The fifth-wheel has more living space that any other style of RV. A fiver has a bi-level living space because the trailer mounts over the truck cargo bed. This gives it a master bedroom or a living room above the truck bed. Slide-outs, additions that expand hydraulically on the sides of the trailer, are not uncommon. In 2010, there were fifth-wheels produced with up to five slide-outs. When using a fifth-wheel for a permanent home, this extra slide-out space is important.
The amenities a fiver provides can really make a difference when living in an RV full time. Niceties such as fireplaces and full-size appliances make the trailer more comfortable. Fifth-wheel kitchens tend to be larger than in many RVs, and that is important for fulltimers. When looking to live in a fifth-wheel, buyers should look for one with a full-size shower. Queen- or king-size beds with storage beneath are common.
Fifth-wheels have storage space that make full-time living possible. They often have storage beneath the living space for items such as lawn chairs and tables. RV writer and authority Jerry (RiverGuy) Brown tells that fivers have larger water storage for both fresh water and waste storage. There is additional storage space for extra batteries.
Heating in fivers comes from forced-air gas furnaces; a duct runs out through the living-area wall. Air conditioning units are mounted on the roof. When living in a fifth-wheeler, leaks can be a problem. The hydraulic mechanism in the slide-outs can leak fluid. The propane connections can leak gas. The roof can leak in the slide-out area and air conditioning ducts. Excellent maintenance of connections must be kept up to prevent these problems. In very cold weather, both fresh-water and waste-water pipes can freeze. Space heaters may solve cold problems, but they increase fire danger risk.
