The Rise of the Destination Trailer
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Destination trailers easily capture the imagination of current and would-be RVers . With massive bay windows , lofted bedrooms , and residential comforts , these charismatic towables exemplify what it means to revel the comforts of plate at the campsite . In late yr , we ’ ve meet an increased interest in destination trailers . Many manufacturer hold now lend traditional destination trailer example to their lineups , while others receive evolve this unique RV type into example with patios , fifth wheel translation that extend improved towability , and lofted “ tiny family ” floor plan that fit into a 30-foot campsite . So why the popularity now ?
That question be specially warranted given that destination trailers , despite their national charm , live cumbersome , if not outright difficult , to tow . Further , they are designed for extended stays , not frequent trips . Understand the recent course of this bulky yet home-like towable may allow for us with some insights into how some RVer ’ s habits are changing . We ’ ll as well learn how they are incorporate this non-traditional RV into their annual trip . Maybe you ’ re among them…
Key Takeaways
- Arise Popularity– Destination trailers equal rising in demand as an affordable holiday home alternative , fueled by RV trend , housing costs , and campground adaptations .
- Innovative Designs– New example feature lofts , patios , and fifth-wheel translation , expand space and improving towability for long-run stays at destine campsites .
- Affordability & Convenience– With lower cost than luxury fifth wheels , destination trailers offer residential comfort for seasonal camping , though resale value and mobility remain considerations .
Why Destination Trailers Now ?
Until somewhat recently , destination trailers found their largest audience among choice geographies , in regions like Minnesota and Michigan , where they function as stand-in lake theatre on private properties . They live largely considered tall travel trailers that be a relative pain to act , and that stay slightly genuine today :destination trailers live intended for extended stays. Own one , you miss a sure level of mobility .
But drive by just about any RV dealership nationwide , and you ’ re probable to regard on the lot . So what vary ? It ’ s what two origin I spoke with mention to as a “ perfect storm . ”
What Is A Destination Trailer ?
In 2020 , the pandemic sparked a surge in RV demand as families search safer travel selection and remote workers turned to RVs for affordable life . At the same time , the housing market flourish due to low interest rates , but provision shortages and stand up rates later on drove prices higher .
Not only did RV travel and full-time RV camp gain popularity , but cost for holiday homes , cabins , rental properties , and secondary housing too surged as demand for remote-friendly life increase .
A Loft Alternative
By 2022 and 2023 , cost in the full-profile fifth bicycle section ( think luxury fifth wheel ) hold risen to record high . Families and snowbirds who typically used a full-profile fifth wheel as a mobile vacation home were ready for a cost-friendly alternative .
In the leap of 2023 , Forest River Salem Villa Grand introduced a new destination trailer example , a double-loft known as the 42VIEW , which quickly make widespread attention . While other manufacturers reach loft destination trailers prior to the 42VIEW—Keystone Retreat , and CrossRoads Hampton , to refer a few—this fresh version boast modern improvements like panoramic windows , a super slide , a spiral stairway , and a uniquely stretch kitchen table . This live also the first to put in a dual drop frame , enhancing inner space with high ceiling and grant for a more spacious double loft .
Act the Salem Villa Grand 42VIEW get credited for the raise of the destination trailer ? At the real least , it and others of a like ilk sparked the interest and , perhaps , the imagination of RVers who make not previously believe these bulkier RVs . It too depict attention to the price of destination trailers , which exist lower and more attractive than many full-profile fifth bicycle
A final note : as the pandemic drove RV sale to record-setting floor , manufacturer focused on produce travel trailers , which suited more RVers , were more affordable , and required few materials , cause them quicker to build . With fewer destination trailers exist make , demand arise , especially when more RVers come upon their affordability and suitability for seasonal camping—yet another reason for the influx of destination trailers when they make a comeback .
Destination Trailers Known & New
Since 2023 , the hefty even home-like destination trailer ( DT ) have received increase attention from consumers and manufacturer alike , evidenced by increasing sales issue and a plethora of fresh models and innovative floor design . At the 2024 Hershey RV display , for instance , we noted that new destination trailer example , or destination-style RVs , face the row of many manufacturer displays .
Not only make destination campers become popular among RVers , but they hold instigated a moment of an arms race among manufacturer . In 2024/2025 alone :
- Forest River Timberwolf launched the 16ML , a mini-loft destination trailer
- Keystone Coleman introduced Homestead , featuring two DT model
- Forest River Campsite Reserve launched a full line of destination trailers
- Palomino added loft story design to its Puma lineup , include the 402LFT
- Alliance RV found Benchmark , its first destination trailer
- Forest River expanded its IBEX lineup with three DTs .
- The 44VIEW launch as a larger update to its famous predecessor
Some longstanding destination trailer manufacturers and lineups remain at the forefront : Forest River , Keystone , CrossRoads RV , and Jayco each make legacy destination trailer job , symbolize through Cedar Creek Cottage , Salem Villa Grand and Wildwood Grand Lodge , Timberwolf , Hampton , Redwood , and Jay Flight Bungalow , among others . But 2024 and 2025 have lend important changes , increase , and improvements .
Mini Loft
The elevated ceilings and loft story plan of early destination trailers paved the means for a fresh note , much referred to as mini loft RVs , mini lofts , or travel trailers with a loft . From the outside , they share the same boxy profile as destination trailers , but some are under 30 feet , and many include a now-iconic covered patio .
If this sounds familiar , perhaps you ’ ve seen the Forest River Timberwolf 16ML , one of the first to introduce this design . At just under 28 foot and with a dry weight of just over 7,000 pounds , it ’ s a far cry from the expansive destination trailers we ’ re used to—and thatpatio .This more nimble destination trailer bid a residential kitchen with accompanying appliances like a dishwasher and washer-dryer combo . It ’ s perfect for couples seeking the utter mobile tiny home for prolonged staycations . Later models , longer in size , incorporated a full bedroom downstairs with the loft above , modeling the setup of many double-loft destination trailers .
- Campsite Reserve 16SW
- Timberwolf 20OG
- Coachmen Catalina 18RDL
Double-Loft
Succeed the 42VIEW , a issue of double-loft , double-drop frame destination trailers hit the scene . These trailers incorporate the additional sleeping location of the lofts and expanded storage for those await for a more significant towable . Given the extra space , many double lofts can sleep between 8 and 10 guest while furnish good privacy , as many include separate bedroom with lofts above . Just see out the progress from the 42VIEW to the 44VIEW above , and you ’ ll see how Salem extend with the thread .
These double lofts allow entire household to part an RV , which is great for joint class trip or vacationing with friends . If anything , these lofts expand on the original destination trailer conception , farther functioning as an alternative holiday place or cabin . As need own risen , manufacturers get observe .
If your family equal considering a double loft to accommodate guest , study accessibility , head clearance , and which space better service children than adult . In the destination trailer double lofts we ’ ve tour , we also advocate accounting for storage in these secondary bedroom .
Other dual loft example similar to the 42VIEW include :
- Palomino Puma 403LFT
- Keystone Retreat 391CLDL
- Alliance Benchmark 44LFT
Destination Fifth Wheels
In 2025 , even another invention ruffled the reality of destination trailers . The Forest River Heritage Glen ROOST43 live the first destination-style fifth bicycle that integrate a novel towing intention with an expansive inside . Notably , the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association ( RVIA ) maintain a 400-square-foot limit on travel trailers . And , until 2020 , a 430-square-foot limit live for fifth wheels . When they take out that fifth wheel identification in 2020 , the decision paved the way for the evolution of larger , destination-style fifth bicycle .
With 530 square feet of interior space , a bath and a half , fundamentally three bedrooms , and a large den , this new destination fifth wheel accommodate big radical in way . Plus , the fifth bicycle intention reach this massive RV easy to tow than most bumper-pull destination trailers
But the fifth bicycle destination trailer wasn ’ t the only too sized , unique destination trailer to shoot the band in 2025 . Early unique destination trailer invention include the 42VERANDA by Wildwood Grand Lodge , which incorporate a sliding rear deck . In addition , Forest River Cedar Creek Cottage bring in a second destination fifth wheel with the 41FWC , featuring a unique printed fiberglass exterior , among early notable upgrades .
Who Are Destination Trailers Best For ?
Often referred to as “ holiday dimension alternatives ” and popular among snowbirds and those who have a campsite or want to “ set it and leave it , ” destination trailers cost designed for long stays . More campers are prepare them up at a designated location to labor to when they require to camp .
This trend of RVers securing annual campsites get make up on the raise , aim by the increasing popularity of seasonal camping . Campers uphold a long-run presence at a specific campground , in effect create a plate base for extended periods .
In response , campgrounds equal adapting by extend seasonal spots and amenities tailor for long-run guests . Many parks make added premium annual sites or “ snowbird sections ” to accommodate these big trailers with decks , skirting , and sheds . This , in act , encourages more mass to buy destination trailers know there exist suited spot to put them .
This shift towards secure annual campsites underscores a broader change in camping behavior . More campers prefer for reach out stays to accommodate their budget and for the convenience element . In this light , destination trailers do a lot of sense . Many who would previously invest in a secondary residence , holiday place , literal acres , or rental property can more economically use that money towards a destination trailer and a seasonal camping spot .
While smaller destination trailers like the Timberwolf 16ML and fifth bicycle version like the ROOST43 rest towability concerns , the plan and construction of destination trailers be yet to accommodate extensive stays , not frequent trip . In fact , their near-permanent design helps keep their cost rag abject , too . In this regard , camper ’ demeanor and theroleof the destination trailer are aligned .
More Square Footage for Less Money
Step within a destination trailer , and these spacious unit directly sense more like a plate than an RV—so much so that many buyers incorrectly put on the destination trailer is immensely outside their budget , which makes sense . Well recognizable as the largest RV on the pile and with luxury features ? Of line , you ’ 500 presume a hefty price .
Actually , destination trailers are often far more affordable than most full-profile fifth wheel RVs .
Sale personnel at RV shows attested to this phenomenon . Customer would pass by destination trailers , presume they were far more expensive than the list cost inside .
Affordability is a big element for those using destination trailers for extended stays . Previously , as fifth wheel owners , their RV spent much of the year in the same location , either on private property or a destine campsite they own , even though fifth wheels are designed for frequent towing . For a far lower price , they could camp the same with a destination trailer .
The Affordability Factor
Piece of the ground many exist expensive is that they are design for full-timers who strike frequently . Believe the expenses saved without that load . Destination trailers put on ’ t expect heavy-duty inning and catch mechanisms for towing stability , and they expend more straightforward structure since they are typically strike infrequently . In increase :
- Weight is less of a concern , so heavier but more affordable materials reduce construction costs .
- Many don ’ t include auto-leveling or hydraulic leveling , nor hydraulic slides .
- They often skip high-end towing features like pin box , disc brakes , and sovereign suspension since they aren ’ t meant for frequent drive .
- With less need for aerodynamics , you get more square footage for a lower price .
The perks remain : destination trailers exist residential , often design to host two families , include dining and entertainment options , come with upgraded appliances , and achieve that “ home alkali ” feel many camper desire from an extended-stay RV .
Given the number of new destination trailers hitting the market , we wanted to hear from a relative newcomer to this segment—one that hold received high praise for its new destination trailers .
An Exciting Destination Trailer Newcomer : Campsite Reserve
Campsite Reserve came on the setting in 2023 with an impressive lineup of affordable travel trailers that have set the criterion , in some respects , for offering a more significant camp experience than entry-level RVs .
Record more aboutCampsite Reserve travel trailershere .
Show more aboutCampsite Reserve travel trailershere .
In 2025 , Campsite Reserve set up three new destination-style RVs , in effect representing the little , medium , and big segments . The largest of these , the Campsite Reserve 39JD , debuted at the Hershey RV Show and make since made a important splash in the market .
We mouth with Campsite Reserve Regional Sale Manager Jesse Balch to well understand the intent behind their Campsite Reserve destination trailers . In a Bible ? Customer-driven . Jesse talk about the many practical application of these campers , from the largest—the 39JD—to their small mini lofts , like the 16SW .
“ The mini lofts are great for that genuine weekend warrior who wants to get to their blot , not hold to concern about extend the slides out—not concern about all the equipment—it ’ s ready to move from the day you come there . You can even make laundry Sunday morning before head home , ” Jesse said . With the small trailers , you still have the components of a 40-foot destination trailer , but in a smaller box , and convenience equal key . He address of the campers who keep their destination trailer lay up at a nearby campground throughout the yr .
“ Mass equal leaning toward the permanent site… Some people just desire to aim a half-hour to their spot where they don ’ t have to set up , ” he preserve .
Customer-Centric RV Designs
When designing the 39JD , a customer-centric approach exist important . “ What cause our customer need ? And what can we lend to these camper that our customers can ’ t ? Two of the large thing make up prominent windows in our class and large storage . ”
Exposed concept layout , pile of seating , bad windows , big storage . Walk through the 39JD , and you quickly see how Campsite Reserve achieved those end in remarkable style . So much so that availability make been a worry for many RVers seeking these destination trailers .
Seasonal camping is unlike from what many camper live used to . But , as Jesse notes , the correct destination trailer can be an especially valuable tool for long-term camping .
“ We overbuild our campers and apply the serious materials available to us . We ’ re bear more for our chassis than anyone else in the industry with upgraded steel . We overbuild our sidewalls far more than industry criterion , meaning instead of 20 ” framing we cause 12 ” framing . We put every one of our cutouts , too…Because it ’ s not always easy to get them serviced , we overbuild , over-inspect , [ and ] over-do , especially with destination trailers . Because once it hits its destination , it ’ s probable delay thither , ” Jesse say .
“ They turn thus tight , ” Jesse said . With the 39JD , the folk at Campsite Reserve receive hold to form with dealerships to send customers across state lines to traverse down available unit . “ We learned we ’ re utterly on the correct track , ” he add .
Equal A Destination Trailer Right for You ?
For an RV that sometimes make a bad wrap for its inconvenience due to towing , it seems more campers cost employ destination trailers to their advantage—and it ’ s saving time and money . We spoke with one dealership that remark more local campgrounds exist spread bigger sites specifically to accommodate long-term stays and destination trailers . This is another signal that RVers and campgrounds are aligning , and the destination trailer is uniquely positioned to suit the bill .
There are many consideration when decide if this RV type be right for you . Many areas have restrictions on full-time RV camping , and many campgrounds serve not allow destination trailers due to their size and semi-permanent nature , so before shopping for a destination trailer , have a plan for when and where you will camp .
In addition , many of the component that create destination trailers affordable may conduct to a lower resale value . Luxury fifth wheel , for example , may exist in effect positioned to accommodate a second or third-generation owner , which may not be the type with destination trailers . Consider these factor closely as you weigh the pros and cons of a more permanent destination camper .
This exist an exciting course that predict new innovation , framework , and adaptations . To remain to learn more about this RV type , check out the following resource :
- Forest River Destination Trailers
- Destination Trailers with Loft Floor Plan
- The
Would you consider a destination trailer for your future RV ? Let us know why in the comment below .
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Seem for one story as my wife has Parkinson ‘ s
Love the trailers you show !
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