Top 8 Trailer Brands That Are Popular Among Travelers | I Heart RVing
Updated: November 8, 2024
Picking the right travel trailer isn’t a popularity contest. After all, you may be looking for features or amenities that are unique to your needs and preferences. And you might march to the beat of your unique drum. That said, there’s a good reason some trailer brands are popular. Choosing a top trailer brand can often be due to trust that the model you choose will meet (or even exceed) your expectations.
Key Qualities to Look for in a Top Travel Trailer
When it comes to choosing a travel trailer, popular models tend to share some standout qualities that make them favorites among RV enthusiasts. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Proven Reliability: Choose a brand with a solid track record and durability that’s been tested on the road.
- Quality Build and Craftsmanship: Look for trailers crafted with quality materials and attention to detail, as this impacts both longevity and comfort.
- Responsive Customer Service: In case of issues, it’s reassuring to know there’s a responsive customer support team to help keep your travels stress-free.
- Positive Reputation Among Owners: Reviews from current owners can reveal a lot about real-world performance and satisfaction.
- True Value: A great travel trailer isn’t necessarily the cheapest; it’s about getting the most value for your investment, with features that make every dollar count.
- Strong Manufacturer Warranty: A good warranty can give you peace of mind, protecting you from unexpected costs and enhancing the trailer’s resale value.
Additionally, your specific needs will guide other features to look for, like:
- Affordability: If budget is a top concern, focus on models that maximize value while keeping costs down.
- Ease of Maintenance: Low-maintenance trailers can save time, letting you focus on exploring.
- Luxurious Features: From stylish interiors to upgraded appliances, some trailers are built for those who want a touch of luxury.
- Ample Storage Space: Ideal for long trips or gear-heavy lifestyles, especially if you’re carrying outdoor toys like bikes or kayaks.
- Boondocking Capabilities: If off-grid camping is your style, prioritize models with larger water tanks, solar setups, or generator compatibility.
- Headroom and Spaciousness: For taller RVers or those who simply want more room, trailers with higher ceilings or open layouts are a plus.
No matter your priorities, finding a trailer with these core qualities can elevate your RV experience, making each trip as enjoyable as possible.
Top 8 Travel Trailer Brands
Several travel trailer brands can fit the bill. Some of the most popular options are:
1. Airstream
Known for: Iconic aluminum design, durability, high resale value
Airstream offers iconic round-edged aluminum trailers that get noticed wherever they go. They’re also built by one of the oldest RV companies, dating back to the 1930s. The company calls Jackson Center, Ohio, home and is now owned by Thor Industries, which also is the parent company for Dutchman, Jayco, and others.
The aluminum exteriors are not only eye-catching, they’re aerodynamic for more comfortable towing. And on the inside, you can expect comfort combined with quality to last a lifetime of adventure. What’s more, they come with a three-year limited warranty with three-year roadside assistance, three-year technical assistance hotline, and coverage for your tow vehicle to give you greater confidence the first few times you take it on the road.
Whether you’re looking for something small and easy to tow or something that provides more than enough space and comfort, you’ll find an Airstream to fit your family and lifestyle. They are, however, also at the higher end of the price range.
2. Gulf Stream Coach
Known for: Affordability, family-owned reliability, diverse models
Gulf Stream Coach was founded in 1971 in Nappanee, Indiana. It has remained one of the most popular travel trailer brands for decades. Much of this is due to their attention to detail, affordability, and quality. It remains a family-owned business and has produced almost 3,000 RVs over the years.
They have many models to choose from, including lightweight travel trailers, toy haulers, and destination trailers, with different floorplans, layouts, and designs. One of the most popular is the Ameri-Light, which allows you to choose your price range, floorplan, and design to fit your family’s needs.
Because of their popularity, you can also find Gulf Stream trailers to check out in person at numerous RV dealerships across the country.
3. KZ-RV
Known for: Versatile floorplans, off-grid options, durable build
KZ-RV is another company now owned by Thor that’s been around for over 50 years. With floorplans that are comfortable for long stays as well as short adventures, they offer a wide range of options, including a queen-sized master, boondocking solar system, or toy hauler if that’s what you’re looking for. They also offer options for entertaining both inside and out. Quality slide-outs provide even more room when you’re parked.
Other benefits include plenty of storage space inside and out and a low profile for those who need greater clearance. One of their best and most important features, though, is their craftsmanship, so you can enjoy the fun without sweating the details or (hopefully) dealing with small repairs.
4. Oliver Travel Trailers
Known for: Customization, high-end craftsmanship, owner support network
If you’re looking for a smaller, easier-to-tow, lightweight travel trailer, Oliver is worth a look. These high-quality fiberglass campers are built to order from their Hohenwald, Tennessee, plant and designed for top-notch travel with personalization to fit your idea of opulence and luxury. They’re also designed to be durable with long-lasting finishes.
You won’t find an Oliver on your local RV lot, though. Instead, to view in person, the company will get you in touch with an RV owner near you. Because they aren’t salespeople, they’re also likely to provide their unbiased thoughts on this popular trailer brand.
5. Grand Design RV
Known for: Customer support, community, lightweight options for SUVs
Grand Design RV is another brand that hails from Indiana. These travel trailers are known for their reliable construction, quality after-sales service (including a 3-year structural warranty), and various price points and layouts. They offer travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and lightweight trailers that can be pulled by an SUV or smaller truck, so they’re good for first-time RVers.
Another benefit is their online support, which helps you troubleshoot any problems you may encounter on the road. Plus, they have a robust community to provide suggestions and advice.
6. Winnebago
Known for: Wide range, innovative designs, comprehensive warranties
Another well-known travel trailer brand is Winnebago. The Winnebago brand has been around for decades and continues to innovate some of the most popular travel trailers on the road. In fact, they’re the largest RV producer in America. They’re also one of the few long-standing manufacturers to remain independent.
You can find a wide range of options, from camper vans that offer nimble RVing to spacious class A and C motor homes and travel trailers from 15’11” to 38’11” to fit any adventure.
Finally, a new Winnebago comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile limited structural warranty, one-year/15,000-mile limited warranty, and 10-year fiberglass roof warranty.
7. Coachman Industries
Known for: Safety, extensive model variety, strong reputation
Coachman Industries also began in Indiana, in the town of Middlebury, by three brothers back in 1964. Since then, they’ve joined the Forest River lineup along with Palomino RV, Shasta RV, and Dynamax.
The brand has produced over 750,000 RVs since inception and remains one of the most popular RVs with options for every budget and type—from teardrops to travel trailers to fifth wheels to Class A motorhomes and everything in between. Coachman has earned a reputation for safety, security, and reliability.
8. Jayco
Known for: Eco-friendly commitment, robust warranties, family-friendly design
You’ve probably driven past plenty of Jayco Trailers as they’re another popular trailer brand. Want to minimize your carbon footprint? Jayco comes with an eco-advantage commitment to help you do that. They’re continually finding ways to cut waste and reduce energy consumption, including ways to help improve your fuel efficiency, which is also great for your cash flow. They can also help keep you comfortable on the road. For instance, their Climate Shield protects their trailers from extreme heat and freezing.
Jayco also provides a 2-year/24,000-mile limited warranty and 3-year structural warranty, as well as specific parts warranties to help protect your investment.
Jayco is a family-oriented brand, and they’ve been around for a good 50 years, so you’ll find multi-generations with fun stories of adventure. If you’re looking to buy used, Jayco is one of the most popular options due to its durability.
There are many top trailer brands to choose from, and each brand has numerous models, styles, layouts, sizes, and features. While it can be overwhelming, the self-reflection to determine what’s right for you can be so rewarding as you hit the road in the top trailer for you.
