Travel Trailers vs. Fifth Wheels

The major difference between these trailer types is the hitch: The travel trailer is hitched to the rear bumper of the tow vehicle using a ball and coupler hitch while the fifth wheel uses a truck bed mounted pin and jaw hitch. As such, the travel trailer is constructed on a single level frame, whereas the forward section of the fifth wheel is elevated resulting in a split level floor plan that extends over the rear of the tow vehicle. In most cases the fifth wheel is somewhat more expensive than a travel trailer with similar features and options, but it will have more living area and substantially greater storage space.