Best 5th Wheel RVs for Full Time Living
If you’re considering becoming a full-time RVer, choosing the right fifth-wheel trailer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The perfect fifth wheel for full-timing provides all the comforts of home while still being practical for life on the road. The fifth wheels below (Grand Design Solitude, Keystone Montana, Grand Design Reflection, etc) represent the cream of the crop when it comes to livability and quality construction. Keep reading for an in-depth look at the features, specifications, pros and cons of each model. This guide will explore the top-rated, high-end fifth wheels on the market that offer exceptional quality, space, and amenities for full-time RV living. So, without delaying any longer, just get into them!
5 Best 5th-Wheel RVs for Full-Time Living
Making the switch to full-time RV living is an exciting adventure. Fifth-wheel trailers provide the perfect balance of home-like comfort and practicality for life on the road. If you’re looking to purchase a fifth wheel for full-time, here are five of the top choices on the market today –
Source: rvtravel
1. Grand Design Solitude
The Grand Design Solitude sets the benchmark for luxury fifth-wheel living. With its enormous slides, towering ceilings, and high-end finishes, the Solitude feels more like a custom-built home than an RV. It offers residential-sized appliances, oversized holding tanks, and top-notch construction optimized for full-time living. The Solitude is unmatched when it comes to quality, space, and livability.
Specifications
Lengths | 36′ – 45′ |
Width | 8′ 5″ |
Weights | 16,000 – 24,000 lbs |
Slideouts | Up to 6 |
Fresh Water Cap. | 100 gal |
Grey/Black Water | 80/80 gal |
MSRP Range | $140,000 – $240,000 |
Features
- Spacious floorplans from 377BHS to 377FL
- Soaring 10+ foot ceilings throughout
- Solid surface kitchen countertops
- Large farmhouse kitchen sink
- King bed with rear wardrobe slide-in master
- Porcelain toilets
- Residential style, walk-in shower
- Automatic hydraulic leveling jacks
- 50 AMP electrical service
- Optional washer/dryer prep
Pros
- Unparalleled luxury and amenities
- Excellent reputation for quality
- Huge living area with enormous slides
- Residential appliances and fixtures
- Ideal for extended off-grid camping
Cons
- Very heavy when fully loaded
- More expensive than the average
- Large size limits some park access
2. Keystone Montana
A long-time favorite of families and full-timers, the Keystone Montana delivers functionality and versatility. The Montana is designed for convenience with family-friendly floorplans that sleep up to 10 and maximize every inch of living space. With its quality features and mid-range pricing, the Montana hits a sweet spot between affordability and livability.
Specifications
Lengths | 35′ – 41′ |
Width | 8′ |
Weights | 13,000 – 17,000 lbs |
Slideouts | Up to 5 |
Fresh Water Cap. | 80 gal |
Grey/Black Water | 88/88 gal |
MSRP Range | $60,000 – $125,000 |
Features
- Open-concept kitchen, living and dining areas
- Electric fireplace in most floorplans
- Large picture windows throughout
- Island kitchen with solid surface counters
- LED lighting
- Premium insulation package
- Upgraded furniture with residential fabrics
Pros
- Great quality construction and materials
- Versatile floorplan options
- Lots of storage capacity
- Affordable pricing
- Sleeps up to 10 guests
Cons
- Not as spacious as some models
- Can feel cramped with slideouts in
- No full bath in the rear bunkhouse
3. Grand Design Reflection
Grand Design’s Reflection combines value and luxury in a mid-sized package perfect for full-timing couples. Despite its smaller footprint, the Reflection feels open and roomy thanks to its creative use of space. With its upscale fixtures, appliances and decor, the Reflection feels like home. Its price point makes it an appealing choice for luxury living.
Specifications
Lengths | 29′ – 37′ |
Width | 8′ 5″ |
Weights | 10,000 – 13,500 lbs |
Slideouts | Up to 3 |
Fresh Water Cap. | 75 gal |
Grey/Black Water | 54/31 gal |
MSRP Range | $50,000 – $90,000 |
Features
- Euro-style cabinetry and decor
- Solid wood slideout fascia
- Spacious U-shaped dinette
- Large pantry storage
- Residential stainless appliances
- MCD roller shades throughout
- Premium sound system
Pros
- High-end materials and styling
- Extended season insulation package
- Great mid-size length options
- Impressive fit and finish
- Lots of storage space
Cons
- Lower capacity tanks
- Floorplans can feel cramped
- No outdoor kitchen options
4. Jayco Eagle HT
Jayco’s Eagle HT maximizes function over flash. With smart layouts optimized for full-timing, the Eagle HT offers an impressive amount of living space. Its innovative rear lounge floorplans blur the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Storage abounds throughout its well-designed interiors. For a blend of livability and value, the Eagle HT is a rock-solid choice.
Specifications
Lengths | 27′ – 37′ |
Width | 8′ |
Weights | 9,000 – 12,000 lbs |
Slideouts | Up to 3 |
Fresh Water Cap. | 60 gal |
Grey/Black Water | 80/53 gal |
MSRP Range | $50,000 – $75,000 |
Features
- Unique rear lounge/living layouts
- Residential kitchen designs
- Abundant overhead cabinets
- Optional fireplace
- Full wardrobe slide in master
- Private bedroom separation
- Black tank flush system
Pros
- Innovative space utilization
- Higher-end look and feel
- Segregated master suites
- Lower towing weights
- Lots of exterior storage
Cons
- Unusual floorplan takes adjusting
- Tighter space in some areas
- No ceiling ducted AC
5. KZ Connect
As its name suggests, the KZ Connect focuses on the essentials for comfortable RV living. Despite its smaller size, the Connect efficiently utilizes every inch of space. Its no-frills simplicity makes it an extremely lightweight and maneuverable choice. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a functional full-time fifth wheel, the Connect delivers.
Specifications
Lengths | 26′ – 34′ |
Width | 8′ |
Weights | 6,000 – 10,000 lbs |
Slideouts | Up to 2 |
Fresh Water Cap. | 43 gal |
Grey/Black Water | 53/39 gal |
MSRP Range | $30,000 – $55,000 |
Features
- Efficient use of limited space
- Standard LED lighting
- USB charging ports
- JRide suspension system
- Available outside kitchen
- Tinted safety glass windows
- Pleated night shades
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to tow and maneuver
- Quality construction
- Simple, practical layouts
- Sleeps up to 10
Cons
- Less overall living area
- Not a lot of luxury features
- Lower tank capacities
- Only a few floorplans
Which One Is the Absolute Best Among Them and Why?
While personal preferences vary, the Grand Design Solitude stands above the rest as the #1 pick for dedicated full-time fifth-wheel living. Here are some of the main reasons it’s rated the absolute best –
a) Unrivaled amount of interior space with huge slideouts
b) Soaring 10+ foot ceilings create an airy, open feel
c) Top-of-the-line fixtures and finishes throughout
d) Residential appliances and electronics
e) Customization options allow perfect layout
f) Built for year-round off-grid living
g) Impeccable manufacturing quality control
h) Designed from the ground up for full-timers
No other fifth wheel can match the luxurious living experience of the Solitude. Its superior construction and incredible attention to detail make it perfectly optimized for full-time RVing. If budget allows, the Solitude is absolutely the best choice.
Where Can You Get Them?
You can find these top fifth-wheel brands at RV dealerships across North America. Here are some tips for locating one near you –
Use the manufacturer’s website dealer locator tool. Check listings on RVTrader.com and RVT.com. Search dealers’ individual websites for current inventory. Attend a local or regional RV show. Expand your search area for the best selection. Get quotes from multiple dealers and negotiate pricing. Consider ordering a unit directly from the factory
Be sure to thoroughly research dealerships as well as RVs. Look for a full-service dealer that offers professional support both before and after the sale. Take your time to make the best match for both your new RV and the dealership that provides it.
Final Verdict
For RV enthusiasts ready to make the leap to full-time living on the road, a fifth-wheel trailer offers the perfect balance of home-like amenities and practicality. Luxurious models like the Grand Design Solitude offer unmatched space and luxury features for life on the road. Take time to research all the options in detail to find the ideal fifth-wheel floorplan tailored to your needs. The freedom of full-time RV living awaits!
People Also Ask
How do you choose the right 5th-wheel floorplan?
A: Prioritize must-have features like slideouts, master suite, and storage space. Consider your lifestyle and how you’ll use the space. Focus on open concepts optimized for full-time living.
How do you stay organized living in a 5th wheel?
A: Strategic storage, bins, organizers, and multi-use spaces are key. Take advantage of hidden nooks and crannies. Purge unnecessary items before moving in.
How do you make a 5th wheel feel like home?
A: Personalize it with your own furniture, decor, textiles, and homey touches. Create dedicated spaces for your hobbies and interests. Focus on the layout and amenities that suit your lifestyle.
What is the average cost of a fifth-wheel camper?
A: The average MSRP for a new fifth wheel ranges from $30,000 – $60,000. High-end models can cost $200,000 or more. Consider both purchase price and ongoing costs like insurance, maintenance, and fuel.
What are 5th-wheel RVs best for?
A: 5th wheels work well for full-timers, families, seasonal snowbirds, and RVers who prioritize space. Their roominess and amenities make them ideal for long vacations and extended trips.
What are the pros and cons of the 5th wheel?
A: Pros include spacious living areas, high-end features, and residential styling. Cons are maneuverability challenges, the need for heavy-duty tow vehicles, and higher costs.