Buying the Right Fifth Wheel

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your camping trip into a camping experience, a fifth wheel can be the perfect solution. These towable RVs are the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and towability, but they’re a big investment. We here at Minneapolis Trailer believe in spending money wisely, so we’ve put together some tips for buying the right fifth wheel for your needs, below. To learn more, or to see the fifth wheels we have for sale, contact our store in Rogers, Minnesota, today!

Your Tow Vehicle

First off, it’s important to remember that fifth wheels are designed to be towed by pickup trucks. Their unique hitch style, reminiscent of a gooseneck hitch, hooks into a pickup truck’s bed rather than a bumper, which limits your tow vehicle options but greatly increases stability and agility. 

You’ll also want to keep your pickup’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, or GVWR, in mind. That term applies to the total weight your pickup can handle, including people, fuel, attachments, cargo, and any towed objects. You don’t want to buy a fifth wheel that your pickup can’t safely tow, after all! Check your truck’s owner’s manual to see its GVWR and go from there. 

Desired Features

Fifth wheels come in a staggering variety of shapes, sizes, floor plans, and amenities, so it’s important that you think carefully about what features you want and need. For instance, large families or other groups will need spacious models with lots of sleeping options, while a retiree or couple might prefer an upscale, compact layout. 

Also keep in mind that many RV campsites have size limitations. Most will be alright with longer models, but rest stops might not have parking spaces large enough to accommodate them. A lighter, smaller trailer will be easier to maneuver and park and will be kinder to your fuel economy.

New or Pre-Owned?

You can also choose either a brand new fifth wheel or a used one, and both have plenty of benefits. New models will come as-advertised and in peak condition, but they’ll be much more expensive and might limit your options. Used fifth wheels present far more diverse options and will come at a hefty discount, but you may find that previous owners were careless or neglectful. If you go for used, make sure to perform a thorough inspection of the fifth wheel first and ask about its maintenance history before finalizing any purchase.

Lucky for you, we here at Minneapolis Trailer work hard to make sure you get your money’s worth with every buy, so you’re in safe hands with us. If you want to know more about finding the perfect fifth wheel, or you’re just ready to browse our selection, give us a call. We proudly serve the people of the Twin Cities in Minnesota—let us serve you today!