Buyer’s Guide: The Best Rigs for Full-Timing
Five RVs for Living Your Best Life on the Road
Image Caption: Photo Credit: K-Z
Dreaming about RVing full-time? These are our favorite rigs for making that dream a reality.
Photo Credit: K-Z
KZ Durango Gold G382MBQ
Comforts of Home
Fifth-wheels are a popular choice for full-time rigs—roomy, with lots of storage and good towing characteristics—and this luxe entry from KZ is full of features that say “home” more than “weekend warrior.” An electric-tilt king-size bed adds versatility and extra space to the bedroom (which has a closet prepped for a washer/dryer). The kitchen, full of residential appliances, has an island and a dishwasher. Cherry cabinetry, lots of hardwood, and solid surface counters give the place a domestic feel throughout. But the best part has to be the covered, fold-out back patio. MSRP starts at $101,995 for the 2024 model. kz-rv.com
Pro: Lightweight for its size, on-demand tankless hot water
Con: Small-ish dining area.
Exterior Length: 42′ 5″
Exterior Width: 101″
Exterior Height: 13 ‘6″
GVWR: 16,000 lbs
Dry Weight: 14,020 lbs
Hitch Weight: 2,460 lbs
Freshwater Tank: 76 gal
Gray Tank: 90 gal
Black Tank: 50 gal
Photo Credit: Grand Design
Grand Design Reflection 362TBS
Rooms of One’s Own
With two queen bedrooms (plus a bunk!) and two baths, this is a great family fifth-wheel. The interior is modern and bright, with an open kitchen and a huge 16-cubic-foot fridge. A high-performance furnace and heated holding tanks ensure four-season comfort. The 2024 model’s MSRP starts at $90,069. granddesignrv.com
Pro: Noticeable build quality throughout.
Con: The living room has limited seating.
Exterior Length: 39′ 11″
Exterior Width: 96″
Exterior Height: 12′ 8″
GVWR: 14,995 lbs
Dry Weight: 12,428 lbs
Hitch Weight: 2,375 lbs
Freshwater Tank: 74 gal
Gray Tank: 79 gal
Black Tank: 79 gal
Photo Credit: Brinkley RV
Brinkley Model Z 3610
Space to Spare
A relative newcomer offering plenty of living space, thanks to five slide-outs, along with thoughtful touches like dual desks, a built-in pet-bowl compartment, and a smart TV on a space-saving lift. Lots of exterior storage and details that show off craftsmanship (brass plumbing connections, for example). MSRP starts at $121,957 for the 2024 model. brinkleyrv.com
Pro: Ample storage bays.
Con: On the heavy side.
Exterior Length: 41′ 9″
Exterior Width: 96″
Exterior Height: 13′ 4″
GVWR: 17,695 lbs
Dry Weight: 14,695 lbs
Hitch Weight: 2,591 lbs
Freshwater Tank: 75 gal
Gray Tank: 90 gal
Black Tank: 45 gal
Photo Credit: Fleetwood
Fleetwood Bounder
Coach Sweet Coach
A Class A is a fine choice for more mobile full-timers, and the Bounder is a classic, with a roomy and practical layout. All models have washer/dryer prep and 100-watt solar; some have 34,000-BTU furnaces (four-season friendly!) and two bathrooms (privacy’s at a premium!). MSRP starts at $239,498 for the 2024 model. fleetwoodrv.com
Pro: A popular model, easy to service.
Con: Meager guest space, small blackwater tank
Exterior Length: 34′ 3″ – 38′ 9″
Exterior Width: 102″
Exterior Height: 12′ 10″
GVWR: 30,000 lbs
Freshwater Tank: 100 gal
Gray Tank: 58 gal
Black Tank: 42 gal
Photo Credit: Keystone
Keystone Outback 370BH
Home on a Hitch
As travel trailers go, Outbacks are versatile and well-appointed, with full-time-friendly floor plans that can flex to meet various needs. The 370BH includes a primary bedroom suite in the front, a living room that converts to a bedroom in the back, and a nicely equipped modern kitchen in between. A king-size bed, fireplace, and outdoor kitchen are just a few of the many amenities. MSRPs start at $68,992 for 2024 models. keystonerv.com
Pro: Climate-control package, nice trim options.
Con: Small black tank for full-timing.
Exterior Length: 41′ 2″
Exterior Width: 96″
Exterior Height: 11′ 6″
GVWR: 11,500 lbs
Dry Weight: 9,450 lbs
Hitch Weight: 1,230 lbs
Freshwater Tank: 54 gal
Gray Tank: 76 gal
Black Tank: 38 gal
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. And avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
