A Better Way To Getting Hitched?

Even if you only have a vague understanding of the world of RV’s, you probably know that there are two basic types: RV’s that you tow and ones you drive. But if you are starting your shopping journey, you’ll want to dig deeper and learn about the different classes of vehicles within these two groups, along with the pros and cons. In short, you’ll want to become an expert on RV’s before making a purchase.

That’s why we’re here, to guide you on your shopping journey.

When it comes to the large class of towable travel trailers there is a class that you attach to the towing vehicle via a ball hitch. You can read an exhaustive survey of that class of trailer here.

However, if you are looking for more space and comfort in your RV adventures a Fifth Wheel offers an excellent mix of luxury, stability, and value that many Canadian RVers find irresistible. They are a fabulous option for all kinds of RV adventure, from weekend getaways in Ontario to extended stays in British Columbia’s wilderness regions. 

For a host of reasons that we’ll explore in this article, Fifth Wheels could be your perfect mobile home away from home.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about Fifth Wheels—from their unique design to Canadian-specific considerations for ownership and travel.

What Is a Fifth Wheel? Understanding the Basics

A Fifth Wheel is a class of RV that connects to a pickup truck using a special hitch installed in the truck bed. This special type of hitching mechanism gives the Fifth Wheel a unique and easily recognizable profile in the form of a front section raised above the truck bed. The front section living space is often used for a master bedroom.

Fifth Wheel Mechanics and Design

The name “fifth wheel” refers to the special hitch mechanism used to tow these RVs. Unlike travel trailers that connect to a ball hitch at the rear of a vehicle, a Fifth Wheel uses a larger hitch mounted in the bed of a pickup truck.

You’re not doubt asking yourself, why the term “5th wheel”? Where’s the wheel? Well, the term originates from the days of early 19th-century horse-drawn carriages. These carriages had a horizontal fifth wheel mechanism—a large circular plate mounted above the front axle—that allowed the front wheels to pivot smoothly for better maneuverability.

When semi-trucks and trailers were later developed, engineers adapted this pivoting plate design to create a hitching system for heavier loads. Since the mechanism resembled the old horse-drawn carriage’s fifth wheel, the name stuck.

This setup has several advantages over the ball hitch system:

• Better weight distribution between the tow vehicle and trailer
• Greater stability on the road with less sway
• Easier turning since the pivot point sits directly above the truck’s rear axle

Generally speaking, Fifth Wheels are a higher class of trailer with luxurious amenities like slide-outs—sections that extend outward when parked to create more interior living space. Floor plans typically include a raised front section (usually the master bedroom), a middle section (living room and kitchen), and a rear section (which might contain additional bedrooms, a bathroom, or entertainment area).

Fifth Wheels vs. Other RV Types

Fifth Wheels vs. Travel Trailers:

• Fifth Wheels are generally larger and heavier
• Fifth Wheels offer better stability when towing
• Fifth Wheels often have more luxury features and amenities
• Fifth Wheels require a pickup truck with a bed for the hitch

Fifth Wheels vs. Motorhomes:

• Fifth Wheels need a separate tow vehicle
• Fifth Wheels let you park your home and use your truck for local travel
• Fifth Wheels often cost less than comparable motorhomes
• Fifth Wheels offer more living space per meter of total length

Why Purchase a Fifth Wheel?

Spacious Living Quarters

There are numerous advantages to owning a Fifth Wheel, but perhaps the best reason is more headroom. The bi-level design creates a unique and spacious feel inside. With ceiling heights often reaching 2.5 meters or more in the main living areas, these RVs avoid the cramped feeling common in other trailers.

Space-enhancing features include:

• Multiple slide-outs that can nearly double the floor space when extended
• Higher ceilings in the main living area
• Split-level design that creates natural room divisions
• Larger bathrooms with residential-style fixtures

Many Canadian fifth wheel owners appreciate the extra space during longer trips or when poor weather keeps you inside—a common concern in many Canadian provinces!

Stability and Towing Safety

For many RVers, the superior towing dynamics of a fifth wheel make it worth the investment. The hitch placement over the truck’s rear axle creates a more stable towing experience compared to travel trailers, especially important on Canada’s varied terrain and sometimes windy highways.

Safety advantages include:

• Less trailer sway in crosswinds and when passing transport trucks
• Better weight distribution making handling more predictable
• Easier backing into campsites due to the trailer pivot point
• More stable braking due to better weight distribution

These stability features are especially valuable on mountainous routes in British Columbia and Alberta or when facing strong winds across the Prairie provinces.

Storage and Cargo Capacity

Fifth wheels shine when it comes to storage space. Most models feature large “basement” storage areas that span the width of the trailer, accessible from the outside.

Storage benefits include:

• Weather-protected compartments for outdoor gear
• Higher cargo capacity ratings than similarly sized travel trailers
• Better organization options with dedicated storage spaces
• Pass-through storage areas for longer items like fishing rods or skis

For Canadian camping, this extra storage helps you pack for variable weather conditions and longer stays at remote sites where supplies might be limited.

Essential Considerations Before Buying a Fifth Wheel

Tow Vehicle Requirements

The most important consideration for potential fifth wheel owners is having the right tow vehicle. You’ll need a pickup truck with sufficient towing capacity.

Truck requirements typically include:

• 3/4-ton pickup (2500 series) or larger for most mid-sized fifth wheels
• Proper payload capacity to handle the pin weight (usually 20-25% of the trailer’s weight)
• Long bed preferred (short bed trucks may require special hitches)

Transport Canada regulations require that your tow vehicle be properly rated for the fifth wheel you’re pulling. Exceeding these ratings can void insurance and create dangerous driving conditions.

Check the Canadian RV Association’s towing guidelines for detailed information on vehicle ratings.

Size and Weight Restrictions

Unlike the U.S., Canada has some unique provincial restrictions on RV size and weight that you should know before purchasing.

Canadian restrictions to consider:

• Maximum length varies by province (typically around 12.5 to 14 meters total)
• Height restrictions for certain tunnels and overpasses
• Weight restrictions on some rural roads and bridges
• Special permits sometimes needed for oversized RVs

Many provincial parks also have site length restrictions that might limit where you can stay with a larger fifth wheel. Parks Canada’s website provides size restrictions for national park campgrounds, which are worth checking before you buy.

Cost Analysis

Fifth wheels represent a major investment, with prices ranging widely based on size, features, and build quality.

Canadian cost considerations include:

• Purchase prices ranging from $40,000 to $150,000+ CAD for new models
• Higher insurance costs than travel trailers (but often lower than motorhomes)
• Specialized fifth wheel hitches costing $1,500-$3,000 CAD
• Extended warranty options varying by dealer and manufacturer

Many RV dealers offer financing with terms up to 20 years, making monthly payments more manageable. However, like most RVs, fifth wheels depreciate quickly in the first few years of ownership.

Navigating Canada with a Fifth Wheel

Provincial Park Accommodations

Canada’s provincial parks offer some of the best camping in North America, but not all are equally fifth wheel friendly.

Canadian camping considerations:

• Reservation systems vary by province (most use online booking)
• Limited full-hookup sites in many older provincial parks
• Seasonal availability with many parks closed from October to May
• Size restrictions on certain park roads and campsites

Alberta Parks and Ontario Parks have been upgrading many campgrounds to accommodate larger RVs, but it’s always wise to check site specifications before booking.

Ontario Parks and BC Parks websites allow you to filter campsite searches by RV length, making it easier to find suitable locations.

Canadian Climate Considerations

Canada’s dramatic seasonal changes pose unique challenges for fifth wheel owners.

Weather-related considerations include:

• Winter insulation packages (often called “Arctic packages”)
• Heated holding tanks for cold-weather camping
• Proper roof design to handle snow loads
• Furnace sizing appropriate for Canadian winter temperatures

Many Canadian fifth wheel owners either store their units for winter or use them specifically for winter sports at properly equipped RV parks. If you plan to camp in colder months, look for models with enhanced insulation and enclosed, heated underbellies.

Boondocking and Crown Land Camping

One major benefit of RV travel in Canada is access to Crown Land camping, often free or low-cost.

Crown Land camping tips:

• Rules vary by province but most allow 21 consecutive days
• No services available (bring everything you need)
• Access roads may be rough (assess your fifth wheel’s ground clearance)
• Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles

The Canadian Public Lands app is a great resource for finding legal Crown Land camping areas where fifth wheels can access.

Popular Canadian Fifth Wheel Brands and Models

Canadian-Made Fifth Wheels

While most fifth wheels are manufactured in the USA, several brands cater specifically to Canadian needs.

Canadian-friendly manufacturers include:

• Outdoors RV (built for four-season use in rough terrain)
• Glacier Ice House (specialized for Canadian fishing/hunting enthusiasts)
• Northern Lite (designed for extreme weather conditions)

These manufacturers understand Canadian roads, weather, and camping styles, often including better insulation and more durable exteriors.

Best Models for Canadian Conditions

When shopping for a fifth wheel for Canadian use, certain features stand out as particularly valuable:

Look for these Canadian-friendly features:

• High R-value insulation in walls, floor, and ceiling
• Dual-pane windows to prevent condensation in cold weather
• Heated and enclosed underbellies to protect plumbing
• Higher BTU furnaces for effective heating
• Solar prep or installed solar systems for boondocking

Grand Design, Keystone, and Forest River all offer models with enhanced “Arctic packages” well-suited for Canadian conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fifth Wheels

Do I need a special license to tow a fifth wheel in Canada? In most provinces, no special license is needed if the combined weight is under 11,000 kg. However, some provinces have different requirements for larger combinations.

What’s the difference between a fifth wheel and a gooseneck trailer? While both connect to the truck bed, fifth wheels use a specialized hitch designed for RVs, while gooseneck trailers use a simple ball hitch typically for hauling livestock or equipment.

How much does it cost to insure a fifth wheel in Canada? Insurance typically ranges from $800-$1,500 CAD annually depending on value, usage, and province.

Can I live full-time in a fifth wheel during Canadian winters? Yes, but you’ll need a properly insulated four-season model, skirts for the bottom perimeter, and access to reliable electricity for heating.

What size truck do I need for towing a fifth wheel? Most fifth wheels require at least a 3/4-ton (2500 series) pickup, with 1-ton (3500 series) trucks needed for larger models.

Are fifth wheels allowed in all Canadian provincial parks? Most allow fifth wheels, but size restrictions vary. Always check the park’s website for length limitations before booking.

How do fifth wheel heights affect travel through provinces like Quebec and British Columbia? Both provinces have numerous low bridges and tunnels. Standard fifth wheels (under 4.15m tall) should clear most obstacles, but taller models may face route limitations.

What Canadian tax deductions might apply to fifth wheel ownership? If you work remotely from your fifth wheel, certain expenses might qualify as home office deductions. Consult a Canadian tax professional for specific advice.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Fifth wheels offer an excellent balance of luxury, space, and towability that makes them ideal for many Canadian RVers. Their superior towing stability, spacious interiors, and ample storage make them perfect for exploring Canada’s vast landscapes, from the coastal routes of Nova Scotia to the mountain parks of Alberta.

Before you buy, make sure you have (or plan to get) a suitable tow vehicle, understand the size limitations for areas you plan to visit, and consider how you’ll use your RV throughout Canada’s changing seasons.

Ready to take the next step in your fifth wheel journey? Visit an RV Care dealer where you can tour multiple floor plans in person and connect with other owners through different online forums or groups. 

The open road awaits—and a fifth wheel might just be your perfect ticket to explore Canada’s beauty in comfort and style. Browse a wide selection of fifth wheels on RVC Navigator, the trusted source for RV’s across Canada.