E3 Camping Issue Q4 2020 | Page 55

How to Buy an RV
TRAVEL TRAILER : “ Travel trailer ” describes most towable RVs . They can be anywhere from about 12 to 30 + feet long . Their distinguishing feature is that they attach to a ball hitch behind the rear bumper of the tow vehicle , so they ’ re sometimes called “ bumper-pulls .” Most of the weight is behind the tow vehicle , which can lead to some instability . This is why you always want the right tow vehicle and a good weight distribution hitch .
FIFTH WHEEL OR GOOSENECK : Fifth wheels offer a more stable ride than travel trailers , since more of the weight is loaded in the truck bed ( the truck ’ s rear axle is the “ fifth wheel ” of the trailer ). However , fifth wheels are also taller and longer than most travel trailers , which means they ’ re more exposed to wind , low hanging trees , and overpasses .
TOY HAULER : The name “ toy hauler ” really just means that the rear wall of the RV folds down to create a ramp for a motorcycle , ATV , or other big toy you want to bring on your travels . Toy haulers come as both travel trailers and fifth wheels . In many of them , like our Grand Design Momentum from Season 7 , the garage serves double-duty as a bunkhouse or living room when you ’ re parked .
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