7 Best Travel Trailers to Buy in 2025 [+Brands to Avoid]

Jan 12

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Written By

Taylor Schlesinger

The most popular type of camper or RV on the market is a travel trailer and that being said, there are dozens of travel trailer brands to choose from.

Of course, you’ve probably heard of popular travel trailer brands like Airstream and Grand Design, but what you really need to know is which of these top-rated travel trailers are worth the money and which of these brands should you be avoiding.

After traveling the country in our RV full-time, we’ve got the insider experience on exactly what details everyone needs to consider when buying a travel trailer and which upgrades are actually worth having.

Most Reliable Travel Trailer Brands:

  • Airstream

  • Northwood Mfg

  • Lance

  • Outdoors RV

  • Grand Design

  • Casita

Best Travel Trailers

Best for: a luxury travel trailer for couples to families that will last for decades and has the best resale value

Overall Length: 23’ to 30’ (depending on model)
GVWR: 6000 to 8800 lbs
MSRP: $94,400 to $124,500

Pros:

  • best resale value of all trailer brands

  • plenty of layouts to choose from for couples to families

  • most aerodynamic and easy to tow for the size

  • features for those who work remotely

  • upgraded and modern appliances

Cons:

  • expensive entry price

  • no slides to give extra floor space

  • lower clearance not ideal for off-roading

  • smaller holding tanks than other brands on this list

Review:

There isn’t a more iconic travel trailer than the Airstream, and for good reason. No other trailer is going to hold its value, especially not over decades like the Airstream will.

Airstreams aren’t just a collector’s item either, they are actually built incredibly well from the aerodynamic “aircraft grade” aluminum alloy frame to the modern appliances and technology.

The “Flying Cloud” series has more floor plans than any other model and is perfect for couples to families alike. Yes, it is expensive, but no other travel trailer will hold its value like the Airstream. Even the second highest-rated travel trailer on this list (Lance) usually drops 30-50% in price after just 2 years, while Airstream takes 10+ years to drop that much in price.

While you can opt for the less expensive models of Airstream like the Bambi and Caravel, I think their features are lacking for the price and they are only suitable in size for couples. The Flying Cloud comes stock with the front rock guard, a walk-around queen-size bed, larger holding tanks, a tandem axle, a larger fridge, and more cargo-carrying capacity.

View on Airstream

2. Lance Travel Trailers (all models)

Top Feature: The best quality built trailer for the money

Overall Length: 20’ to 30’
GVWR: 4500 lbs to 8900 lbs
MSRP: starting at $45,000 (smallest model)

Pros:

  • built incredibly well and for longevity

  • can buy used for a much better price than Airstream

  • larger holding tanks

  • smaller sizes also have slide options

  • great for winter camping

Cons:

  • too heavy for most SUVs to tow these trailers

  • not as many layout options for families

Review:

Lance has carried the legacy of making top-rated truck campers for decades and since 2009 they have expanded to making travel trailers with the same expert quality.

Lance really goes for the details like making the entire cabinet out of real wood so it doesn’t fall apart on your first road trip (if you know, you know).

While there are a few reasons Airstream stays away from slides on a trailer, Lance is actually one of the few brands that reinforce the slides with quality construction so they don’t leak or jam on you after a year or two of consistent use.

Lance Travel Trailers also come standard with an All-Weather Package for 4 season camping, Goodyear radial tires, tinted Thermopane windows, and a front opening window for stargazing. You can also add the solar package with 190-watt panels, a 1500W inverter, and lithium batteries.

The entry price for most models is going to be less than Airstream, but you won’t find the same resale value as you will with an Airstream. With that said, that also means you can find used 2017-2020 models in great condition for around $25,000-$30,000.

View trailers on Lance

Best for: a high-end and spacious travel trailer for full-time living

Overall Length: 33’10” to 37’11”
GVWR: 9,995 lb to 11,295 lb
MSRP: starting at $50,000

Pros:

  • incredible quality and design for the price

  • large 16.4 cubic ft residential fridge

  • washer/dryer prepped

  • slides are in perfect location to feel extra roomy

  • roof-mounted solar panels are standard on select models

Cons:

  • rig is fairly large to be towing more than once a month

  • bunk models only offer a queen size master bed

  • small holding tanks for families that also plan to dry camp

Review:

Grand Design is one of the higher-end RV brands and they somehow can make luxury still affordable.

Their travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers offer the perfect layout for couples and families alike. Grand Design keeps its interior design modern yet classic with a quality-built frame, cabinets, and furniture.

The Reflection series is nice for those who plan to stay in place for longer periods of time given their large bodies, numerous slides, and residential features like the large electric-only fridge.

If you are looking for a travel trailer that is easier to tow and better for traveling more often, take a look at their Imagine series.

The Reflection 312BHTS model seems to be the perfect layout for either a family or remote working couple as the bunkhouse can be converted to your needs.

It offers a fridge that is the same size you’d find in most homes, a washer/dryer option, and 3 slides that open up the living space significantly. Additionally, there is a full entertainment system with a 40” TV, fireplace, and theater seating.

View at Grand Design

Top Feature: best built trailer for cold winters

Overall Length: 23’10” to 34’4″
GVWR: 7500 lb to 11,000 lb
MSRP: starting at $52,000

Pros:

  • best built trailer for full-time living in all seasons

  • large holding tanks for dispersed camping

  • Aerodynamic One Piece Front Cap

Cons:

  • layouts aren’t good for families

  • some interior models look a little rustic

Review:

If there is one thing Northwood Mfg is most proud of, it’s their superior construction of travel trailers.

They are one of the very few “true” 4-season travel trailers to withstand RVing in the cold winters and the build there trailers with quality in mind first vs looks.

The aerodynamic, aluminum frame makes a significance difference in lessening trailer sway and drag when you’re towing this large of a trailer.

Additionally, because Northwood prides themselves on quality, you’ll find luxury upgrades throughout like a real porcelain toilet, heated holding tanks in fully enclosed underbelly, Goodyear tires, extremely nice cabinets made with residential frame construction and real wood cabinet/drawer fronts.

A small solar panels comes stock, but we’d recommend the upgrading to add 400 watts of solar panels or the generator if you plan on going off-grid in your trailer.

View floorplans on Northwood

5. inTech RV Terra

Best for: those who like the Airstream but need a more affordable price

GVWR: 7500 lbs
Overall Length: 26’
MSRP: $61,600
Holding Tanks: 44 fresh/39 grey/39 black (gal.)

Pros:

  • built on an all-aluminum frame

  • Rover models adds 3” lift

  • aerodynamic making it easier to tow

  • off-grid package adds 400W of solar and 200aH lithium battery

Cons:

  • not enough outdoor storage

  • the bathroom and shower space is tight

  • no bedroom door

Review:

If you like the quality, look, and longevity of an Airstream, but don’t want to spend the money, the inTech Terra travel trailers are a great option!

They are made with a high-end all-aluminum fully welded cage frame that is lightweight, corrosion resistant, and incredibly durable.

While small, the multiple wrap around windows and sleek cabinetry make the trailer seem much bigger. Other standards I really like are the heated underbelly and tank heaters, the extremely durable woven flooring, and the two oversized twin bed option.

While there is plenty of cargo carrying capacity, there isn’t much outdoor storage space. Another con is the shower space is very small, but I personally don’t care as I’m not spending much time in the shower when I’m out camping.

The Terra is offered in a smaller 22’ model (Magnolia) and the 26’ model (Willow) . The biggest different is the bed layout and room to walk around the bed.

With either model, I’d recommend going with the Rover package to get +3” of ground clearance, blackout wheels and better tires. Additionally, the off-grid package is very nice as it’ll add 400 watts of solar panels, (2) 100aH lithium batteries, and a 2000W inverter.

Full Details: inTech Terra Willow

➔ Read: 25 Most Useful Travel Trailer Accessories

Best for: those wanting to haul toys and need a durable trailer for off-road adventures

Overall Length: 33’2”
GVWR: 13,995 lb
MSRP: $75,000

Pros:

  • extremely durable and built for the off-road

  • a “true” 4-season weather package

  • roof-mounted 170 watt solar panel comes standard

  • 8’x11’ storage space for side by side or motorcycles

  • large holding tanks: 100 fresh/65 grey/40 black (gal.)

Cons:

  • smaller company that cannot produce as many

  • semi-outdated interior design

  • no slides to give a larger living space

Review:

Outdoors RV is a fairly new Oregon-based company that started in 2009, but they have quickly made a name for itself as being built incredibly well.

They specifically set out to create the best travel trailers that are designed for the rugged mountain states and western Canada. Meaning they have a true 4-season weather package to withstand harsh winters and come standard with high-end 16″ G range GoodYear tires, an off-road x4 MorRyde suspension, and 6800lb axles to give you peace of mind when going off the beaten path.

When it comes to fun, you can easily load up your toys on the non-slip ramp and you’ll be all set with the onboard Cummins Onan 4K Generator and 40 gallon fuel station.

Once you’re at camp, turn the ramp into a fully surrounded patio with its own entry step and rear awning.

And if you are worried about having to close up the patio every time you leave the trailer behind, no need, as this model is built with a sliding rear patio door with a tint and lock.

View on Outdoor RV

7. Update Coming soon…

Best for:

Overall Length: 25’
GVWR: xx lbs
MSRP: $

Pros:

  • best off-road capabilities and upgrades

  • huge freshwater tank

  • 300 watts roof-mounted solar panels

  • king size master bed

Cons:

Review:


If you’re in the market for a new RV, you will do best by avoiding travel trailers made by Palomino and the RV giant known as Forest River that also owns and makes 45+ additional trailer brands.

While there is always a few exceptions to the rule like the Rockwood series, for the most part quantity far surpasses quality for Forest River.

I know the affordable price tag for most of their travel trailers can be attractive, but these are the travel trailers I see people regret buying as they tend to break down after a year and don’t hold their value after two years (just read the comments below).

I’d also recommend staying away from travel trailer models with terms like “ultra-lite” as usually these are made with more plywood than wood and lower quality flooring, insulation, and paneling to make them lighter while still being larger.


  • Know your tow vehicle: IMPORTANT! you must know the towing capacity and payload of your tow vehicle before you buy a trailer. Ideally, you want a trailer with a GVWR that doesn’t exceed 90% of your vehicle’s towing capacity so you aren’t putting as much strain on your vehicle’s transmission or brakes.

    For example, if your truck says it has a 8000 lb towing capacity, you’ll want to aim for trailer with a GVWR of 7200lbs or less. The GVWR will include the weight of the trailer itself, any items or gear you put into the trailer when towing, and the weight of the liquid in the holding tanks.

  • How much water do you need: most people don’t realize having bigger holding tanks for fresh, grey, and black is a huge benefit when camping.
    Unless you plan to stay at RV parks with full hookups or only camp 2 nights at a time, you should consider having a freshwater tank that holds at least 25 gallons for 2 people. Personally, we average about 3 gallons of water per person per day (from consumption to cleaning).

  • Decide if you’ll need higher clearance: do you plan to go boondocking or down dirt roads with your travel trailer? If so, you are going to want a travel trailer with higher clearance and upgrade to all-terrain tires.

  • Length restraints: Obviously the bigger the trailer the more space and features, but that also comes with a tradeoff. The longer the trailer the more complicated it is to park and the likelihood it will sway when towing. Most campgrounds, especially state and national parks, have very few (if any) spots for trailers over 30 feet. Lastly, if you plan to park your trailer at home when not camping, make sure your HOA doesn’t have restrictions.

  • Explore the trailer in person: go to an RV dealer, or even better, an RV expo so you can physically get inside and test different travel trailers to know what you really need vs want.

  • Make a list of your must-haves: it can get overwhelming when looking at so many different models so create a spreadsheet of the different models you’re interested in and note if they have your wants/needs.

Final Thoughts:

I suggest going into Facebook groups or googling the specific RV you’re interested in to see forums (such as Reddit) of current owners and their thoughts before buying any RV.

There are always bad apples, but if you are reading more bad than good experiences that should be your warning sign.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about a specific travel trailer brand or model and we’ll let you know if we have any experiences with it to help you in your buying decision.

Taylor Schlesinger

An adventure seeker and nomad who created this blog, Nomads in Nature, to be a source of inspiration for epic hikes, camping, RV or van life, and where to go on your next adventure vacation! A professional wilderness guide and part-time traveler.

90 thoughts on “7 Best Travel Trailers to Buy in 2025 [+Brands to Avoid]”

  1. Good article and I agree with your thoughts but a mzjor decision of an RV purchase is customer support and warranty work. Keystone RV has a horrible reputation for their lack of owner support and warranty promises after the purchase.

    Reply
    • Thanks! Yes we had a Keystone as well and didn’t love the customer service but the warranty did come through when our tires blew up. Sadly most RV companies have terrible customer service and even worse manufacturing, which is why this list of our top-rated travel trailers is so short.

      Reply
  2. Im interested in the kz sportsmen 160QB I can only yow 3500lbs so I need something light weight. Can you tell me anything about the kz brand?

    Reply
    • KZ is a middle of the road brand. I’m not sure about that specific trailer but as a brand they are going to be similar to Keystone. I think if you are slightly handy (or willing to try) you’ll be fine especially with that small of a trailer. The stock tires for these more affordable trailers are usually off brand and cheaper quality so you’ll want to replace them sooner than later. I still highly recommend trying to find a Reddit thread with people who own that specific model to get some first hand reviews.

      Reply
  3. Great article, thanks. You didn’t mention Grand Design’s Transcend. What do you think about it?

    Reply
    • Hi Nancy, unfortunately I’m not as familiar with the Transcend so I can’t give you too much input. I suggest typing that make and model into google and look for Reddit or Facebook threads where people own this trailer and give their opinions.

      Reply
  4. I didn’t see Jayco listed here as a brand to buy or stay away from, do you have any opinions on that brand?

    I am looking to purchase and RV that I can rent out when not able to travel, so needs to hold value and be popular enough that it gets interest.

    Well written article, thank you.

    Reply
    • I think Jayco is a good brand as well. I do think they are overpriced for what you get though. I’d suggest going with the Grand Design instead.

      Reply
    • We had a Crossroads Cruiser fifth wheel and loved it! They are under the Keystone brand and a middle to upper quality. In two years, we only had to change the tires and put better supports for the interior shelving since we go off road a lot. I definitely think Crossroads is a nice bang for your buck.

      Reply
  5. Pretty broad stroke you are painting on Forest River. I personally own one and it is the best I have had out of 8 travel trailers.

    Reply
  6. Can I ask you about Rockwood ,I know Forest River but I heard they were the best im buying just for me so was looking at yes the mini lites by Rockwood price in mid 30s AND up I just read a review on Grand design transcend was told stay away. Now I don’t know. Is heartland better ? Any advice on affordable for one person having it parked at a gated community hooked up. Thank you for your great advice 🙏🏻

    Reply
    • If you aren’t going to be driving the trailer often then you won’t have nearly as much of a concern. I agree that Rockwoods do seem to be a better model of Forest River so I think if you really love the layout and price then it could definitely be worth buying.
      Ideally, it would be nice to see it in person first. In my own experience, we loved the layout/price of the Artic Wolf but once we saw it in person at the dealership (brand new), it already had trim falling down, seals broken and the wood was very thin and scratched.

      Reply
  7. Hello I have a Living Light toy hauler best trailer I seen all aluminum even the roof mine weight is 2200 Lbs can carry 2200 Lbs toung weight 400 imine is only 20 ‘ box you can order these trailers all differance ways

    Reply
  8. Which brand/design would you recommend for a family of 6 but Dad is 6’5"? The only one we’ve found that he feels completely comfortable walking around in is the Palomino River Ranch (5th wheel) that is newer and has 7′ ceilings throughout. Is there anything comparable in a better brand?

    Reply
    • My husband is also 6’5 so when living in one full-time we like the fifth wheel best because they do have the highest ceilings. There are a lot of better brands though than a Palomino and all fifth wheels will have a high enough ceiling (only the ceiling area over the hitch may be too short). If you’re on a budget I recommend looking into Keystone, Crossroads, or KZ.

      Reply
  9. Hello gosh thank you so much for the information you have great knowledge. I’m looking at RVs to be parked at a campground. Plugged in always, it’s just myself. I Love the look of the yes I know. Forest River Rockwood mini lite .. all you said stay away , but I happen to be at the campground Saturday and someone was selling a huge painted even on the front of this fifth wheel it said sierra , it was 40’ long 5 slides tons of space , couple already has a motor home for 40$000 but it’s a 2015 model. What would you look at ? I do need some guidance instead of a lying dealer 😞 any advice would be greatly appreciated. Blessings and happy camping .

    Reply
  10. I put 25,000 miles on a 2015 27’ fifth wheel palomino puma and had zero problems. One flat tire. Great floor plan. Sold it for what I paid for it after four years. Great size holding tanks. 21’ forest river travel trailer owned previously was junk.

    Reply
  11. Hello I am looking at a 2017 Heartland North Trail. Do you have thoughts on that one?

    Reply
    • Hi Leann! just above your comment, our reader – Linda Cravitz gave some input on the North Trail.

      Reply
  12. Leah, be careful with North Trail. Many of them come with a fridge that only works when you can plug your trailer in to campground electricity. This makes boondocking difficult, and modifying it is a very expensive proposition. Generators can only be operated during certain hours, if at all.

    Reply
  13. I’m considering buying a second hand 2019 Prime Time avenger 32den. Any thoughts or experiences with these?

    Reply
  14. Rookie travel trailer buyer (okay, I bought one off my aunt 20 years ago for the deer camp) currently in the research phase, so this article helps immensely. Thanks. Plus an older salesman already scared me off a couple brands you mentioned at the end.
    Can I buy the unicorn I have in my mind? haha
    16 to 20 feet, shower and toilet inside, large/queen-size bed, 2-3 burner gas stove & oven, large size fridge/freezer… 4,000 GVWR (My truck will pull 5,000 lbs MAX)…. without breaking the bank??? As I said… Rookie.

    Reply
    • I think there is definitely some options based on your wants, especially if you buy used. I would look into brands like Keystone (like the Bullet models), Crossroads or Winnebago for more affordable options that are still made more reputable.
      While I do love a slide, it does add a lot of extra weight so you may want to look in trailers with no slides if the other amenities are more important to you.
      RVtrader is a great app/website where you can narrow down the length, GVWR and price (but try not to over select options like queen size bed).

      Reply
  15. 2017 Forest River Salem Vista is the biggest piece of shit I’ve ever owned. I had a water leak that dripped on the stove, bedroom slide is off kilter a bit, siding is dull and faded, fake wood trim paper is separated and torn on the slide out trim, flickering led light in bathroom.air conditioner wasn’t fully charged when new, cheap plastic lower brackets for curtains broke,

    Reply
  16. Just put a down payment on a Springdale Keystone BH… and now finding more reviews that are negative than good and may be changing my mind …Any thoughts? Need something that can be lived in more than just used occasionally so something very durable and good for up to a $500-$600 a month. Any suggestions or advice?

    Reply
    • Keystone in my opinion, has got to be the worst manufacturer as far as Quality goes. Google the best rated RV trailers and choose from there. I would avoid Keystone at all possible cost. If I could, I would trade mine in for something different because I’m always waiting for the next thing to go wrong. When I called the company, they just tell me to go back to the dealer. The dealer is three hours away and will not come to where I have it parked as a seasonal campground because they said I’m out of their service area. So it’s just a back-and-forth of no help at all.

      Reply
      • Yes I would agree that Keystone has some great trailer and some not so great. Which specific trailer do you own? Also, the dealers are worthless 9 out of 10 times after you’ve bought your trailer. You really have to rely on the warranty and being able to go to your choosing of repairman, not just the dealer you bought from.

        Reply
    • Yea I’ve heard the same about the Springdale line. Look into the Cougar line by Keystone.

      Reply
    • Hi Bill, we aren’t too familiar with the LIV campers to give an official comment or recommendation on them. I suggest finding a dealer or RV show nearby that has them onsite. And, as always, do some internet research in FB groups or reddit.

      Reply
  17. Had a Shasta Revere for the last eight years. Another Forest River POS. After 2 years, the paint peeled off in the front, luckily it still on warrenty and the dealer repainted it after I called Forest River. The living slide roof rotted out in front just after 3 years. Another leak I had to repair in the front bedroom (getting the mattress wet). The propane regulator failed. The hot water relief valve started leaking and had to be replaced. The living room slide hangs up on one side when retracting. The list goes on and on. This year I decided to upgrade and get a new camper because I didn’t want to make payments on a deteriating camper anymore. I take delivery on a year old Grand Design Imagine this weekend at $15000 less than a new one. I’m estatic! Campers are a lousy investment anyway, but life is short. At least I think this will be the last camper I buy at my age in retirement and its a good one.

    Reply
  18. We are thinking about buying a Montana 5th wheel any advice on this brand. First time campers an we have two special needs children that we are wanting to make sure there is space in the camper for them to be able to move at free will

    Reply
    • Hi Mitch, Montana’s are INCREDIBLE campers!Probably the best line that Keystone has made year after year.

      Reply
  19. Can you comment on Casita for 2 adults and a large dog. We’d like a 4 season trailer.

    Reply
    • The Casita’s are great little campers. Some of our close friends travel 8 months out of the year in one with their 55lb Aussie and love it! As long as you aren’t over 6′ tall or plan to go off-roading too much (not the highest clearance) I would definitely consider a Casita!

      Reply
  20. I am curious if a Venture Sporttrek ST333VIK is a good travel trailer. We are looking for bunk and 1.5 baths which is hard to find.

    Reply
  21. So would the Geo Pro & No Boundaries models fall into the poor quality category? We just took a brief tour of a Geo Pro and it certainly seemed more stout than the 2011 Keystone Cougar 5th wheel that we got rid of a few years ago. Maybe that’s just because the methods of construction are overall better 10+ years later?

    Reply
    • Yea Cougar has definitely come a long way in 10 years. I do think the Geo Pros look really cool, but based on reviews of current owners (you can google reddit pages or FB groups too) I would steer clear of Geo Pro.

      Reply
  22. I have been looking for a while. I seen an online demonstration of a model called twilight. It is made by Thor. I like the airstream and my other pick is the outdoorsman. Was wondering if you have heard anything about the twilight models?

    Reply
    • Hi, I haven’t heard anything about the twilight models, but I do know Thor is hit or miss.

      Reply
  23. Hello do you have comments or info on the forest river alpha wolf 2022 23 bus trailer please?

    Reply
    • Hi! As mentioned above, I would probably avoid Forest Rivers, including the alpha wolf line.

      Reply
  24. I plan on moving to west Texas and live in a trailer for maybe a couple of years. Yesterday a salesmen wanted to sell me a Grand Design. He said the Airstream collects moister and gets wet inside from condensation due to being built with double layer of aluminum on inside and out. Any thoughts.

    Reply
    • You will need to be careful with condensation in all trailers. Be careful with RV salesman, most of them don’t even own an RV or haven’t purchased a new one in 10+ years. You’d have better luck speaking with someone in the maintenance area of the RV dealer.

      Reply
  25. My wife and I are looking for a trailer to take to Florida to stay over night on the 800 mile trip each way. Three dogs makes hotels impactable. We are looking at the Lance 1575. 2013, 2015 & 2017 are available on Facebook. Are they trailers up for the task of lots of mile. What kind of maintenance can I expect?

    Reply
    • Yes, I list the Lance Travel Trailers above as being one of the best seven on this list. They are incredibly well-built trailers and the company has great customer service as well.

      Reply
    • We have a lance 1685 that we really love. And things that we hate. The things we hate are not defects with the trailer but simple annoyances. Examples are too little food prep space, not having an island bed, and the curtain in the shower. They all do the job, but in our 80’s we find them difficult at our age.
      That said, we have not had any issues with the trailer in 7 years of use. We have travelled from NH to Florida 2 times each year with many stops in between. Some snow storms encountered, wind, rain, and this trailer has really stood up well, It still looks like as well as it did when we picked it up.
      We store it inside, heated when home. I cannot say enough about our experiences with this Lance unit. Be advised that Lance also has been sold and it appears that things have changed. Again, would I buy this unit again. I would if the 2155 model was still available for it cures all of our dislikes with the unit we love. None of our dislikes are because of workmanship. This is not a great trailer but a super built trailer.

      Reply
  26. How about Artic Fox? I’m looking for a good long trip, trips senior citizen friendly bumper pull?

    Reply
    • If I added another trailer to this list it would be one built by Northwood Mfg as they make incredible quality trailers. I mention them at the very top of this article as being one of the best-built brands overall. With that said, I do personally prefer the layouts of their fifth wheels over the travel trailers, but either way you’re getting a great product from Northwood.

      Reply
  27. You should defiantly of picked Rockwood/Flagstaff over grand design all day. Grand design uses wood trusts and leaf spring axels where as Rockwood’s are 6pt aluminum trusts and independent axels!

    Reply
  28. Could someone give some insight on a Dutchmen Colorado 5th wheel camper. We use to own a kz Durango. And wasn’t impressed with that one.

    Reply
  29. Thanks for this article, I was wondering if you know anything about Intech RV’s? We were interested in the Willow model.
    Thank you! Karen O.

    Reply
    • Intech is the best rival to the Airstream brand and I personally really like the model with 2 twin size beds that make into a king. I also like the “rover” as it lifts the trailer 3” and really helps for clearance issues in state parks.

      Reply
  30. I’m curious about the negative review for all Forest River models. When looking we have spent a lot of time looking at the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro. The sales people touted the quality of the construction and the non-assembly line approach to construction. As we look on the used market we see prices holding up better and the number up for resale being pretty limited. Is this one model an exception?

    Reply
    • I cannot say it enough- be careful about salesman!! I have better experiences buying cars than RVs if that tells you something.
      And no, the epro is no exception to the Forest River lineup. I can tell you first hand while that model looks great and has a nice floor plan it has only served my family poorly. And Forest River is the epitome of using an assembly line approach. I would stay away from that dealership.

      Reply
  31. What are your thoughts on the Oliver brand? Looks very high-end. How does it stack up against Airstream? Thanks for the great article

    Reply
    • I really have grown to like the Oliver brand of trailers and the few people I know that own them have great things to say. It won’t hold it’s value like an airstream, but if the model you’re looking at is more affordable and more ideal layout then I would definitely consider the Oliver!

      Reply
  32. What about InTech Terra I heard they are great quality and they look amazing and modern but I am not sure ab their insulation and plywood vs particle board. Any thoughts?

    Reply
    • LOVE the in tech! I’ve added them to this since updating it a year ago!

      Reply
  33. I’m seriously considering trading in my winnebago (It’s garbage) for a Grand Design "Imagine". I looked at it this morning, and am quite impressed with it. Your thoughts?

    Reply
    • I’ve had my eye on the Grand Design Imagine 17MKE myself. It’s such a great layout for a small trailer under 5000 lbs. And no matter which model you go with Grand Design makes incredibly built travel trailers!

      Reply
  34. Great sight!!
    Hey looking to downsize to smaller trailer. Kind have narrowed it down to grand design imagine 17 mke or Winnebago 2108ds. I like the dual axle design for pulling from past experiences watching people with single axle trailers with no tongue, weight swerve all over the damn road. My truck has a gcwr of 12900lbs. Plus have receiver hitch with dual sway bars to keep this issue at Bay. Any thoughts muchly appreciated thanks. Umpa 🤔again great comments.

    Reply
    • I’m personally eyeing the GD 17mke myself so I would definitely recommend this trailer. The Winnebago design and function just doesn’t do it for me, it’s very “ikea” style (plain and basic).

      Reply
  35. I have owned several travel trailers over the years. Those Rv’s began to grow bigger & better as my life & budget had gotten better. My 1st unit was a used hi-bred Starcraft, with the next 3 being used & leftover model’s Forest River travel trailers. My Biggest Regret in 2021 was when we traded in our 2018 Forest River TT to buy a brand new $50k Keystone Cougar! I would Not take a Keystone product for Free after the experience that we had with their product!! We camped 2X, then we took the unit back to the dealership for warranty work to be performed, That was 3yrs. ago, & the dealership still has our unit, plus we have had no choice but to file a lawsuit (which if anyone has been in our shoes & tried to sue a dealership, knows or found out all the fine print contracts that we all sign when we buy something is really screwing ourselves by signing) Basically there was NO warranty! If I had my way, I would take my Forest River back & keep it 10 more years, However it was SOLD within a few hours of us trading the unit in. Forest River is a great co, It’s like with anything I suppose buyer beware. There’s good & bad with every manufacturer. I can honestly say that we had a Horrible experience with Keystone, we haven’t had a RV for 3yrs. now but we are still paying for it, we are also paying an attorney, so there’s no way that we can afford to buy another RV until we get this all settled whether we trade it in or sell it (we loose a ton of $$) & to me the worst part of it all is the lost time of the last 3yrs that we missed relaxing & camping with our friends. Keystone has taken that away because they are holding our unit hostage at the dealership!

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    • there are SO many bunk options available. I think it’s even more overwhelming to narrow down BH models. It would be helpful to know the ages of kids sleeping in the bunks and length/weight you’re trying to stay under.

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  36. Airstream was bought by Thor. Thor is not a good brand. I might be wrong but you can probably expect the quality to be lower over time as their executives pillage airstreams quality controls.

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    • Thor acquired Airstream in 1980….. they must be taking their time on “lowering quality”

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  37. The Cassita was listed at the top of the article but I did not see a review for it. Am i missing something?

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    • I just mentioned it is one of the best made travel trailer brands, but didn’t have a specific model in mind to put in the top 7 list.

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  38. We have a Grand Design Momentum 351 and we have had a nightmare experience with it, cannot afford to keep wearing out tires in 5000 miles or less! The shackles were not put on correctly from the manufacturer and have caused us all kinds of problems!

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    • Sorry to hear that. Sadly, no RV brand is perfect and there is always a “dud” that happens in the mix. I do know Grand Design has pretty great customer service so hopefully you’ve been able to reach out to them to get some help.

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  39. Escape (made in Canada), and Oliver (made in Tennessee) should be on this list. Oliver is better made than Airstream. Both Oliver and Escape retain their value.

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  40. I have had many Travel Trailers over the last 30 Yeas. The Grand Design is without a drought the best Quality. Grand Design has been quick with making any repairs and warranty work. Most on my trailers I would sell them after 5 years. I’ve now had mine for over 5 years and I’m looking for many more years of worrier free travel.

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    • this is personally my favorite trailer brand when it comes to quality for the price. I also love the different layout options they offer!

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    • sorry Rodney I don’t have much info to give a solid opinion on Liv Travel Trailers

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  41. Hi Taylor,
    What about the Avenger model, or Coleman? We are first time RV buyers and looking to spend under 30 G for traveling after retirement later this year.
    Thank you for your help!
    James

    Reply

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