Towable RVs are convenient to transport and can turn any camping trip into an experience worth remembering, but which type is best for you? Two of the most popular model types are the travel trailer and toy hauler, and we here at Mike Thompson’s RV Superstores know it can be a pain to choose one or the other. That’s why we’ve put together a brief comparison so you know what each style can do for you! For more information, or to see the RVs we have for sale, contact one of our stores in southern California, today.
Purpose
Both models have many similarities, but they differ a bit in their purpose, which then changes how they’re built. Travel trailers are what you might think of when you hear “towable RV’—full-equipped kitchens, large TVs, bathrooms and private bedrooms, etc. Travel trailers are bound to have all the amenities you want and need to skip the “roughing it” part of camping, and to have slide-outs that maximize interior space.
Toy haulers are a bit more conservative with the living space, but tend to be the same size as or larger than travel trailers. The extra room is made up of a garage-like open space designed for bringing powersports vehicles to and from destinations like competitions, off-roading parks, and more. You still get everything you need, but it isn’t going to be as luxurious or spacious in a toy hauler.
Weight
You need to also consider your tow vehicle. Toy haulers, with the extra space and the added weight of the vehicles they contain, require a powerful tow vehicle with a high weight capacity. Travel trailers are lighter in every respect, and there are even ultra-light models that can be towed by your average passenger vehicle rather than a large truck.
Length
The length of a towable RV impacts how easy it is to drive around with it. Toy haulers and travel trailers can be the same length, but travel trailers come in a large range of sizes while all toy haulers have a large cargo space at the rear. For a shorter camper, you’ll want to look at travel trailers.
Cost
Travel trailers, as the less specialized option, are going to be cheaper on average, though that depends on the level of luxury you want. They tend to range between $15,000 and $30,000, with the high-end models sometimes costing over $60,000.
Toy haulers are generally more expensive, ranging from $20,000 to $80,000.
Best For You
To summarize, you want a travel trailer if you:
- Have a tight budget
- Travel with large groups
- Travel frequently and prioritize comfort and space
- Have a lower-capacity tow vehicle
Meanwhile, toy haulers are ideal if you:
- Are a powersports enthusiast who needs a safe and comfortable way to transport your “toys”
- Purchased large furniture and antiques and need to tour often with the space to bring your finds back
- Work remotely and need a mobile office on the road
To learn more, or to see the RVs we have for sale, contact us at Mike Thompson’s RV Superstores. We proudly serve the southern California region—let us serve you today!
