Fifth-wheel trailers are more expensive than travel trailers. This is often one of the first factors families must consider when shopping for a trailer.
Conventional travel trailers are lighter than fifth-wheel trailers, allowing for a wider variety of tow vehicles. Fifth-wheel trailers must be towed by a pickup truck, which significantly limits passenger space.
Fifth-wheel trailers generally have more living and storage space. Additionally, because they are taller and have higher ceilings, they give the illusion of even more space. This may make being cooped up inside during bad weather more bearable, particularly for families with young children.
Fifth-wheel units usually have more ground clearance than conventional trailers. This makes it easier to maneuver over tree roots and driveway dips, but this also makes it more difficult for small children or handicapped family members to climb in and out of the trailer.
Fifth-wheel trailers generally have larger waste tanks than conventional travel trailers, which can be beneficial to families with young children who make frequent trips to the bathroom. Additionally, fifth-wheel bathrooms are frequently in the front of the trailer, so in trailers that have slide-outs, the bathroom is still accessible when the slide is in. This can be a factor when taking long trips with small children, as clean restrooms are not always available when they're most needed.
