What are Travel Trailers or Caravan RVs?

Home » What are Travel Trailers or Caravan RVs?

Recreational vehicles (RVs) come in a number of styles. Each style has its own terminology, anatomy, and pros and cons list. Choosing which RV is right for you is a big task for first-time buyers, so we’re breaking down everything that has to do with travel trailers, also known as Caravan RVs, also known as Camper Trailers (See? Complicated).

What is a travel trailer?

Travel trailers are towable recreational vehicles that are typically hauled behind a truck, SUV, or other half-ton towable vehicle.

Are travel trailers considered RVs? 

Yes. Travel trailers are one of many popular RV designs.

yellow retro 166 2021

What’s most important to consider when shopping for a Caravan RV?

Here are top considerations to keep in mind when shopping for your travel trailer. 

Weight 

Because travel trailers are towed recreational vehicles, weight is extremely important to consider during the buying process. Your camper trailer needs to be light enough for you to tow safely on the highway. Some roads also have weight limits you may need to consider if you choose a larger RV. Most importantly, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is compatible with the RV you choose. If your RV is too heavy for your vehicle to tow, you could still rent a more robust truck or SUV, but most people prefer to tow their RV with their own vehicle.

Retro 509 by Riverside RV

Floorplan

No two RVs are exactly the same. Even travel trailers with the same dimensions can have wildly different floor plans. Some RVs are designed to sleep more people. Others feature fewer beds, but more lounging space, storage, or a bigger kitchen or bathroom. 

We recommend making a list of features that are most important to you during your travel experience. Would you rather have a bathtub? Or more kitchen counter space? Would you like a dining area? Or a couch? Some models get creative to offer you it all, but if you’re buying on a budget, a priority list will make the shopping process much smoother.

Design

Most RVers love getting a unit that matches their personality. Interior and exterior design contribute to that custom, personalized feeling that connects you to your vacation home. Be sure to look at the design options that are available so you know what you can get before you settle on what you see in one photo. 

Even our vintage travel trailer Retro line comes with a modern interior option, so it’s always a good idea to explore before you buy! 

 

Ask For More Info 

If you’re not sure what’s available, ask your dealer or the manufacturer for their most recent brochures. These will often include floorplan, weight, and design details that ease the buying process.

2021 retro 190 bh birch interior dinette red

Are Travel Trailers more complicated than other kinds of RVs? 

That’s all a matter of opinion. Some people don’t like the idea of tow-behind vehicles, but others get nervous behind the wheel of a motorhome. First time travel trailer owners will need to learn some RVing basics, but after you get to know your new RV and practice driving with your trailer, you’ll be ready for any travel experience.

Ready to Shop for Travel Trailers? Explore Riverside Retro and Intrepid Brands. 

Travel trailers are our specialty, and our two brands and multiple interior and exterior options give campers of all kinds lots to choose from. Love vintage RV shapes with modern amenities? Go Retro. Looking for the lux life in a modern travel trailer? Shop the new, blue Intrepids, Find a Riverside RV dealer near you to start your travel trailer journey today. 

What are Some Tips for First Time Travel Trailer Owners?

If you’re a first-time travel trailer owner, congrats! You’re about to enjoy camping in a whole new way. Starting your RV life can seem overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll love the luxurious, adventurous experience.

Get to Know Your Travel Trailer.

Our owner’s manuals and videos can help you get started. You’ll want to make sure you know how to hook up your travel trailer at an RV park, how sewage works, how to connect your travel trailer to your towing vehicle, and some other basics before you get started.

Practice Driving Before Your Vacation.

The extra weight, mass, and length of your trailer means starting, stopping, and changing lanes will be different than you’re used to. Allow extra time to stop your vehicle (double than what you’re used to) and make sure to account for the length of your vehicle and your trailer when you turn, change lanes, and park.

Look Up RV Parks & Reserve Your Spot!

Peak camping season means popular RV parks might not have room for you without a reservation. Look up parks and campgrounds for length limits, amenities, hookup details, and reservations. There are plenty of websites that can help you find fun campsites that will accommodate your travel trailer such as Kampgrounds of America, RoverPass, and more.

Find a Riverside RV


Between the Retro and Intrepid brands, Riverside RV offers a broad selection of floorplans and styles for every kind of camper. With dealers located across the U.S. and Canada, finding a Riverside RV near you is just a click away.!

Contact Riverside RV