11 Best 5th Wheels For Full-Time Living

A lot of people decide to live in their RVs full-time. It allows them the flexibility to travel when and where they want, while still having all the amenities of home. If you’re considering making the switch to full-time RV living, you’ll need to find an RV that has everything you need to be comfortable on the road.

There are plenty of fifth wheels on the market that are great for full-time living. The key to finding the best 5th wheel for full-time living is looking for a model that has everything you and your family needs, including storage space, sleeping space, and space for entertaining.

Can You Live Comfortably In A 5th Wheel?

I know for a fact that you can live comfortably in a 5th wheel, even with a large family. I’ve been living with my family of 6 for 2 years and we even have pets! We have a 45′ 5th wheel with 4 slide outs and we are very comfortable.

Some people may think that living in a smaller space would be cramped, and it can be, especially if we feel like we’re cooped up in the bad weather.

Yes, you have to downsize your belongings but it forces you to only keep the things that are important to you. And once you get used to living in a smaller space, you realize that you don’t need a lot of “stuff” to be happy.

The key is to ensure that you’ve created not only a comfortable indoor space to live, but a fun outdoor space where you can spread out and not feel so closed in.

11 Best Fifth Wheels For Full-Time Living

If you’re looking for an RV for full-time living, there are a lot of options on the market.

Some are luxury models that come with everything you need at a very high price, while others are made with good quality and affordability but may not have all of the bells and whistles.

1. Jayco North Point

The Jayco North Point is one of the most luxurious 5th wheels on the market, with modern features and amenities. It’s a full-profile 5th wheel, meaning it’s taller than some of the other options on the market.

The North Point has four slides, a king bed, and plenty of storage space. It’s also equipped with plenty of things that make it easy to set up and use, like the JAYCOMMAND control center with a smartphone app.

You also have a tire pressure monitoring system so you’ll never have a blowout on the road.

Hydraulic leveling makes it easy to get level and stay level while things like a basement built-in sewer hose carrier make it easy for full-timers to stay organized.

Jayco also offers a luxury package with extra options that you may choose if you want premium finishes and construction. Even if you don’t, this 5th wheel is still a solid choice for full-time travelers in any weather.

2. Heartland Cyclone

This toy hauler 5th wheel has a garage in the back for all of your gear. It’s equipped with a gas/electric generator, making it easy to get set up no matter where you are.

The Cyclone also has a patio off of the kitchen so you can enjoy the outdoors without leaving your RV, as well as a back ramp that easily converts to a deck out back.

It’s one of the larger 5th wheels on our list, tipping the scales at 20,000 pounds empty and a height of 13 ft 3 inches, but it’s still easy to tow thanks to the aluminum construction.

The Cyclone also comes with a queen bed (but with plenty of space for a king) and plenty of storage, both inside and out. If you’re looking for an RV that has it all, this may be the one for you.

In the garage, you’ll find two extra queen beds on a lift, one of which converts to a dining table for comfortable family meals, and a second full bath with a shower and a tub for the kids.

If you like the looks of this trailer but can’t find one, the Jayco Seismic offers exactly the same floorplan, so look for one of those instead!

3. Grand Design Solitude

The Solitude 5th wheel by Grand Design is one of the best luxury RVs on the market. It’s a full-profile 5th wheel equipped with standard features like a king bed, plenty of storage, and a washer and dryer. You also have the option to get a residential refrigerator if you want one.

This 5th wheel is designed for comfort and convenience, with features like an auto-leveling system, central vacuum, and a power awning. The kitchen is equipped with all of the modern conveniences that you need, including a dishwasher.

The bathroom has a large shower with a seat, and there’s also a second half bath for extra convenience.

This RV is on the heavy side at over 14,000 pounds empty, but it’s still easy to tow thanks to the MorRyde pin box and suspension system.

4. Grand Design Reflection

Here’s another 5th wheel from Grand Design that offers a lot of features and amenities for full-time living, but is a bit smaller and more affordable.

The Reflection series offers a variety of floor plans, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. They range from 28 feet to 42 feet in length and have up to 5 slide outs.

The interior is spacious and features plenty of storage space, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a comfortable bathroom.

The Grand Design Reflection comes with all of the hookups you need for full-time living, and it’s easy to tow. It has a GVWR of 16,000 pounds, so it can be towed by most three-quarter ton trucks.

The great thing about Grand Design is that the manufacture high quality RVs, but at a reasonable price. You’ll find all the amenities you need, and you may lack a few luxurious options, but overall, it’s comfortable and offers a great value.

5. Forest River Salem Hemisphere

The Forest River Salem Hemisphere is a mid-priced 5th wheel that offers a lot of features for full-time living. It’s 38 feet long and has 4 slide outs, which gives you plenty of room to move around.

The interior is spacious and features a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable bathroom, and plenty of storage space. The Salem Hemisphere comes with all of the hookups you need for full-time living.

Forest River is one of the best manufacturers of quality 5th wheels for families. Their variety of floorplans often including bunkhouses with plenty of sleeping space and pull out sofas for sleepovers with friends.

The Hemisphere features a sleek, modern appearance inside and out, with 15 different floorplans to choose from. You’re sure to find one that fits your needs, whether you’re looking for a luxurious RV or a more budget-friendly option.

If you like the look of the Hemisphere but you’re not sold on any of the floorplans, Forest River also offers exceptional RVs like the Sandpiper and the Sunseeker.

6. Keystone Avalanche

Keystone makes a variety of all-season trailers that are perfect for full-time living. The Avalanche is their flagship model and it’s loaded with features that make it a great choice for those who want to live in their RV year-round.

The Avalanche is a 5th wheel that’s 43 feet long and has 5 slide outs. It has a GVWR of 16,000 pounds, so it can be towed by most three-quarter ton trucks.

The interior is spacious and modern, with plenty of floorplan configurations to make it comfortable for a variety of travelers, including bunkhouses, rear kitchens, and even 2 bathrooms!

Keystone is one of the leading manufacturers of all-season trailers. Their products are built to withstand cold weather and they offer a variety of floor plans to choose from. If you’re looking for a 5th wheel that’s comfortable and spacious, the Avalanche is a great choice.

7. Heartland Landmark

The Landmark 5th wheel is a top-of-the-line model from one of the most budget-friendly RV manufacturers. These aren’t necessarily built for families, but they have all of the amenities that a retired couple might want to hit the open road.

Walk-in closets boast deep shelves, cedar lining, and washer/dryer prep. The fortified sidewall construction will keep your living space better insulated during the summer and winter months.

Four floorplans give you plenty of space and you can choose the layout that works best for you from a rear kitchen to a spacious front bathroom.

Heartland is known for its budget-friendly RVs, but that doesn’t mean they skimp on quality. The Landmark is a well-built RV that’s perfect for those who want to live in their RV full-time.

Heartland also offers fantastic models like the Cyclone, Big Horn, Elkridge, Milestone, and Fuel.

8.  Dutchmen Voltage

The Dutchmen Voltage is a toy hauler 5th wheel that’s perfect for those who want to take their toys with them on the open road. It’s 41 feet long and has 3 slide outs, providing plenty of space for your gear.

The interior is comfortable and features a fully-equipped kitchen, a spacious bathroom, and plenty of storage space. The Voltage comes with all of the hookups you need for full-time living, including a washer and dryer prep area.

With one-touch leveling, you can easily set up your RV at the campsite without missing out on the fun. It’s also prepped for wifi and sleeps up to 10 people. There are 10 different floorplans perfect for families and adventurers.

The monster frame of this toy hauler gives you a 7-foot slide out clearance, which is perfect for those living full time because it makes your RV seem more spacious. It’s also really convenient for tall people.

Zero-G ramp doors make it easy to get your toys in and out of the garage while no luxury is spared in the king sized bed. There’s also plenty of customization options to allow you to make it yours.

Dutchmen is a leading manufacturer of toy haulers and they offer a variety of floor plans to choose from. If you’re looking for a 5th wheel that’s comfortable and spacious, the Voltage is a great choice.

9. KZ Durango

The KZ Durango Gold 5th wheel is a luxurious RV that’s perfect for those who want to live in their RV full time. There are 8 floorplans available ranging from 35 to 42 feet. They sleep between 4 and 8 people and are very spacious.

The smaller floorplans are perfect for a couple hitting the open road alone but could accommodate a small family.

You can choose from large living room/kitchen areas with islands for extra counter space, rear bedrooms with huge master bathrooms and closets, and even an optional back patio.

A few of the floorplans have an extra half bath in the kitchen for guests and double vanities in the master bathroom.

They all feature modern decor like backsplashes in the kitchen, massaging recliners in the living room, and plenty of extra storage throughout.

You can also choose upgrades like a residential fridge, full-size dishwasher, four-burner stove with a residential oven, and a full-timer’s desk option.

Every floorplan includes a central vacuum for easy cleaning. KZ does their best to build and market the Durango Gold as a full-time living RV.

10. DRV Suites

Mobile Suites luxury 5th wheels have been around since 1996, and almost from the beginning, they’ve been a popular choice for full-timers.

They’re well-built and offer plenty of space and storage, plus all of the amenities that you need to live comfortably on the road.

The Mobile Suites is available in 11 different floorplans ranging in length from 36 to 44 feet. They can sleep up to 8 people and have up to 4 slide-outs.

The interior is luxurious with features like wood or tile floors, solid surface countertops, and high-end appliances. You can also choose from a variety of furniture packages to make your RV feel like home.

Every Mobile Suites comes with a washer and dryer prep area, and many of the floorplans have a dedicated laundry room. The bathroom is spacious with a large shower and plenty of storage for all of your toiletries.

You can also choose from a variety of exterior packages that include features like a residential fridge, solar panels, and an outdoor kitchen. No matter which floorplan you choose, you’ll have plenty of space to live comfortably in your RV.

11. Vanleigh Beacon

Another luxury fifth-wheel is the Beacon by Vanleigh. It ranges in length from 36-44 feet and offers plenty of upgraded amenities like residential refrigerators and dishwashers in the kitchen.

Many floorplans have a dedicated laundry room rather than coming with washer and dryer prep in the master closet, taking space away from your clothes.

While these offer a lot of luxurious finishes, much like the KZ Durango Gold and the DRV Suites, they also offer more floorplans for families, with rear bunkhouse for extra sleeping space.

This is a great option if you want to live full-time in your RV with your family, but don’t want to give up on the finer things.

Another feature that makes these great for families with small children is the soft close cabinetry. Gone are the days of your kids running around and slamming all the doors.

And perhaps the most unique feature is the front awning that extends the entire length of the RV, rather than two separate awnings that leave gaps in the shade as you relax outside.

Which Fifth Wheels Are Rated For Full-Time Living?

When you’re looking for RVs appropriate for full-time living, the terminology you need to look for is “four season trailer” or “all-season trailer”. These RVs are designed to be used year-round and can withstand any weather conditions.

Not every trailer is rated for every season. All-season trailers have better insulation, double pane windows, and more durable construction. These features help to keep you comfortable in extreme temperatures and protect your RV from the elements.

Pros Of Full-Time RV Living

There are plenty of reasons why people decide to live in their RVs full-time. Some of the most popular reasons include:

Flexibility – One of the best things about living in an RV is the flexibility it provides. If you want to pick up and go, you can do so without having to worry about finding a place to live or putting your belongings into storage.

Affordability – RV living is often more affordable than traditional living, especially if you own your RV outright. You don’t have to worry about a mortgage or rent, and you can save money on utilities by boondocking (camping without hookups).

Simplicity – RV living simplifies your life by getting rid of the unnecessary clutter and possessions that you don’t need. This can lead to a less stressful and more enjoyable life.

Cons of Full-Time RV Living 

Of course, there are also some downsides to full-time RV living. These include:

Lack of space – RVs, especially smaller ones, can feel quite cramped. This can be a problem if you have a lot of belongings or if you entertain guests often.

Isolation – If you don’t make an effort to socialize, you can end up feeling isolated living in your RV. This is especially true if you travel solo or if you live in a remote location.

Unpredictability – The weather and the road can be quite unpredictable. This can make long-term planning difficult and can lead to some stressful situations.

Who Makes The Highest Quality 5th Wheel?

If you’re looking for the highest quality 5th wheel, then you should definitely check out Grand Design RV. They make a variety of different models, all of which are designed with comfort and luxury in mind.

Their Solitude 5th wheels are some of the most popular on the market and come in a variety of floor plans to suit any need. If you are looking for something a little smaller, check out their Reflection Series.

The Grand Design RV company puts a lot of emphasis on customer service and satisfaction, so you can be sure that you’ll be taken care of if you have any problems with your RV.

There are plenty of other great options like:

• Heartland
• Jayco
• Thor
• Keystone

What’s The Best Luxury 5th Wheel For Full-Time Living?

When it comes to luxury 5th wheels, there are a few different brands that stand out from the rest. These brands offer high-end features and amenities that make full-time living a breeze.

Some of the best luxury 5th wheels on the market include:

• Grand Design Reflection
• Heartland Landmark
• Jayco North Point
• Heartland Cyclone
• Grand Design Solitude
• Keystone Avalanche

Conclusion 

The best fifth wheel for full-time living will depend on the floorplan and amenities that you need for your family. There are a variety of manufacturers that offer all-season trailers, so you can find the perfect RV for your needs. Keystone, Heartland, and Dutchmen are all great choices when it comes to fifth wheels.

Just make sure you do plenty of research before buying so you don’t end up buying a bad brand!