Fifth Wheel Popularity
The concept of the fifth wheel has been around for a long time. The first model was patented in 1916 and they’ve been growing in sophistication and popularity ever since. This means that fifth wheels have had a lot of time to change throughout their lifetimes. In modern times, they have grown into luxury living spaces with a wide variety of floor plans, amenities, and upgrades.
Because of this huge range of models, it’s hard to narrow down what the most popular models are. Every customer needs something different from their fifth wheel and new models are constantly being released. However, there are a few models that have been consistently popular. Some of these include:
- Keystone Montana
- Crossroads Redwood
- Forest River Wildcat
- Dutchman Voltage
- Grand Design Reflection
- Grand Design Solitude
- Jayco North Point
However, there are some current fifth wheels that are popular with customers, as well as manufacturers that are consistently popular with their old and new models. There are even a lot of fifth wheels that have won awards for their excellent designs and user-friendliness! We’ll explore each of these different sections below, including information on each of the popular fifth wheels.
Most Popular Fifth Wheel Models
Keystone Montana
Montana fifth wheels are a brand manufactured by Keystone RV. They are one of the most common and popular fifth wheels on the market. Almost every time I take a road trip, I’ll see one of these luxury trailers on the highway or in a campground. They’re popular for good reason too!
The Keystone Montana offers 22 different floor plans, which gives Montana owners a lot of options to choose from. All of the designs are large and spacious though, usually with multiple slide-outs to expand the layout. These fifth wheels are the height of luxury with classy dark wood cabinetry and light leather accents.
These fifth wheels are also built to withstand all kinds of weather conditions. Each one comes with a built-in “four-season” package that is guaranteed to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Other benefits include an electric awning with built-in LED lights, a set of exterior speakers, motion-sensor lights in the pantry and closets, carpeted bedrooms, and roof-mounted solar prep. These are just a few examples of the luxuries that the Keystone Montana can offer. There are also a variety of upgrades and package bundles that supply the customer with different amenities.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Crossroads Redwood
Redwood fifth wheels are manufactured by Crossroads RV and they are just as strong and beautiful as the trees they are named after. This brand offers 9 different floor plan designs under the Redwood title and each of the layouts are unique and luxurious.
These fifth wheels are large, with designs and amenities that are perfect for hosting large families and friend groups. With the wide range of layouts and designs, there is bound to be a setup perfect for any customer. If you want lots of space to relax and socialize, then Redwood fifth wheels will work well for you.
Slide-outs are smoothly incorporated into the design of each Redwood fifth wheel, with each model having no less than 3 slide-outs. Some of the larger models can reach up to 5 slide-outs, which really helps to maximize space. Storage is easy to find in these models and you won’t have to fight for elbow room!
Some other attractive features that Redwood fifth wheels offer include a wireless backup camera, an i-Cool gel foam king mattress, a fully enclosed underbelly, heated holding tanks, and optional packages with full-time living amenities.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Forest River Wildcat
The Wildcat lineup of fifth wheels actually includes two related brands. There’s the classic Wildcat, which offers 9 different floor plans, as well as the Wildcat Maxx, which adds an additional 5 floor plans.
No matter which option you pick, this brand always delivers comfortable, luxury fifth wheels that can suit the needs of any traveler. The most common layout in the classic Wildcat design incorporates three slide-outs. There’s usually one slide-out in the bedroom and a set of opposing slide-outs in the main kitchen/ living area.
The Wildcat Maxx is a bit more varied in its design, with some designs that only use one slide-out and others that use three. All Wildcats are created to maximize ease-of-use and a good flow of space though. You can rest assured that every model will be comfortable and spacious.
One of the major appeals of the Wildcat is the huge range of optional packages and upgrades. You can customize each model to your own preferences and get the best possible combination of amenities. Things like residential carpeting with a stain guard, pleated night shades, a shower skylight, and a free-standing table and chairs are just a few of the things that come standard with these fifth wheels.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Dutchman Voltage
The Voltage line of fifth wheels double as toy haulers, meaning that they combine luxury living space with a massive storage capacity. With 10 unique floor plans, there is sure to be a layout that matches any customer’s needs of comfort and utility.
Some of these massive fifth wheels can accommodate up to 12 people, which is higher than almost any other model on the market! This makes them perfect for people who want to travel with large groups.
Voltage fifth wheels have their main storage space at the back of the unit. These spaces are large and can fit a lot of gear, or even a few small recreational vehicles! When they’re not needed for gear hauling though, they also include furniture that can be used in an additional entertaining space or bedroom. This transformative nature will appeal to anyone who has a hard time balancing work and play!
Every Voltage fifth wheel is guaranteed to provide a comfortable living space, but they also come with lots of options and upgraded features. Some of these include a zero-G ramp door, a digital central command system, 7-foot ceilings, and customizable decoration on the inside and outside.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Grand Design Reflection
Grand Design’s Reflection brand is a lineup of fifth wheels that perfectly balances luxury, value, and towability. With 8 different floor plans that utilize up to 4 slide-outs, there’s sure to be a design that’s right for you in here!
One thing that every layout has in common is a lot of open floor space! Every model prioritizes a large open space in the kitchen/ living room. The only thing that interrupts this flow is a kitchen island, which increases workspace. There’s also a good amount of folding furniture, which helps free up even more space when they’re not needed.
Stainless steel appliances, dark wood, and light leather accents create a clean and comfortable interior look. Fireplaces also come standard with all Reflection models, which helps add to their comfortable and homey aesthetic. After all, what’s better than a crackling fireplace on a cold day?
In addition to all the classic comforts you could need, the Reflection also offers things like a deep farmer’s sink, motion sensor LED lights, a gourmet kitchen, an arctic four-seasons package, and a sophisticated auto-leveling system.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Grand Design Solitude
Much like the Reflection, the Solitude is a product of Grand Design manufacturing. They both live up to that title as well, with stellar layouts that customers have been satisfied with for years. The Solitude lineup offers 13 floor plans.
One thing that the Solitude prides itself on is its spacious nature! Every floor plan incorporates a good amount of free space so that you never feel cramped when you’re staying here. Some of the larger models use up to 5 slide-outs to maximize their square footage. This makes Solitude fifth wheels ideal for people who want to use these for long vacations or even permanent residence!
Huge residential refrigerators, a pull-out pet feeding station, an optional exterior kitchen, a master walk-in closet, weather-tek insulation, and a 6-point hydraulic leveling system come with every Solitude model!
When it comes to optional upgrades and packages, this fifth wheel also does not disappoint. Users can choose to add king-sized beds, full-body paint, a stainless steel french door refrigerator, and a generator prep. The base model already comes with a huge host of comforts and conveniences, but you can always choose to add more with the catalog of Solitude upgrades.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Jayco North Point
Luxury fifth wheels are Jayco’s specialty and the North Point is no exception. With 9 unique floor plans and a range of features and comforts, these are sure to satisfy the needs of any customer.
North Point fifth wheels are superb at using every inch of space. No space is wasted in these layouts, and there’s a wealth of storage, sleeping space, and neatly arranged furniture and appliances. Every model uses a good amount of slide-outs, and some of the larger fifth wheels use up to 6 slide-outs! They come in a range of sizes, but all of them are comfortable and spacious.
With warm wood accents, leather furniture, and carpeted sections of floor, Jayco North Points create a comfortable and visually appealing living space. You’ll always find space to relax with all of your conveniences within easy reach. These models also come with a wealth of upgraded features that customers can choose from.
King-sized beds, backup cameras, a 5,000-watt generator, and an exterior grill are just a few of the things you can get. There are also deluxe packages available that have huge catalogs of additional and upgraded amenities.
For more information on this fifth wheel brand, including photo galleries, product specifications, and comparisons of different floor plans, feel free to visit the company website here.
Most Popular Fifth Wheel Manufacturers
Now that we’ve covered some of the most popular fifth wheel models on the market, let’s explore some of the brands and companies that make these innovations possible.
The models listed above represent some of the most popular and well-received fifth wheels, but the manufacturers who made them deserve a shoutout too. Each of the companies on this list have been delivering high-quality recreational vehicles for years. There are a lot of places to look for travel trailers and fifth wheels, but there are a few companies you always know you can trust!
Grand Design RV
Grand Design Recreational Vehicles is a major name in the world of RVs. Their main products are travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers. Each of these categories is filled with high-quality brands that are constantly being updated and re-invented.
Their headquarters is based in Indiana, but they have a wide range of customers and business locations across the country. Local dealers for their brands are never too far away!
As part of their mission statement, Grand Design RV has several core values that guide the end result of their products. As a company, they strive to prioritize,
- Long Term Value
- Customer Focus
- Staying Connected
- Experienced Workforce
- Class-Leading Warranty
- Raising the Quality Bar
- Superior Service
When it comes to these standards, they really put their money where their mouth is! Many of their recreational vehicles have won awards for comfort and safety, and they frequently rank among the top sellers.
For more information on this manufacturer, including a list of their brands, additional history, business credentials, and contact information, feel free to visit their website here.
Keystone RV Company
Keystone RV Company is a top seller in the world of RVs, and for good reason! They specialize in travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and destination trailers. With a grand total of 29 brands (with tons of individual models included in each one), every customer is sure to find something that’s just right for them.
Keystone RV is committed to creating the best customer experience possible. They are very transparent in their business practices, and it’s incredibly easy to view product information on their website. Prices, upgrades, and detailed specifications and dimensions are no secret here!
As someone who has frequently struggled to find fifth wheels and travel trailers that fit specific needs, this information has been a lifesaver for me!
Keystone RV is also confident in the vehicles they manufacture. They guarantee a long haul quality for every purchase and have detailed and comprehensive warranties. They have confidence in their products so their customers can feel like they are in safe hands when they choose a Keystone RV!
They also strive to be on the cutting edge of innovation and re-imagination of what an RV can be. Updates are being released all the time and you can always expect to see something new just around the corner.
For more information on this manufacturer, including a list of their brands, additional history, business credentials, and contact information, feel free to visit their website here.
Forest River RV
Forest River RV is one of the broadest and best-stocked places to shop for an RV. They carry a huge range of brands, models, and RV types. You can find motorhomes, toy haulers, fifth wheels, travel trailers, destination trailers, and camping trailers here. If you’re looking for a recreational vehicle of any kind, Forest River has something for you!
With 44 unique brands, customers have no shortage of choices. Many of their brands and models have won awards in various competitions and RV comparison shows. Some models have even been decorated multiple times! Results like this speak volumes about the quality and design of their vehicles.
Forest River RV is a division of Forest River Inc. which has a wider range of product and services. The company was founded in 1996 and has been growing its catalog and loyal customer base ever since. Their mission is to help every RV owner enjoy their experience to the fullest!
One thing that sets Forest River RV apart from other companies is their large group of customers who have formed an interactive community. The Forest River Owners’ Group (or FROG) has amassed a grand total of more than 100,000 members now. They attend rallies and events for Forest River and have an interactive community where they can share their experience and network with other members.
This strong RV community is something that has attracted and satisfied many customers over the years.
For more information on this manufacturer, including a list of their brands, additional history, business credentials, and contact information, feel free to visit their website here.
Jayco
Jayco is another top name in the world of RV manufacturers. Their brands frequently rank among the most popular and reliable models on the market and there’s always more to explore.
With a mixture of travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and class A and C motorhomes, customers will always be sure to find something that’s perfect for them. With a total of 27 RV brands and a ton of models in each one, they have a large catalog of options.
The first Jayco product was made in 1968. It started as a family company and quickly grew from there. Throughout the decades, their brand has changed, adapted, and grown. Now they’re top manufacturers of luxury RVs with new innovations being released all the time.
One thing they’re very proud of at Jayco is the “Jayco Difference”. This is a set of qualities that they strive to instill in every RV they make. The four pillars of the “Jayco Difference” are,
- Quality: Unmatched engineering process, superior construction materials, and industry-leading warranties.
- Family: Family-friendly floor plans, a network of Jayco dealers, and a 50-year long tradition of serving families.
- Awards: 14-year winner of America’s bestselling travel trailer, 77 DSI award, and residents of the RV hall of fame.
- Sustainability: Commitment to reducing their carbon footprint, increasing RV fuel efficiency, and cutting down waste and energy consumption.
In all areas of their business, Jayco is working hard to provide customers with great products that will serve them well for years. They have high standards and work hard to maintain them!
For more information on this manufacturer, including a list of their brands, additional history, business credentials, and contact information, feel free to visit their website here.
Award-Winning Fifth Wheel Models
Sometimes popular models aren’t the ones that win awards and vice versa. It can be hard to objectively judge what makes the “best” fifth wheel on the market, but officially judged and decorated designs certainly deserve a shoutout in this article!
Below are some modern fifth wheel designs that have won awards for their stellar designs, user-friendly features, and balance of comfort and utility. Some of them are too new to rank among the most popular, but I can guarantee they’ll earn that position soon!
Keystone Alpine 3710KP
- Unladen Vehicle Weight: 13,884 lbs.
- Cargo Carrying Capacity: 2,616 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Fresh Water: 66 Gallons
- Grey Water: 78 Gallons
- Waste Water: 44 Gallons
This fifth wheel won a “Best of Show” award for its comfortable and well-divided floor plan. It’s honestly one of the best uses of space I’ve ever seen! Every section of the floor plan is perfectly separated from the other, with just enough connection to make everything flow smoothly.
The back end is occupied by a large master bedroom and bathroom. The bathroom is spacious and connected directly, to the bedroom. The bed sits partially in a slide-out, which creates additional space in the bedroom once everything it extended.
Next to the master bedroom is the spacious kitchen and dining area. It has a large island in the center of the room, with lots of space on every side. Appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a free-standing dinette ring the walls.
The living room and relaxation area lie at the end of a small hallway. Two tri-fold couches face across from each other, ready to convert to beds at any given time! A two-person theater seating couch completes the space. An entertainment center and fireplace sit along the far front wall, making this a great place to sit and hang out.
For more information on this fifth wheel, including similar floor plans, optional upgrades, photo galleries, and 3D virtual tours, feel free to visit the company website here.
Prime Time Crusader 330MBH
- Unladen Vehicle Weight: 10,783 lbs.
- Cargo Carrying Capacity: 2,842 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Fresh Water: 60 Gallons
- Grey Water: 73 Gallons
- Waste Water: 39 Gallons
This fifth wheel model is the proud winner of the “RV News New Unit Best of Show” award. It’s easy to see why it won when you consider its spacious and convenient design.
The front of this fifth wheel contains the main bedroom, which is carpeted for user comfort. The queen-sized bed is surrounded by a ton of storage space, including a large wardrove in an adjacent slide-out.
A bathroom sits in between the main bedroom and an additional room containing a bunk bed. The rest of the space is occupied by a combined living room and dining space. Opposing slide-outs expand this space and create a wide field of open space for the kitchen island.
Theater seating, a tri-fold sofa, a padded dinette, kitchenette, and entertainment center line the walls of this space. Overhead cabinets occupy the rest of the room, making this one of the best storage models on the market!
For more information on this fifth wheel, including similar floor plans, optional upgrades, photo galleries, and 3D virtual tours, feel free to visit the company website here.
Forest River Impression 34MID
- Unladen Vehicle Weight: 10,281 lbs.
- Cargo Carrying Capacity: 3,253 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- Fresh Water: 60 Gallons
- Grey Water: 73 Gallons
- Waste Water: 39 Gallons
This fifth wheel is the winner of, not just one, but two prestigious awards! It won the 2018 awards for “Best of Show” from both RV News and RV Pro. It’s double decorated and deserves every bit of praise it gets!
This floor plan utilizes 4 slide-outs to their fullest potential. This clears out a ton of open space in the layout, making everything easy to navigate and access.
The front of this fifth wheel contains the main bedroom. It’s carpeted for comfort and has a king bed surrounded by overhead storage, nightstands, and a large wardrobe.
A compact bathroom sits just outside this bedroom and an additional bedroom lies on the opposite side. A large closet, set of overhead cabinets, and hide-a-bed sofa fill this extra bedroom.
The remainder of the floor plan is occupied by a combined living space and kitchen. The middle of the room is spacious and clear except for a kitchen island and sink. Opposing slide-outs contain the kitchenette, entertainment center, theater seating, and dinette.
An additional hide-a-bed sofa sits along the far back wall, creating even more potential sleeping space. Overhead cabinets also ring many of the walls, maximizing the interior storage of this design.
For more information on this fifth wheel, including similar floor plans, optional upgrades, photo galleries, and 3D virtual tours, feel free to visit the company website here.
