling destination. 

    Durability, longevity and comfort are the defining characteristics of what a family embarking on a journey relies upon. And the Esteem 29V delivers. Whether you are full-time RVing or weekend warrioring (that’s a word, right?), this rig has your back. 

    Let’s take a closer look at what else this rig can offer. 

     

    At a Glance: Esteem 29V

    The Entegra Coach Esteem 29V Class C earns a rating of four out of five. It brings the luxury of Entegra’s brand to a functional and cozy space in this family friendly rig. Durability, longevity and safety are woven together with luxury, space and livability to check all your boxes.  

    Entegra’s singular front piece seamless end cap and automotive bonded window are a few examples of the durability and longevity that you can trust. If you have had a Class C in the past, you may know that the front cap tends to have leakage issues. Entegra Coach nipped that in the bud with modern engineering and flawless construction. The Esteem 29V gives owners a Class C they can trust, one that will offer comfort and protection, rain or sunshine, for years or maybe even a lifetime to come. 

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 5
    • GVWR: 14,500 pounds
    • GCWR: 22,000 pounds
    • Front gross axle rating: 5,000 pounds
    • Rear gross axle rating: 9,600 pounds
    • Exterior length: 32 feet 6 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
    • Exterior height (w/ AC and satellite): 11 feet 8 inches
    • Interior height: 7 feet
    • Furnace: 30,000-Btu auto ignition furnace
    • Wheelbase 223 inches
    • Slide-outs: 2
    • Propane: 16.5 gallons
    • Awning: Electric patio awning with LED lights

     

    Floorplan of the 2025 Entegra Coach Esteem 29V

     

    Features We Love

    • Automotive-bonded panoramic window
    • Seamless, one-piece front cap 
    • Easy and clever fold down dining table for dinette conversion 
    • Easily attachable (and removable) safety net for the over-the-cab kids bunk
    • TV in the kids bunk
    • 15,000 Btu A/C (with option for two 13,500 Btu A/Cs)
    • Outdoor storage compartments
    • Outdoor shower for rinsing muddy paws or sandy toes
    • Frame mounted seatbelts on sofa and both dinette seats
    • 6-gallon gas/electric DSI auto-ignition water heater (replenishing 3 times per hour)
    • Frameless windows for clean look 
    • 10-cubic-foot (stunning), 12-volt fridge (with option to upgrade to 15-cubic-foot)
    • Outdoor TV and entertainment system

     

     

    Benefits

    • Easy setup and function control with automatic-leveling jacks and BMPRO total coach control
    • Enjoy outside entertainment with an outdoor TV and JBL sound system
    • Peace of mind from Entegra Coach’s one piece, seamless front cap and automotive-bonded panoramic window (only cap in the industry with zero seams and zero warranty claims)
    • Safe entry and exit with electric powered automatic steps (and easy access battery compartment underneath!)
    • Smooth, safe ride with Koni shocks, Hellwig Helper Spring, rubber-isolation body mounts, and heavy-duty, rear-stabilizing bar
    • Enjoy family travel with the extra sleeping capacity and spacious floorplan
    • Save power with the power management system 

     

    Challenges

    • The accordion style folding door which separates the queen bedroom is made of thick fabric — but I doubt that it is thick enough to deter tiny intruders. (Speaking here of the kid variety.) 
    • There does not appear to be quite enough storage for five passengers, although the Esteem 29V comfortably sleeps five. However, storage-wise, there is just enough for a family of four. (As a mom with a family of four, that’s my estimation anyway.) 

     

     

    Best For

    • Full time RVing families who need the extra sleep space, enjoy cooking meals in the kitchen, and want the peace of mind that comes with a better Class C build
    • Full-time RV couples looking for space for family and friends to comfortably visit (Note: There is no designated workspace)

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    The walk-around, queen-size bed is a prime example of the spacious luxury that Esteem 29V offers. The bedroom is separated from the rest of the space with a small folding, accordion-fabric barrier. While this does provide privacy and separates the space, this fabric can sometimes feel lacking. (Not the kind of barrier that would stand up to the intrusion of one’s progeny.) Luckily, the entrance space is tiny, just two or three feet across, as opposed to spanning the entire width of an RV. I think the feature of having a separated bedroom space makes full-time living with kids a more sustainable option here. (Sometimes, you just need to get away.)

    Two large closets flanking a modest television offer plenty of storage in the master bedroom. I like the small TV size. It doesn’t take away from precious storage space and fits perfectly in its nook. So, it doesn’t impede the walk-around space. The bed has two marble-top ledges on either side, with USB ports built in. Plenty of storage is available above the bed. Two small windows bring in natural light from either side, and a third window adds to the brightness of the room. There are two adjustable reading lights above each side of the bed. 

     

    A Dinette Conversion Wonder

    The dinette converts to a bed, with a clever legless dinette table that is east to operate. Up front, this is probably the easiest dinette bed conversion I have encountered yet. This bed is small, however, and would probably not comfortably sleep an adult. As you might expect, it feels more appropriate for a kid. 

    The kids can sleep in the adorable above-the-cab bunk. I like that this is equipped with an easy to install safety net, ensuring that they won’t roll out in their sleep. (It happens alarmingly often, so, be diligent about using this — no matter their age!) This bunk is one of the coziest sleeping areas of its kind that I have seen in a Class C. It comes equipped with a smart TV and a stunning panoramic window. I think the space is plenty big for two kids and all their things, with an incredible 750-pound capacity. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bathroom and shower are separate in the Esteem 29V. With a passenger capacity of five, there’s a good chance someone will need to use the potty while someone else is using the shower. So, I definitely consider this an added function. The shower is a lovely stand-up, recessed unit with a glass door, flexible shower head, and a skylight above. 

    The bathroom is across from the shower, with just enough space. There isn’t a whole lot of storage here, but I think it’s enough for a family of four. The mirrored vanity has storage behind it, and there are drawers and cabinets beneath the stainless-steel sink. The toilet is porcelain with a foot flush.   

     

     

    Living Area 

    The living area in the Esteem 29V exemplifies functionality and luxury — all in a bright and spacious floorplan. Reclining theater seats sit across from the kitchen, with a dual/use TV in the bunk area. The TV has a swinging arm that can be pulled out and adjusted for various viewing angles. (And when the kids are in bed, they can pull the TV back into their space.) The dinette table has two couch cushions on either side with storage and a lovely marble design tabletop. The light in the space is a highlight feature here. Numerous large frameless windows in the space make you feel refreshed and invigorated with Vitamin D all around. There is also beautiful warm accent lighting installed throughout the space for evening ambience. 

    The storage space in the living area feels appropriate for kitchen use, but there isn’t really much additional storage space for guests. The only options I saw available were the two dinette couches offering storage beneath. I suppose the cab area could be used for additional storage when not in use for travel. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    Sinfully extravagant, the double-door, 15-cubic-foot fridge adds seamless modernity to the space. You won’t need any additional decor with appliances like this. Cooking for five will be a breeze with the three-burner stove and large microwave and oven. Lovely marble countertops extend from either side of the fridge, boasting a rarity of adequate countertop space. The sink is divided, with a stainless-steel faucet and pull-down sprayer. There are also pop-up charging ports in the kitchen with 120-volt outlets and UBS ports.

    Large hardwood cabinets above the sink and microwave area available for kitchen storage. There is also ample storage below the sink with two sets of drawers and a large double-door cabinet.  

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    If you are traveling full-time and looking for a four-season compatible rig, there are lots of features here that will appeal to you. The R-7 high-density, bead-foam insulation will cut down on the chill, and the noise in this unit. Tuffshell vacuum-bonded laminated sidewalls, roof, and floor will also cut down on condensation on cold winter mornings. All of these features will help extend your camping season into the colder months. 

    The holding tanks are heated, further eliminating risk of structural problems in the cold. And for boondocking, there is a 200-watt solar panel with dual controller and second house battery. 

     

    Storage Space 

    I feel like there is sufficient storage in the Esteem 29V for a full time RV family of four, but five may be pushing it. There is outdoor storage underneath the motorhome, and some room for storage in the bunk area above the cab. The master bedroom and kitchen have ample storage space, with the bathroom providing just enough in the vanity and cabinets below the sink. But you may need to put towels in the master bedroom. There is also a large storage compartment available under the master bed, easily accessible with gas struts. 

    If you have guests visiting, you might feel tight on storage space. Visitors may need to borrow some of the master bedroom storage space or use the front cab while it is not in use.

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Esteem 29V

    Another feature in the Esteem 29V that really caught my eye was the power management system. It is a great boondocking feature. This system distributes power to key components based on demand and availability, offering efficient distribution and conservation of the power available.

    Some on-road features that are worth mentioning here are the heavy-duty, rear stabilizing bar and rubber-isolation body mounts to facilitate a smooth and quieter ride. The Koni shocks will enhance control and minimize the bounce while the Hellwig helper spring helps maintain proper ride height and increase your overall safety. Which, if your full-timing with your family along, is a big deal.

     

    A view of the cockpit in the Esteem 29V.

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

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

    The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Esteem 29V

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  • 2025 Jayco Eagle 355MBQS Review

    2025 Jayco Eagle 355MBQS Review

    For RVers who travel full-time or just journey with family, finding an RV that provides a private space for multiple generations can be a real challenge. Further, for those who choose to work from the road, there aren’t many options to shut out the noise of all the activity going on in the rest of the camper. Jayco provides an elegant solution for this with the 2025 Jayco Eagle 355MBQS — all with a warranty for full-time living. They’ve also made a number of improvements, which we’ll discuss. So, read on to learn more.  

     

    At a Glance: Jayco Eagle 355MBQS

    I give the Jayco Eagle 355MBQS a rating of three and three quarters out of five for a number of reasons. First, there have been some significant changes for 2025 that ensure a much better experience for owners. Almost as an assurance of this, the Eagle 355MBQS comes with a great warranty and predelivery inspection (PDI). On top of that, there’s its versatility. There’s room to sleep a lot of people, but you can also configure it so that you have a private office. (You know, to do things like write RV reviews.) 

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 8
    • Hitch weight: 2,420 pounds
    • UVW: 12,830 pounds 
    • CCC: 2,370 pounds.
    • Exterior length: 42 feet 4 inches
    • Exterior height 12 feet 8 inches
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 1 inch
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 81/87/50 gallons
    • Propane: 60 pounds
    • Awnings: 21 feet and 10 feet 6 inches 

     

    Features We Love

    • Dexter Tow Assist
    • Jayco warranty and PDI process
    • JaySMART lighting system
    • Whisper-ducted A/C
    • Whole-house, three-stage water filter
    • Central lighting with remotes and app control
    • Rotating dining table
    • Residential-caliber RV appliances

     

     

    Benefits

    On the Exterior
    • Safer Towing. Dexter’s Tow Assist system uses technology from Bosch to provide anti-lock braking and sway mitigation on this trailer, a significant safety advance in towable RVs. While newer vehicles all incorporate anti-lock braking, this is a newer feature in towables and can make for much safer towing. Another feature is the ability to track mileage with this system which can help with routine maintenance. 
    • JaySMART Lighting. Jayco pioneered their JaySMART lighting. The acronym stands for Safety Markers and Reverse Travel and is a system that flashes upper and side marker lights when you activate the turn signal. This can really draw other drivers to the fact that this big beast is about to make a turn or change lanes. 
    • Warranty and PDI. Jayco’s warranty is longer than most with two years on the full trailer and three years on the exterior structure. Additionally, this fifth wheel’s warranty includes use as a full-time RV. (There are a lot of RVs that specifically exclude full-time use.) Another big plus is that Jayco has purpose-built a number of facilities that fully inspect every RV they make using an extensive checklist called predelivery inspection. These are separate from final manufacturing and test all the systems and the finished build of their products. The company reports that early warranty claims are reduced with this process. This process is not at all common in the RV industry.

     

    In the Interior
    • Whisper-Ducting A/C. The air conditioning in the Eagle 355MBQS features what is called a whisper-ducting system. While a lot of the terms used by companies are only true in the brochures, we happened to be at Jayco on a hot August day, and the A/C in this unit was both effective and exceptionally quiet. 
    • Whole-House, Three-Stage Water Filtration. New for 2025 is a whole-house three-stage water filtration system. Jayco calls this the NuvoH20 system and states that it’s a sale-free citrus filter softener. What’s nifty about this is that it filters both incoming “city” water and water used from the fresh water holding tank. 
    • Control Options. Like many modern RVs this one features a touch screen to operate most of the functions, but you can also a phone or tablet to replicate a lot of this functionality. In addition, there are small remotes installed throughout the RV with physical buttons, so you don’t have to use your phone for lights or some other functions. That makes this system something for those who like app control and those who want traditional buttons and the remotes are conveniently placed, including right by the bed. 
    • Dining Table Design. The dining table in this is pretty slick where it can be in a traditional spot to accommodate the four free-standing dining chairs included with this RV. But you can also rotate it 90 degrees so that you have sort of a breakfast bar. And this is right at one of the very large camp-side windows. So, it’s a great place to start the day or get some work done. 
    • Fancy Appliances. The appliances in the kitchen of this RV offer the same functionality most homeowners would hope to have. More details in the kitchen segment of this article. 

     

    Challenges

    To get this much space, you need to have a fifth wheel. And, at over 42 feet in length, that’s just what this is. That also means you’re going to need a significant truck to pull it with. This length may also preclude you from some of the public campgrounds that can’t accommodate larger rigs. That might be obvious, but it is worth being aware of as you’re shopping. Know where you are likely going to want to camp. Also be aware that a truck that can pull this will be a cumbersome daily driver.

     

    Best For

    • For those who camp with family members who are at the age where they want additional privacy, this might be a great choice. There’s the obvious upstairs bedroom but then there’s a second separate room on the main deck of this RV. By day this has a jackknife sofa, but it could be a great private room for children or friends. 
    • Another group for whom this would make sense are full-time RVers, especially those who might still be working from the road. With a warranty that would support this kind of practice that separate room could make for a great office where you could close-off the others who are still having fun camping while you’re hard at work writing RV reviews. Or whatever you do. 

     

    Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

    Sleeping Space

    There are enough sleeping spots in this RV for eight people but there is an asterisk on that capacity. The sofa at the back of the main living space folds out to be a bed. There’s also a jackknife sofa in the separate main floor room which offers the privacy mentioned earlier in this review. There is also a very large loft above that main floor room that can be used to accommodate two individuals. However, here’s the asterisk. You should know that headroom will be a bit limited. So, you don’t want your pro basketball friends to use this space. It might be better suited for more youthful travelers. 

     

    A Major Upgrade in RV Matresses

    As a fifth wheel, the main bedroom is on the upper deck. It sports a 72-inch-by-80-inch, king-size bed in a slide. As a faithful and integrity-driven reviewer, I tested it out myself. And although a few supine moments can’t beat testing it for an extended period of time, I’ll say this: Jayco upgrade to their mattresses for 2025 with a three-layer model feels good. From what I could tell, it seems like a good mattress. (Which is a surprise in the RV industry.) Plus, for me, it shows the benefits of sleeping on the job!

    The bedroom space in the Eagle 355MBQS also includes a set of drawers on the camp side. But the nose of the trailer is where your bedroom storage shines. Here, you’ll find a full-width closet that includes multiple shelves for shoes. This space is also plumbed if you choose to put a washer and dryer in here. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    The bath on the upper deck of the Eagle 355MBQS follows typical design of fifth wheel. There is a spacious shower along with plenty of room to change clothes and accomplish all the goals you might have for a bathroom. Adjacent to the shower is a linen closet that is as deep as the shower is wide. So, totes or other baskets would be helpful to keep things from disappearing into the depths of this storage space. 

    There is, of course, a porcelain foot flush toilet and high-performance vent fan in here for those nights where the campground buffet included Aunt Millie’s taco surprise. 

     

     

    Living Area

    The living space in this Eagle 355MBQS is very pleasant. I like that Jayco has made cloth upholstery available. While it might make sense that vinyl is easier to clean, there are protective sprays applied to this so it isn’t bad. But it is comfortable and that’s especially true of the theater seats. On the camp side, these directly face the very large TV and fireplace. Overhead, a ceiling fan simulates a tropical breeze. There are also a lot of camp-side and rear-facing windows which help this large space feel even larger. 

    Earlier I mentioned that nifty table that rotates to be either a traditional dining table or a breakfast bar. The seats for that are upholstered in the same cloth that I enjoyed on the couch. Speaking of that couch, there are nice side tables on either side with both household and USB power outlets. 

     

     

    Kitchen

    This kitchen offers appliances that I think are as nice as those in many homes. The propane stove features four burners, including a simmer and power boil burner. (Not something you expect in an RV.) There’s also a large residential-size microwave over that stove. 

    The refrigerator, too, is a larger model, and I’m happy that Jayco went with an RV-specific 12-volt fridge. These are hardened for life on the road. (As a warranty administrator, I had to replace more than my share of residential refrigerators when they failed.) Plus, they operate natively on 12-volt power. So, they do not need an inverter. 

    The bulkhead wall of the Eagle 355MBQS also has more counter space. Plus, there’s an island with a sink that offers a number of inserts for washing dishes, vegetables, and more. It also incorporates a glass washer and a pull-out faucet. 

    If you’re cooking outside, there’s a second kitchen there. Something unique to Jayco products is called the JayPort. This is a two-inch receiver hitch placed on the side of the trailer. Jayco includes a flat-top propane griddle with the Eagle 355MBQS that mounts in this place. This is nice and sturdy but also positions the griddle away from the body of the camper. 

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    The Eagle 355MBQS is well-suited to camping where the weather stretches the patience. For cold weather, there is a heated and enclosed underbelly, but Jayco also offers a package called “Extreme Weather” that includes 120-volt heat pads on the tanks, plus 12-volt heat tape on the fresh water line. 

    For the opposite temperature extremes, this unit features centrally-ducted air conditioning with what is called a whisper-ducted” system. This system uses ducting and intake design to make the A/C system remarkably quiet. We were looking at this rig on a hot day in August, and the A/C was very quietly keeping us comfortable. 

     

     

    Storage Space

    I think if the Eagle 355MBQS could talk, and you asked about storage, it would simply say, “Bring it!” There is a wall of cabinets and drawers on the bulkhead of the main living space. There are more drawers and cabinets in the island and drawers and cabinets surround the stove and microwave. Even more storage can be found behind and above the large TV as well as above the couch along the back. The biggest interior storage is in the front of the rig in the bedroom, and that’s a walk-in closet that spans the full width of the RV. 

    Depending on how many people you have with you, there’s a loft above the main floor bedroom that could serve as storage space as well. But that would apply only if you’re not bringing people who want to sleep up there. 

    The Eagle 355MBQS also offers a very large passthrough storage bay at the front of the RV that is lighted and also heated. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Eagle 355MBQS

    It was difficult to find fault with this fifth wheel. Jayco has stepped-up the build quality again this year with things like dove-tailed drawer builds, which is far better than the industry standard stapled builds. 

    There are other improvements including that new mattress that I liked. I also really appreciate that the furnace ducts are moved off the floor and into the cabinet. That way, you don’t kick dust and pet hair into them all year long. 

    Considering how large this fifth wheel is, it’s not going to be for everybody. Still, for those with families or who have to work from the road — someone’s gotta write these RV reviews — this would be a good choice. I liked what I saw in how Jayco runs these models through a full inspection process and then backs them with a better warranty. 

     

     

    A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

    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. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an 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.

     

     

    Make Your Move

    Start shopping for the year, make, and model. Find Your Eagle 355MBQS

    What Other Campers Are Saying

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

  • 2025 Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304BHS Review

    2025 Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304BHS Review

    Before reviewing the 2025 Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304BHS, I had yet to come across a fifth wheel that so succinctly combines family needs with those of remote working parents. Quite frankly, it’s a thing of beauty. With a triple-tiered bunk that doubles as a beautiful and spacious office, you will be drooling over the duality of functional living spaces in this model. 

    Traveling as a full-time family is no easy task — especially if one or both parents work remotely. The key is to set yourself up for success. Which means not underestimating your family’s needs. The GSL Light Duty 304BHS takes the need of a remote-working family and combines them with four-season camping capabilities. On top of everything, its multifunctional spaces give it incredible versatility. There are multiple working spaces (private or integrated within the living space, a separate queen-bed suite, and a double bunk room with a loft above.

    The separated sleeping spaces for the kids and the adults is a dream come true, but that’s just the beginning. The kitchen is pristine with residential appliances and ample countertop space for cooking large meals. And the tabled seating capacity goes hand in hand with the sleeping capacity. 

    So, all that sets the table, but let’s take a closer look at the GSL Light Duty 304BHS.

     

    At a Glance:  GLS Light Duty 304BHS

    The 2025 Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304 BHS gets a rating of four and a quarter out of five. This model truly meets the needs of its intended buyers: remote working families. To find a design that takes into account the functional living spaces required to live on the road full-time with kids, and work remotely, is a breath of fresh air. Dual-functioning living spaces, four-season capabilities, and residential luxury all come together to bring you a truly livable unit. 

     

    Check the Specs

    • Sleeping capacity: 8 
    • Hitch weight: 1,540 pounds
    • UVW: 8,825 pounds
    • CCC: 1,775 pounds
    • Exterior length: 33 feet 7 inches (overall); 32 feet 7 inches (pin to bumper)
    • Exterior height: 12 feet 5 inches (13 feet 2 inches with A/C)
    • Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches (13 feet 11 inches with slides out) 
    • Fresh/Gray/Black: 55/60/30
    • Propane: 2 x 30 pounds
    • Awnings: 13 feet and 11 feet

     

    Features We Love

    • Four-point automated LevelLoc system with JT’s Strong Arms
    • Xtend Solar 1 package with 30-amp charge controller 
    • Smart TV with Bluetooth, soundbar, and built-in stereo. 
    • Flush floor slides
    • ACCU slide system with four-corner compression
    • 50-amp service
    • Equa-Flex axle suspension 
    • Self-adjusting electric brakes
    • Easy-to-remove tables on both sides of the megalounge 
    • Pull-out bed in the megalounge 
    • Outdoor TV and grill hookup
    • Half-ton towable 

     

    Benefits

    • Enjoy the luxury of separated living spaces for parents and the kids with a designated bunk room, and a queen suite.
    • Pick your workstation! With at least two different options available in this thoughtful rig.
    • Cook for large groups with a gorgeous kitchen equipped with luxurious appliances and plenty of countertop space.
    • Enjoy remote control of your awning, lights, slide-outs, heating, and cooling with the RV’s smart system: TravelLink. 
    • Experience an easy tow with this lightweight rig. This model can be towed by a half-ton vehicle with its lightweight design.
    • Extend the camping season with four season capability.
    • Bring your dog along and keep the RV clean with an outdoor shower and a dog-proof (and child-proof) removable screen protector. 

     

     

    Challenges

    • The bathroom could use more space, especially since up to eight passengers will be sharing it. 
    • There is no safety feature on the middle bunk to keep a child from rolling out.
    • There is no laundry hookup or dishwasher. (Trips to the laundromat can be a time drain for working families on the road.)

     

    Best For

    • Full-time RV families with one or both parents working remotely
    • Perfect for full-time RVers with kids that want a fifth wheel towable with a half-ton vehicle

     

    Key Areas That RV Trader Reviews

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

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

    So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304BHS.

     

    Sleeping Space

    The sleeping space in the GSL Light Duty 304BHS makes room for you, your kids, and even friends or family that may come for a visit. A unique benefit in this rig is the separated designated sleeping arrangements for the parents and the kids. The bunkhouse has three levels: one on the floor, one in the middle, and a loft above, offering a third-story deluxe bunk. The bottom two bunks have a sliding-door feature that delineates the space. The bottom bunk is simple but functional, with a single-size cot on the floor. I love the spacious feeling in this room. There are hooks along the wall, giving the far wall an appeal as a coat rack. The top loft has a safety railing to keep kids from falling out. The loft in the top has a double-size cot, and is big enough for two kids, if friends were visiting. 

    The megalounge offers a pull-out sofa on one end of the couch that can comfortably sleep one adult. The queen bedroom features a walk around bed with four large overhead storage cabinets. There are also two sizable end tables with solid tops and drawers beneath. The bed lifts with gas-strutted hinges for easy access to storage beneath the mattress. Two short wardrobes flank the bed, for hanging short clothing items. There is also a double-door wardrobe across from the bed for more hanging storage, and two large drawers beneath. A large TV is mounted across from the bed on the wall. Pop-up USB charging ports are installed on either side of the bed, with outlets on the wall behind them. 

     

     

    Bathroom

    There is one passthrough bathroom in the GSL Light Duty 304BHS, and it’s by the master bedroom. Light-colored, butcher-block countertops elegantly accent the space. The sink has one storage cabinet beneath it, with one additional small open shelf under the remaining counter space. A towel rod sits above the toilet, where I probably would have preferred one more cabinet. There is also a small hook on the door for additional towels. A large double-door mirrored vanity above the sink offers much needed storage space as well. However, for a family that intends to live in this unit, I will say that the bathroom storage is somewhat lacking.  

     

     

    Living Area

    The living space in the GSL Light Duty 304BHS is concisely arranged with a dining table set in the corner that could easily double as a welcoming workspace. Normally, the dinettes in RVs inhabit a more centered part of the kitchen or living area. But this one is thoughtfully tucked at the end of the space under the light of a big window. It feels very appropriate for a workspace — and it won’t take away from the tabled seating capacity. 

    The megalounge has two removable tables, and the sink island can accommodate two chairs for additional table seating as well. But if your work requires a separate space with a door that closes, you can also inhabit the lovely middle tier of the bunkhouse that transforms into a long table accommodating two chairs. Simply remove the cot, and voilà! Work-table magic appears beneath a window to take in some scenery. And if the kids are making too much noise, just close the door behind you for a private space! The kids can still have a designated area in the upper loft above your office. 

     

    Megalounge Modularity

    The GSL Light Duty 304BHS’s megalounge is quite clever. There is comfortable seating for four or five, and removable tables for mealtime. A midsection pulls down between two cushions offering a table-like armrest — complete with button-deployed USB charging ports. The elegant and simple dinette is also appropriate for eating meals if no one is using it as a workspace. On either end of the dinette are two slim ledges with USB charging ports and outlets to charge your devices. I appreciate the modest-sized TV, set off center of the living space. It has an extendable arm, with a tilt and rotating feature allowing it to be viewed from almost any angle of the living space. The island offers outlets and USB charging ports cleverly built in. 

    Storage is available in overhead cabinets above the dinette. The large windows in this unit offer an abundance of natural light to illuminate the space. It’s a delightful touch to an already thoughtful floorplan with luxurious amenities.  

     

     

    Kitchen

    The kitchen in the GSL Light Duty 304BHS is a delight to behold. It offers a well-lit and spacious living area. The space feels perfectly roomy, even though it is shared with the living room. The sink is the centerpiece of the island showcasing a large farmhouse-style basin with a discreet pull-down sprayer. 

    One of my favorite amenities in the kitchen is the amount of counter space provided. The entire island provides counters around the sink, and there are two countertops on either side of the three-burner range. A clever half-width cabinet sits tucked in the corner with an additional countertop below it. A glass folding top lives above the burners for even more countertop space when the burners aren’t in use. 

    Additional storage is available on either side of the residential sized InVision microwave, with cabinets on either side of the oven and a very large drawer below it. A narrow-but-deep pantry also lives next to the fridge, perfect for canned goods and spices. An added benefit to the island design is the additional storage it offers underneath the sink.  

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

    So many features define the livability of the Starcraft GSL Light Duty 304BHS, and its four-season capabilities certainly add to its value. The Xtend Solar Package with 200 watts of solar and a 30-amp charge controller means you can keep your fridge and lights on for a night or two without power. Regardless of whether or not you intend to boondock your rig, it is prudent to have the option when you are living on the road.

    The Tuffshell vacuum-bonded laminated construction offers insulation in the floors and sidewalls. The PVC roof is walkable, so you can safely access and remove snow off the roof. A 30,000-Btu furnace is a great option for heat in the wintertime when you want to save your propane. The GSL Light Duty 304BHS is equipped to extend your camping season well into the colder months, barring harsh winters. 

     

    Storage Space 

    As a whole, I think that the storage capabilities in the GSL Light Duty 304BHS are more than adequate for a family on the road. The kitchen and living space offer sufficient storage space, with large overhead compartments above the dinette, and additional kitchen storage under the island sink. But the bathroom, being the only one in the unit, could use a little more storage capacity for a full-time traveling family. There is a large passthrough storage compartment outside the unit offering easy access to outdoor items. 

     

     

    Closing Notes on the GSL Light Duty 304BHS

    This floorplan in this model offers the most functional living spaces I have encountered in an RV. From remote workspaces to a three-tiered kids bunk bed, I am shocked that they fit it all into such a lightweight unit. They didn’t sacrifice any luxuries in or outside of the unit or make it happen either. 

    A favorite feature of mine is LevelLoc — a four-point, automatic-leveling system with JT’s Strong Arms. This helps eliminate the rocking motion once you get to your destination. It can come in handy when one person wants to get up early without waking anyone up with the rocking motion as you walk across the floor. That way, you can enjoy those precious blissful moments of quiet time. And enjoy the sunrise alone And in silence. Ahhhhhh….

     

     

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  • 2025 Jayco Redhawk SE 22CF Review

    2025 Jayco Redhawk SE 22CF Review

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

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

     

    At a Glance: Redhawk SE 22 CF

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

     

    Check the Specs

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

     

    Features We Love

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

     

    Benefits

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

     

    Challenges

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

     

    Best For

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

     

    Key Areas of RV Trader Reviews

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

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

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

     

    Sleeping Space

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

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

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

     

     

    Bathroom

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

     

     

    Living Area

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

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

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

     

     

    Kitchen

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

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

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

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

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

     

    Storage Space

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

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

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Redhawk SE 22CF

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

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

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

     

     

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  • 2025 Highland Ridge Range Lite 252RB Review

    2025 Highland Ridge Range Lite 252RB Review

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

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

     

    At a Glance: Range Lite 252RB

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

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

     

    Check the Specs

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

     

    Features We Love

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

     

    Benefits

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

     

    Challenges

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

     

    Best For

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

     

    Key Areas That RV Trader Reviews

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

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

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

     

    Sleeping Space

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

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

    Assessing the Sleep Situation

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

     

     

    Bathroom

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

     

     

    Living Area

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

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

     

     

    Kitchen

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

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

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

     

     

    Four-Season Capabilities

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

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

     

    Storage Space

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

     

     

    Closing Notes on the Range Lite 252RB

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

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

     

     

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