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Travel Trailer Vs Fifth Wheel. Which is best for a toy hauler?




If you’re shopping for an RV that offers both comfortable living space and a garage for your toys, you’ve likely come across two popular options: travel trailers and fifth wheel toy haulers.

 

Both styles serve different needs and preferences, so how do you choose the one that’s right for you? In this guide, we’ll walk through the key differences between toy hauler travel trailers and fifth wheel toy haulers, with examples from Grand Design RV’s industry-leading lineup.

What is a Toy Hauler?

 

A toy hauler is a specialized RV that combines living quarters with a garage area, designed to store and transport ATVs, motorcycles, kayaks, or other adventure gear. What sets toy haulers apart from traditional RVs is their dual functionality: they serve as both a cozy home on wheels and a mobile storage solution.

 

Grand Design’s Momentum series is a standout in the category, offering models with spacious garages and luxury living spaces. Whether you're planning short getaways or extended travel, a Grand Design toy hauler provides everything you need for the road ahead.

 

Types of Toy Haulers

 

If you're shopping for RVs with toy haulers, the main options are travel trailers and fifth wheels. Each offers distinct advantages, and Grand Design has models in both categories to suit different needs.

 

Travel Trailer and Toy Hauler Combinations

 

Travel trailer toy haulers—often called bumper pull toy haulers—are ideal for those who need a lighter, more compact RV. Grand Design’s Momentum G-Class Travel Trailer models fit this category perfectly, providing easy towing and functional garage spaces without sacrificing comfort.

 

Fifth Wheel Toy Haulers

 

If you need more space and stability, a fifth wheel toy hauler might be the better option. The Grand Design Momentum 5th Wheel models are renowned for their expansive layouts, multiple slide-outs, and larger garages. These RVs are designed for those who want luxury and adventure all in one package.

 

Features of Travel Trailer Toy Haulers

 

A toy hauler travel trailer offers several advantages, especially for RVers looking for flexibility and affordability.

 

Advantages

  • Cost-Effective and Accessible: Bumper pull toy haulers, like the Grand Design Momentum G-Class Travel Trailer, are typically more affordable than fifth wheels, making them a great entry point for first-time RVers.
  • Easier to Tow: Since they use a standard bumper hitch, these toy haulers can be towed by a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs and half-ton trucks. This makes them accessible to adventurers who don’t own heavy-duty towing vehicles.

 

Limitations

  • Limited Space: Travel trailer models, while convenient, offer smaller garages and living areas compared to their fifth wheel counterparts.
  • Reduced Stability: Due to the hitching system, toy hauler travel trailers are more prone to sway at highway speeds than Grand Design’s fifth wheel toy haulers.

 

 

Features of Fifth Wheel Toy Haulers

 

If you prioritize space, comfort, and stability, Grand Design’s Momentum Fifth Wheel models offer premium features.

 

Advantages

  • Enhanced Stability: The fifth wheel hitch, which connects directly over the rear axle of your truck, ensures smoother towing and better weight distribution. This makes the Grand Design Momentum 5th Wheel an excellent choice for long-distance travel with a full garage.
  • More Space and Amenities: Fifth wheels typically feature multiple slide-outs, expanding both the living area and the garage space. Grand Design’s Momentum 399TH, for example, includes a spacious 13-foot garage to accommodate larger toys.
  • Luxury Living Spaces: These RVs come equipped with high-end finishes, residential appliances, and optional outdoor kitchens, making them ideal for full-time RVers.

 

Limitations

  • Higher Cost: While fifth wheel toy haulers, like the Grand Design Momentum, offer more space and features, they are more expensive than travel trailer models.
  • Specialized Towing Requirements: A fifth wheel hitch requires a compatible heavy-duty truck, adding to the overall investment.
  • Complex Setup and Maneuvering: Although they offer a smoother towing experience, fifth wheels require more skill to hitch, tow, and park compared to bumper pull toy haulers.
Spacious bathroom Bathroom
Another view of this killer bathroom! Check out the skylight in the shower!

Making the Decision: Which RV Toy Hauler is Right for You?

 

Choosing between a toy hauler travel trailer and a fifth wheel toy hauler depends on your lifestyle, budget, and towing needs. Grand Design RV offers options in both categories, ensuring you’ll find a model that fits your adventures.

 

Considerations for Choosing

  • Budget and Towing Capacity: If you’re looking for a cost-effective option and have a lighter towing vehicle, the Grand Design Momentum G-Class Travel Trailer could be the perfect fit. For those seeking more space and luxury, the Grand Design Momentum 5th Wheel offers superior amenities.
  • Space and Amenities: If you travel with multiple toys or need a larger garage, a fifth wheel toy hauler like the Momentum 399TH is ideal. However, if your new toy is a dirt bike or kayak, a bumper pull toy hauler might meet your needs just fine.
  • Travel Frequency and Style: For short weekend getaways, the simplicity and lower cost of a travel trailer are attractive. But if you plan to live on the road for extended periods, the luxury and space of a fifth wheel will enhance your experience.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Both travel trailers and fifth wheel toy haulers offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your individual needs. Grand Design RV simplifies the decision by offering top-tier models in both categories, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

 

Whether you need a compact garage for a new toy or a spacious fifth wheel for full-time travel, Grand Design has the right RV for you. With the right toy hauler, your next adventure will be smooth, exciting, and tailored to your needs.

So load up your garage, hitch up your Grand Design Momentum, and hit the road—your next adventure awaits!

FAQ's

 

How Much Does a Toy Hauler Camper Cost?

 

The cost of a toy hauler camper from Grand Design varies based on the model and features. For example, the Grand Design Momentum series, known for its spacious living areas and large garages, typically starts around $80,000 and can go up to $150,000+ for fully-loaded configurations with luxury amenities.

 

If you want a more compact option, the Grand Design Momentum MAV models—travel trailer versions with integrated garages—are generally more affordable, starting around $40,000. These models provide great value for weekend adventurers and part-time RVers.

 

Whether you're interested in a bumper pull toy hauler or a toy hauler 5th wheel, Grand Design offers a range of options to fit different budgets and lifestyles.

What Are The Best Toy Haulers To Live In?

 

When it comes to finding the best toy haulers for full-time living, Grand Design RV stands out with models designed to offer the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Whether you need a spacious garage to store your equipment or a luxurious interior for extended stays, Grand Design has several options that fit the bill.

Here are some of the top Grand Design toy haulers ideal for full-time living:

 

1. Grand Design Momentum 399TH

The Momentum 399TH is a fifth wheel toy hauler built for those who need both ample living space and a large garage. This model features a 13-foot garage, perfect for ATVs, motorcycles, or other large toys. In addition to the spacious storage, the living area includes multiple slide-outs, a fully equipped kitchen, a master bedroom, and even an optional outdoor kitchen. The Momentum 399TH also comes with washer/dryer prep, making it a great choice for full-time RVers.

 

Why it’s great for full-time living:

  • Large garage for multiple toys
  • Luxurious residential amenities
  • Optional outdoor kitchen and entertainment area

 

2. Grand Design Momentum G-Class 320G

The Momentum G-Class 320G is a travel trailer toy hauler that combines affordability with functionality, making it ideal for full-time RVers who want a more compact and accessible option. This model offers a practical garage space and sleeping accommodations for up to six people, with a queen bed and additional convertible sofas. Despite its size, it doesn’t skimp on comfort, providing a modern kitchen, spacious bathroom, and entertainment setup.

 

Why it’s great for full-time living:

  • Compact size with essential features
  • Lower cost compared to fifth wheel models
  • Easier to tow with a wider range of vehicles

 

3. Grand Design Momentum 397THS

If luxury is your priority, the Momentum 397THS is a premium fifth wheel toy hauler that offers a front living room, complete with a fireplace and theater seating. The garage is located below the rear bedroom, providing a unique raised-floor design that allows for extra storage space. This layout makes it perfect for those looking to bring along toys while still enjoying a high-end residential feel.

Why it’s great for full-time living:

  • Front living room with theater seating
  • Spacious garage with below-floor storage
  • High-end finishes for a residential experience

 

4. Grand Design Momentum 350G

The Momentum 350G is another compact option in the G-Class lineup, offering a 14-foot garage—one of the largest in its category. This travel trailer toy hauler provides a versatile layout, with a functional kitchen, modern bathroom, and sleeping quarters that maximize space. It's a great option for solo travelers or couples looking for a smaller RV that still offers the functionality of a garage.

 

Why it’s great for full-time living:

  • Large garage for a travel trailer model
  • Compact design ideal for two people
  • Easier to tow and park in smaller spaces

 

Time to choose

 

When it comes to choosing the best toy hauler for full-time living, Grand Design RV offers models that excel in both comfort and functionality. Whether you need the space and luxury of a fifth wheel like the Momentum 399TH or the compact versatility of the Momentum 320G, there’s a Grand Design model to fit your lifestyle.

 

Each of these toy haulers includes a dedicated garage space, allowing you to bring along your favorite toys and gear without compromising on living space. With Grand Design’s focus on quality, innovation, and comfort, these models are perfect for RVers looking to make life on the road feel like home.

399 Kitchen Back to Front

What is the most spacious Fifth Wheel Toy Hauler?

 

The most spacious fifth wheel toy hauler in Grand Design’s lineup is the Grand Design Momentum 399TH. This flagship model offers a combination of luxury living spaces, multiple slide-outs, and a massive garage, making it one of the most expansive toy haulers available.

 

Grand Design Momentum 399TH: A Luxurious and Spacious Toy Hauler

 

The Momentum 399TH is designed for RVers who need maximum space for both living and storage. Its layout includes:

  • 13-foot garage: Ample room to store ATVs, motorcycles, or other adventure gear.
  • Multiple slide-outs: Expands the kitchen, living room, and bedroom for increased interior space.
  • Separate living and entertainment areas: Features reclining theater seating, an electric fireplace, and a large TV, creating a cozy environment for downtime.
  • Master bedroom with walk-in closet: A rare feature in RVs, providing extra storage for extended trips.
  • Residential-style kitchen: Equipped with full-size appliances, an island, and plenty of counter space for cooking on the road.

 

Why the Momentum 399TH is the Most Spacious Option

  • Large Living Area: The combination of multiple slide-outs and thoughtful design creates an open-concept feel.
  • Dedicated Garage: The 13-foot garage allows plenty of room for your toys without sacrificing interior space.
  • Tall Ceilings: Adds to the spacious feel, making it comfortable for extended stays.
  • Outdoor Living Options: Comes with an optional outdoor kitchen and entertainment area, expanding usable space beyond the interior.

 

This model caters to both adventure-seekers and those looking for a home-like RV experience. If you’re seeking the most space in a fifth wheel toy hauler, the Grand Design Momentum 399TH is the ultimate choice.

Are Toy Haulers Better Built Than Travel Trailers?

 

Whether toy haulers are better built than standard travel trailers depends on the specific models and manufacturers, but there are a few key differences in design and construction that can give toy haulers an edge in certain areas.

How Toy Haulers Differ from Travel Trailers in Construction

 

  1. Reinforced Frames and Chassis
    • Toy haulers, like those from Grand Design RV, require a more robust frame and chassis to support the additional weight of the garage and heavy equipment inside. This often makes toy haulers structurally stronger than standard travel trailers.
    • The Grand Design Momentum G-Class Travel Trailer is a great example, offering the same durability found in larger fifth wheel models, but in a compact bumper-pull format.
  2. Higher Weight Capacities
    • Toy haulers are designed to carry motorcycles, ATVs, and other heavy gear, so they come with higher payload capacities and sturdier suspension systems than traditional travel trailers. This can result in a more rugged build, especially with fifth wheel toy haulers like the Grand Design Momentum 376THS.
  3. Garage Construction
    • The rear garage in a toy hauler requires additional support and materials to handle cargo. Many toy haulers, such as the Momentum 399TH, feature ramp doors reinforced to support the loading and unloading of heavy equipment. This adds to the overall durability compared to a standard travel trailer.
  4. Luxury and Build Quality
    • Some toy haulers—particularly higher-end fifth wheels—are built with more premium materials and amenities to support long-term living and rugged use. Grand Design’s toy haulers, for instance, come with weather-resistant features like fully enclosed underbellies and residential-grade finishes.
  5. Heavier Weight and Towing Considerations
    • While toy haulers tend to be more robust, they are also heavier, which requires more towing power. Travel trailers have the advantage of being lighter and easier to tow, but they may not offer the same structural strength as a toy hauler.

 

Are Toy Haulers Always Better Built?

 

Not necessarily. While toy haulers generally have more durable frames and reinforced garages, travel trailers are still well-built, especially when manufactured by companies like Grand Design RV. If you don’t need a garage for toys, a high-quality travel trailer may be a better fit, offering all the necessary amenities without the added weight and towing requirements. Models like the Grand Design Imagine travel trailer focus more on living space and comfort, while toy haulers prioritize storage and versatility.

 

Final Thoughts

While toy haulers are often built more robustly due to their dual purpose, this doesn’t make them inherently better than travel trailers. It comes down to how you plan to use your RV. If you need a garage to transport equipment and want a sturdier build for rugged adventures, a Grand Design toy hauler like the Momentum series may be the right choice.

 

However, if your focus is on lightweight travel and easier towing, a travel trailer might suit you better. Both types can offer excellent build quality, especially when you choose a trusted brand like Grand Design RV.

 

Which Are The Most Popular Toy Haulers?

 

The most popular toy haulers from Grand Design RV include the Momentum and Momentum G-Class series. These models are known for their premium build, spacious garages, and luxurious amenities, making them favorites among both weekend adventurers and full-time RVers.

 

Grand Design Momentum 399TH

This flagship fifth wheel offers one of the largest garages—13 feet—paired with high-end residential finishes. It's popular for its expansive living space, including multiple slide-outs, a master bedroom with a walk-in closet, and an optional outdoor kitchen. RVers appreciate its combination of luxury and functionality, especially for long-term use​. But don't just take our word for it, check out these links to hear from happy dealers and customers;

Dusty Trail RV

TREKKN

 

Grand Design Momentum 376THS

This model is unique due to its front living room layout, complete with theater seating and a fireplace, while the garage sits below the rear bedroom. The 376THS is ideal for travelers who need both ample toy storage and a residential feel, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize both comfort and versatility​; Dut don't take our word for it, see what Camping World has to say;

Camping World Blog

 

Grand Design Momentum G-Class 25G

For those seeking a more compact, travel-trailer version, the Momentum G-Class 25G is a top pick. Despite being smaller, it offers a 13.5-foot garage, spacious living quarters, and modern finishes, appealing to adventurers who prefer easier towing without sacrificing storage space. This model is particularly popular among RVers who want flexibility and comfort in a lighter, more accessible design​.

RVBlogger

TREKKN

 

Why Grand Design Models Are So Popular

 

These models stand out due to their thoughtful layouts, including functional garages that can double as additional living spaces. They also feature weather-resistant construction and high-end amenities, making them suitable for both short trips and full-time RV living. The Momentum series is frequently chosen for its durability, luxury, and spacious design, reflecting Grand Design’s commitment to quality and innovation​

Dusty Trail RV

 

In summary, the Grand Design Momentum and Momentum G-Class models consistently rank among the most popular toy haulers, thanks to their combination of functionality, luxury, and practical storage solutions.