Fifth Wheel Buying Guide

Before you can enjoy adventures with a 5th wheel, you need to pick a model that suits your needs. It can be tough navigating the many different options, however, especially if this is your first RV purchase.

Here at Camp Site RV, we strive to make your life easier. We gathered the following tips to assist in your shopping process. Use the below strategies to help narrow your search to a more manageable number of choices.

For personalized model recommendations or to explore fifth wheels for sale, visit our dealership. We are based in Cresco, Iowa. 

Start With Your Tow Vehicle

A given tow vehicle may not be able to accommodate every possible fifth wheel.

First, you'll need a tow vehicle with an open truck bed. That's because the 5th wheel hitch gets installed directly onto a truck bed.

Second, you'll need to make sure that you're within the tow vehicle's weight requirements. Exceeding the weight restrictions is illegal and dangerous. Remember that the weight limitation includes the weight of passengers and cargo, not just the fifth wheel. You don't want to get too heavy of a 5th wheel and end up limited in the supplies you can bring along for the vacation.

Consider the Size of the Fifth Wheel

Fifth wheels come in a variety of sizes, which leads to a variety of perks.

Small fifth wheels are often more maneuverable than their larger counterparts. They're also easier to store when you're not using them. 

On the other hand, large 5th wheels often have more features and more living space. If you plan on spending a lot of time using your fifth wheel, you may want to opt for a larger model.

Determine Your Budget

Of course, one of the most important factors in any purchase is cost. Fifth wheels can range widely in price, so it's important to set a budget before you start shopping.

A new fifth wheel will usually be between $35,000 and $100,000. A used fifth wheel will usually be about 20% less than its original asking price.

Once you know how much you're willing to spend, you can begin narrowing down your fifth wheel options accordingly.

Prioritize Your Features

All fifth wheels come with different features. Think about which features are most important to you and your family. Your must-have features list can include anything from bunk beds to an outdoor kitchen.

When you're ready to start fifth wheel shopping, make your way to Camp Site RV. We carry a wide selection of 5th wheels and can help you choose your perfect match. Contact us or stop by our dealership to get started. We are located in Cresco, Iowa. We also proudly serve those in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Rochester, Minnesota, and La Crosse, Wisconsin.