Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living: Features to Look For

A travel trailer is a type of towable recreational vehicle that you hitch to the back of a vehicle, like a car, truck, or SUV, and pull to your destination. They’re a good choice for full-timers because they come with different sizes, layouts, and price points, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs and lifestyle. 

When shopping for the best travel trailers to live in, pay close attention to the following features:

• Excellent Build Quality and Durability - Travel trailers often have underwhelming build quality due to how quickly they’re assembled. If you’re planning to live in one full-time, choose a model featuring a rugged chassis, aluminum frame, reinforced roofing, waterproof floor, and durable construction materials.
• Reliable Climate Control - Many large trailers feature undersized climate control systems, often just a single AC unit. For comfort, prioritize models with powerful, ducted air conditioning, high-BTU heaters, and optional fireplaces for added warmth when temperatures drop.
• High Insulation Rating - Travel trailers often have less insulation compared to other RV types, which can lead to temperature fluctuations and reduced comfort in extreme weather conditions. Look for high-density foam insulation throughout, dual-pane windows, and an enclosed and heated underbelly.

Quick Tip: If you’re outfitting your travel trailer for full-time living, a mattress upgrade from RVmattress.com can make a big difference in comfort over the long haul.

Full-Time Travel Trailer Options to Consider

Here are some travel trailer models capable of full-time living:

Northwood Arctic Fox 27SX

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 31’2″x8’6”x11’4″
• GVWR: 13,000 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 4,230 lbs
• Sleeps: 4
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 100, Gray: 55, Black: 55 
• Slides: 2
• MSRP: $93,023
• Top Features: Front private bedroom with 60x80 queen, mid full bath, and rear living area with modern galley, face-me dinette in a slide, 68" theater seating, and dual entry

Northwood is one of the top RV brands for year-round living. It features extreme 4-season insulation, a fully welded aluminum structure, rugged custom chassis, solid wood cabinetry, and solid surface kitchen countertops. You also get heated holding tanks, frameless thermal pane windows, a 5-point leveling system, and a 1,000-watt solar package. 

Airstream Classic 28RB

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 28'10"x8'5.5"x9′7″
• GVWR: 8,800 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,150 lbs
• Sleeps: 5
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 39, Gray: 37, Black: 35 
• Slides: 0
• MSRP: $179,900
• Top Features: Front powered lounge, powered face-me dinette opposite the kitchen, a middle residential-style split bath with vanity, a rear powered queen/twin option, and a 43" Smart TV.

The 28RB Classic trailer offers all the comforts of home you need. You’ll find handcrafted hardwood cabinetry, ultra-leather seating, ducted AC, quiet hydronic heating, a heated shower floor, and Anti-Sway Tow Assist. An Airstream is one of the best travel trailers for full-time living, thanks to the aircraft-grade aluminum exterior, handcrafted interiors, extremely long lifespan (30+ years), premium features, and extensive quality control steps.

Best Fifth Wheels for Full-Time Living: Features to Look For

A 5th wheel is a large type of recreational vehicle that is towed by a pickup truck using a special hitch mounted in the center of the truck bed. They offer more living space and a smoother towing experience compared to conventional travel trailers. 

Here are features to consider when choosing a fifth wheel for full-time living:

• Quality Slide-out Construction - While fifth wheels generally offer better build quality than travel trailers, they often have multiple slide-outs, which can lead to more potential problems. When shopping, look for brands that build slide-outs with strong seals, solid flooring, heavy-duty mechanisms, and proper wiring.
• Rugged Chassis with No Frame Flexing - Some fifth wheel brands have major issues with excessive frame flex, especially in the front section. This can lead to cracks in frame welds, fiberglass walls, and caulking along seams. When shopping, look for units featuring a custom chassis with heavier-grade steel and reinforced framing around common stress points.
• Residential Appliances - Fifth wheels have the space to accommodate home-style amenities that make full-time living far more comfortable. If your budget allows, look for models with full-size refrigerators, larger ovens, dishwashers, washer/dryer hookups, and residential microwaves to bring everyday convenience into your RV lifestyle.

And just like with travel trailers, a supportive mattress from RVmattress.com can turn your fifth wheel into a true home away from home.

Full-Time Fifth Wheels Options to Consider

Check out these fifth wheels made for full-time RVing:

Brinkley RV 3610 

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 41′9″x8’x13′ 4″
• GVWR: 17,695 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 3,000 lbs
• Sleeps: 8
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 75, Gray: 90, Black: 45 
• Slides: 4
• MSRP: $129,291
• Top Features: Front bedroom with 70x80 king bed, middle bonus room/bunkhouse/office, and rear living (72" tri-fold sofa, 62" theater seating, sliding desk/dining table, fireplace). Rear kitchen (island, 16 Cu ft fridge, residential microwave, 84" pantry), full bathroom with vanity, giant slides, exterior fridge, and 100+ innovative standard features.

Large families will love the Brinkley RV 3610 floor plan, thanks to the bonus room that features a sofa that converts into a 32x72 bed, a 32x72 flip bunk, a pull-out desk, and a dresser. Brinkley RVs are rated for full-timing, and the brand doesn't compromise on construction quality. Expect an automotive-grade exterior, a beefed-up frame, heavy-duty axles, generous cargo space, and extra waterproofing throughout.

Outdoors RV Mountain Series F28RKS

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 34'8"x8’x13'0"
• GVWR: 12,995 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 2,695 lbs
• Sleeps: 4
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 80, Gray: 80, Black: 50
• Slides: 2
• MSRP: $88,342
• Top Features: Private rear bedroom with 60x80 queen + wardrobe slide, dry bathroom, mid-lounge recliners, sleeper sofa, 45x84 face-me dinette, and front kitchen

Outdoors RV is one of the most reliable RV brands for full-timers. All their units, including the F28RKS fifth-wheel, come with a custom-built, cambered off-road chassis, extreme-4 season features, and walls that are 50% stronger than those of regular RVs. You also get a fully enclosed, heated, and insulated underbelly with massive tanks. Other highlights include off-road suspensions, heavy-duty axles, and an armor guard on the bumper.

Best Motorhomes for Full-Time Living: Features to Look For

Motorhomes are drivable RVs. There are three main types: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A coaches resemble a bus, and they are the largest and most luxurious. Class Bs, also called camper vans, are the smallest, but are prized for their easy maneuverability and fuel efficiency. 

Class C motorhomes fall between the two. They are easily recognized by the over-cab sleeping area that extends above the windshield. Class Cs offer a well-rounded mix of space, comfort, and affordability. 

Motorhomes typically have two manufacturers: one that builds the chassis (the base frame supporting the engine and wheels) and another that constructs the RV body around the chassis, and then furnishes the interior.

 Here’s what to consider when buying a motorhome for full-time living: 

• Chassis Manufacturer - Look for a motorhome featuring a reliable, proven chassis with a history of few issues, advanced safety features, good fuel mileage, and easily accessible maintenance locations. 
• Body Manufacturer - Choose a brand that prioritizes long-lasting features, like robust framing, thick sidewalls with high-grade fiberglass exteriors, 100% waterproof floors, and thick insulation. Look for real wood cabinets, durable furniture, and ultra-leather upholstery to ensure your motorhome withstands the rigors of full-time living.
• Diesel or Gas Engine - For Class A motorhomes, a diesel engine is generally preferred because it offers a quieter ride, better fuel efficiency, more towing power, and a longer engine lifespan compared to gas engines. On the other hand, diesel motorhomes are more expensive to purchase and maintain.
• Layout - Motorhomes have more limited floor plans compared to towables, so carefully consider your space needs and make sure the layout accommodates your lifestyle with adequate living, sleeping, and working areas.
• Storage Space - Class Cs and campervans have less storage in comparison to trailers of similar size. Prioritize units with ample cabinetry, large exterior compartments, and creative storage solutions.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity - Class B and C motorhomes often have low cargo capacity, with some models offering less than 1,000 pounds before factoring in passengers, water, add-on features, and other essentials. For full-time RV living, you’ll need at least 1,500 pounds of capacity to accommodate your belongings, gear, and supplies.
• Holding Tank Capacity - Campervans and Class C motorhomes typically have smaller holding tanks. If you plan to boondock or spend long periods on the road, look for models with larger tanks to reduce the frequency of refills and waste dumping
• Seat Belts - Make sure your motorhome is equipped with enough seat belts for all passengers who are coming with you and confirm proper seat and seatbelt mounting for crash protection.
• Ground Clearance - If you plan to visit national parks or remote boondocking locations, be aware that motorhomes typically sit lower to the ground than towable RVs. To avoid scraping or getting stuck on rough roads, choose a model with higher clearance.

Motorhomes usually include a standard mattress, but not all are built for comfort. If you’re spending every night in your RV, swapping in a mattress from RVmattress.com can make a big difference in sleep quality.

Full-Time Motorhome Options to Consider

Here are three motorhomes, each from a different category of drivable RVs, that are well-suited for full-time living:

Newmar Kountry Star 4037 Class A Motorhome

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 40'10"x8'6"x12'11"
• GVWR: 39,000 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 8,300 lbs
• Sleeps: 6
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 105, Gray: 65, Black: 45 
• Slides: 3
• MSRP: $400,000
• Top Features: Rear bedroom with 72x80 king bed and full bath, half bath and sink near entrance, plus separate kitchen and dining area with a sleeper booth dinette. Front living room with 2 jackknife sofas, 2 swivel cab seats, and Freightliner® XCR chassis

The Newmar brand is among the best Class A coaches for year-round travel. Every unit is handcrafted and features a premium custom chassis with a steel superstructure. In the Kountry Star 4037 (mid-range diesel pusher), you’ll find a bath and a half, solid hardwood cabinetry, solid-surface countertops, and a plush pillow top mattress. Others include a Comfort Drive™ intelligent steering system, cruise control, and an industry-exclusive full-body coating.

Phoenix Cruiser USA 2910T Class C Motorhome 

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 30'10"x7.75'x10'1"
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: 1,500 lbs
• Sleeps: 5
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 46, Gray: 35, Black: 19.5 
• Slides: 3
• MSRP: $180,000
• Top Features: Rear private bedroom with 60x74 queen bed in slide, middle split bathroom, 36x70 dinette in slide, 54x74 convertible sofa in slide, work desk, galley, and Ford E-450 chassis

Most Class C RVs aren’t designed for long-term use, but the Phoenix Cruiser stands out as an exception. It is a custom-built unit featuring a smooth gel-coat fiberglass wall, an aluminum cage, exterior grade plywood subfloor, tinted frameless windows, and block foam insulation. More details include a large double-door fridge, stainless-steel sink, stainless-steel microwave, cozy fireplace, and 50” TV.

Leisure Travel Van Wonder MBL Campervan 

• Dimensions(LXWXH): 24′9″x7'11"x9'11.5"
• GVWR: 11,000 lbs
• Cargo Capacity: Up to 1,500 lbs
• Sleeps: 2
• Holding Tanks Capacity in Gallons: Fresh: 33.5, Gray: 26.4, Black: 35 
• Slides: 1
• MSRP: $191,420
• Top Features: A 65”x74” Murphy bed that hides away to reveal dual reclining chairs, a mid-kitchen with a cubby and pull-out pantry, plus a rear full bathroom with a 34 “x34” corner shower and vanity. Swivel cab seats and Ford Transit dual rear-wheel Chassis with an AWD option

The LTV Wonder is a camper van featuring a superior exoskeleton built around a Ford Transit chassis. Full-time nomads appreciate Ford’s dependable performance and easy access to maintenance. This unit has a sleek, aerodynamic fiberglass body, premium cabinetry finishing, Corian solid surface countertops, and Ultrafabrics® upholstery. Other details include ducted AC, skylight, stainless-steel galley sink, accent lighting, smart 100 Ah Li batteries, and 4.0 kW gas generator with auto-start.

Summing Up: Top-rated RVs for Full-Time Living

There you have it, some of the best RVs for full-time living. Whether you're looking for a spacious fifth wheel, a compact campervan, a luxury Class A, or a budget-friendly travel trailer, you now know what features to prioritize before spending the big bucks. 

And don’t forget about your mattress! The mattress that comes with most RVs isn’t always built for long-term comfort. That’s where RVmattress.com comes in, with high-quality memory foam and hybrid mattresses designed to fit RVs perfectly, helping you get better rest and feel more at home, no matter how far from home you are.