Understanding Fifth Wheel Camper Weights: Average Expectations

The average weight of a 5th wheel camper varies depending on its size. Small 5th wheel campers, which are under 35 feet, weigh around 9,000 pounds on average, while large 5th wheel campers, which are over 35 feet, weigh about 12,000 pounds on average. The smallest 5th wheel campers weigh as little as 5,000 pounds, whereas the largest can weigh up to 16,000 pounds.

Lightweight fifth-wheel campers weigh around 9,000 pounds or less

Lightweight fifth-wheel campers are very appealing, and for good reason. They are typically under 9,000 pounds, making them easier to tow and manoeuvre, and they are also more fuel-efficient. This weight range means that they can often be towed by a half-ton pickup truck, rather than a more expensive three-quarter-ton or one-ton truck.

However, the trade-off with lightweight fifth-wheel campers is that they can feel a little stripped back and small. Some of the less expensive models can feel like an overgrown travel trailer with a more costly hitch. That being said, there are some lightweight options that are thoughtfully designed and made with lightweight, durable materials.

• The 2019 Forest River / Cherokee Arctic Wolf 245RK4: Weighing in at 7,928 lbs (dry weight), with a GVWR of 9,900 lbs and a hitch weight of 1,345 lbs.
• The Jayco Eagle HTX 26RLX: With a dry weight of 7,915 lbs and a hitch weight of 1,450 lbs. Jayco is a well-known and trusted name in the RV industry.
• The Forest River Arctic Wolf 265DBH8: Weighing 8,284 lbs and measuring 31.9 ft.
• The Jayco Eagle HT 24.5CKTS: Weighing 7,530 lbs and measuring 29.5 ft.
• The Grand Design Reflection 150 Series 290BH: Weighing 8,294 lbs and measuring 34.0 ft.
• The Escape 5.OTA: Weighing 3,885 lbs and measuring 21.2 ft.

When considering a lightweight fifth-wheel camper, it's important to keep in mind the features that are important to you. Adding features will increase the weight, so if you need to sleep multiple people, for example, a lightweight option may not be the best choice.

Mid-size fifth-wheel campers weigh between 9,000 and 14,000 pounds

Mid-size fifth-wheel campers are a great option for those who want to travel with a balance of space and comfort without investing in a motorhome. These campers offer a spacious feel and ample storage space, both inside and out. When it comes to weight, mid-size fifth-wheel campers typically fall between 9,000 and 14,000 pounds. This weight range is important to consider when choosing a suitable tow vehicle, as it will impact the strain on your truck and your overall manoeuvrability.

Mid-size fifth-wheel campers offer a step up from lightweight options, which typically weigh 9,000 pounds or less. By opting for a mid-size camper, you gain access to additional features and comforts. These campers often include dual axles and provide more bells and whistles than their lightweight counterparts. Some common features in this weight class include additional slides, Corian countertops, residential-sized refrigerators, upgraded furniture, crown moulding, computer workstations, generous bunk rooms, and king-sized beds.

When choosing between a mid-size and lightweight fifth-wheel camper, it's essential to consider your lifestyle needs, desired upgrades, and floor plan preferences. While lightweight campers offer advantages such as ease of towing and manoeuvrability, mid-size campers provide a more spacious and feature-rich option.

It's worth noting that the weight of a mid-size fifth-wheel camper will also depend on the length of the camper. Mid-size campers typically range from 33 feet to 41 feet in length, with weights generally increasing as the length extends. Additionally, the weight distribution within the camper can impact the overall towing experience.

When deciding on a fifth-wheel camper, it's crucial to consider not only the weight of the camper but also the towing capacity of your truck. Ensure that your truck's payload capacity can accommodate the pin weight of the camper, which can range from around 1,200 pounds to upwards of 3,500 pounds for mid-size options.

In summary, mid-size fifth-wheel campers offer a range of features and amenities that make them a popular choice for individuals and families who want to travel in comfort and style. With weights between 9,000 and 14,000 pounds, they provide a step up from lightweight options while still being towable by suitable trucks. When making your decision, carefully consider your needs, preferences, and the capabilities of your tow vehicle to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Full-size, luxury fifth-wheel campers weigh 12,000 pounds or more

Fifth-wheel trailers are a popular type of RV, offering space and comfort without the need to invest in a motorhome. These RVs are designed to be towed by a full-size pickup truck.

Full-size, luxury fifth-wheel campers are sometimes called "Luxury Fifth Wheels" and can weigh anywhere from 12,000 pounds to as much as 22,000 pounds. These trailers often include a wide range of features to compete with luxury motorhomes.

When purchasing a full-size, luxury fifth-wheel camper, it is important to consider the towing capacity of your truck. These trailers typically require a three-quarter-ton or one-ton truck with a powerful diesel engine to handle the weight safely.

• The Redwood by Thor Industries RW388ES: Dry weight of 14,514 lbs. and a hitch weight of 2,580 lbs.
• Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Camper 377RLBH: Dry weight of 14,040 lbs. and a hitch weight of 2,885 lbs.
• Forest River Cardinal Fifth Wheel 3950TZX: Dry weight of 14,446 lbs. and a hitch weight of 2,755 lbs.
• Redwood RW390/3901MB: Weight of 14,510 lbs. and a length of 40.2 ft.
• Jayco Pinnacle 38REFS: Weight of 13,685 lbs. and a length of 42.8 ft.
• DVR Luxury Suite 44 Memphis: Weight of 19,800 lbs. and a length of 44.2 ft.

These luxury models offer spacious and comfortable living with innovative technology, superior craftsmanship, full-sized appliances, and more. They provide a true home-away-from-home experience for those seeking a luxurious camping adventure.

Small fifth-wheel campers weigh 5,000-9,000 pounds

Small fifth-wheel campers are advantageous because they maximise the use of space, are generally safer, and are easier to turn. They are also more lightweight and fuel-efficient, making them a popular choice for those who want to travel with space and comfort without investing in a motorhome.

Small fifth-wheel campers typically weigh between 5,000 and 9,000 pounds. The lightest fifth-wheel campers can weigh as little as 2,400 pounds, while the heaviest can exceed 20,000 pounds. The average weight of a fifth-wheel camper is between 12,000 and 15,000 pounds.

The weight of a fifth-wheel camper will depend on its characteristics, features, and other critical details. Lightweight fifth-wheel campers tend to weigh 9,000 pounds or less, while mid-size fifth-wheel campers weigh more than 9,000 pounds and less than 14,000 pounds. Full-size, luxury fifth-wheel campers are at the heavier end, weighing 12,000 pounds or more, with some reaching close to 20,000 pounds.

The Escape 5.0, for example, is a small fifth-wheel camper with a gross weight of 5,500 pounds. The Scamp 19 Deluxe is another lightweight option, weighing only 3,500 pounds. The KZ Durango Half-Ton line offers small fifth-wheel trailers that can be towed by a half-ton truck, with a gross weight ranging from 9,000 to 11,995 pounds.

When choosing a fifth-wheel camper, it is important to consider not only the weight but also the features and amenities that are important to you. Additionally, ensure that your tow vehicle has the necessary capacity to handle the weight of the camper.

Large fifth-wheel campers weigh 12,000-16,000 pounds

Large fifth-wheel campers are also known as luxury campers, as they contain all the facilities one desires. They also have a large girth because of all the features they provide. These units are produced to compete with motorhomes, which explains their large size.

A full-size fifth wheel usually weighs around 12,000 pounds and more. However, that’s the lower limit, and many of them go above 20,000 pounds too. Their length is generally above 40 feet, with some reaching 45 feet.

With this much heft, towing becomes difficult, so you need a powerful truck. There are many amenities in luxury campers, contributing to the total weight. Going for a one-ton truck is advised if you have a luxury camper because anything under that might not suffice.

Luxury campers have tons of amenities such as a hot tub, pull-out kitchen, a 50-inch TV, two full bedrooms, a refrigerator, etc.

These are some of the most well-reputed luxury fifth-wheel campers:

• The Redwood RW388ES by Thor Industries
• Jayco North Point Fifth Wheel Camper 377 RLBH
• The Forest River Cardinal Fifth Wheel

Frequently asked questions