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Thinking of full-timing and know that a fifth-wheel is the right RV for you? Well, you have a lot of choices. While I could spend all day going through the various bands and floorplans, I thought it better and quicker to just highlight three fifth-wheels that are an excellent option for someone thinking of full-timing.

Here are three you shouldn’t overlook if you’re thinking of buying a fifth-wheel to live in all the time:

1. Keystone Cougar 338RLK Fifth-Wheel

A model that’s not too large, but still gives you plenty of living, sleeping, and kitchen space is the Keystone Cougar.  While you can choose from the 11 floorplans the company offers, we like the 388RLK. I appreciate the large open living room and kitchen area. The kitchen island mounted double basin sink in the kitchen and theater seating in the living area provide a seriously homey feel.

Keystone quality is well-known, and the Cougar has been the best-selling fifth-wheel in its class for two decades. the Cougar comes with class-leading water tank sizes, high ceilings, and residential-sized appliances in most cases.

It’s also equipped with the latest technology like two large TVs with Key TV (the largest measuring 50 inches), an auto leveling system, and a powerful HVAC system that should keep the Cougar comfy in hot and cold weather. We’ve done plenty of video reviews on Cougars, so if you want to learn more, head over to our YouTube channel.

2. Heartland Big Country 3965 DSS Fifth-Wheel

The Heartland Big Country 3965 DSS fifth-wheel offers a similar floorplan to the Cougar 388RKL shown above but with some subtle differences. The bathroom is on the opposite side of the RV with a large closet across from it and the TV and dinette are on separate slides. You still get a double-basin sink located on an island and an open floor plan that makes it a dream to live in.

Heartland’s Big Country, specifically the 3965 DSS, is a large RV that comes with plenty of space and quality amenities and features perfect for full-timing. The spacious kitchen features a three-burner stovetop and large oven and refrigerator. The living room comes with theater seats, high ceilings, and a large 50-inch TV for easy lounging.

Heartland RVs aren’t quite as much of a high-selling RV as some of its competitors, but it provides a whole lot in a versatile and comfortable space. If the floorplan above doesn’t do it for you, the Heartland Big Country comes in seven different floorplans, so you’re bound to find one that fits your preferences and needs.

Keystone Montana 3701LK Fifth-Wheel

If you like the Keystone Cougar but just want something with a little more of everything, then the Keystone Montana is an excellent choice. The 3701LK fifth-wheel is one of my favorites. It has a spacious bedroom space up front, a bathroom in the center of the trailer, then a spacious living area with plenty of seating and a large L-shaped countertop in the kitchen.

I referred to the Keystone Cougar’s quality as high, but the Montana takes the cake if you were to compare the two. Everything from the basic construction to the high-quality materials sets the Montana apart. It’s a luxury fifth-wheel with 20 different floorplans to choose from.

It offers a host of industry-leading features, including residential appliances and amenities like a seamless fiberglass shower (or a soaker tub in certain floorplans), large 12-gallon water heater, and much more. Also, Keystone will honor its warranty for RVers who full-time. That’s not true of every manufacturer out there.

If you like the Cougar but want something a little bigger and more luxurious, then the Keystone Montana is an excellent option. We don’t have a video review of the specific floorplan I like, but we can show you walkthroughs of other versions of the Montana fifth-wheel on our YouTube channel.

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Do you have a fifth-wheel in mind you think is fantastic for full-timing? Leave a comment below!

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Big Bend National Park is one of the most unique and remote national parks in the country. In fact, it’s so remote that it’s one of the least visited parks. So, if you don’t like the crowds that most national parks have, Big Bend is where you should go RVing this year. Just because it’s the least visited doesn’t mean it isn’t worth the long drive south. There are so many reasons to visit this 801,163-acre park!

Why Visit Big Bend National Park in Your RV?

Big Bend has an incredibly diverse landscape: mountains, desert, rivers, forest, and even waterfalls. So, whatever your favorite outdoor activity is, you’re sure to enjoy it there.

It’s also the largest Chihuahuan Desert protected region in the country and home to the southernmost mountain range in the U.S., the Chisos Mountains. Its unique landscape is home to more than 1,200 plant species and more species of bird than any other national park. It’s openness and lack of light pollution also makes it one of the best places to stargaze.

Things to Do at Big Bend National Park

With over 800,000 acres of land in Big Bend. There’s plenty to do. Don’t come here without being prepared to explore. Here are a few options.

Take a Hike…or Three

There’s an abundance of hikes for all ability levels in Big Bend! A few of the most popular hikes are the Lost Mine Trail, The Santa Elena Canyon Trail, and the Window View Trail.

• The Lost Mine Trail, which is about 4.8 miles round trip offers some of the best views. It’s moderately challenging, leads to a ridge overlooking Pine Canyon and Mexico’s Sierra del Carmen.
• The Window Trail is an easier hike and one of the most popular in the park. It leads you to a narrow pour-off, overlooking the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. The pour-off resembles a “window” and offers incredible views, especially at sunset, but only if you’re brave enough to hike back in the dark.
• The Santa Elena Canyon Trail consists of stairs that take you up the canyon and then leads you to a trail down to the Rio Grande. You can cool off between the canyon walls in what feels like a little oasis. Walking just about half way across the river will put you in Mexico!

Go to Mexico

Don’t forget your passport. Around 118 miles of the Big Bend National Park border run along the international border between Mexico and the U.S. At the Boquillas Crossing, you can either walk or take a small boat across the Rio Grande to the small village of Boquillas.

Once across, you can hitch a ride in a pickup truck, walk, or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent your own donkey, to take you up into the village. While the village is very small, there are a few restaurants, souvenir shops, and even a B&B. Most tourists grab a margarita and a taco and head back to the park.

Soak in the Hot Springs

The hot springs are the perfect way to relax after all the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy. They offer the most peaceful setting since they are right along the Rio Grande. Since the daytime is too hot and sunset is the most popular time, making the springs a little crowded, we recommend visiting at sunrise. There’s a short, leisurely hike to the springs, making the soak extra rewarding!

Take a day trip to Terlingua and Lajitas

Depending on where you are in the park, Terlingua and Lajitas are both within a short drive and can’t be missed. Terlingua is an abandoned ghost town and home to the historic Chisos Mining Company. You’ll enjoy the quirky roadside attractions, local dining spots, and even some shopping.

Lajitas is quite the opposite of Terlingua. It features a modern resort with an 18-hole golf course, restaurant, swimming pools, zip line, spa, and horseback riding. Whatever you choose to do there, you absolutely can’t miss the town’s mayor, a beer drinking goat named Clay Henry III!

Don’t forget about Big Bend Ranch State Park

Many visitors skip a visit to Big Bend Ranch State Park and focus solely on the national park. But, many would argue that the state park offers equally, if not better, scenery. It’s actually Texas’s largest state park and offers a rugged volcanic landscape and a more “wild west” experience. Most of the hiking trails are primitive with few signs, making it a great place for some solitude.

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is considered one of the best drives in Texas. It’s approximately 40 miles and takes you through the park’s most scenic landscapes. The drive ends at the breathtaking Santa Elena Canyon, where you can hike the canyon and then cool off in the Rio Grande.

When to Visit Big Bend National Park

The best time to visit Big Bend is in the spring or the fall. Summer brings crowds and temperatures of up to 100 degrees. It’s also important to remember that the desert is a place of extremes! In the winter, temperatures can dip down to the 30’s making it hard to enjoy everything the park has to offer.

The desert flowers bloom sometime between March and April, making it the most popular time to visit. However, fewer crowds and comfortable weather make September to November a great time as well.

Where RVers Can Stay

Choosing where to camp is really a matter of preference. There are four different campgrounds inside the park and while you’ll need to make reservations well in advance, camping inside the park can be a real treat. You’ll experience the best stargazing and be close to all the adventure.

Camping outside the park will likely mean you’ll have to drive long distances in order to explore since the park is so large. However, staying outside the park is the only way you’ll have cell service since the only way to get wifi is at the visitor centers.

Also, many campsites are without electricity and either don’t allow generators or have strict time frames in which you can use them. So you’ll need to decide which option is best for you, depending on these factors.

Getting to and Around Big Bend National Park

Since Big Bend is one of the most remote areas of the country, it’s extremely important to be well prepared for your drive to the park. Gas stations are hard to come by and can be hundreds of miles apart so be sure to gas up every chance you get and keep an extra couple gallons on hand, just in case.

Once inside the park, the visitor’s centers have gas, but it’s not uncommon for them to be out of service. Chances are you’ll be driving A LOT within the park since everything is spread out, so don’t risk it. That being said, you’ll definitely want a car or motorcycle inside the park, since it takes at least an hour to drive from one side to the other.

Tips and Tricks Specific to RVing at Big Bend National Park

Prepare to be out of cell service any time you are inside the park. Therefore, be sure to bring a paper map or download one on your phone. With the desert heat, you’ll want to make sure you always bring enough water along on your explorations.

Also, be aware of wildlife, especially at night, since many of the animals in the area are nocturnal. You’ll notice javelinas, coyotes, cougars, jack rabbits, deer, and even bear will be on the trails and along the side of the roads the moment the sun goes down. You’ll also want to be sure to keep your campsite clear of food and trash. 

For the latest info on visiting Big Bend National Park, visit their website: Big Bend National Park

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Have you been to Big Bend National Park? What tips can you share?

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In this episode of Stories from the Road, Sam interviews Marc and Julie Bennett of RV Love.

Marc and Julie are full-time RVers who have been traveling for the past 4 and 1/2 years. It’s easy to tell that they really love RVing.

They love it so much that they even co-authored together the bestselling book “Living the RV Life – Your Ultimate Guide to Life on the Road”. Marc and Julie share their adventures as RVLove at their blog, YouTube Channel and on social media, and recently appeared in the RV Nomads movie. They also run online courses to help you hit the road as an RVer at RV Success School.

They are best known for their positive attitudes and practical advice. Their mission is to empower, entertain, and educate others considering living the RV life. In this interview, they share some really great tips on why RV life is so great and how to make the most of your travels.

Highlights from this episode

• 2:50 – Tampa RV super show
• 7:40 – Camping at the Tampa Show
• 12:43 – The Bennet’s Rig and the “Ultimate RV Makeover”
• 18:20 – Living the RV Life
• 24:40 – Most memorable trips
• 33:47 – RV Love’s origin
• 39:05 – Stories from the Road

Marc and Julie’s tips and advice for RV life

RV life: You never run out of experiences, you never run out of stories, and you definitely never ever stop learning.

RV breakdowns: Keep a good attitude during these times. Breakdowns are always stressful. Remind yourself that someday this event could make a great campfire story. Try to find humor in your situation.

Also, get roadside assistance with a great towing package! This will save you so much money and stress during breakdowns. (Check out our roadside assistance packages at Good Sam here!)

Being present: Life slows down more when you’re in an RV and you’re able to be more present.

Socializing: Your social life is much more active in RV Life. It makes you more relaxed and open to chats. You might also be open to making 6 hour detours to see friends who are “close by”!

Enjoy new perspectives: Get behind the wheel and see the world with fresh eyes.

Check out Marc and Julie’s new book on RV Life

This book is the road map to living a mobile life. What’s really special about this book is that it features 256 pages of important RV living tips with full color images, so you’ll get a complete vision of what RV life is really like.

No more need to worry over how to get started in RVing, where to set up domicile, or what RV to choose. Whether you’re an RV beginner or an experienced RV pro, you’ll find something to enjoy and learn in Living the RV Life.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• RV Love website
• RV Love YouTube Channel
• Join RV Success School
• Buy the Book: “Living the RV Life – Your Ultimate Guide to Life on the Road”
• RV Love Facebook
• RV Love Pinterest
• RV Love Instagram
• RV Love Twitter

 

 

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The best type of RV depends on you and your family and how you plan to use the camper. It has to be right for you. With that said, the fifth-wheel design is a model that works well for many different kinds RVers. Every year, millions of Americans make the decision to purchase a fifth-wheel RV on either the new or used market.

Everyone has different reasons why they chose the model they did, but there are a few advantages to the RV type that are indisputable. Here are four advantages fifth-wheel RV owners enjoy.

1. Fifth-Wheels Offer Excellent Use of Space

To me, the biggest advantage of a fifth-wheel RV is how space gets utilized. A significant portion of the RV sits over the bed of the truck that tows it. This reduces the overall length of your tow vehicle and RV, making it easier to fit into certain campsites.

Also, the interior of a fifth-wheel offers excellent use of space. The floorplan options are endless, and you’re not hampered by having a driver and passenger seat to factor into the floorplan like you are with a motorhome. Travel trailers offer good use of space, too, but the fifth-wheel makes the most of its floorplan from an exterior and interior standpoint.

2. Fifth-Wheels are a Great Value

While travel trailers will be the most affordable option when it comes to RVs, fifth-wheels offer excellent value, too. When compared to motorhomes, fifth-wheels of similar size and with similar amenities are often much less expensive.

Class A, Class C, and Class B RVs are simply pricey machines. They’re wonderful RVs and the right option for many RVers, but if you’re buying on a budget, you’ll usually get more for your money if you buy a fifth wheel. With that in mind, you also need to factor in the cost of your tow vehicle.

If you already have a truck that can pull a fifth-wheel, then you’re in the clear. However, if you have to buy a truck and an RV, then your savings by going with a fifth-wheel essentially dry up. It’s important to crunch all the numbers before deciding on a specific model.

3. Fifth-Wheels are Stable When Towing

Travel trailers generally do a good job of being smooth and easy to tow, but fifth-wheels are more stable in general. There’s less chance of the RV experiencing trailer sway and the overall design of the fifth-wheel makes it more aerodynamic than many travel trailers.

The reason for this is the way fifth-wheel hitch and the way weight is distributed. The hitch better displaces the weight of the trailer and it’s a more secure anchoring point to the tow vehicle. While a fifth-wheel hitch may seem more intimidating at first, you’ll often find it tows better once you get used to it than a comparable travel trailer.

4. You Can Leave It at The Campground

Need to do some exploring around your campground? Have to make a grocery run? If you own a motorhome, you have to pack up the whole RV before you head out. With a fifth-wheel, you can simply unhook the tow vehicle from the RV, lock up the RV, and then drive to your destination.

Of course, travel trailers and other towables have this advantage as well, but it’s worth mentioning. Motorhomes are great, but they’re not always the most convinent option.

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Do you have any other advantages of a fifth-wheel you think should be included? Leave a comment below!

 

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