One of the most frequent questions we get from new and experienced RV enthusiasts alike is: What are the best travel trailer brands to consider buying? This is a crucial consideration because your travel trailer is more than just a vehicle—it’s your home on wheels. Let’s explore some brands that consistently receive high marks for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Discovering the Best Travel Trailer Brands in 2023: A Guide for Every RVer
Deciding on “the best brand” of anything is subjective. The answer is as unique as you are. Discovering it largely depends on your specific RV travel needs, budget, family size, and personal preferences. he answer also depends on finding the best truck for your camper.
Over the years my picks for the best travel trailers tends to remain unchanged. Many new brands are on the market, but they have not been around long enough to properly assess their quality. Each of the best travel trailer brands in our list has developed a unique approach to comfort, efficiency, and style.
Whether you are drawn to the classic charm of an Airstream, the durability of an Oliver, or the tech-forward approach of Jayco, the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference and budget.
The Gold Standard: How Do You Choose the Best Travel Trailer Brands of 2023?
What distinguishes the elite from the average in the world of travel trailers? After analyzing feedback from RV enthusiasts and combing through industry reviews, we have identified three things to keep in mind as you shop for your ultimate travel trailer brand.
1. Road-Tested Reliability
When it comes to RVs, it’s not a question of if you’ll encounter issues, but when. With that in mind, the reliability of a travel trailer should be your most critical consideration. The most trusted travel trailer brands inspire confidence based on sterling reviews. That feedback isn’t just from RV industry cheerleaders, but from the real experts – everyday RV owners like you and me.
Don’t fall for the shiny objects shown in walk-through YouTube reviews. Instead, dig deeper and seek out firsthand experiences from actual owners. Start with RV communities such as the iRV2 Discussion Forums. This is one of many excellent ways to get unbiased ratings and insights from owners of the brands you are curious about. Start engaging in discussions about the real-world performance and reliability of the camper you’re interested in.
2. Value for Your Money
Price matters, but not always in the way you might think. While we all love a bargain, when it comes to travel trailers that a lower sticker price can often be a sign of mass production that leads to compromised quality. As with any purchase, affordability is important, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of quality. The best travel trailer brands offer the highest value for the price point with above-average durability, thoughtful design, and overall quality.
3. Customer-First Service
The best travel trailers in the world can’t make up for a poor customer service experience. When investing in a travel trailer, you’re not just buying an RV. You are entering into a relationship. The industry’s top-tier travel trailer brands on our list understand this and prioritize customer satisfaction. From the initial contact with the manufacturer to after-sales support from the dealer and any warranty work in the future, they make it a prioirty to keep customers happy.
Not all travel trailer brands or their affiliated dealers shine in this area. Explore Google reviews about your local RV dealers that carry the brand you are considering. An overwhelming amount of negative customer feedback may be a telltale sign to look elsewhere.
The Top 10 Best Travel Trailer Brands List
Choosing the best RV trailer brands isn’t easy. There are hundreds of trailer brands and thousands of models. I selected these brands and models based on hundreds of RV user reviews. The following list of camper brands is known for their commitment to quality and value. They are also known for providing excellent customer service and timely warranty repairs. Here are the manufacturers that make our cut.
| Brand | Founded | RV Types | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airstream | 1931 | Travel Trailers, Class B | https://www.airstream.com/ |
| Grand Design RV | 2011 | Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels Toy Haulers | https://www.granddesignrv.com/ |
| Oliver Travel Trailers | 2007 | Travel Trailers | https://olivertraveltrailers.com/ |
| Winnebago Industries | 1958 | Travel Trailer, 5th Wheels, Toy Haulers, Class A, B, C | https://www.winnebago.com/ |
| Happier Camper | 2009 | Travel Trailers | https://happiercamper.com |
| Starcraft | 1903 | Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels | https://starcraftrv.com/ |
| Lance Campers | 1965 | Travel Trailers, Truck Campers | https://www.lancecamper.com/ |
| Shasta RV | 1941 | Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels, Toy Haulers | https://www.shastarving.com/ |
| Jayco | 1968 | Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels, Toy Haulers, Class A, B, C | https://jayco.com |
| Forest River | 1996 | Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels, Truck Campers, Toy Haulers, Pop Up Campers, Class A, B, C, Destination Trailers, Park Models | https://www.forestriverinc.com/ |
Now let’s review these brands and their best models to consider buying for your next travel trailer purchase. Remember, take your time to research, visit dealerships, attend RV shows, and even rent different models. This will give you a feel for what suits you best. The adventure of RVing begins even before you hit the road. It starts right here with the exciting process of choosing your home on wheels from among the best travel trailer brands in 2023.
#1. Airstream Flying Cloud
When you think luxury camper, Airstream is one of the first travel trailer brands that usually comes to mind. They produce some of the most recognizable RVs in the industry. Airstreams are priced in the high-end range. But ask any Airstream owner and they will tell you that the value you get for your money is well worth the price.
Their iconic models include the Classic, Globetrotter, Tony Bahama, Flying Cloud, and others. Now owned by Thor Industries, Airstream continues to lead the industry with a reliable, iconic, and distinctive design.
Why is the Airstream Flying Cloud one of the best travel trailers?
Few travel trailer brands evoke a sense of nostalgia, quality, and adventure as instantly as Airstream. Over the years, this iconic brand has been synonymous with the romance of the open road. The Airstream Flying Cloud travel trailers are a perfect embodiment of this legacy, earning it our number one spot on the list of the best travel trailers.
Crafted with both beginners and experienced RVers in mind, the Flying Cloud merges vintage appeal with modern comforts, creating a unique experience that sets it apart in the RV landscap
With a starting price of $94,400, it is not for everyone. But the first thing that strikes you about the Flying Cloud is its unmistakable design, which aligns with the higher-end price tag. With its distinctive aluminum shell, not only does the Flying Cloud turn heads at every campsite, but it also offers durability and a lighter towing weight. A wide variety of tow vehicles can haul one, from full-size pickups to larger SUVs with adequate towing capacity..
Constructed with a handcrafted riveted aluminum shell, it’s more than just pretty. All Airstream designs offer exceptional durability, weather resistance, and a lighter towing weight, ensuring longevity and ease of towing. The Flying Cloud model is loaded with features that exude quality, from the high-end kitchen appliances to the porcelain toilet and more.
Flying Cloud Features Include:
Depending on the layout you choose, you can opt for comfortable twin beds or a spacious queen bed, both featuring a memory foam mattress for a restful night’s sleep. A full bathroom featuring a stand-up shower, a porcelain toilet, and cleverly designed storage adds another layer of convenience to your journey.
The Airstream Flying Cloud is our number one choice for the best travel trailers of 2023. It beautifully combines timeless style, superior build quality, and modern convenience in a travel trailer package that combines the joy, freedom, and adventure of life on the road with you.
Airstream Flying Cloud Floor Plans and Specs
#2. Grand Design RV Imagine
Grand Design RV is another one of the best travel trailer brands. They have a loyal and raving fan base that considers their travel trailers some better overall brands in the industry.
I have seen many owner reviews of Grand Design campers who rave about the quality of these units and the outstanding customer service. For me, a list of the best travel trailer brands would not be complete without Grand Design.
The company is located in Middlebury, IN. All their towables and fifth wheels come with a 3-year limited structural warranty. Imagine XLS is one of my favorites due to its excellent styling, features, and amenities. Grand Design has only been around since 2001 and today it operates as an independent business within Winnebago Industries. This line of campers is definitely on our short list of the best travel trailer brands in 2023.
Why I Recommend the Grand Design Imagine
The Imagine travel trailer line is my preferred bumper-pull from this RV manufacturer. There are several reasons I like the Imagine trailer. First off, it comes in 21 different floor plans. Even the smallest model comes with a queen-sized bed. There is no way I would want a travel trailer with anything smaller than a queen bed.
Grand Design Imagine Specifications
The Imagine is also loaded with a ton of standard features. Here are just a few of the ones that stand out for me and for what I’m looking for:
Grand Design Imagine Floor Plans & Specs
#3. Oliver Legacy Elite 2
The Oliver brand makes high-quality luxury fiberglass trailers in their Tennessee manufacturing facility. The company, which was started by twin brothers Jim and John Oliver, was formed in 2008.
Oliver manufactures fiberglass trailer with a blend of luxury and resilience that’s hard to beat. Imagine a travel trailer built like a fortress, designed to withstand whatever Mother Nature might throw at it. That’s what Oliver offers – each trailer is constructed with a double-hull fiberglass shell. This gives superior protection against all weather conditions. It’s not inexpensive, but is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and durability.
The company gets that we’re all different and have our own ideas about what makes the perfect RV. That’s why they offer a wide range of customization options. Whether it’s a specific floor layout, an advanced solar power system, or leather upholstery, Oliver makes it happen. It’s like getting a tailor-made suit, but this one’s an RV made to fit your camping style and needs.
The Oliver Legacy Elite 2
The Oliver Legacy Elite 2 pictured above is my favorite model and probably one of their top-rated all-fiberglass campers. I like the Elite 2 for several reasons. I like that it has a dry weight of just 4,600 pounds. It can be towed with a good truck or full-size SUV. Keep in mind that 4,600 pounds is just the dry weight. For towing, you need to consider cargo weight too.
The Legacy Elite 2 comes in two-floor plans. One with twin beds and the with a dinette to 75″ x 79″ bed conversion. This model is loaded with standard features.
Oliver Legacy Elite 2 Specifications
Oliver Travel Trailers are worth the money if you are shopping for a new RV. Their unique blend of luxury, superior construction, thoughtful design, customizability, and top-tier customer service, makes these fiberglass trailers a trustworthy companion on your road adventures.
Oliver Legacy Elite 2 Floor Plans & Specs
#4. Winnebago Industries – Micro Minnie
Another of our selected best travel trailers is Winnebago. With a history spanning over 50 years, Winnebago is a well-known and respected brand in the RV industry. Headquartered in Forest River, Iowa, the company builds a huge selection of RVs, including high-quality motorhomes, campers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers.
Winnebago makes five popular travel trailer models as of 2023. One of the best travel trailer brands for new RVers and experienced ones alike is the Micro Minnie (which replaced the older Minnie Drop model that made our former list of the best travel trailers.
What I Like About the Micro Minnie
When it comes to striking a balance between compactness and living comfort, the Micro Minnie travel trailers hit the nail right on the head. These little marvels of RV engineering manage to pack a ton of amenities into a small, easy-to-tow package, proving that you don’t have to go big to enjoy the perks of home on the road.
Despite their size, Micro Minnies don’t skimp on the essentials. Step inside to enjoy a fully-equipped kitchen that comes with a double-door refrigerator, a three-burner stove, and even a microwave. So, whether you’re warming up last night’s leftovers or cooking a full-course meal, you’ve got everything you need right there.
Winnebago Micro Minnie Specifications
A key aspect of Micro Minnies’ appeal is their towability. With a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 5,500 to 6,000 pounds, depending on the model, they can be comfortably towed by a variety of vehicles. Mid-size SUVs, pickup trucks, and some of the beefier crossovers make suitable companions for these compact travel trailers.
Winnebago Minnie Drop Floor Plans & Specs
#5. Happier Camper HC1
If you’re looking for an ultralight travel trailer that brings a smile to your face and makes RVing a breeze, Happier Camper travel trailers are it. These compact and retro lightweight travel trailers are winning the hearts of people who want a small trailer that can be towed by a typical passenger car.
Happier Camper trailers are incredibly versatile. Their “Adaptiv” furniture anf cabinetry are made as modular cubes. This lets you customize the layout to suit your specific needs for any camping trip. The modular system includes lightweight cubes that can be rearranged to create a comfortable sleeping area, a cozy dining space, or even a mobile office for those who can’t leave work behind.
Each trailer’s retro-inspired design pays homage to the iconic campers of the past while incorporating modern amenities. With their vibrant colors, rounded shapes, and nostalgic appeal, Happier Camper trailers turn heads wherever they go. Plus, their lightweight construction makes them a breeze to tow, even with smaller vehicles.
Why The Happier Camper HC1?
Happier Camper trailers are also built to last. Crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, these trailers offer durability and reliability on the road. From the sturdy fiberglass shell to the energy-efficient appliances, every aspect of a Happier Camper trailer is thoughtfully designed for your comfort and convenience.
A notable Happier Camper HC1 feature is the expansive rear hatch that lets you easily load up a couple of bikes; even a kayak if water sports are your favorite outdoor activity. This is an awesome feature for such a small camper.
Happier Camper HC1 Specifications
One thing to keep in mind with the Happier Camper is that it does not have a typical toilet setup. The Happier Camper has a “Dry Flush” toilet for RVs. That is the only drawback I see to this camper trailer. Remember, it is small, so don’t expect much room, but that is how it’s been designed. It’s modern, and makes exceptional use of the small interior.
Happier Camper Floor Plans & Specs
#6. Starcraft RV Autumn Ridge
Another of our picks with a long history in the RV industry, Starcraft, started making metal farm equipment in 1903. In 1968 they began manufacturing campers. Today, what sets Starcraft apart from other small, affordable trailers is its smart construction. Made with TuffShell, Starcraft’s unique fiberglass wall construction, all Starcraft trailers give superior durability while remaining lightweight. This combination not only extends the lifespan of the RV but also makes towing a breeze, whether you tow with a full-size pickup or a mid-size SUV.
Step inside an Autumn Ridge, and he homey atmosphere helps you feel right at home wherever you park. Their kitchens are a standout, complete with a three-burner stove, a microwave, and a double-door refrigerator – all you need to whip up delicious meals on the road or at the campsite. After dinner, you can relax in the comfortable seating area, perhaps catch a show on the LED TV.
What Makes The Autumn Ridge a Best Travel Trailer?
Prior to the Autumn Ridge, the 2019 Starcraft Mossy Oak travel trailer was my preferred choice. This was a spacious camper available in 11-floor plans, including several travel trailer models with bunk beds. The Mossy Oak came in lengths from 23’4″ to 36’5″, making it the best predecessor of the Starcraft Autumn Ridge. This new model has many choices for RV buyers, with features that will make you want to own one too.
Starcraft RV Autumn Ridge Specifications
7 single-axle floorplans
Plus, 7 dual-axle floorplans
Lengths: 19′ 3″ to 33′ 10″
GVWR: 3750 lbs. to 7,500 lbs.
Inside Height: 6′ 9″ to 8; 4″
The Autumn Ridge by Starcraft RV offers an excellent balance between comfort, durability, and towability. Its impressive features, combined with the ease of towing, make it a great choice
Autumn Ridge Floor Plans & Specs
#7. Lance Camper 1685 Travel Trailer
Lance Campers have a reputation for being very well-built and an owner base that loves the customer support offered by the company. Definitely one of the better RV brands in the industry, the designs are extremely practical and well done. Lance Campers are built with top-grade materials such as Dual Layer Azdel composite composite panels, an eco-friendly, toxin-free composite panel superior to wood.. These trailer are also built with a one-piece Energy Star Rated Synthetic Membrane Roof.
Definitely one of the best travel trailers in 2023 (and for many years prior), Lance Camper models are renowned for their quality construction and thoughtful design. Crafted with lightweight yet robust aluminum-framed bodies, and insulated, laminated walls, Lance Camper trailers are designed to endure the elements. Their sturdy construction make them easy to tow with a variety of vehicles, from mid-sized SUVs to full-sized trucks.
Lance is confident about their RVs. In addition to the 1-year limited warranty on every trailer or truck camper they make, the company also offers a 2-year structural warranty on all models. Overall I consider Lance one of the Top 5 best travel trailer brands in the industry.
What I Like About The Lance Camper 1685
Of the 12 models of travel trailers Lance Campers makes in 2023, I like the 1685 model est. There are several reasons. The 1685 is one of their lightest travel trailer models, featuring a dry weight of just 4,690 pounds. The interior is roomy and has lots of storage space available, and the floor plan is intelligently designed and laid out for maximum space efficiency. It includes a wet bath which I have stated before, is one of my personal preferences in any RV we buy.
Lance Camper 1685 Specifications
For a small travel trailer, the Lance Camper 1685 is outfitted with generous holding tank capacities. This reduces the frequency of water refills and dump station visits.
Lance Camper 1685 Floor Plans & Specs
#8. Shasta RV 18FQ
A division of Forest River, Shasta travel trailers have been a reliable companion for road travelers since 1941. If you’ve been camping a long time, the toaster-like look of the original Shaster brings back memories. What I love about Shasta trailers is they’re a great buy for the money.
Shasta trailers offer a wide range of towing capacities. Because these campers are crafted with a sturdy, lightweight aluminum exterior, they are durable but don’t add extra weight. Whether you already own a large truck for towing, or a family SUV, these campers are a great choice for anyone just starting their RV journey. Experienced RVers looking for an upgrade also find them a great fit.
Why You Should Consider the Shasta 18FQ
Over the years, Shasta has trimmed their travel trailer line to just the Shasta model, which is available as a typical pull-behind and a travel trailer tow hauler. The pull-behind is available in a whopping 14 different floor plans. Of all those plans, my favorite is the 18FQ.
The 18FQ is very well laid out. Stepping inside, you can’t help but appreciate the attention to detail. Kitchens come equipped with a three-burner cooktop, a generous refrigerator, and a microwave oven, giving you all the conveniences of a home kitchen on the road. The 18FQ includes a 60″ x 74″ bed mattress with overhead storage space above and a clothes wardrobe on either side. It has a dry bath with a separate toilet and shower, medicine cabinet and a linen closet.
Shasta 18FQ Specifications
Comfortable sleeping arrangements, quality upholstery, and thoughtful layouts in Shasta trailers set up a homely environment that helps you relax after a day of exploration. You’ll keep comfy in any season with the 18FQ’s efficient climate control system, featuring ducted heating and optional air conditioning units. If you’re in search of a reliable, value-packed travel trailer that can match your love for the open road, a Shasta travel trailer is worth considering.
Shasta RV 18FQ Floor Plans & Specs
#9. Jayco Jay Flight SLX
With over 50 years of industry experience, Jayco has been one of the better brands in the RV industry. They have a loyal following and have always been very responsive to their customers. In 2016 Jayco was purchased by Thor Industries, which owns Airstream, among many other companies. Jayco’s quality, service, and customer responsiveness remain intact after the purchase by one of the world’s largest RV industry manufacturers.
he Jay Flight SLX series is one of Jayco’s top-selling lines. These campers tick all the boxes for both beginner and experienced RVers, by making travel trailers that are easy to tow, durable, and feature-packed.
Why I Like The Jay Flight SLX
Of all the travel trailer models Jayco manufactures, I prefer the Jay Flight SLX. First off, it’s not a huge camper and very light for its size. This makes the SLX very manageable when it comes to towing. In 2023 the Jay Flight SLX is available in 5 floorplans. The floorplan choices offer something for every RVer, including bunkhouse and queen bed walk around models. Two models have slideouts.
Some of the models feature a Simmons queen-size mattress which is a very comfortable camping mattress. I like that every Jay Flight SLX features a dry bath which is always nice. The bunk beds included in some models have a 4-inch mattress and a weight capacity of 300-pounds.
The galley has standard features such as two-range burners, a three cubic-foot fridge, a microwave, and solid-surface countertops. Chances are you are going to find a plan that works for your camping needs
Jayco Jay Flight Specifications
Unloaded Vehicle Weight: 2,415 – 2,890 lbs.
Cargo Carrying Capacity: 615 – 860 lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2,995 – 3,750 lbs.
Exterior Length: 16′ 6″ to 21′ 8″
Exterior Height w/ A/C: 111 – 1/4″ to 111- 3/4″
Interior Height (living area): 73″
The Jayco Jay Flight SLX offers a perfect entry point for beginner RVers, and a refreshing alternative for more experienced ones, thanks to its balance between ease-of-use, comfort, and construction quality.
Jayco Jay Flight SLX Floorplans & Specs
#10. Forest River Alpha Wolf
The Forest River RV brand is one of the largest RV manufacturers in the United States. Their Cherokee line of Alpha Wolf travel trailers are the leader of the pack. That’s because when it comes to construction, the Alpha Wolf doesn’t cut corners. Built on a rugged and lightweight aluminum frame, Forest River designs Alpha Wolf for easy towing. They meet the needs of a variety of vehicles, from pick-ups to larger SUVs.
To protect against the elements, Forest River makes the Alpha Wolf with a protective exterior of glossy fiberglass and sealed underbelly for all-weather camping. An oversized, lighted, and adjustable power awning extends your living space outdoors. There’s an outdoor kitchen with an ice maker, perfect for entertaining, cooking and dining.
Want more reasons to look into Alpha Wolf travel trailers? Get the insiders story from one of the best owner forums in the industry, Forest River Owner’s Forums.
Cherokee Alpha Wolf Specifications
In 2023 you have seven floorplans to choose from with this camper. Here is a partial list of the line-up’s specifications:
Hitch Weight: 570 lbs to 1,026 lbs
Dry Weight: 5,795 lbs to 6,780 lbs
Cargo Carry Weight: 1,246 lbs to 1,805 lbs
Exterior Length: 31′ 6″ to 36′ 8″
Total Exterior Height w/ A/C: 11’0″
Exterior Width: 96″
Alpha Wolf trailers offer a variety of features that can be tailored to your camping needs, and of course budget. Check out the Alpha Wolf 2023 models for a list of floor plans and related options.
The Forest River Alpha Wolf Floor Plans & Specs
Best Travel Trailer Brands Summary
So there you have it, ten of the best travel trailer brands in the 2023 RV market. Every brand has its advocates as well as critics. The crucial takeaway here is to do your own in-depth research.
Choosing the ideal travel trailer brand isn’t a task to be rushed. Buying the best RV needs time and thorough investigation. But rest assured, the reward of reliable, enjoyable RV travel makes the effort worthwhile.
A final note: don’t forget to evaluate the dealership as well as the brand. The RV dealer is your main point of contact for post-purchase service, and RV warranty work that might be required. Ultimately, the best travel trailer will align with your individual camping needs, accommodate your family, and fit within your budget.
