When it comes to choosing a 5th wheel, there are many factors to consider, including its size and weight as well as its features and amenities.
But if you’re working with a smaller budget, one of the most important factors to consider is its cost.
As 5th wheels can cost anywhere from $30,000 to well over $100,000, as is the case with luxury 5th wheel toy haulers.
Luckily though, for those on a budget, there are many affordable options out there when it comes to 5th wheels.
That still offers all the important must-haves as well as plenty of extras, while still keeping the camper on the cheaper side.
So for those looking for a well-equipped 5th wheel on a budget, make sure to keep reading.
As we’ve highlighted 10 of the most popular and best 5th wheels under 50K, below.
Plus, we’ve provided the specs, floor plan, and video walkthrough of each, so that you can get a real feel for the camper.
Best 5th Wheels Under $50,000 (Least to Most Expensive)
| Make/Model/Trim | Cost | Length | Dry Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. KZ RV Sportsmen 231RK | $38,000 | 24′ 10″ | 6,020 lbs |
| 2. Crossroads Volante VL270BH | $40,500 | 31′ 5″ | 7,696 lbs |
| 3. Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML | $42,000 | 29′ 11″ | 8,756 lbs |
| 4. Palomino Puma 315BHTS | $44,000 | 38′ 6″ | 9,318 lbs |
| 5. Forest River Wildcat 260RD | $44,000 | 31′ 6″ | 8,369 lbs |
| 6. KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD | $45,000 | 26′ 9″ | 7,110 lbs |
| 7. Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES | $45,000 | 28′ 9″ | 7,681 lbs |
| 8. Dutchmen Astoria 1500 2943BHF | $47,000 | 33′ 10″ | 8,627 lbs |
| 9. Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL | $48,000 | 34′ 6″ | 8,358 lbs |
| 10. Jayco Eagle HT 24RE | $48,000 | 29′ 2″ | 7,880 lbs |
1. KZ RV Sportsmen 231RK
Quick Specs
- Price: $38,000
- Length: 24 Feet 10 Inches
- Dry Weight: 6,020 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 800 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 1
One of the smallest and lightest 5th wheels you can buy that’s under $50,000 is the KZ RV Sportsmen 231RK, which has a length of 24 feet 10 inches and a dry weight of 6,020 pounds.
Making this compact 5th wheel half-ton towable, which is a real rarity for fifth wheels.
As most 5th wheels require at least a 3/4 ton truck, if not a full one-ton truck to pull them.
KZ RV Sportsmen 231RK Floorplan
Despite its smaller size though, the Sportsmen 231RK still offers all the same amenities, as its larger counterparts.
Including such features as a fully equipped kitchen, plenty of seating, a three-piece dry bath, and lots of sleeping capacity.
Thanks to the camper’s queen-size bed in the front bedroom and its tri-fold sofa and convertible dinette booth in the main living area.
The Sportsmen 231RK even offers a slide-out in the living room, which really helps to open up the living space inside the camper.
For more information on the KZ RV Sportsmen 231RK, be sure to check out KZ RV’s website by clicking here.
To see even more compact lightweight 5th wheels, check out our blog post “12 Best 5th Wheels Under 30 Feet (With Pricing)“.
2. Crossroads Volante VL270BH
Quick Specs
- Price: $40,500
- Length: 31 Feet 5 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,696 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,476 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- Slide-Outs: 1
The second 5th wheel priced under 50K on our list is the Crossroads Volante VL270BH, which offers one of the highest sleeping capacities available on a fifth wheel.
Thanks to the camper’s bunkhouse design and numerous sleeping locations.
As the camper not only offers double rear bunk beds and a queen-sized bed but it also has a convertible dinette booth and a tri-fold sofa as well, bringing the total sleeping capacity up to eight.
Making this affordable 5th wheel great for families or for anyone that needs a large sleeping capacity without breaking the bank.
Crossroads Volante VL270BH Floorplan
There’s more to this camper though, than just a large sleeping capacity.
As the Volante VL270BH is one of the most well-equipped 5th wheels in its class, offering premium features and upgrades throughout.
Including such premium features as a fiberglass front cap, keyed-a-like lock system, molded rain gutters, power stabilizer jacks, and an enclosed forced air heated underbelly on the exterior.
And a flush-floor slide-out, premium residential furniture, solid surface countertops, a fireplace, and residential wood blinds on the interior.
One of the most impressive features of the Volante VL270BH though is its one-and-half baths.
As the fifth wheel offers a full three-piece dry bath in the rear as well as a private half bath in the front bedroom.
Making this budget-friendly camper one of the cheapest 5th wheels you can buy with one-and-half baths.
For more information on the Crossroad Volante VL270BH and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Crossroad’s website by clicking here.
3. Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML
Quick Specs
- Price: $42,000
- Length: 29 Feet 11 Inches
- Dry Weight: 8,756 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,770 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 2 or 4 (Depending on Options)
- Slide-Outs: 2
The Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML has one of the most open floorplans on this list and makes a great couples trailer.
Thanks to the camper’s rear kitchen layout and extra large slide-out.
As well as its upgraded theatre seating and large front bedroom, which offers a residential queen bed, an extra large wardrobe on a slide, and a separate bathroom entrance.
For those that need a four-person sleeping capacity though, the Sprinter 25ML does offer a convertible dinette booth that can be converted into an extra sleeping space.
Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML Floorplan
Beyond the main interior amenities of the 5th wheel though, the Sprinter 25ML offers some unique exterior features that help to set it apart from other campers in its class.
Including a floorplan-specific 100-inch wide-body frame with full-width outriggers, automotive-grade painted fiberglass front cap with KeyShield™ protection, MaxTurn™ technology, Road Armor™ suspension, and an outside kitchen.
And if you’re someone that wants to extend the camping season into early spring or late fall or even winter, the Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML has you covered.
As the Sprinter 25ML is all-season ready and offers numerous cold-weather features.
Including such cold-weather features as a thermal package rated from 0 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, dual-layer insulation, heated and enclosed underbelly with Astro-foil insulation, and heated pass-through storage.
Making it one of the few all-season capable 5th wheels under $50,000.
To see other cold-weather capable 5th wheels, check out our blog post “10 Best 5th Wheels for Cold Weather Camping“.
For more info on the Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Keystone RV’s website by clicking here.
4. Palomino Puma 315BHTS
Quick Specs
- Price: $44,000
- Length: 38 Feet 6 Inches
- Dry Weight: 9,318 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,560 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- Slide-Outs: 3
If you’re looking for sheer size and maximum sleeping capacity on a budget, one of the best 5th wheel options out there is the Palomino Puma 315BHTS.
As this massive 5th wheel camper is 38 feet 6 inches long and can comfortably sleep up to eight people at a time.
Thanks to three separate sleeping spaces, which act in a way as three separate bedrooms.
Giving everyone plenty of privacy and room to spread out in the camper.
Palomino Puma 315BHTS Floorplan
Starting at the front, which features a private front bedroom with a full-size queen bed and opposing wardrobe/nightstands.
Then moving back to the mid bunkhouse, which includes the camper’s first slide-out and features an upper bunk as well as a lower jiffy sofa.
And finally ending at the rear of the camper, which offers several convertible sleeping options, including a convertible u-shaped dinette and a convertible sofa.
To see other three-bedroom RVs, check out our blog post “12 Must-See 3 Bedroom RVs (With Videos and Pricing)“.
The sheer size and large sleeping capacity of this camper aren’t the only things that make this fifth wheel under 50K so great though.
As the camper also boasts a fully upgraded interior with plenty of residential features to make the 5th wheel feel like a home away from home.
Starting with the camper’s large mid kitchen, which includes a center island with sink, plenty of counter space, and a pantry.
As well as stainless steel appliances, a large double-door refrigerator, a microwave, and a range/oven.
And finishing with the large rear living area, which features two of the three slide-outs on the camper as well as lots of seating and an entertainment center with a fireplace.
For additional information on the Palomino Puma 315BHTS and to see a 360-degree tour of the interior, check out Palomino’s website by clicking here.
5. Forest River Wildcat 260RD
Quick Specs
- Price: $44,000
- Length: 31 Feet 6 Inches
- Dry Weight: 8,369 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,660 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Slide-Outs: 2
The Forest River Wildcat 260RD like the Keystone RV Sprinter 25ML from above, makes a great couples trailer.
As the fifth wheel was designed and built to offer the maximum amount of comfort and enjoyment for two people while camping and traveling.
Thanks to the Wildcat 260RD’s floorplan, which features a rear living area with theatre seating, a well-equipped mid galley, a spacious bathroom with two separate entrances, and a large front bedroom with a huge wardrobe/linen closet.
Forest River Wildcat 260RD Floorplan
One of the best things about this 5th wheel’s floorplan though is that it allows for a large and spacious rear living area without sacrificing the front bedroom.
Which can often be an issue for other 5th wheels, where the rear living area feels cramped, due to the front bedroom taking up too much interior space.
The Forest River Wildcat 260RD has no such issues though, as it manages to strike the perfect balance between a spacious rear living area and a private front bedroom.
Beyond its well-laid-out floorplan though, the Wildcat 260RD also offers tons of upgrades as well.
As the Wildcat 260RD comes standard with auto-leveling, underbelly armor, a 17-foot power awning, a 12V stainless steel fridge, soft close drawers, and an extra tall 6-foot 5-inch ceiling height in both the bathroom and front bedroom.
For more information on the Forest River Wildcat 260RD and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here.
6. KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD
Quick Specs
- Price: $45,000
- Length: 26 Feet 9 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,110 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,090 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4 or 6 (Depending on Options)
- Slide-Outs: 2
The KZ RV Durango D230RKD is one of the smallest and lightest 5th wheels you can buy that’s under $50,000, with a length of 26 feet 9 inches and a dry weight of 7,110 pounds.
Making this lightweight 5th wheel perfect, for those with half-ton trucks that still want the benefits of a 5th wheel.
Such as increased interior space, better maneuverability, and improved stability.
Despite its smaller size and lighter weight though, the Durango D230RKD still offers all the same amenities of a larger 5th wheel.
Including a full galley, lots of seating, a spacious dry bath, and a large front bedroom.
KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD Floorplan
In addition, the KZ Durango Half-Ton D230RKD also features two slide-outs, which helps the fifth wheel feel much larger on the inside than it actually is.
Plus, space and prep for a washer and dryer, making this camper one of the few fifth wheels under 50K that can be equipped with a washer/dryer.
For additional info on the KZ RV Durango Half-Ton D230RKD, check out KZ RV’s website by clicking here.
7. Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES
Quick Specs
- Price: $45,000
- Length: 28 Feet 9 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,681 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,505 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 2 to 6 (Depending on Options)
- Slide-Outs: 2
Another 5th wheel priced below 50K that’s half-ton towable is the Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES, which has a dry weight of 7,681 pounds.
While on the subject of weight though, it’s important to remember that just because a 5th wheel is rated half-ton towable that doesn’t mean that every half-ton truck can safely pull the camper.
For example, one of the most popular tow vehicles on the market today is the Ford F-150, which has a max tow capacity ranging from 5,000 to 11,300 pounds, depending on how the truck is equipped.
This means that while many Ford F-150s could pull this lighter 5th wheel not every F-150 could.
As the dry weight and especially the fully loaded weight of this 5th wheel would exceed the max tow capacity of many Ford F-150s.
So before towing any 5th wheel, it’s important to know the max tow capacity of your particular tow vehicle.
Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES Floorplan
Moving beyond the smaller size and lighter weight of this more affordable 5th wheel though, the Cougar Half-Ton 25RES also checks a lot of other boxes.
As the Cougar Half-Ton 25RES can also be customized to your particular needs, by choosing from several different furniture options.
For example, if you’re looking for the ultimate couple’s camper and want to maximize comfort, you can outfit the camper with theatre seating and a free-standing table.
While on the other hand, if you need a family-friendly trailer, you can outfit the fifth wheel with a tri-fold sleeper sofa and a convertible dinette booth.
Regardless of how you choose to outfit the camper though, one thing remains constant, which is that this camper is one of the most well-equipped 5th wheels you can buy for the money.
As the Cougar Half-Ton 25RES comes standard with a huge pantry, a large galley with a peninsula island, and a spacious front bedroom with a queen bed and a large wardrobe on a slide-out.
For more info on the Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Keystone RV’s website by clicking here.
8. Dutchmen Astoria 1500 2943BHF
Quick Specs
- Price: $47,000
- Length: 33 Feet 10 Inches
- Dry Weight: 8,627 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,558 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Slide-Outs: 2
A great option for those looking for an affordable bunkhouse 5th wheel is the Dutchmen Astoria 1500 2943BHF.
As this affordably priced fifth wheel features a rear bunkhouse that’s completely separate from the rest of the trailer.
And while it might not be the biggest bunkhouse available in an RV, it’s still plenty big enough to sleep comfortably.
Plus, it offers several upgrades, including double-size bunks, three separate windows, and a large wardrobe closet.
Dutchmen Astoria 1500 2943BHF Floorplan
Moving on from the bunkhouse though, this well-equipped 5th wheel also features plenty of other amenities and creature comforts that make life on the road more comfortable as well as enjoyable.
Such as a large L-shaped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, lots of cabinets and countertop space, and a large double door gas/electric refrigerator.
As well as a spacious living room with theatre seating, a free-standing table, and an entrainment center with a built-in fireplace.
The feature and amenities don’t stop there though on this well-equipped fifth wheel.
As the Astoria 1500 2943BHF also offers an all-weather thermal package, industry-leading front bedroom ceiling height for a mid-profile fifth wheel, two slide-outs, and a large front bedroom closet that’s prepped for a washer/dryer.
For more information on the Dutchmen Astoria 1500 2943BHF and to see other floorplan options, check out Dutchmen’s website by clicking here.
9. Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL
Quick Specs
- Price: $48,000
- Length: 34 Feet 6 Inches
- Dry Weight: 8,358 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,255 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Slide-Outs: 2
One of the best couple 5th wheels on the market today that’s under 35 feet is the Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL.
As it’s loaded with premium features and finishes throughout the camper, despite its more affordable price point.
Starting with its well-laid-out floorplan, which features a huge open living space and dual opposing slide-outs.
As well as one of the nicest and largest kitchens you’ll find in a sub 50K fifth wheel.
As the Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL’s kitchen features a massive center island, tons of countertop space, loads of cabinets, a walk-in pantry, and an oversized 12V double-door fridge.
Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL Floorplan
In addition, the Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL also offers standard class-leading features that are often either unavailable or options on other 5th wheels in its class.
Including a living room ceiling fan, accent lighting throughout, washer/dry hookups, a coffee bar, and one of the largest and most impressive entertainment centers you’ll find in a budget-friendly 5th wheel.
And for those that like to camp in the winter or want to live in the camper year-round, the Cherokee Arctic Wolf has you covered.
As the fifth wheel offers one of the most comprehensive cold weather packages in its class.
By including such features as a high-efficiency 35,000 BTU furnace, an armored underbelly tank enclosure with forced air heat to all holding tanks, and upgraded two-inch thick laminated exterior walls with block foam insulation.
As well as a high-capacity 5,200 BTU electric fireplace and a non-conductive insulating wood roof and flooring superstructure.
For more info on the Forest River Cherokee Arctic Wolf 291RL and to see a 360-degree interior tour, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here.
To see other top-rated 5th wheels under 35 feet, check out our blog post “10 Best 5th Wheels Under 35 Feet (With Pricing)“.
10. Jayco Eagle HT 24RE
Quick Specs
- Price: $48,000
- Length: 29 Feet 2 Inches
- Dry Weight: 7,880 Pounds
- Hitch Weight: 1,480 Pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: 2 to 6 (Depending on Options)
- Slide-Outs: 1
One of the most premium wheels you can buy that’s still under $50,000 is the Jayco Eagle HT 24RE.
As this well-equipped fifth wheel has countless class-leading features and just about every amenity you could want.
And much like the Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton 25RES from above, the Jayco Eagle HT’s interior can be customized to your particular needs.
As the 5th wheel can be set up as the ultimate couple’s camper by outfitting the camper with theatre seating and a free-standing table.
Or as a family-friendly 5th wheel by outfitting the camper with a tri-fold sleeper sofa, and convertible dinette booth.
Jayco Eagle HT 24RE Floorplan
In addition, as was the case with the Cougar Half-Ton, the Eagle HT, is also one of the most well-equipped 5th wheels on the market today for under 50K.
As the Jayco Eagle HT 24RE comes loaded with premium features throughout the camper.
Starting with its Climate Shield, which offers zero-degree tested weather protection.
Thanks to many cold-weather features including, an enclosed and heated underbelly, a 35,000 BTU furnace, double-batt fiberglass insulation in the ceiling and floor, double-sided radiant barrier insulation in the roof, floor, and behind the front cap, and a fully enclosed wet bay.
Plus, the Eagle HT 24RE also comes standard with electric auto leveling, a Magnum Truss roof system with a 20-year warranty, a painted fiberglass front cap, slam latch baggage doors with a keyed alike lock system, and MORryde StepAbove entrance steps on the exterior.
As well as residential vinyl flooring, upgraded cabinetry, blackout roller shades, stainless steel appliances, and an eight cubic foot gas/electric refrigerator with a wooden panel insert.
For more information on the Jayco Eagle HT 24RE and to see a 3D tour of the inside, check out Jayco’s website by clicking here.
FAQs
While there is no single RV manufacturer that makes the most reliable fifth wheel, there are a handful of premium 5th wheel brands that receive high marks for reliability and dependability, which we’ve listed below.
– Grand Design
– Jayco
– Keystone RV
– Dutchmen RV
– Forest River
– Heartland RV
On average, 5th wheels hold their value about as well as any other type of RV and depreciate anywhere from 10 to 15 percent for the first few years when purchased new. After the first 5 years though, depreciation generally slows to 5 to 8 percent per year, until the end of the camper’s physical life.
While diesel engines are one of the best options for towing a 5th wheel, due to their higher torque and power output as well as their improved fuel efficiency, they’re not required.
As many larger gas V8 engines can pull a 5th wheel.
Luxury fifth wheels are top-of-the-line models that offer the best in terms of amenities, features, build quality, and overall comfort.
As such, they come with a higher price tag than most other 5th wheels but offer a much more upscale camping experience.
The Jayco Pinnacle, which has a starting price of around $90,000 is Jayco’s top-of-line fifth wheel.
However, the Jayco North Point comes in at a close second, with an average starting price of $80,000.
While Airstream makes a wide variety of travel trailers across multiple lineups, Aistream does not currently make a fifth wheel.
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