Choosing between an Airstream and a fifth wheel can be challenging. Both have their unique advantages, but which one offers more value for your money? After doing some research, here’s what I found.
So, which is the better buy: Airstream trailers or fifth wheels? Many people agree that an Airstream trailer is superior in most situations. While Airstreams are smaller than most fifth wheels, their stunning floor plans, large windows, and iconic silver design make them the envy of any trailer park.
Airstreams are a stylish way to tour the country, but they aren’t necessarily the easiest to haul and may not be ideal for carrying a large number of passengers.
If you plan to live on the road with your family, you might want to consider a luxury fifth wheel trailer.
Fifth Wheel vs. Airstream Trailer: What’s the Difference?
There’s something quintessentially American about buying a big RV, selling your home, quitting your nine-to-five job, and setting off for a life of adventure.
Maybe you’re considering taking that step, or perhaps you just want to turn heads when you go camping for a weekend getaway.
Whatever your reasons, an Airstream trailer or a fifth wheel is a surefire way to start living on the road in style!
However, many people can be put off by the technical jargon used when talking about these large campers. Are they campers? Are they called RVs or not?
See what I mean? Confusing. Let’s clarify what constitutes both a fifth wheel and an Airstream trailer so you can decide which vehicle better suits your needs.
A fifth wheel trailer is a large trailer, sometimes over 45 feet in length, that requires a substantial vehicle to tow. The term “fifth wheel” refers to the hitch that connects the trailer to the back of a towing vehicle.
These are large trailers typically pulled by hefty trucks. You’ll need at least a three-quarter-ton or one-ton truck to haul one of these. If you plan on frequent use, especially for cross-country travel, a one-ton truck is highly recommended for a smoother ride and better safety.
Fifth wheels are epic in size and design. Some interiors are incredibly luxurious, featuring granite countertops, beautiful carpets, and full-sized wardrobes. There are countless stories of people planning to sightsee across the country but end up staying inside because their fifth wheel trailer is too nice.
Airstream trailers, on the other hand, are smaller but might be perfect if you want to stay light and mobile. Airstreams are famous for their shiny silver exteriors that turn heads on the interstate.
Crafted with care in every detail, Airstream trailers are built to last despite their reputation for being easy to dent. Large Airstreams generally range from 23 to 30 feet, providing ample space for a couple of people.
Airstream trailers have been an American favorite since they first hit the roads in the 1930s.
Now that you know more about these two types of trailers, let’s explore the pros and cons of each, starting with the Airstream.
The Airstream Trailer
Have you ever tried sleeping in a regular car, like a Toyota Corolla? It’s an incredibly uncomfortable experience. In contrast, an Airstream trailer offers a level of comfort that’s essential for anyone planning to spend an extended period on the road.
Airstream Pros
If your goal is to travel across America with your whole house in tow, the Airstream might not be as large as a fifth wheel, but it still provides ample space and comfort.
One of the best features of the Airstream trailer is its simple design. Setting up a fifth wheel trailer can be a hassle, often involving slide-out panels that complicate the process. With an Airstream, you avoid this problem entirely. There are no sliding panels; you just park and go.
Another advantage of the Airstream is that it hitches to the bumper rather than the truck bed. This may seem minor, but anyone who has spent more than a week on the road knows how valuable that extra truck bed space can be, especially for hauling toys like ATVs or dirt bikes.
Airstream trailers are also shorter in length compared to fifth wheels. While you might think bigger is better, that’s not always true when you’re constantly on the road. The combined length of a fifth wheel and a truck can exceed 55 feet, making merging on highways, parking at national parks, and even making left turns a challenge. Airstreams, from truck to trailer, typically measure between 30 to 40 feet, making them much more manageable and opening up a world of possibilities for travel.
The height of the Airstream is another benefit. They are low-profile trailers, which is a blessing when navigating low overpasses. Even with large tires, an Airstream usually measures around 10 feet tall, which is short enough to clear most overpasses, though it’s still wise to research your routes.
Weight is another important factor. Heavier RVs can damage roads, get stuck in mud, and make driving up hills difficult and descending terrifying. Airstreams are significantly lighter than fifth wheels, typically weighing between 7,000 to 12,000 pounds compared to the 20,000 pounds of a fifth wheel. This weight difference saves you 10,000 pounds, making the Airstream easier to maneuver and less intimidating to drive.
Here’s a quick summary of the Airstream’s advantages:
- Simple Design
- Hitches to the Bumper Rather than the Truck Bed
- Shorter Length
- Lower Height
- Weighs Less
While the Airstream trailer has many benefits, it also has a few drawbacks, which we’ll address next.
Airstream Cons
While the simplicity of Airstream trailers can be an advantage, it can also become monotonous. Unlike fifth wheel trailers, which offer a variety of different floor plans, Airstream trailers tend to have less variety and creativity in their layouts. If you plan to live on the road for an extended period, the lack of variation can become tiresome.
Airstream’s classic silver bullet design is iconic, looking both futuristic and retro, which many people love. However, this aesthetic appeal comes with a downside. The aluminum exterior is highly susceptible to dents and dings. Spending thousands on a pristine Airstream only to see it marred by a stray pebble kicked up by a semi can be disheartening. Additionally, repairing these dents and dings can be costly.
Speaking of repairs, dealing with Airstream maintenance can be a hassle. While fifth wheels can be challenging to fix, Airstreams can be even more difficult. Finding a mechanic who truly understands how to repair an Airstream can be frustrating. Often, specialty shops claim expertise, but in reality, they may not be as knowledgeable as advertised. You might spend hours driving to a shop, only to discover the mechanic is not as skilled as expected. Repair jobs can end up costing more and taking longer than anticipated.
To summarize the cons of Airstream trailers:
- Monotonous Floor Plans: The simplicity of the designs can become tedious over time.
- Prone to Dents: The aluminum exterior is easily damaged by road debris.
- Difficult Repairs: Finding skilled repairmen for Airstreams can be challenging and expensive.
Airstream trailers offer unique advantages, but these drawbacks are important to consider when deciding if an Airstream is the right choice for your travels.
Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheels are the mansions of the RV world—spacious, durable, and often downright beautiful. Opting for a fifth wheel will make you the king of the campground.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of a fifth wheel compared to an Airstream.
Fifth Wheel Pros
If “variety is the spice of life” is your motto, then a fifth wheel is your kind of RV. The floor plans on a fifth wheel can be as varied and unique as the people who own them. Whether you want your fifth wheel to resemble a warm, rustic cabin or a sleek, modern home with solid oak floors and plush throw rugs, the customization possibilities are nearly endless. You can even create a themed interior, like a space-themed room with a rocket ship bed if that’s your style.
One of the standout features of fifth wheels is their ample storage space, which can be used to haul anything you need. Many fifth wheels can be converted to include a toy hauler section, allowing you to bring along ATVs or other recreational vehicles without sacrificing luxury or comfort. The extra storage space can also serve as additional living space, with high ceilings that make the interior feel like a normal home.
For those who love plenty of elbow room, a fifth wheel offers a spacious living environment that’s hard to beat.
Here’s a summary of the pros of a fifth wheel:
- Endless Variety of Creative Floor Plans: Customize the interior to fit your unique style and needs.
- Extra Storage Space: Includes the option for a toy hauler, providing room for additional vehicles and gear.
- Spacious Living: High ceilings and ample space make it feel like a home away from home.
Now, let’s take a moment to consider some of the cons.
Fifth Wheel Cons
The biggest drawbacks of owning a fifth wheel are due to its size. They are large and heavy, which can make many drivers nervous, especially when transporting children. Navigating hills can be hazardous, and every turn you make has the potential for disaster.
The sheer size also limits your adventure spots. Finding a place to park in trailer parks or RV parks can be challenging, and you are likely to get stuck in mud or snow frequently. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure your truck has four-wheel drive.
The limited mobility and the restrictions on where you can go are significant drawbacks for adventurers.
Here’s a summary of the cons of fifth wheels:
- Hauling is Difficult: The large size makes towing a challenge, particularly in tricky terrain or with children.
- Parking is a Nightmare: Finding suitable parking spots can be tough in RV parks and trailer parks.
- Limited Mobility: The size restricts where you can go, reducing your potential adventure spots.
Conclusion
Both fifth wheels and Airstream trailers are exceptional choices for a home on the road, but the Airstream has a slight edge. Its classic design and aesthetic appeal make it a standout, and its compact size enhances your flexibility for adventure.
No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to have an incredible experience. So get out there and start your journey!