Guide
Toy Hauler Travel Trailer vs Toy Hauler Fifth Wheel: Key Differences, By the Numbers
Both carry motorcycles, ATVs or side-by-sides in a rear garage. Toy hauler fifth wheels offer bigger garages, more living space and more stable towing but need a heavy-duty pickup; bumper-pull toy haulers are lighter and work with more tow vehicles. In our catalog the typical toy hauler travel trailer is 32′ 3″ and 7,300 lb dry; the typical toy hauler fifth wheel is 44′ 5″ and 14,880 lb.
| Toy hauler travel trailer | Toy hauler fifth wheel | |
|---|---|---|
| Models in our catalog | 114 (9 makers) | 117 (10 makers) |
| Typical length | 32′ 3″ | 44′ 5″ |
| Length range | 16′ 3″–43′ 6″ | 32′–47′ 8″ |
| Typical height | 12′ 2″ | 13′ 5″ |
| Typical dry weight | 7,300 lb | 14,880 lb |
| Typical GVWR | 11,320 lb | 19,000 lb |
| Typical sleeping capacity | 6 | 7 |
| Typical fresh / gray / black tanks | 90 / 44 / 38 gal | 140 / 100 / 85 gal |
| Typical manufacturer price | $65,000 | $147,000 |
| Median dealer discount off sticker | 17% | 28% |
Typical = median of published manufacturer specs (newest model year per model). Prices are manufacturer starting or MSRP figures where verified (often base prices); dealer discounts compare current listings with each listing’s own sticker MSRP.
Key differences
Weight and tow vehicle
Toy hauler fifth wheels are typically much heavier (19,000 lb GVWR vs 11,320 lb in our catalog), so they usually need a three-quarter-ton or one-ton truck. Smaller bumper-pull toy haulers can work with half-ton trucks.
Garage and living space
Fifth wheels usually have longer garages and a separate living area and bedroom; bumper-pull toy haulers often use the garage as the living space with fold-down beds or sofas.
Loading and balance
With the toys at the rear, loaded tongue weight can change a lot on a bumper-pull toy hauler, so check balance and tongue weight once loaded. Fifth wheels are less sensitive to it.
Price
Typical verified manufacturer prices in our catalog: $65,000 for toy hauler travel trailers and $147,000 for toy hauler fifth wheels.
Toy hauler travel trailer: pros & cons
Pros
- Lighter; works with more tow vehicles
- Usually lower price
- Flexible garage-as-living-space layouts
Cons
- Smaller garages and living space
- Loaded tongue weight can vary with the toys
- Less stable towing at larger sizes
Toy hauler fifth wheel: pros & cons
Pros
- Bigger garages and separate living areas
- Stable towing for heavy loads
- More storage, tanks and features
Cons
- Needs a heavy-duty pickup with a bed hitch
- Heavier and pricier
- Taller, so check clearances
Which should you choose?
Choose a toy hauler travel trailer if…
- You carry a motorcycle, bikes or a small ATV
- You tow with a half-ton or lighter
- You want a lower price
Choose a toy hauler fifth wheel if…
- You haul side-by-sides or several toys
- You have a heavy-duty truck
- You want separate living space from the garage
A typical example of each
Helpful tools
Common questions
Can a half-ton truck tow a toy hauler?
Some smaller bumper-pull toy haulers are within half-ton ratings, but loaded weight with toys adds up quickly. Compare the toy hauler’s GVWR with your tow rating and check payload.
How heavy is a toy hauler fifth wheel?
In our catalog, toy hauler fifth wheels typically have a GVWR of 19,000 lb and weigh 14,880 lb dry (117 models).
More RV comparison guides
Catalog figures update automatically as models are added: currently 114 toy hauler travel trailers and 117 toy hauler fifth wheels from manufacturer specifications.