What is the Difference Between a Motorhome and a Fifth-Wheel?

Looking to upgrade your camper or buy a new RV? Read on to learn the difference between a motorhome and a fifth-wheel and which one you should choose.

If you're looking to transition to a life on the road and searching for the perfect rig, you must have come across terms like 'motorhome' and 'fifth-wheel trailer'. Are these the same thing? Or if they're different what makes them so? How do you choose which one is the better option for you? Read on to learn the answer to these questions and more.

A motorhome is the quintessential 'home on wheels that you see everywhere when you start thinking about living on the road. It is a single vehicle that has both the driving area and living quarters. There are three basic classes of motorhomes on the market; Class A motorhomes are the largest and most luxurious motorhomes, Class B RVs are the smallest and are usually called campers or campervans because they are built on a van chassis. Class C motorhomes are larger than campers but smaller than Class As and come with a varied set of amenities.

A fifth-wheel camper is basically a trailer that is attached to the back of your vehicle by a fifth-wheel hitch. The fifth-wheel trailer comprises the living quarters while a separate vehicle serves as the towing companion to the trailer. You can find luxe fifth-wheel trailers that have all the amenities of a small stationary home as well as smaller trailers that can easily be towed anywhere. The main advantage of owning a fifth-wheel is that you don't have to tow a separate vehicle along when you travel, your car goes with you wherever you go.

Choosing between a motorhome and a fifth wheel can be a tough choice. Look at the infographic below to make an educated buying decision.