So what are the 10 best travel trailer brands? Here at Top Rated Travel Trailers, one of our goals is to provide you with unbiased information on travel trailers and the companies that make them. Choosing the best travel trailer brands is a tough choice
What we’ve done with this list is look at the most popular manufacturers of travel trailers, look at the models they make, and how well they sell. We also took a look at feedbacks and comments that we have found posted online in forums and other places travel trailer owners hang out.
What Are The Best Travel Trailer Brands This Year?
1. Airstream
Airstream – As a brand, Airstream is all about luxury. Producing some of the most iconic travel trailers ever made, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more distinctive style of travel trailers. Priced on the high-end of the travel trailer price range, Airstream still manages to provide a tremendous amount of value with numerous amenities and superior craftsmanship. This is the link to the Airstream Forums.
This year, 2019, they have updated their models to have the following upgrades:
- 3-year transferable limited warranty*
- 3 years of Coach-Net roadside assistance
- Hanging wardrobes in all twin bed floorplans
- Fantastic Fan shade in all bedroom fans
- Improved impact-resistant and weatherproof removable material in storage compartments
- A larger bathroom mirror on Flying Cloud 30RB and 30FB bunk
Not only that, they’ve also made some features standard, namely:
- Rearview Camera for Sport, Flying Cloud, International Signature, International Serenity, Globetrotter, Tommy Bahama, and Classic.
- Power Patio Awning for International Signature, International Serenity, Globetrotter, and Tommy Bahama. This feature is already standard for Classic.
- Window Awning Package for International Signature, International Serenity, Globetrotter, and Tommy Bahama. This feature is also already a standard for Classic.
One of the Travel Trailers that they are highly advertising is the Basecamp, which is one of their smallest models. As an update, here are the changes that they did to their 2019 model:
- New Glacier Lake décor palette
- New flooring color in all décors
- Heavy-duty stabilizer jacks
- Updated entry door with next-generation latch and seals
Additionally, they’ve made an all Basecamp-X package, which includes:
- Lift kit – 3″ of additional clearance
- Goodyear® Wrangler® tires
- Black shadow wheel design
- Raised hitch jack foot pad
- Stainless steel rock guards
- Solar window guards
If you want to know more about their other models and their upgrades, check them out here. You can download their brochure and if you have the time, you can go to your local dealership and see the models for yourself.
2. Grand Design
Grand Design – This manufacturer have an interesting story. They are a break-off from Keystone. I’ve come across many reviews where Grand Design owners praise the company for a quality product and a great customer service. They have a 3-year limited structural warranty on all of their coaches. They are located in Middlebury, Indiana. This is the link to the Grand Design Forums.
As of late, they haven’t advertised any major changes to their brands, but they still have the great qualities that made them into the great brand that they are. On their site’s brochure page, aside from being able to download brochures for their different brands, you can also contact them with a personalized inquiry. You can state whether you own an RV or not, which Grand Design brand you’re interested in, when are you planning to buy one, your name, where you’re from (they only cater to US and Canada), your email, your preferred contact method (phone call, email, or text message), whether you want a team member to contact you or not, if you want to receive any type of communication from them, and the top 2 brands at which you’re interested to look.
3. Oliver Travel Trailers
Oliver Travel Trailers – Oliver Travel Trailers are manufactured by Oliver Fiberglass Products (OFP) Company in Hohenwald, Tennessee. Interested in talking to other Oliver travel trailer owners? Visit the Oliver Travel Trailer Forums.
For this brand, the notable changes to their models this year are:
- Norcold refrigerator
- Dometic awning (this change happened because their former awning brand is Horizon, which is owned by Dometic now)
- An upgraded convection microwave from the standard stainless microwave (the brand isn’t specific)
Though these are only a very few changes, from the discussion board found in their site, their customers seemed to be really happy about these upgrades and changes. They really felt like Oliver is listening to them. And in business, making and actually listening to your customers is more important than anything else.
4. Forest River
Forest River – Founded in 1996 by Peter Liegl, Forest River operates multiple production plants throughout the Midwest and West Coast. They produce travel trailers, pop-up campers, fifth wheels, and many more types of recreational vehicles. Check out the Forest River Forums.
2019 is a great year for Forest River because they got awards from RV News for 5 of their brands. One even won RV of the year from RV Business. Here are their brands and their awards:
- Cedar Creek Hathaway Edition Fifth Wheels: “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV News.
- RIVERSTONE Fifth Wheels: “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV News.
- Wildcat Fifth Wheels and Travel Trailers: “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV News.
- Work and Play Travel Trailers Toy Haulers: “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV Pro. “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV News. It’s also Certified Green.
- Vengeance Touring Edition Fifth Wheels Toy Haulers: RV of the Year for 2019 by RV Business. Top RV Debut for 2019 by RV Business. “Best of Show” for 2019 by RV News.
5. Gulf Stream
Gulf Stream – Around since 1983, this brand of travel trailers is well-known and recognized in providing outstanding quality and innovation. Looking to speak to existing owners of Gulfstream trailers and RVs? Visit their forums right here.
This year, they have released a new version of their Conquest brand which is the 295SBW. It can sleep 4, it has one slide-out, and it comes in 4 different interior colors namely, Coastal, Seahawk, Mineral, and Night Sky. Its other specifications are:
- Furnace: BTU30000
- Hitch Weight: 1010lbs
- Dry Weight: 6890lbs
- Cargo Weight: 2290lbs
- Fresh Water Capacity: 51 gallons
- Gray Water Capacity: 74 gallons
- Black Water Capacity: 37 gallons
6. Heartland
Heartland – This company is founded in 2003 by Brian Brady and a group of RV industry veterans. Heartland RV is located in Elkhart, Indiana. They make several models of travel trailers that are well-regarded by consumers. Visit the Heartland RV Forums.
2019 has been quite a busy year for Heartland so far. They have released new models for 14 of their model series for their travel trailers alone. Here they are:
- Fuel Toy Hauler Series (3)
- Mallard Series (12)
- North Trail Series (14)
- Pioneer Series (11)
- Pioneer Toy Hauler Series (2)
- Prowler Lynx Series (10)
- Prowler Series (19)
- Prowler Toy Hauler Series (2)
- Sundance Series (11)
- Torque Toy Hauler Series (8)
- Trail Runner Series (10)
- Trail Runner SLE Series (7)
- Trail Runner Toy Hauler Series (2)
- Wilderness Series (11)
If you want to know more, visit this page.
7. Eclipse Recreational Vehicles
Eclipse Recreational Vehicles – One of the largest producers of toy haulers and travel trailers, Eclipse Recreational Vehicles was founded in 2003. They make over 50 models of travel trailers. Eclipse has no forums for their owners that we could find.
For 2019, Eclipse RV released a new version of their model Attitude, 35GSG. Its key features are:
- Platinum Birch Wood
- 2nd A/C Bedroom
- 13.5K BTU
- Central Vacuum System
- Enclosed Tanks – Heated
- Extra Cargo – 3′
- Inverter – 1800 Watts
- Kicker Stereo System With App Controls
- Ramp Patio Fence
- Rear Screen Wall
- Solar Panel – 1600 Watt
- Water Heater -10 Gallons DSI/Electric
- 2nd Electric Awning With LED Light
- 6-Point Electric Auto Level
- Frameless Windows
- Centurion Package
- Electric Bed And Dinette
8. Jayco
Jayco – Jayco RV goes back to 1968 when the company was founded by Lloyd J. Bontrager. Jayco blends Old World Amish craftsmanship and innovative technology. It is the nation’s largest family-owned-and-operated RV manufacturer today. To register for their forum, click here.
Jayco’s 2019 lineup did not disappoint. This brand always gives its best shot to provide best quality travel trailers for their customers. Across all of their models released this year, here are the top features and upgrades:
- JaySMART™ safety lighting system
- Larger pass-through storage
- True interior design
- Legless dinettes
- Walk-in shower
- Spartan® K1 Chassis with independent front suspension
- Backlit medicine cabinet and custom-framed mirror
- Full-body paint
- King bed
For more information regarding these, visit this page.
9. CruiserRV
CruiserRV – CuiserRV is a subsidiary of Thor Industries, the same corporation that owns AirStream and most recently, Jayco. They are located in Howe, Indiana and make several models of travel trailers and travel trailer toy haulers. We could not find a CruiserRV owners forum, but you can try checking out their Facebook page.
This brand has been dubbed as one of the best, but it has a lot of room for improvement. According to some of the RV reviews of their 2019 lineup, after using their newly-bought brand new travel trailer, they already began experiencing and noticing issues. Some amenities were not properly installed, other equipment weren’t working properly, and the tires were called “cheap,” but they also said that the floor plans were comfortable and spacious.
Hopefully, their next year’s lineup would be way better than their lineup this year.
10. Winnebago
Winnebago – With a history of well over 50 years, this travel trailer brand is actually more well-known for its motor homes, but they also make an excellent line of travel trailers. We could not find a forum dedicated specifically to owners.
Not much has changed for their models this year except for the fact that they continuously update the level of comfort with the models that they manufacture. They update the sofas, the beds, the chairs, the dinettes, and even the electronics. They do this through seeking the best suppliers for these products, and truthfully, they almost never disappoint.
45 comments
What are your thoughts about Newmar (for full-timing)? I saw that it wasn’t on the list, but then thought that maybe you are just reviewing current TT brands.
Newmar is one of the best for Full timing! There is a FB group for Newmar Owners, I am the admin. You should join!
Friends of ours owned a Newmar and they love it. It was their primary home.
We own a 40′ Newmar 5th wheel with 4 slides we have lived in it for 10 years. Best 5th wheel we ever had. We have had Motor homes and 5th wheels of different brands and the Newmar is the best ever. They roll down the road beautifully. Would never have any other brand.
Hi Emma, yest I typically just write about travel trailers and not motor coaches, however I did write an overview of their models here https://topratedtraveltrailers.com/newmar-rv-buy/
We have friends who have been doing full-time RVing out of a motor coach and they love it. They have a Newmar and are very happy with it.
We have a 2003 Coachmen Captiva. We keep having water issues which we are getting repaired to sale as we would like a newer trailer with a front kitchen and back bedroom with 2 slides. What brand do you recommend that is made lite weight but sturdy. We pull with a Ford F-150 ecoboost 3.5 engine.
what about a sunline solaris 26. It’s a 1998 model, but we’re interested in it. What are your thoughts?
Collette, I’m sorry I’m not familiar with that brand of travel trailers. I wish I could be of further help, however, you can try their forum http://www.sunlineclub.com/forums/
Thanks
Do you think Keystone Summerland mini 1850FL would be have good quality?
Renee, I’ve not been in one or have had the opportunity to review one. As I’ve become more aware of Keystone I have found some websites and forums that where owners of Keystone trailers question the quality of construction and customer support. I would look research further before making a decision.
Renee, I would visit the Keystone forums and ask some of the members who have one. Keystone like many of the travel trailer brands have those that simply love them or simply hate them. Here is the link to their forum.
http://www.keystonerv.org/
Coachmen…and Forest River….kind of like saying Mustang and Ford isn’t it?
Agree somewhat Bill, each brand name does have its own unique features and selling points.
Thanks for your comment Bill.
Avoid Forest River Puma…..purchased new in 2008 & one problem after the other…..tires, water leaks, micro wave explosion, windows and blinds, flooring, etc
What do you know about or think of the highlander light Fifth wheel
Pamela, I don’t research 5th wheels much, but the Highland RV light travel trailers are very nice and well built.
Would like to buy arrack trailer for the first time. Looking at Dutchman Aerolite 281RLSs and a Kestone Courgarlite 28RLS. Seen good and bad reviews what’s a girl to do?
Cindy I have seen the same with both, good and bad reviews. Keep researching, try and talk to owners of each model if you can, ask the dealer for contact information if possible. Look at other models also so you can make a better comparisons. Check the forums for reviews and comments. Make it a point to actually get in the trailer you are considering. Also check your dealers reputation for customer service as well.Above all take your time and don’t rush into buying one over the other without solid research.
Stay away from the aerolite, I own one and the flooring system is crap. I had to completely rebuild after using for about seven months.
We are looking at a Grand Desige 2800BH. Have read a lot of articles but would like your opinion.
Hi Steve:
I am researching Grand Design so right now I do not know much about them. I should have an article about their product line in the next month or so. So far what little I know is that they do make a good product. However I need to do more in depth research. Thanks for your comment,
How do you rank Keystone number 9 in your list, then question the quality of their construction in a comment? I am looking for a quality trailer, and the only one I have seen that impressed me at all was the Airstream. But you certainly pay for the quality. Everything else, including Coachmen, Forest River, and others on your list look like junk. What about Lance? They seem to be higher quality, but again, you pay for it.
Hi Ian,
I know it looks like a huge contradiction. When I initially did the research for this list I did not come upon some forums that had very strong things to say about Keystone. Since then I have reviewed those forums a lot more closely and I am looking to revise the list. Keystone and a couple of others will end up being removed. I agree with you the more expensive one typically are better built, Airstream surely is one of those, even though some people have complained that once Thor bought them the quality suffered. Making a list like this that isn’t full over expensive travel trailer is hard. Even then you will find positives and negative on just about every brand out there regardless of prices. Thanks for your feedback, much appreciated.
Hi Ray,
I’m a first-time buyer looking for a tough, lightweight trailer to be my second home in which my wife and I can travel and micro-live for months at a time without servicing issues if in remote places or outside the U.S. We only intend to sleep, eat and bathe inside the trailer – all other activities will be outside. Leaning toward Airstream for toughness of steel vs. fiberglass shell – agree? Airstream Sport or Basecamp?
Thank you, John
John, either model is going to be very good. The Sport is styled more traditional and has plenty of space. The Basecamp is fairly new so I don’t know much about. I can tell you that it has a very modern design and features many modern amenities that seem to have been developed for the outdoor type such as you. The base camp appears easier to tow which is something to consider if you will be out in the boonies. The pre-wired solar feature is something not seen in typical travel trailers and might be beneficial to you. You can’t go wrong with an Airstream and the Basecamp on the surface appears to be your better choice. Good luck with your purchase.
Hi Ray! We have just started looking at Teardrop TT. We think we would like about a 17 foot one. The 2 that we have seen are the Winne Drop(Winnebago) & the RPod(Forest River) Any thoughts on either. We think the idea of a fiberglass one is practical. Please give us some input on either of these or possible others that we may not be aware of.
Thank you! Doreena
Doreena I have hear good things about the Winnie Drop. Winnebago has been producing travel trailers and motor coaches for a long time. Personally I think you will have an edge with quality of construction if you buy the Minnie Drop. Thanks for your comments.
Hi Ray,
Have you ever reviewed any of the Outdoors RV Travel Trailers, like the Timber Ridge model or ant of the other Models?
Thanks Tim
Tim, no I have not but will add them to my editorial calendar for a future article. Thanks
Who is the maker of Sun Valley and Fleetwood Pioneer. What about the quality? Would you recommend purchasing one made in 2003?
Sun Valley is made by Evergreen RV which went out of business this past June. The Pioneer was made by Fleetwood.
Do you think that a 1979 silver streak 32 foot would be a good choice for full time?
Javier, that a decent size travel trailer. It just depends on the number of people. For 2-3 folks using it full time I would this it should be fine.
Ray, I’m interested in TT with winter design features: thicker walls and ceiling, insulation, dual payne or other similar purpose windows, sealed underbelly, heated tanks and ideal connections. I will be living full time Dec-Apr in Big Sky, MT where temps ma be single digit for weeks. I’m looking at Artic Fox, Outdoor RV Manuf’s Timber Ridge model, and Denali. Any others you may recommend for deep winter? Or a thoughtful guide recommendation to lead me through the pros and cons?
Doug, check out this article on winter camping wth TT. http://camping.lovetoknow.com/trailer-rv-camping/rvs-made-winter-camping
The Artic Fox is mentioned as well as the Starcraft Launch which one I really like. Like the article mentions make sure you get the arctic package. This package usually consists of dual pane windows, extra insulation in the floors and roof, and extra heating solutions for the RVs plumbing to ensure nothing freezes and bursts.”
Ray, We are looking at buying a 2016 Nomad 258rk travel trailer. We were told that the company that manufactured them has been bought out and that Nomads will no longer be made. We are wondering what you think of them and are concerned about whether the warranty will be covered and any problems taken care of if they occur. We really like the floor plan and the price is right.
What about the Crossroads brands?
Never owned a travel trailer so don?t know squat about brands etc. Looking at 20 footer or less for wife, myself and two 30 pound dogs. I?ve been told R-pod, Retro …and Airstream (which is probably more than I want to pay). Any suggestions to help my pain.
I have a 2010 Subaru Forester XT (turbo) with a 2400 # towing capacity and 200# tounge weight. 4 speed automatic (No CVT). I’m told Forester is very strong and good for towing with it’s AWD and turbo.
Looking for a small well built trailer for 2 with inside toilet, small kitchen, twin beds. Concerned about high quality and feeling of space.
Suggestions and adding on to your mail list appreciated. Thank you.
We will soon be a family of 6 and looking to purchase a new camper. I understand things can and will need to be fixed over time with any camper, but looking for the best quality/durability of camper for my family. Would like some sort of outdoor kitchen and a separate bunk room for the kids. List is down to Keystone Bullet 308BHS, Coachmen Apex 300BHS, Jayco Feather 29QB, and Jayco Jay Flight SLX 294QBS. Any suggestions and reasons why would be greatly appreciated.
Does anyone know anything about a Wildwood 171 travel trailer? We understand it is made in Oregon.
Ray,
We are looking seriously at travel trailers for close to full time living. Needless to say, the more we look, the more confused we get. We would like something small enough to easily maneuver the mountains, yet large enough to be comfortable for a 6’1, 240lb man to live in. Walk around bed a must, larger shower, extreme weather package. We’ve been looking at JayCo and Winnebago mostly. Any suggestions to help wade through the options would be greatly appreciated!
What do you think of the Lance travel trailer? Trying to decide between a jayco which is in our price range or a lance 1995.
How good is a Retro ?