This is basically my criteria for 5th wheels when I am shopping, hate the idea of dragging around a massive 40+ft monster rig, love the advantages of the 5th wheel form factor and just want something a little smaller than normal for a solo traveler with a dog and a desire for the digital nomad lifestyle. Thank you Josh, love that you were able to put this together for all of the models out there! I'm saving this video for later tonight, 43 minutes is a doozy but I appreciate the work and will be watching it in its entirety and leaving another comment with my favorites!
Yup! Had a trip a few years ago to Yellowstone and because of a few fallen trees 🌲 and rocks on the road making it single lanes in multiple areas (due to heavy rains), they were turning back all long RV’s and 5W’s. They were having to turn around, and were not happy. Only those who had a CB radio knew what and why, and you could see them using a parking lot to abort early. The line was miles wrong! 😊
We love the shorter 5th wheels but can’t understand why they only have one slide? We have a 2017 28RL Sabre with 3 slides. We are very happy with it but have thought of getting something newer. Can’t imagine only having 1 slide.
Alternative title: 5th wheels that could fit in your suburban home driveway. I love that you and Bish's support the RV buyer even if you don't carry them. This is how you earn people's business. Thanks Josh!
Hello Josh. You sir are an asset to Bish's RV. I have followed your videos for years. Your knowledge and guidance is a blessing and in my house something I welcome. I own both a Jayco 265RLSW and a Keystone Cougar 23MLE. My wife and gave the Jayco TT to our son when we purchased the Cougar. We love the compact size of it for just the 2 of us. We two believe it is the number one selling 1/2 ton 5th wheel. Thank you Josh keep up the great videos.
wow.. ty so much for taking a moment simply to share some kindness today! Would it be out of line to ask you to drop me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review by chance?
I’m a veteran rver, and I love that manufacturers are starting to understand that some of us want the shorter fifth wheels so we can get into smaller parks. It’s not about cost or weight, we love our state and national parks.
This is why you're the GOAT of rv reviewers. We have used our Eagle 336BOK (purchase based on your reviews) and love it but it's size can be problematic at times. We also have a 28' travel trailer for boondocking but time to upgrade. We've decided that 30' is the ideal size. We thank you so much for doing a series like this. Didn't know there were so many 5th wheels out there and from manufacturers we didn't know about. Keep it up!
We have a Cherokee Arctic 23mle and we love the layout. We used to have a 43’ toy hauler. It was quite a downsize. We enjoy that it travels well in that slide doesn’t have to extend to access pantry, fridge, and bathroom! Being under 30’ we can go many more places!
Just when I thought I was somewhat 'schooled up' on 5th wheels under 30+ft...I find this very informative video! I appreciate that you went the extra distance and covered brands/ models that you don't actually carry. Great work!
Hi, Josh! You are one funny nerd, "Squirrel". In 2019 we downsized from our Allegro to a Shasta (Forest River) Phoenix 25MK 5er. At just over 29', we can pretty much get in any state or federal campsites. It did take some getting used to after selling our motor home but we love it. There are only a couple of bad things about it. One is the short wheel distance from the trailer to the truck. Chucking and sway are a bit more then on a longer rig. The other is backing up. For your viewers that are truckers, it's comparable to backing up a 48' trailer with the tandems slide all the back to a little 20' pup. The little trailer tends to get away from you. And, yes, your more observant viewers will know I'm dating myself with the 48' example. I retired from truckin' before the 53 footers came out. Love your videos. You and Matt have great reviews showing the good and the bad. Thanks!
Josh, just wanted to thank you for this GREAT video. This is a video that I have been looking for for a very long time. We are interested in a 5th wheel, no more than 30' with a W/D prep and you NAILED it. I never realized that so many 5th wheels out there met my criteria. I'm bookmarking this video for future reference. You are the bomb. Thanks again for a job well done.
HEY JOSH, WAVING A HAND FROM THE LEFT COAST….( Rashberries) #1, THANKS FOR YEARONS AND YEARONS OF RV VIDEO TO STIR US TO FIND A PEACEFUL REPOSE FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS….TO CAMP IN WHEN WE NEED IT. YOU HAVE BEEN A INFORMATIVE AND FUN STORY TELLER OF ALL THESE MANUFACTURERS WITH THE LATEST AND GREATEST ……
Thanks for the excellent information. I have been trying to research 30 ft fifth wheels and was having trouble finding them. Now I have a list to look at in detail. Great info!
@@JoshtheRVNerd we really liked that black label Cherokee but they don't offer that 3 seasons doors package and we have to have it. We travel with pets and have to be able to run the A/C when that ramp door is down for the patio.
I'm new to looking at 5th wheels but like the under 30' idea so thanks for putting this together. Your reviews of RVs are the best! One of the biggest things missing on almost all of the sub 30 models is bigger camp side windows. Lack of bathroom access in road mode is a deal breaker for my wife. Access to the fridge is a "nice to have" but not required. Full size queen bed is optimal. I see plenty of floorplans I like in the 33-35' range but not much in the
Excellent video. Great overview of the available options. I will be looking to upgrade from my travel trailer to a fifth wheel to tow behind my F250 Super Duty.
I'm currently looking for an under 30' 5th wheel. You have saved me a ton of work! This is great - thank you so much for all the effort it took to put this together!
I think the Cruiser Essence 25 RK matches most of my needs and wants. My next move will be to go online and see who carries it closest to me. Would love to purchase from Bish's RV. Thanks for helping me narrow down my search ;-). and for all of the good info. I watch your videos all the time. Keep up the good work.
#Nerd Herd ❤ I loved this format and your upfront dialog about recording what you can whether you personally like the manufacturer/layout/etc. Saved this recording to my favorites list so when I am ready I can refresh before I buy!!
Thank you for this video My husband and I were talking about getting a 5th wheel but I don't want to go big. All of these were the perfect length and weight. I liked some floor plans better than others but it gives us a good starting point.
This is a lot of good information. Thanks Nerd. The format is perfect, one can jump around. Do they make 27 - 30 foot living space with an eight foot garage? Making it a 35 to 38 foot 5th wheel. How about a video on what does not come with the RV but you need it. Example, the black tank hose! Or maybe a video on all the accessories you can buy for RV. Prioritize them. I've been talking with friends who are thinking of doing what i plan to do when I retire. Buy a RV and go to all the places i could not get an 18 wheeler into. Oh, btw they now watch your videos too. We compare notes. I do not always comment but love your videos.
1) I like the looks of both the inside & outside of the Alliance. Nice spacious kitchen but I’d like to see a backsplash all around. Appears to be borderline heavy 1/2 T towable. Glad to see the attached ladder, but would rather see it curved over and attached to the top of the roof. One less leak point I guess. Perhaps I’m too picky 🙃 2) I like the kitchen set up in the Arctic Wolf. I see a lot of the “MK” brand of furniture in your videos. What does that stand for? Are they a basic or more luxury line of furniture? 3) Rockstaff stellar kitchen indeed. 4) The Impression makes a good impression on me. Too bad it wasn’t late model heavy 1/2 T towable. 5) Sometime could you put out a listing that shows every make and what their model letters mean? I know that they are all different. Thank you. 6) Reflecting on the Reflection 150 series…. I really like the space in there. By chance is it late model heavy 1/2 ton towable? I have a 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 HD (8 lugs) Crew cab 4WD with a 6L with a GVWR of 8600 #, GAWR 6000 #, with 3.73 rear axle. My book says max trailer weight is either 7600 or 7900# with a GCWR of 14,000#. Not sure if I have a big enough truck. My truck camper sticker says 1881 # rating for that slide in. Anyone from the class feel free to chime in please. I’m thinking I don’t have a big enough truck. 7) I like the table and chairs in the Eagle 🦅 8) The Arcadia is unique. I like it but don’t have the truck unfortunately. 9) Love the Cougar. 10) Please visit the store for the KZ. 11) Ya, the Fox Mountain looks dated but it looks cozy. 37) Loved the video Uncle Josh. Keep doing you. You are so smart. This student nerd has learned a lot from you. I’m confident that if and when I ever do buy my first RV, I will be buying my second RV the first time around. #Nerdherd 👍
Great video!! Comprehensive and fun to watch the parts I’m interested in and easy to move to the next chapter for those I don’t. Appreciate the info and your hard work getting this together!
Thank you for putting this compilation together. I haven't decided whether to make do with my Frontier with limited acceptable choices, or get a 3/4 ton and get what I want. The length has to be limited to around 30' due to where I'll have to park it at home.
Josh: I really appreciate the chapter list with this video! You did miss one fifth wheel I like. I am a minimalist and appreciate rigs that maintain their value! Talk about light weight and fiberglass manufacturing. You won't find a smaller 5th wheel than the Scamp 19 foot fifth wheel! They are out of Minnesota and don't use dealers, so they are hard to find and see. However you could have added a floor plan and mentioned them on your video. Love your reviews, you are a one of a kind RV expert!
Love my Arctic Wolf 23MLE. Has some great features you don’t usually find at this price point (auto level, a real ceiling fan, tons of storage and a big bath vent fan). Great value.
Hey Uncle Josh! What about a similar list but for couples camper travel trailers or bh travel trailers? Personally LOVED this idea. Maybe do a round of these videos once a year or something? Love watching your videos over others cause you're a little funny 😂 the others are too dry to watch. I need entertainment in my life 😂 I'm not sure I'd that says more about me or the videos?
Awesome video!! We have a 2023 Cougar 25RES. It is plenty big, and we really have no desire to go above 30'. So this was the perfect video for us to watch. Great to see all the other options out there. (I'm a little disappointed in the new Cougar Sport that replaced the 25RES. The flip up table is kind of cool, but it seems like the just cheapened it up overall. I am very glad we got our 25RES! I'll be watching your linked videos for more detailed looks at the rigs. Thanks so much for putting this out there!
We contacted Escape (filled out the form online) and they connected us to one near us (30 min away) so we could see it “in the flesh.” So glad we did. We are sold on the 5.0 TA as the next camper for us. We even looked t a 10 year old Escape 21C. It was amazing how much it was in great shape after 10 years. So “built to last” and the ability to get into small camping spots is our goal. Oh and to tow it over mountains with our half ton truck. Alliance is the only one I would even consider if we had a bigger truck and didn’t care about slides and small camping spots.
I don't know why manufacturers aren't making more of these. People are having less kids and less families, they're working remote more and more, housing is less and less affordable, and some other stuff I can't think of right now. Plus no one wants to tow a monster RV that can't get into certain national parks. Seems like a slam dunk to me.
Thank you so much Josh!!! This was great 👍 I love to see all the possibilities out there. I love the Cougar just like you and the Reflection 100 looks good too!
I can't wait to see the 2025s when they start to come out. I think Brinkley and customers asking for more workstation (office) areas are going to be impactful this coming year.
Another great video. I have the AF 27-5. Yes it is shades of brown inside, but that can be changed. Whereas the 'pretty' insides rigs, the build quality cannot be changed. I def know I am towing this short 5er. It is B-I-L-T! as you said on the Fox Mt. lol Thanks again.
This was fantastic, it was a great way to compare a bunch of different RVs in the same class. I’d personally love more like this like “travel trailers under x feet” or “travel trailers with (insert feature)” it would also be great if there was a playlist with the full length videos of the ones that you have videos for both for this particular group and other groups like under 25 feet or without slides or other classifications that people might be particularly looking for
Like …. LOVE … this review. What irritates me is Rockwood continues to limit CC to way under 2000 while others have 2500 or more. Also noted that like Coachman, Alliance is offering choice in axle size … I’m from a manufacturing background … and watched some of Forest River Factory tours, the axles are not put on the frame until the assembly process starts in the factory.
Honestly, I like them all, each has great features and some not so great. We do like shorter RV's and if we were 5th wheel people we would hard pressed to pick. Would really need to see them in person.
We love the shorter 5th wheels and are happy the manufacturers are finally making some shorter options but, can’t understand why they only have one slide? We have a 2017 28RL Sabre with 3 slides. We are very happy with it but have thought of getting something newer. Can’t imagine only having 1 slide. Love your videos Josh!
That Saber you mentioned is actually 32ft total. These are 30ft Total. That extra 2ft makes a huge difference when trying to find available sidewall space
Love this for format... I was really impressed with Impression, (see what I did there) washer dryer prep and 4000 cargo carry capacity!! wow also liked the Fox Mountain 3500ccc and like the solid wood cabinet look with sofa in the back wall which looks like I might be able to actually lie down on. very nice...
That was a very informative video. Next, we all know that RV builders use similar components , air conditioners , water heaters, ect. It would be neat to see actual construction (deep inside), showing wiring, plumbing, and hardware installation comparo's. Brand by brand, just like you did here.
Boy, if any of these had a rear cargo door that you could stuff a kayak or two in the back....... Still, these are a versatile and terrific size rigs! Thanks!
Josh, on the 30ft or less with bunk house, you mentioned Volante 251BH. Don't forget the Cougar Sport has a 2700BH model and, as far as I know, is the only one under 30ft with triple bunks. We even talked about trading our Ibex in for one as recent as April, but we flat out can't find any in stock. It's highly likely to be our next RV, so that's why I'm even commenting. (Also we want to buy it from Bish's RV next go around :) )
It's great to have bunks when you are camping with with two kids. That said, according to the regulations in my area (and lengths of my truck and boat), I need my fifth wheel to be 30 ft or less in order to be able to take the boat behind the trailer legally. It was really hard to find something to fit the bill.
Thought we were 100% convinced we were buying the KZ240rkd. It’s an absolutely beautiful rig that has everything we want. However the length shown is not accurate. After driving 700 miles to check it out we found out it’s actually 34’ long. Such a bummer. Sadly we’re now back to considering the 22mle. Sure wish they’d put a fireplace in the hutch tho.
I ended up going with a Rockwood 2622RK which is a little over 30 feet and 10 k pounds as it was the smallest i could fit under my 2023 RAM 3500 4x4 truck. Anything else was too low on bed to trailer clearance.
Thank you for this video, I'm looking at half ton towable 5th wheels right now. Have you or could you please review the Alliance All Access 29RL? It's just over 30' but has dual opposing slides and looks interesting on paper.
I enjoyed this video, love the list idea. Although your overlords might not like it, how about a list of small independent RV manufacturers that make tow-behind bunkhouse trailers?
I am listening to see if there is an under 30' with no slide. We traveled in a Viking 17bh for 5 months last year. It worked fine. When this 2015 trailer bites the dust, I would at least look at what was available in 5th wheels, with a rear view, with no slides.
Yes Josh,I did like this video, BUT,I wondered what model today would be the equivalent to the Jaco Eagle 27.5 RLTS? IT was because of one of your older vids that I (thanks to YOU) purchased this model a week ago, instead of the Delta. This rig is R O C K SOLID, BUT I would like to look at the 2024 version if there is one . Again GREAT RUN DOWN!!!
Wow, Josh. I like a lot of these trailers. The ones I'd be most interested in have the ability to tandem pull. There are a number of motorcycle trailer companies that make rigid tandem pulls that have 4 wheels the all swivel independently to as to not interfere with the ability to back up the trailer. #NerdHerd
A Ranger, if I’m understanding you correctly can tow 7,500 pounds. The bed weight/tongue weight will likely kill it. Not laughing. Most of these are at lease ¾ ton range.
I promised another comment, but I seem to have written an essay...good luck if you decide to read this whole thing, top 5 at the bottom: *General notes* My use case is a solo traveler with a large dog, fulltime living planned but still need to work a few days a week, so need a *permanent* spot for an office. If I don't list a floorplan below I've decided it's not for me, usually it's because it's either a bunkhouse or there's a dinette in the way that can't be easily ripped out. *Alliance* Avenue 24RK - Like Breakfast bar, rear kitchen, theater seats, coffee hutch, decent optional solar package. Dislike lack of W/D prep. How's the road mode access? Lack of access is a deal breaker for bathroom/bedroom. *Coachmen* Chaparral 235RK - Similar to 24RK, prefer theater seating over trifold sofa. Looks like no road mode access to bathroom/bedroom which is a deal breaker. Again dislike lack of W/D prep. Chaparral 25RE - No road mode access (deal breaker), no W/D prep. Like freestanding dinette table standard, again prefer theater seating. ENT center in weird spot? I feel with a couple of tweaks this could be viable. *Cruiser* Essence 25RK - Like W/D prep, large shower, hutch + pantry, good kitchen counter space, excellent CCC, theater seats, & roller shades (Why not in kitchen/bedroom though? ESP kitchen, those blinds? Eww...). Don't like dinette, would prefer freestanding table or breakfast bar option. Electrical + ducting built into dinette makes it impractical to DIY a solution, makes it a deal breaker for me. They get a lot right, but the deal breakers obviously outweigh the good here. *Dutchmen* Shoutout to the 260RK (not listed). *technically* not under 30ft but 30'11". I like the unique dinette option, one of the few I would actually consider. Like theater seating, W/D prep, counter space, and somehow they crammed a king bed in there too! Not as much a fan that the bed is on a slide out though, personally I'd prefer the 60x80 queen oriented the other way. Also really like the Astoria 1500 2503REF (also not listed), though it seems to be dealer stock only. Hopefully not gone for good? Only real downside to that one is the limited counter space due to the massive swing away Ent center/pantry combo. I feel like a rear kitchen and normal sized pantry would have served it better. *Forest River* Arctic Wolf 27SGS - Recliners! I love floor plans with recliners, they're an easy space to adapt to your own needs. I wish more MFGs did a "classic" floor plan like this! I personally would use the space to take one recliner out and fit a nice little desk for some remote work/play on a laptop with a cheeky little dual monitor setup. Also like the central vac & the split bench/freestanding dining table which takes away the unpleasant properties of a more traditional dinette setup. The position of the ENT CTR and the storage around it suits the floorplan well. Ceiling fan is a nice homey touch. Wish it had W/D prep, that'd put it almost at the top of my short list. It looks like there's barely enough room, they just decided not to do it unless it's a bed slide model (see above, not a fan of bed slides)... Cardinal 23RK - one of the few floor plans with a dinette setup I'd consider, am I the only one that thinks lounging on that L shaped dinette to watch some TV might be a comfy option with some good throw pillows? Especially like the table looks removable, but kind of wish they'd have done a L shaped lounge sofa in the dinette's place and did a freestanding table that could move between the lounge and the theater seating, or get tucked away when not in use. Obligatory W/D prep is a plus as well, and love the counter space! I honestly don't know if it would work for me long term, but I'd be willing to give it a serious try if the right opportunity came along. Cherokee Black Label 256RRBL (Not listed) - Again going ever so slightly beyond 30ft at 30'7", but I wanted to call this one out because it's a cool design with a rear dinette/sofa and a patio door in the back with no slides, plus the ever elusive W/D prep! Definitely a unique combination that I'd love to see in person one day. I feel it could have used a little more counter space, would have been interesting if they put the pantry on the camp side wall and did a wrap around kitchen counter instead. Flagstaff 281RK - With the theater seating, I again love the rear kitchen + breakfast bar layout, ceiling fan is a nice homey touch, and I especially like the nearly full sized oven. That said, don't like the bed slide and with such a large shower a W/D prep space probably wouldn't be possible within the 30ft limitation here. If I could swap out the upstairs with one of the other W/D prep ones, it'd be a contender for the shortlist for sure. Impression 235RW - Love this layout, can you tell I'm a sucker for rear kitchen designs and breakfast bar seating yet? Major downside to this one though is the lack of road access to the bathroom and bedroom and that's a deal breaker to me. *Grand Design* I have nothing I would seriously look at with this brand anymore and that's a major disappointment. First, a general note I'm annoyed the floorplans here get discontinued so often. They used to have a Reflection (5th wheel or TT under 30', can't remember which) with a nice little desk in the corner, I can't even remember the name of it anymore, but I liked that one and it's gone after only 2-3 years. When it comes to GD, I feel like I'm more looking at the used market for anything I've seen in the past because their lineup changes so much. Nothing they currently offer really speaks to me but I will say the 270BN comes closest. My main problem is they just don't include the W/D prep on any of their 150/100 series reflection models, and they don't go small enough on their "fully featured" Reflection models either even though they used to. I'd honestly consider a few if they got down below 32' just because of their design philosophy and the noticeable improvement in fit & finish over some other brands, but without a suitable floorplan that's a moot point. GD used to be at the top of my list in terms of brand preference, but over the years It's steadily dropped. Theo only real interesting layout I found was their 24MAV which I like for their interesting use of the "garage" to place a murphy bed, but it still has too many negatives and some deal breakers. *Keystone* Just a note on the brand in general, one of my preferred due to build quality. I was lucky enough to get a last minute tour of their factory a year or two ago and was impressed with a lot of what they did compared to what I saw in other factory tours. I also really like the way they designed their centralized AC setup. Their selection of floorplans also includes a ton of unique options and I'm always excited when they release something new. Hope they keep up the awesome work, but please consider more W/D prep plans on some of your smaller units! Cougar 260MLE - One of the few "full featured" cougars that includes W/D prep under 30ft, I love the pull out table option on this one! Like the ceiling fan, good counter space, nice bathroom and shower. Great use of space, I am just not a fan of the bed slide. All that said, This one is honestly right near the top for me. Arcadia 246SLRK - Love the Ent center/desk/dinette space, shame they're relocating the TV but I see several reasons why they'd decide to do it. No W/D Prep is unfortunate, drops it off the otherwise surefire top 5 spot. 23MLE - Would be a contender with W/D prep, esp since it has freestanding dining table option and theater seating option. Not a fan of the in floor vent placement, wish they were a little more out of the way. *KZ* Durango HT D250RED - I really like this one. Feel like the compromise of a well placed, large ENT CTR with fireplace and the deeper but shorter kitchen counter space works well Also like the optional theater seating and that the bench+chairs are not permanently built in, makes it very easy to customize the space to my needs with a desk and PC setup. But wait, there's more! They have a "Full Timer's Desk" option?!?! Now you're speaking my language, KZ! I like how they managed to fit the W/D prep in the same space a lot of MFGs seem to omit in their layouts (I know, I know, it's getting to be a tired narrative...), and I do greatly prefer the slide out in the bedroom to be the wardrobe, not the bed. Roller shades are a plus, and floor vents are out of the way (looking at you, Keystone!) If I had any nitpicks, it'd be the size of the stove. Just seems tiny compared to the residential fridge and residential sized microwave. Go big or go home (preferably go big). Also I wish that optional solar package was just a little larger considering the residential fridge. *Northwood* Ah, Northwood. I really, really want one of these. I might even give up the W/D prep option for that 235RLS with the optional recliners, if not for the fact I'd be stuck with the dinette seating most of the time. They're a company that gets a lot of the very important stuff right. I just wish they had a floor plan that suited me. ----- So, that's my list. I guess based on all this my top 5 would be: 1. Durango HT D250RED 2. Cougar 260MLE 3. Cherokee Black Label 256RRBL 4. Cardinal 23RK 5. Arctic Wolf 27SGS - would probably be #1 or #2 if not for the lack of W/D prep! I have to be honest, that desk option on the Durango HT is what got it to the number one spot. I didn't even know that existed until I took a look at the floor plan today, so thank you Josh for your effort in putting this video out for us! Can't wait to see it in person some day, or better yet see it featured on the channel!
Bish's needs to seriously consider carrying Northwood brands at the Texas dealership, and others they obtain on the East side of the country. The Northwood dealers in Texas, Florida and Missouri only seem to carry the truck campers. There's one in NC that carries Fox and Nash, but just a few. I realize the cost to transport them all the way across the country would be high, but their quality is second to none. Same potential for Outdoors RV, Texas is as far south and East as they go, with the exception of one in PA.
Thanks for all this information. Not all of us want or need a giant fifth wheel but prefer the towability and comfort of one. Respectfully though, you forgot a Canadian built small fifth wheel by Escape. Escape 5.0. might just be my retirement purchase.
This is basically my criteria for 5th wheels when I am shopping, hate the idea of dragging around a massive 40+ft monster rig, love the advantages of the 5th wheel form factor and just want something a little smaller than normal for a solo traveler with a dog and a desire for the digital nomad lifestyle. Thank you Josh, love that you were able to put this together for all of the models out there!
I'm saving this video for later tonight, 43 minutes is a doozy but I appreciate the work and will be watching it in its entirety and leaving another comment with my favorites!
Yup! Had a trip a few years ago to Yellowstone and because of a few fallen trees 🌲 and rocks on the road making it single lanes in multiple areas (due to heavy rains), they were turning back all long RV’s and 5W’s. They were having to turn around, and were not happy. Only those who had a CB radio knew what and why, and you could see them using a parking lot to abort early. The line was miles wrong! 😊
My pleasure! hope it sparks some ideas
We love the shorter 5th wheels but can’t understand why they only have one slide? We have a 2017 28RL Sabre with 3 slides. We are very happy with it but have thought of getting something newer. Can’t imagine only having 1 slide.
These types of videos are excellent for beginners looking to start RVing.
Hope it helps someone!
Alternative title: 5th wheels that could fit in your suburban home driveway. I love that you and Bish's support the RV buyer even if you don't carry them. This is how you earn people's business. Thanks Josh!
Ty!
Hello Josh. You sir are an asset to Bish's RV. I have followed your videos for years. Your knowledge and guidance is a blessing and in my house something I welcome. I own both a Jayco 265RLSW and a Keystone Cougar 23MLE. My wife and gave the Jayco TT to our son when we purchased the Cougar. We love the compact size of it for just the 2 of us. We two believe it is the number one selling 1/2 ton 5th wheel. Thank you Josh keep up the great videos.
wow.. ty so much for taking a moment simply to share some kindness today! Would it be out of line to ask you to drop me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review by chance?
I’m a veteran rver, and I love that manufacturers are starting to understand that some of us want the shorter fifth wheels so we can get into smaller parks. It’s not about cost or weight, we love our state and national parks.
Right?!
This is why you're the GOAT of rv reviewers. We have used our Eagle 336BOK (purchase based on your reviews) and love it but it's size can be problematic at times. We also have a 28' travel trailer for boondocking but time to upgrade. We've decided that 30' is the ideal size. We thank you so much for doing a series like this. Didn't know there were so many 5th wheels out there and from manufacturers we didn't know about. Keep it up!
Wow ty for the kind words
We have a Cherokee Arctic 23mle and we love the layout. We used to have a 43’ toy hauler. It was quite a downsize. We enjoy that it travels well in that slide doesn’t have to extend to access pantry, fridge, and bathroom! Being under 30’ we can go many more places!
That is awesome! Great layout
Love this list! This is a tremendous help to my small 5th wheel RV search!! I always return to your videos for guidance.
Glad you’re finding my videos helpful!
This is definitely one of the best formats. This is the kind of video that keeps me coming back even though I'm not in the market right now.
Awesome! Glad you like it!
Just when I thought I was somewhat 'schooled up' on 5th wheels under 30+ft...I find this very informative video! I appreciate that you went the extra distance and covered brands/ models that you don't actually carry. Great work!
Glad it was helpful!
Hi, Josh! You are one funny nerd, "Squirrel". In 2019 we downsized from our Allegro to a Shasta (Forest River) Phoenix 25MK 5er. At just over 29', we can pretty much get in any state or federal campsites. It did take some getting used to after selling our motor home but we love it. There are only a couple of bad things about it. One is the short wheel distance from the trailer to the truck. Chucking and sway are a bit more then on a longer rig. The other is backing up. For your viewers that are truckers, it's comparable to backing up a 48' trailer with the tandems slide all the back to a little 20' pup. The little trailer tends to get away from you. And, yes, your more observant viewers will know I'm dating myself with the 48' example. I retired from truckin' before the 53 footers came out. Love your videos. You and Matt have great reviews showing the good and the bad. Thanks!
Ty Tom! I sure try
Thanks Nerd! You deliver again. I really appreciate all you do for us.
My pleasure!
Josh, just wanted to thank you for this GREAT video. This is a video that I have been looking for for a very long time. We are interested in a 5th wheel, no more than 30' with a W/D prep and you NAILED it. I never realized that so many 5th wheels out there met my criteria. I'm bookmarking this video for future reference. You are the bomb. Thanks again for a job well done.
Awesome! It was a ton of digging around but I felt like this would be really handy
This is EXACTLY what I needed to do my research! Thank you so much. You are the man!
Glad to assist!
Thanks, I'll be watching this again. These are in the size range we want. You showed a few I have not seen or heard of. Thanks
Hope you like them!
This is my favorite category/genre of your videos!! This is a great format so keep them coming please 🙌🏻 and thank you for all your hard work Josh!!
Thank you! Will do!
Great job Nerd! This is the exact 5th wheel length we are looking for. Thanks for all the info and options! Great job as always!!!
Happy to help!
Loved this video format; thanks for doing this, Josh!
Glad you enjoyed it!
HEY JOSH, WAVING A HAND FROM THE LEFT COAST….( Rashberries) #1, THANKS FOR YEARONS AND YEARONS OF RV VIDEO TO STIR US TO FIND A PEACEFUL REPOSE FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS….TO CAMP IN WHEN WE NEED IT. YOU HAVE BEEN A INFORMATIVE AND FUN STORY TELLER OF ALL THESE MANUFACTURERS WITH THE LATEST AND GREATEST ……
Our pleasure!
Thanks for the excellent information. I have been trying to research 30 ft fifth wheels and was having trouble finding them. Now I have a list to look at in detail. Great info!
I am glad it was helpful!
We'd love to see a video on 30ft or less toy haulers that offer the 3 seasons doors and patio awning
5th wheel toy haulers
Sign me up! 👍🏽 I would love one, not really for toys, but SPACE to do what I want, decent desk or whatever. 😊
Man.. I’m not really aware of any fitting that description..
@@JoshtheRVNerd we really liked that black label Cherokee but they don't offer that 3 seasons doors package and we have to have it. We travel with pets and have to be able to run the A/C when that ramp door is down for the patio.
Great video Josh. Lots of info and now homework to do. I appreciate all your videos.
My pleasure!
I'm new to looking at 5th wheels but like the under 30' idea so thanks for putting this together. Your reviews of RVs are the best!
One of the biggest things missing on almost all of the sub 30 models is bigger camp side windows. Lack of bathroom access in road mode is a deal breaker for my wife. Access to the fridge is a "nice to have" but not required. Full size queen bed is optimal. I see plenty of floorplans I like in the 33-35' range but not much in the
That's part of the reason I like stuff like the 23MLE
Love the Reflection 270BN. I think it will work for our family. Thank you so much! We are downsizing from a Reflection 311 Fifth Wheel.
Great pick!
Excellent video. Great overview of the available options. I will be looking to upgrade from my travel trailer to a fifth wheel to tow behind my F250 Super Duty.
That’s a great fit for rvs this size
Love your videos. Would absolutely love it if you did another with fifth wheels between 30' and 35'
Noted!
I LOVE all this information!!!
“I like bacon”🥓 you kill me. Great job with this video. Lots of work went into it. It’s very much appreciated.
DID YOU SAY BACON?!
I'm currently looking for an under 30' 5th wheel. You have saved me a ton of work! This is great - thank you so much for all the effort it took to put this together!
This video was so helpful!!! Thanks for taking the time to do this. We appreciate how you list pros and cons for sure!
I think the Cruiser Essence 25 RK matches most of my needs and wants. My next move will be to go online and see who carries it closest to me. Would love to purchase from Bish's RV. Thanks for helping me narrow down my search ;-). and for all of the good info. I watch your videos all the time. Keep up the good work.
Not sure we have those in our lineup currently but that may change at some point
#Nerd Herd ❤ I loved this format and your upfront dialog about recording what you can whether you personally like the manufacturer/layout/etc. Saved this recording to my favorites list so when I am ready I can refresh before I buy!!
Enjoy!!
I have Two that stand out too me. The Roamer lite 245RLS and the Impression 235RW. The Bar in the impression is fantastic! Thank you Josh!
My pleasure!
That Acadia/Keystone is amazing. Nailed it.
👍🏻
Thank you for this video
My husband and I were talking about getting a 5th wheel but I don't want to go big. All of these were the perfect length and weight. I liked some floor plans better than others but it gives us a good starting point.
Awesome! Glad it helps
Nice job Josh. There may be others out there, but you do the best job at this. Thank you.
Wow, thanks!
This is a lot of good information. Thanks Nerd. The format is perfect, one can jump around. Do they make 27 - 30 foot living space with an eight foot garage? Making it a 35 to 38 foot 5th wheel.
How about a video on what does not come with the RV but you need it. Example, the black tank hose! Or maybe a video on all the accessories you can buy for RV. Prioritize them. I've been talking with friends who are thinking of doing what i plan to do when I retire. Buy a RV and go to all the places i could not get an 18 wheeler into. Oh, btw they now watch your videos too. We compare notes. I do not always comment but love your videos.
For your hauler question I don’t have models in mind off hand. Very few make something that size anymore
@JoshtheRVNerd thank you for replying. What is the average length of a toy hauler that Bish's sells either 5th wheel or camper?
Josh we just purchased CruiserRVs Essence 25rk. It is such a quality 5th wheel. We love it! You’ll have to check it out and add it to your list!
1) I like the looks of both the inside & outside of the Alliance. Nice spacious kitchen but I’d like to see a backsplash all around. Appears to be borderline heavy 1/2 T towable. Glad to see the attached ladder, but would rather see it curved over and attached to the top of the roof. One less leak point I guess. Perhaps I’m too picky 🙃
2) I like the kitchen set up in the Arctic Wolf. I see a lot of the “MK” brand of furniture in your videos. What does that stand for? Are they a basic or more luxury line of furniture?
3) Rockstaff stellar kitchen indeed.
4) The Impression makes a good impression on me. Too bad it wasn’t late model heavy 1/2 T towable.
5) Sometime could you put out a listing that shows every make and what their model letters mean? I know that they are all different. Thank you.
6) Reflecting on the Reflection 150 series…. I really like the space in there. By chance is it late model heavy 1/2 ton towable? I have a 2003 Chevy Silverado 1500 HD (8 lugs) Crew cab 4WD with a 6L with a GVWR of 8600 #, GAWR 6000 #, with 3.73 rear axle. My book says max trailer weight is either 7600 or 7900# with a GCWR of 14,000#. Not sure if I have a big enough truck. My truck camper sticker says 1881 # rating for that slide in. Anyone from the class feel free to chime in please. I’m thinking I don’t have a big enough truck.
7) I like the table and chairs in the Eagle 🦅
8) The Arcadia is unique. I like it but don’t have the truck unfortunately.
9) Love the Cougar.
10) Please visit the store for the KZ.
11) Ya, the Fox Mountain looks dated but it looks cozy.
37) Loved the video Uncle Josh. Keep doing you. You are so smart. This student nerd has learned a lot from you. I’m confident that if and when I ever do buy my first RV, I will be buying my second RV the first time around. #Nerdherd 👍
Great video!! Comprehensive and fun to watch the parts I’m interested in and easy to move to the next chapter for those I don’t. Appreciate the info and your hard work getting this together!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for putting this compilation together. I haven't decided whether to make do with my Frontier with limited acceptable choices, or get a 3/4 ton and get what I want. The length has to be limited to around 30' due to where I'll have to park it at home.
Curious to see what you do
I would love to see a run down of the lightest pin weight 5th wheels. I know I'm going to exceed my payload long before I exceed my tow capacity.
Hmm.. not a bad idea
Totally agree.
Love it. I've been narrowing it down under 10000, under 30.😍😎
This will help you zero in on some floor plan types!
Cougar 260MLE 30ft 11in w/ W.D. hookups and sweet full paint options
I looooooove that model. Somehow it never got "noticed" like I think it should
Josh: I really appreciate the chapter list with this video! You did miss one fifth wheel I like. I am a minimalist and appreciate rigs that maintain their value! Talk about light weight and fiberglass manufacturing. You won't find a smaller 5th wheel than the Scamp 19 foot fifth wheel! They are out of Minnesota and don't use dealers, so they are hard to find and see. However you could have added a floor plan and mentioned them on your video.
Love your reviews, you are a one of a kind RV expert!
Ah Ty for the catch!
Love my Arctic Wolf 23MLE. Has some great features you don’t usually find at this price point (auto level, a real ceiling fan, tons of storage and a big bath vent fan). Great value.
Hey Uncle Josh! What about a similar list but for couples camper travel trailers or bh travel trailers? Personally LOVED this idea. Maybe do a round of these videos once a year or something? Love watching your videos over others cause you're a little funny 😂 the others are too dry to watch. I need entertainment in my life 😂 I'm not sure I'd that says more about me or the videos?
Awesome video!! We have a 2023 Cougar 25RES. It is plenty big, and we really have no desire to go above 30'. So this was the perfect video for us to watch. Great to see all the other options out there. (I'm a little disappointed in the new Cougar Sport that replaced the 25RES. The flip up table is kind of cool, but it seems like the just cheapened it up overall. I am very glad we got our 25RES! I'll be watching your linked videos for more detailed looks at the rigs. Thanks so much for putting this out there!
The sport series is a scaled back offering but the budget also reflects that
Escape 5.0 is an option that I believe a lot of people might like. I will look at one if I eventually move up to a 5th wheel RV.
We contacted Escape (filled out the form online) and they connected us to one near us (30 min away) so we could see it “in the flesh.” So glad we did. We are sold on the 5.0 TA as the next camper for us. We even looked t a 10 year old Escape 21C. It was amazing how much it was in great shape after 10 years.
So “built to last” and the ability to get into small camping spots is our goal. Oh and to tow it over mountains with our half ton truck.
Alliance is the only one I would even consider if we had a bigger truck and didn’t care about slides and small camping spots.
I don't know why manufacturers aren't making more of these. People are having less kids and less families, they're working remote more and more, housing is less and less affordable, and some other stuff I can't think of right now. Plus no one wants to tow a monster RV that can't get into certain national parks. Seems like a slam dunk to me.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Thank you for making the list today. Have a good day!
Thank you too!
Thank you so much Josh!!! This was great 👍 I love to see all the possibilities out there.
I love the Cougar just like you and the Reflection 100 looks good too!
Glad you liked it!
Getting my rv nerd fix with this video!
😊
🎉#NerdHerd... 30' is my max. I love that you do these as it is very hard to put it together by yourself...
You got it!
I can't wait to see the 2025s when they start to come out. I think Brinkley and customers asking for more workstation (office) areas are going to be impactful this coming year.
Another great video. I have the AF 27-5. Yes it is shades of brown inside, but that can be changed. Whereas the 'pretty' insides rigs, the build quality cannot be changed. I def know I am towing this short 5er. It is B-I-L-T! as you said on the Fox Mt. lol Thanks again.
Hard to beat their build
Love this Josh. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed it!
This was fantastic, it was a great way to compare a bunch of different RVs in the same class. I’d personally love more like this like “travel trailers under x feet” or “travel trailers with (insert feature)” it would also be great if there was a playlist with the full length videos of the ones that you have videos for both for this particular group and other groups like under 25 feet or without slides or other classifications that people might be particularly looking for
Like …. LOVE … this review. What irritates me is Rockwood continues to limit CC to way under 2000 while others have 2500 or more. Also noted that like Coachman, Alliance is offering choice in axle size … I’m from a manufacturing background … and watched some of Forest River Factory tours, the axles are not put on the frame until the assembly process starts in the factory.
Honestly, I like them all, each has great features and some not so great. We do like shorter RV's and if we were 5th wheel people we would hard pressed to pick. Would really need to see them in person.
Yeah in person is best
Re Northwood, I have a 2004 24-5N, second owner. You didn't exaggerate the build quality or weight. Can't imagine any better build quality
Looking forward to your impressions of the Alliance Avenue 23ML
You have to check out the KZ 240rkd half ton 5th wheel. New Floorplan. IMO, best couples Floorplan.
We love the shorter 5th wheels and are happy the manufacturers are finally making some shorter options but, can’t understand why they only have one slide? We have a 2017 28RL Sabre with 3 slides. We are very happy with it but have thought of getting something newer. Can’t imagine only having 1 slide.
Love your videos Josh!
That Saber you mentioned is actually 32ft total. These are 30ft Total. That extra 2ft makes a huge difference when trying to find available sidewall space
Love this for format... I was really impressed with Impression, (see what I did there) washer dryer prep and 4000 cargo carry capacity!! wow also liked the Fox Mountain 3500ccc and like the solid wood cabinet look with sofa in the back wall which looks like I might be able to actually lie down on. very nice...
Yeah impression often has great CCC on their smaller stuff
But weirdly light on some of their big models
That was a very informative video. Next, we all know that RV builders use similar components , air conditioners , water heaters, ect. It would be neat to see actual construction (deep inside), showing wiring, plumbing, and hardware installation comparo's. Brand by brand, just like you did here.
I have several factory tours but not for everyone
Arctic fox is one of the best campers made out there in fifth wheel and In truck camper Models
Facts
Josh,enjoy your reviews. Consider showing some models under 30 feet with washer dryer ,light weight. Thanks Anthony.
I'll keep an eye out! TY for the suggestion
Thank you Josh. I also like rear kitchen. ❤👩🍳
You’re welcome 😊
Josh your our hero .
Too kind!
Boy, if any of these had a rear cargo door that you could stuff a kayak or two in the back.......
Still, these are a versatile and terrific size rigs!
Thanks!
Josh, on the 30ft or less with bunk house, you mentioned Volante 251BH. Don't forget the Cougar Sport has a 2700BH model and, as far as I know, is the only one under 30ft with triple bunks. We even talked about trading our Ibex in for one as recent as April, but we flat out can't find any in stock. It's highly likely to be our next RV, so that's why I'm even commenting. (Also we want to buy it from Bish's RV next go around :) )
ah crap I was telling the wife about this, and she said it's more than 30ft... this is why we have wives, lol.
I will always watch ⌚️ you Uncle Josh, you make shopping fun! 😊
Thanks so much
@@JoshtheRVNerd ABSOLUTELY 💯% ❤️
Thank you! I love that you do this!
You are so welcome!
It's great to have bunks when you are camping with with two kids.
That said, according to the regulations in my area (and lengths of my truck and boat), I need my fifth wheel to be 30 ft or less in order to be able to take the boat behind the trailer legally.
It was really hard to find something to fit the bill.
Thought we were 100% convinced we were buying the KZ240rkd. It’s an absolutely beautiful rig that has everything we want. However the length shown is not accurate. After driving 700 miles to check it out we found out it’s actually 34’ long. Such a bummer. Sadly we’re now back to considering the 22mle. Sure wish they’d put a fireplace in the hutch tho.
I ended up going with a Rockwood 2622RK which is a little over 30 feet and 10 k pounds as it was the smallest i could fit under my 2023 RAM 3500 4x4 truck. Anything else was too low on bed to trailer clearance.
Thank you for this video, I'm looking at half ton towable 5th wheels right now. Have you or could you please review the Alliance All Access 29RL? It's just over 30' but has dual opposing slides and looks interesting on paper.
It’s on my hit list
Love these videos
Ty!
Is there any without slides?
Not really
You bypassed the Rockstaff 281RK.
What about the fiberglass ones? Escape 5.0, Scamp 19, others?
Think of all the children who want to grow up to be RUclipsrs, Josh. lol. You have it made in the shade.
The irony was I never intended for this to be my career but here i am!
When is Brinkley gonna add a 30 foot or less with washer dryer to this list?
I enjoyed this video, love the list idea. Although your overlords might not like it, how about a list of small independent RV manufacturers that make tow-behind bunkhouse trailers?
Thanks for this video it was very helpful and informative!
You are so welcome!
I am listening to see if there is an under 30' with no slide. We traveled in a Viking 17bh for 5 months last year. It worked fine. When this 2015 trailer bites the dust, I would at least look at what was available in 5th wheels, with a rear view, with no slides.
Take a look at the Escape 5.0.
What do you think about the Durango 1/2 ton 5th wheels?
I've never actually had the pleasure of going thru them in person. As a result I don't feel qualified to even have an opinion on them if that's fair
Cougar does it right! #ThanksRVNerd
I’m a fan of what they do as well
Would love a similar video for shorter toy hauler fifth wheels
Fabulous! I may get a new 5er. Thanks!!!!!!
Thank you for watching!
Yes Josh,I did like this video, BUT,I wondered what model today would be the equivalent to the Jaco Eagle 27.5 RLTS? IT was because of one of your older vids that I (thanks to YOU) purchased this model a week ago, instead of the Delta. This rig is R O C K SOLID, BUT I would like to look at the 2024 version if there is one . Again GREAT RUN DOWN!!!
I forgot to say it's a 2017 pre covid!!! Well maintained!!!
Cougar 27sgs - what’s what the eagle was based off of
Also arctic wolf 27sgs
Thankyou SIR YOU are always there. so much appreciate your kindness and quick response no matter how off base my questions have been.
I like the under 30 foot show . We are thinking of going to a shorter 5th wheel.
Wow, Josh. I like a lot of these trailers. The ones I'd be most interested in have the ability to tandem pull. There are a number of motorcycle trailer companies that make rigid tandem pulls that have 4 wheels the all swivel independently to as to not interfere with the ability to back up the trailer. #NerdHerd
👍🏻 Thank you for watching!
@@JoshtheRVNerd Josh, you're my go to guy for campers, toy haulers and everything else. You that important. #RvNerdHerd
I wish they would make a luxury 5th wheel that was all season (gen and solar.) and a patio
Great list. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed!
Great list of Mighty Ranger towable rigs! 🤣 🤣 #Nerdherd! 🇨🇦
A Ranger, if I’m understanding you correctly can tow 7,500 pounds. The bed weight/tongue weight will likely kill it. Not laughing. Most of these are at lease ¾ ton range.
@@Erin-ThorNo worries. Inside joke.
@@GaryBrownrigg- Got it, I missed the initial joke.
😆
I promised another comment, but I seem to have written an essay...good luck if you decide to read this whole thing, top 5 at the bottom:
*General notes*
My use case is a solo traveler with a large dog, fulltime living planned but still need to work a few days a week, so need a *permanent* spot for an office.
If I don't list a floorplan below I've decided it's not for me, usually it's because it's either a bunkhouse or there's a dinette in the way that can't be easily ripped out.
*Alliance*
Avenue 24RK - Like Breakfast bar, rear kitchen, theater seats, coffee hutch, decent optional solar package. Dislike lack of W/D prep. How's the road mode access? Lack of access is a deal breaker for bathroom/bedroom.
*Coachmen*
Chaparral 235RK - Similar to 24RK, prefer theater seating over trifold sofa. Looks like no road mode access to bathroom/bedroom which is a deal breaker. Again dislike lack of W/D prep.
Chaparral 25RE - No road mode access (deal breaker), no W/D prep. Like freestanding dinette table standard, again prefer theater seating. ENT center in weird spot? I feel with a couple of tweaks this could be viable.
*Cruiser*
Essence 25RK - Like W/D prep, large shower, hutch + pantry, good kitchen counter space, excellent CCC, theater seats, & roller shades (Why not in kitchen/bedroom though? ESP kitchen, those blinds? Eww...). Don't like dinette, would prefer freestanding table or breakfast bar option. Electrical + ducting built into dinette makes it impractical to DIY a solution, makes it a deal breaker for me. They get a lot right, but the deal breakers obviously outweigh the good here.
*Dutchmen*
Shoutout to the 260RK (not listed). *technically* not under 30ft but 30'11". I like the unique dinette option, one of the few I would actually consider. Like theater seating, W/D prep, counter space, and somehow they crammed a king bed in there too! Not as much a fan that the bed is on a slide out though, personally I'd prefer the 60x80 queen oriented the other way.
Also really like the Astoria 1500 2503REF (also not listed), though it seems to be dealer stock only. Hopefully not gone for good? Only real downside to that one is the limited counter space due to the massive swing away Ent center/pantry combo. I feel like a rear kitchen and normal sized pantry would have served it better.
*Forest River*
Arctic Wolf 27SGS - Recliners! I love floor plans with recliners, they're an easy space to adapt to your own needs. I wish more MFGs did a "classic" floor plan like this! I personally would use the space to take one recliner out and fit a nice little desk for some remote work/play on a laptop with a cheeky little dual monitor setup. Also like the central vac & the split bench/freestanding dining table which takes away the unpleasant properties of a more traditional dinette setup. The position of the ENT CTR and the storage around it suits the floorplan well. Ceiling fan is a nice homey touch. Wish it had W/D prep, that'd put it almost at the top of my short list. It looks like there's barely enough room, they just decided not to do it unless it's a bed slide model (see above, not a fan of bed slides)...
Cardinal 23RK - one of the few floor plans with a dinette setup I'd consider, am I the only one that thinks lounging on that L shaped dinette to watch some TV might be a comfy option with some good throw pillows? Especially like the table looks removable, but kind of wish they'd have done a L shaped lounge sofa in the dinette's place and did a freestanding table that could move between the lounge and the theater seating, or get tucked away when not in use. Obligatory W/D prep is a plus as well, and love the counter space! I honestly don't know if it would work for me long term, but I'd be willing to give it a serious try if the right opportunity came along.
Cherokee Black Label 256RRBL (Not listed) - Again going ever so slightly beyond 30ft at 30'7", but I wanted to call this one out because it's a cool design with a rear dinette/sofa and a patio door in the back with no slides, plus the ever elusive W/D prep! Definitely a unique combination that I'd love to see in person one day. I feel it could have used a little more counter space, would have been interesting if they put the pantry on the camp side wall and did a wrap around kitchen counter instead.
Flagstaff 281RK - With the theater seating, I again love the rear kitchen + breakfast bar layout, ceiling fan is a nice homey touch, and I especially like the nearly full sized oven. That said, don't like the bed slide and with such a large shower a W/D prep space probably wouldn't be possible within the 30ft limitation here. If I could swap out the upstairs with one of the other W/D prep ones, it'd be a contender for the shortlist for sure.
Impression 235RW - Love this layout, can you tell I'm a sucker for rear kitchen designs and breakfast bar seating yet? Major downside to this one though is the lack of road access to the bathroom and bedroom and that's a deal breaker to me.
*Grand Design*
I have nothing I would seriously look at with this brand anymore and that's a major disappointment. First, a general note I'm annoyed the floorplans here get discontinued so often. They used to have a Reflection (5th wheel or TT under 30', can't remember which) with a nice little desk in the corner, I can't even remember the name of it anymore, but I liked that one and it's gone after only 2-3 years. When it comes to GD, I feel like I'm more looking at the used market for anything I've seen in the past because their lineup changes so much. Nothing they currently offer really speaks to me but I will say the 270BN comes closest. My main problem is they just don't include the W/D prep on any of their 150/100 series reflection models, and they don't go small enough on their "fully featured" Reflection models either even though they used to. I'd honestly consider a few if they got down below 32' just because of their design philosophy and the noticeable improvement in fit & finish over some other brands, but without a suitable floorplan that's a moot point. GD used to be at the top of my list in terms of brand preference, but over the years It's steadily dropped. Theo only real interesting layout I found was their 24MAV which I like for their interesting use of the "garage" to place a murphy bed, but it still has too many negatives and some deal breakers.
*Keystone*
Just a note on the brand in general, one of my preferred due to build quality. I was lucky enough to get a last minute tour of their factory a year or two ago and was impressed with a lot of what they did compared to what I saw in other factory tours. I also really like the way they designed their centralized AC setup. Their selection of floorplans also includes a ton of unique options and I'm always excited when they release something new. Hope they keep up the awesome work, but please consider more W/D prep plans on some of your smaller units!
Cougar 260MLE - One of the few "full featured" cougars that includes W/D prep under 30ft, I love the pull out table option on this one! Like the ceiling fan, good counter space, nice bathroom and shower. Great use of space, I am just not a fan of the bed slide. All that said, This one is honestly right near the top for me.
Arcadia 246SLRK - Love the Ent center/desk/dinette space, shame they're relocating the TV but I see several reasons why they'd decide to do it. No W/D Prep is unfortunate, drops it off the otherwise surefire top 5 spot.
23MLE - Would be a contender with W/D prep, esp since it has freestanding dining table option and theater seating option. Not a fan of the in floor vent placement, wish they were a little more out of the way.
*KZ*
Durango HT D250RED - I really like this one. Feel like the compromise of a well placed, large ENT CTR with fireplace and the deeper but shorter kitchen counter space works well Also like the optional theater seating and that the bench+chairs are not permanently built in, makes it very easy to customize the space to my needs with a desk and PC setup. But wait, there's more! They have a "Full Timer's Desk" option?!?! Now you're speaking my language, KZ! I like how they managed to fit the W/D prep in the same space a lot of MFGs seem to omit in their layouts (I know, I know, it's getting to be a tired narrative...), and I do greatly prefer the slide out in the bedroom to be the wardrobe, not the bed. Roller shades are a plus, and floor vents are out of the way (looking at you, Keystone!) If I had any nitpicks, it'd be the size of the stove. Just seems tiny compared to the residential fridge and residential sized microwave. Go big or go home (preferably go big). Also I wish that optional solar package was just a little larger considering the residential fridge.
*Northwood*
Ah, Northwood. I really, really want one of these. I might even give up the W/D prep option for that 235RLS with the optional recliners, if not for the fact I'd be stuck with the dinette seating most of the time. They're a company that gets a lot of the very important stuff right. I just wish they had a floor plan that suited me.
-----
So, that's my list. I guess based on all this my top 5 would be:
1. Durango HT D250RED
2. Cougar 260MLE
3. Cherokee Black Label 256RRBL
4. Cardinal 23RK
5. Arctic Wolf 27SGS - would probably be #1 or #2 if not for the lack of W/D prep!
I have to be honest, that desk option on the Durango HT is what got it to the number one spot. I didn't even know that existed until I took a look at the floor plan today, so thank you Josh for your effort in putting this video out for us! Can't wait to see it in person some day, or better yet see it featured on the channel!
This is a big comment but that format was easy to follow Ty
Bish's needs to seriously consider carrying Northwood brands at the Texas dealership, and others they obtain on the East side of the country. The Northwood dealers in Texas, Florida and Missouri only seem to carry the truck campers. There's one in NC that carries Fox and Nash, but just a few. I realize the cost to transport them all the way across the country would be high, but their quality is second to none. Same potential for Outdoors RV, Texas is as far south and East as they go, with the exception of one in PA.
Thanks for all this information. Not all of us want or need a giant fifth wheel but prefer the towability and comfort of one. Respectfully though, you forgot a Canadian built small fifth wheel by Escape. Escape 5.0. might just be my retirement purchase.
Blah. Did my best to try to catch them all - like pokemon lol. Dont see those down here much
@@JoshtheRVNerd fai. Don't see them much up here either!