What is the Difference Between a Fifth Wheel, Travel Trailer, and Pop-Up Camper?

Towable RVs are among some of the most common RVs on the market, and often significantly more affordable than their motorized counterparts. However, not all towable RVs are built the same. You might be looking at a fifth wheel, travel trailer, and pop-up camper, all situated right next to one another, and have no idea which is which. That’s why The Outpost RV has provided a clear guide to each of these types of RVs. Then, when you stop by our location in Middlebury, Indiana, you can let us know which models interest you the most. We also serve our neighbors in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Fifth Wheel

Fifth wheels are commonly thought of as the largest and most luxurious towable RVs on the market. In general, there aren’t many other RV types in the entire market that beat it. While this isn’t an absolute truth for all models, it’s a fairly common trait.

More distinctly, you’ll be able to spot them by their unique fifth wheel hitch. A bigger camper is a heavier camper, and the hitch is designed to help you accommodate the extra weight. It swoops up and over the back end of the tow vehicle and into an open bed, like you’d find on a pickup. The overlap between the two parts of the towing unit provides more control and stability for the driver. 

The sheer size often allows for better amenities and more features, which is where the luxury comes in. RV manufacturers tend to add some of their latest upgrades to fifth wheels and some people even choose to live in their camper full-time.

This can also make these models more expensive, not to mention you’ll be limited in the kinds of tow vehicles you can use. For some, though, it’s a small price to pay.

Fifth wheels are most beneficial for campers who spend a great deal of time on the road, or those who need (or want) the extra space. 

Travel Trailer

Travel trailers are one of the largest RV groups, particularly when it comes to towable RVs. This means they offer the widest variety of options, from large models comparable to fifth wheels, to models small enough to tow with a minivan. 

You’ll also be able to spot these models by their hitch, but this time you’re looking for a bumper pull hitch. This is the kind that sticks out in front of the RV and connects to the tow vehicle near the back bumper, creating a small gap between the two parts of the towing unit. These hitches are also commonly found in cargo trailers, which can make them more accessible to travelers who don’t have any RV experience, but do know how to tow a second vehicle. 

Not only will you be able to find these models in a wide range of sizes, but they can also offer a wide range of luxury options, from the most comfortable trailers to the simplest. Essentially, whatever you’re looking for in an RV, you’ll probably find it in a travel trailer. Plus, they’re generally more affordable than other, bigger options.

Because of this, travel trailers are a great choice for all sorts of campers, particularly those on a budget or families looking for a way to travel together and save a little money. 

Pop-Up Camper

Under the travel trailer umbrella, there are also pop-up campers. These share the same bumper pull hitch, though they’re generally among the smallest trailers. More specifically, they’re built to be collapsible to a certain degree. Some models “pop up” part of the interior while others can completely fold down the living space so it looks more like you’re towing a box on wheels. This allows you to travel with a more aerodynamic shape while still enjoying the comforts of RVing once you reach the campsite.

Pop-up campers are pretty unique. They don’t offer a great deal of space and are generally best suited for one or two people. This makes them particularly popular among some of the most rugged campers who are just looking for a comfortable place to sleep and prepare food, without limiting where they can travel.

These can also be a good option for those who are still trying out the RV lifestyle. They’ll give you a taste of what’s in store without asking you to drain your bank account.

Knowing the differences between these common RV types is the first step to figuring out which one is right for you. Whether you’ve found your perfect RV or you need more help narrowing down your options, stop by The Outpost RV and we’ll give you a complete tour of available campers. We welcome all current and future RV owners from Middlebury, Indiana, and Kalamazoo, Michigan.