Category: Motorhome

  • Road Icon: Join the Airstream Argosy Club

    In March 1972, when the first Airstream Argosy rolled out of the company’s newly opened manufacturing plant in Versailles, Ohio, it marked a pivot for the venerable brand—one not entirely welcomed by Airstream enthusiasts. Until that point, the iconic company had almost exclusively produced high-end, shiny aluminum trailers that turned heads on the highway. That shine—that distinction, that head-turning quality—was something of a status symbol.

    But while the Argosy was designed much like the standard Airstream, it didn’t have the shine. It was painted white. The sidewalls were still aluminum, but they were occasionally made from damaged panels, and the trailer’s end-caps were made from plastic and steel. By painting the trailer, the company concealed blemishes and cheaper material.

    Airstream Argosy

    Photo Credit: Airstream

    “It was a recycling method,” explains Dan Maul, the visitor experience coordinator at the Airstream Heritage Center in Jackson Center, Ohio. “We wanted to take the aerodynamic design and other cues from the Airstream and create a less-expensive travel trailer.”

    The Argosy was also a way for Airstream to experiment and reach new customers amidst the 1970s economic malaise. Depending on the model, Argosy trailers could be had for a few thousand dollars less than their pure-bred counterparts; they featured concepts like wraparound windows, narrower widths on some trailers, a rear bedroom and composite aluminum flooring.

    In certain eyes, it was a great success. Maul estimates a few thousand Argosy trailers sold during an initial eight-year run, and the ability to test new features helped Airstream launch into the motorhome space, too. But some Airstream owners refused to accept Argosy owners as their brethren. For decades, the Airstream Club International (which is independently run by enthusiasts) refused to let Argosy owners join up or attend events.

    Airstream Argosy

    Photo Credit: Airstream

    Due to the same economic conditions that spawned the Argosy in the first place, the Versailles plant was closed in the late ’70s. Airstream was acquired by THOR Industries and the Argosy line went out of production (though the name reemerged briefly as a fifth wheel concept). In 1991, club members finally relented, and Argosy trailers—steadily becoming classics—were welcomed at rallies.

    “There are still a few members out there who remember the days when the Argosy was not permitted,” lifetime club member Kevin Allen wrote in an Airstream forum. “Fortunately, this group is a small minority.”

    Today, Maul says, the Airstream Argosy is growing in popularity—not only because it’s a vintage unit, but because white panels allow owners to customize the exterior. “A lot of the hype came after the fact,” he says. “These days we celebrate all the models. It is part of our family now.”

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

    The post Road Icon: Join the Airstream Argosy Club appeared first on RV.com.

  • Video: The Thor Freedom Traveler B30 is a Well-Appointed Class A for $175k

    Who says you have to spend  a lot of money to get a quality Class A motorhome? If you’re looking for a quality coach with plenty of room and amenities, the Thor Freedom Traveler B30 delivers everything you could ask for, and then some. Best of all, this rig has a starting price of just $175,700, which makes it very affordable for a motorized RV with this many features.

    Thor Freedom Traveler B30

    Photo Credit: Thor

    The gas-powered Freedom Traveler is built on a Ford F-53 chassis and features a 7.3L V8 engine with 335 horsepower and 468 lb-ft. of torque. This gives the rig plenty of power out on the highway, allowing it to smoothly and confidently roll down the road. The B30 floor plan measures 31′ 11″ in length, making it an easy-driving Class A that won’t overwhelm first-time drivers or newbies to the RV space. And with generous holding tanks, an 88-gallon onboard propane tank, and 100W solar panel, you can set up camp just about anywhere you want.

    Inside, the Thor Freedom Traveler B30 features a spacious bedroom with a king-size mattress, a drop-down overhead bunk above the cockpit, and a comfy sofa that converts to a bed, allowing the coach to comfortably sleep six. The midship bathroom includes a skylight shower, a stainless steel sink, and a porcelain toilet. Meanwhile, the kitchen comes with a  three-burner stove, a microwave with an air fryer, a large single-basin sink, and an energy-efficient 12V double-door fridge. A pantry and wooden cabinets provide plenty of storage.

    Thor Freedom Traveler B30

    Photo Credit: Thor

    Nearby, a spacious dinette pulls triple duty, making a great gathering point for meals or socializing, but also serving as a workspace for when you absolutely have to be productive on the road. LED lighting sips power while providing plenty of illumination, while residential vinyl flooring resists wear and tear and makes clean up a breeze. The B30 model is even equipped with an outdoor kitchen and TV, all under an 18′ powered awning.

    Of course, reading off a list of specs and features isn’t quite as much fun as seeing them for yourself. The video above takes you on a comprehensive tour of the Freedom Traveler B30, showing off its features from stem to stern. You’ll get a firsthand look at the interior of the coach, which is well designed and built, especially at this price point.

    Thor Freedom Traveler B30

    Photo Credit: Thor

    If you’d like to know more after watching the video, visit freedom-motorhomes.com. There, you’ll find a full rundown of the Thor Freedom Traveler, including all four floor plans and a complete list of specs and features.

    The post Video: The Thor Freedom Traveler B30 is a Well-Appointed Class A for $175k appeared first on RV.com.

  • The Entegra Coach Qwest is Proof That Good Things Come in Small Packages

    For anyone who thinks that settling for a small Class C motorhome invariably means having to make compromises, we happily present the Entegra Coach Qwest. At 25′ 2″ in length, this easy-driving coach feels safe and maneuverable, even for those who have never driven an RV before. But what truly sets this model apart is its luxurious interior, which has all of the amenities you could ask for—and then some.

    The video above comes our way directly from Entegra Coach itself. The clip takes us on a tour of the Class C Qwest, which rides on a Mercedes Sprinter 3500 chassis and is pushed down the road by a V4 twin-turbo diesel engine that produces 211 horsepower. The vehicle’s cockpit includes a host of amenities, like heated captain’s chairs, a 10.25″ touchscreen running Mercedes MBUX infotainment system, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The rig also comes with a suite of safety features, including active brake assist, lane-keep assist, active distance assist, and LED lighting.

    Entegra Coach Qwest Class C

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    Of course, all of those driver-focused features are just for getting the Qwest safely down the road. It’s what else the RV brings to the table that helps it truly stand out. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a surprisingly open and spacious floor plan built using the high-quality materials and components that Entegra is known for. A large and comfortable U-shaped dinette makes a great gathering place at mealtime, when you want to play a game, watch TV, or get a little work done. The driver and passenger seats also pivot, providing comfortable and versatile seating.

    Further back, you’ll find a well-appointed kitchenette equipped with a two-burner cooktop, a convection microwave, stainless steel sink, and a large refrigerator/freezer. A wooden slide-out pantry adds a touch of class, while bring much-needed storage, with a matching wardrobe located nearby doing the same. High-gloss cabinets and countertops enhance the sense of luxury, while maintaining functionality and durability.

    Entegra Coach Qwest Class C

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    Depending on the floor plan, the bathroom will either be located at the back or along the camp-side wall of the vehicle. It features a porcelain toilet, a stainless steel sink, and a shower with an overhead skylight. The primary sleeping area has a queen-size bed, under-bed storage, and a TV. A second sleep space is located in the cabover section, allowing the Qwest to comfortably sleep four adults.

    Other notable features include a 30,000 BTU furnace and a 15,000 BTU, allowing the coach to remain comfortable through extended season camping. The Qwest uses the Firefly RV control system to operate the HVAC, LED lighting, armless awning, and other features, all of which can be accessed remotely via a smartphone app. The rig comes standard with a Winegard Connect 2.0/4G antenna, too, providing wireless internet access at the campground. Automatic leveling jacks, a 200W solar panel, an outdoor shower, a 1,000W inverter, and two 12V house batteries are also standard.

    Entegra Coach Qwest Class C

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    For a better look at all of these features, and more, press play on the video above. It not only provides a great sense of what the interior looks like, it shows the spaciousness and comfort that this RV offers. You’ll also get a look at the quality construction and materials that were used to build the Entegra Coach Qwest Class C model.

    To learn more about this great-looking RV, visit the Entegra website.

    The post The Entegra Coach Qwest is Proof That Good Things Come in Small Packages appeared first on RV.com.

  • Road Icon: The Famous RV Used by NASA

    A brief cameo in Fly Me to the Moon, the 2024 Channing Tatum/Scarlett Johansson rom-com, serves as a reminder that good looks never go out of style. The aging star in question is a 1967 Clark Cortez motorhome, used in the film (as it was in real life!) by NASA to shuttle Apollo astronauts to the launch pad for the first lunar landing mission.

    The boxy Cortez body, originally a compact 18.5 feet long with a still-spacious interior, was constructed entirely out of welded steel, making it tough as a tank. Debuted in 1963, the Cortez was also one of the first—if not the first—front-wheel-drive RVs to be manufactured in the United States. Early models were powered by a reliable (though not especially powerful) Chrysler slant-six engine. Mounting that motor up front gave the Cortez good handling and a low step-in, making it attractive to first-wave vanlifers. The Cortez was purpose-built by an unlikely outfit: the Clark Material Handling Company, a manufacturer of forklifts and trucks.

    “The Cortez engineers were actually very brilliant,” says Mike Blumentsein, the Seattle-based moderator for the Cascade Cortez Club on Facebook. Though a family illness prompted Blumenstein to trade in his RV dreams for a 1966 VW Fastback, he has owned three Cortezes, including a ’69. One of his rigs was built by the brand’s second manufacturer, Kent Industries, which bought Clark’s Cortez division in 1970.

    Clark Cortez motorhome

    Photo Credit: NASA

    Calling the Cortez “the Sprinter of its day,” Blumenstein notes a key selling point was the customizable interior. “There were no dealers, just a showroom,” says Blumenstein. “And they would build it to your specifications.” Most Cortezes have room to sleep four, but some ended up as mobile offices. More peculiar was an innovation that came with the 1972 model, which pushed the contents of the black tank through the catalytic converter to incinerate the waste.

    By the end of the 1970s, though, the last of approximately 3,200 Cortezes ever made rolled off the production line. That heavy steel, it seemed, was no match for the gas crisis—plus, Winnebago and other competitors had turned to aluminum to create a new generation of motorcoaches.

    Even so, despite concerns over rusting roofs and the bugaboo of upgrading drum brakes, fans of vintage vehicles cannot get enough of the Cortez. Among them are Laura Meredith and Andy Greaves—she goes by “L” pronounced “elle”—a husband-and-wife team in the midst of restoring a 1965 Cortez. The Virginia-based duo have documented their efforts and offer tips on their Soul of Seeker blog. “Everybody gets caught up in the visual part,” says Greaves. “They just want to talk to us about it because it’s such a unique-looking vehicle.”

    For those who skipped Fly Me to the Moon but still want a Hollywood ending, there is good news: NASA’s retired Clark Cortez is on display at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • California Ease Back on Some Planned Environmental Regulations

    It seems California may be backing away from moving ahead with some of its recent regulations designed to curb vehicle emissions. According to the Associated Press, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) withdrew a request to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last week that would have given it more latitude when it comes to cracking down on diesel-powered trains and semi-trucks. The move comes just as the Trump administration is set to take office, which will likely lead to a dramatic shift in national policy when it comes to protecting the environment and natural resources.

    The regulations that CARB withdrew from EPA consideration were passed in 2023 with the expressed goal of banning the sale of new diesel locomotives and semi-trucks by 2036. With those rules, the state hoped to incentivize a move towards zero-emissions vehicles—or ZEVs—with electric trains and trucks replacing diesel models. A second set of regulations that looked to phase out all locomotive engines over 23 years old by 2030 was also withdrawn.

    buying fifth wheel rv

    Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze/Getty

    Because these regulations went beyond those set forth by the EPA itself, a waiver was required from that agency was required for California to proceed with its plans. Had President Biden won a second term, it is likely these new guidelines would have received the necessary approval. However, based on his first term in office, President Trump isn’t as likely to throw his support behind these environmental efforts, hence the reason the regulations were withdrawn from consideration.

    To be clear, the regulations that CARB withdrew from EPA review have nothing to do with the Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) which we covered extensively in a recent article. Those regulations were approved by the EPA in December and place restrictions on the use of diesel-powered truck chassis, which has a direct impact on RV manufacturers and RV dealers. Those rules officially went into effect on January 1 and remain in place as of this writing.

    Diesel Modules

    Photo Credit: Diesel Modules

    That said, CARB’s willingness to be flexible in its approach to its regulations could be a good sign for the future. The board has repeatedly indicated that it wanted to work with RV manufacturers and other commercial entities to find a smart way forward that makes sense for everyone. At the end of the day, California is looking to protect the environment and promote ongoing business ventures at the same time. As noted in our previous article on this topic, it isn’t banning the sale of new RVs outright. Instead, it is trying to create a smarter, more sustainable way forward for everyone involved. Navigating that way forward remains a major challenge, however.

    We’ll continue to keep a close eye on this topic and provide updates as they come our way.

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  • RV News: All the Big Announcements from the Florida RV SuperShow

    With the Florida RV SuperShow underway in Tampa this week, there has been a steady stream of news over the past few days. Let’s dive in and get started, as there is a lot to cover. Here are a few things you might want to know:

    • Airstream Adds New 28RB Floorplan to Classic Travel Trailer Line-Up: Airstream added a new model to its Classic line of travel trailers with the introduction of the new 28RB floorplan. This model is 28′ in length, but packs a lot of features into that space. Designed for longer excursions or even full-time living, this model comes with a rear bedroom with either a queen-size mattress or optional dual twin beds, plush leather seating, and a large kitchen equipped with a three-burner stove, convection microwave, and plenty of cabinet space. The model also includes a premium sound system courtesy of Klipsch and a 300W solar package linked to 200Ah heated house batteries.

    • Grand Design Officially Unveils Lineage Series F Super C: We’ve been hearing rumblings about it for months, and we knew it was coming to the Florida SuperShow this week, but the Grand Design Linage Series F is finally here. The RV manufacturer’s second motorized offering is a Super C, with all the trimmings. The rig stretches 33′ 9″ in length and has a GVWR of 22,000 lbs. It also sleeps six, has an expansive interior, and is filled with plenty of upscale amenities. Those include a king-size bed in the main (slideout) bedroom, a large wardrobe, a spacious bathroom, and power theater seating in the living area. For a more detailed look at this exciting new RV, check out the video above.
    Newmar Grand Star

    Photo Credit: Newmar

    • Newmar Reveals Grand Star Super C: Grand Design wasn’t the only manufacturer showing off a new Super C in Tampa this week. Newmar also brought its much-anticipated Grand Star to the show, giving the public its first official look at the RV. The new model showcases the company’s trademark luxurious interiors, excellent build quality, and attention to detail. The rig is available in three unique floorplans, with a layouts to suit a variety of needs. Explore the Grand Star further here.
    • Thor Shows Off Two New Super C Floorplans: Not to be outdone by its competitors, Thor Motor Coach also revealed two new Super C models this week. The brand revealed the new Magnitude GRAND RS36, along with the Omni Trail X32 models. Built on the Ford F600 and F550 chassis, respectively, these two RVs expand the existing Magnitude and Omni Trail line-ups, adding new options for potential buyers. Both offer extensive feature lists, open and airy interiors, and great opportunities for camping adventures.
    Thor Class B camper vans

    Photo Credit: Thor

    • Thor Introduces New Class B Models, Too:  Thor also has new options for buyers looking for something smaller than a Super C. The company also introduced two new options to its Tellaro and Tranquility line of camper vans. The Tellaro 20H is built on the Ram ProMaster platform and includes a versatile interior with swiveling captain’s chairs, a sleeper sofe, and a pull-out bench. Meanwhile, the Tranquility 24A rides on a Mercedes Sprinter AWD chassis and is equipped with twin sofa beds that combine into a king-size mattress, along with a kitchen that has a portable cooktop, a microwave, and a fridge.
    • Winnebago Brings New Models to Tampa: Winnebago brought an array of new RVs to the Florida SuperShow, including the View/Navion 24R, the latest vehicle to include the intelligent Winnebago Connect system. The RV manufacturer also revealed a new floor plan for its Class B Revel Sport and a National Park Foundation version of the Minnie Winnie. Attendees also got their first look at the new 18DBH and 18RK Access trailers and the 1923RB, which is the latest addition to the M-Series line of travel trailers.
    Storyteller Overland CREW MODE

    Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland

    • Storyteller Overland Adds Larger CREW Mode to Camper Van Line-Up: Storyteller Overland kicks off the new year with an exciting new addition to its camper van offerings. This week, the brand announced the all-new CREW MODE Class B model built on the larger 170″ Mercedes Sprinter platform. This model includes room for five passengers, comes with two beds, a large bathroom, and 122″ of continuous galley and lounge space. The rig also features 345W roof-mounted solar panels and a 16.8kWh Lithionics battery system, along with a 37-gallon freshwater tank.  And while we’re on the topic of Storyteller, the company also revealed a stealthy DARK MODE option for existing MODE vans, giving them unique color schemes to further standout on the road.
    Outside Van Overnight

    Photo Credit: Outside Van

    • Outside Van Invites You to Stay “Overnight” In Its latest Class B Model: Portland-based Outside Van showed up to Tampa with a beautiful new camper van in tow. The company used the event to debut its latest offering, dubbed the Overnight. This Class B model rides on a Sprinter chassis, is built for off-road exploration, and seats and sleeps four. It also comes with a 10″ touchscreen for controlling climate, lights, power, water, and other systems, and includes a hydronic diesel heater, 190W solar system connected to a 310Ah lithium house battery. The galley kitchen has a portable induction cooktop, fold-away faucet, stainless steel sink, and a refrigerator.
    Forest River Sabre fifth-wheel

    Photo Credit: Forest River

    • Forest River Collabs with ‘RVMiles’ for New Sabre Fifth-Wheel Floorplan: At the Tampa show, Forest River announced an interesting new collaboration with popular YouTube/social media/podcast brand RV Miles. The RV manufacturer and the Epperson family who run RV miles joined force to create the Sabre 37RVMILES fifth-wheel trailer, which is a direct result of the RVers looking for a new rig. The floorplan offers a spacious front bedroom with a king-size bed, a large kitchen and bathroom, and not one, but two living rooms. In other words, enough space for a family of five to live comfortably. Check out the floorplan above and click here to learn more.
    inTech Aucta Sycamore

    Photo Credit: inTech

    • inTech’s New Acuta Sycamore Travel Trailer is its First Bunkhouse Model: Travel trailer manufacturer inTech made a splash with the reveal of its new Acuta Sycamore model. This new towable is the first from the brand to include bunks, which conveniently convert into a workspace when not in use. But that isn’t the only intriguing element this RV brings to the table. It also has a primary bedroom in the front that includes a residential queen-size mattress and a sweeping panoramic window. A versatile living space features a dinette that converts into a secondary bed, a slide-out TV for movie nights at the campground, and easy accessibility to the nearby kitchen. The Acuta Sycamore even comes with a spacious onboard bathroom and a lofted sleeping space. Starting price is $80,150.
    best class a motorhomes

    Photo Credit: Winnebago

    • Winnebago Releases 2024 Responsibility Report: In what has become an annual tradition, Winnebago has shared its 2024 Responsibility Report, offering transparency in its efforts towards environmental, social, and governance goals. The report highlights some of the achievements the brand scored last year, including a 10% decrease greenhouse gas emissions, improvements in safety and health standards for workers, the introduction of an app that tracks employee volunteer efforts, the release of Winnebago Connect, and much more. To read the report in its entirety, click here.
    • TireMinder App Now Supports Android Auto: A few months back, TireMinder added Apple CarPlay compatibility to its aftermarket TPMS, giving users the ability to access their tire pressure data straight from their vehicle’s infotainment system. Now, the company has added support for Android Auto, too, bringing the same functionality to Android phone users. When Android Auto is in use, the TireMinder app will now appear as an option on your vehicle’s touchscreen, providing real-time monitoring of tire pressure for tow vehicles and RVs. It also gives voice alerts should any issues arise, like a sudden loss of pressure or spike in tire temperature. The new feature is free and comes via an update to the TireMinder app.

     

    That’s a wrap. See you next Friday for another round-up of the latest news from the RV industry.

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  • Video: Is the Thor Freedom Elite 19HE the Most Affordable Class C Ever?

    If you thought a Class C RV needed to be big, expensive, and ponderous to drive, think again. The Thor Freedom Elite 19HE is here to dispel those myths, delivering a feature-packed and surprisingly roomy interior in a vehicle that is just 20′ 5″ in length. Better still, it is affordably priced at $110,334. Yep, you read that right, a well-equipped, easy-to-drive motorhome that won’t break the bank.

    Thor Freedom Elite

    Photo Credit: Camping World

    So what exactly do you get for that price? For starters, the RV rides on a Ford E-Series chassis, ensuring comfort, stability, and reliability on the road. Inside, you’ll find an open living space with an 80″ ceiling, residential vinyl flooring, and LED lighting throughout. A large, U-shaped dinette, which converts to a bed, is located in the rear, while a queen-size mattress occupies the cabover space. A wet bath, a built-in wardrobe, and a spacious kitchen, complete with a two-burner stove, convection microwave, a 12V refrigerator/freezer, and an unexpected amount of counter space, round out the list of features.

    Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Freedom Elite 19HE is that it is about the size of a Class B van, but offers so much more open space. The vehicle has a nice amount of storage inside and out, and the fact that most people can stand up inside is a big plus. The rig comes with a 19,000 BTU furnace and roof-mounted A/C unit, both of which should provide excellent climate control for an RV of this size. A tankless water heater provides on-demand hot water to a shower that is larger than you’ll find in most camper vans.

    Thor Freedom Elite

    Photo Credit: Thor

    All of that sounds great on paper, but seeing is truly believing. Check out the video above for a complete walk-through of this Class C model. What you’ll see is an RV that delivers a ton of value in a package that won’t be intimidating to drive, but is still roomy and comfortable.

    To find out more, visit Thor’s website.

     

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  • The Ride: For Winnebago, The Future is Now

    You’ve heard of the smart home. Say hello to the smart RV.The Winnebago View already boasted impressive features—abundant solar capability and massive holding tanks, for instance. But with the 2024 launch of the 24T floorplan, the industry giant also rolled out Winnebago Connect: smart-tech control for nearly every onboard feature, including climate, power systems, slideouts and more. The system even features a “Pet Minder” function, for supervising four-legged companions.
    Winnebago View review

    Photo Credit: Kraig Becker

    “We know our pets are family,” says Chris Kuelbs, a senior manager for the brand’s digital product division. “This alerts you via our mobile app if you’re away and the temperature in the coach approaches or exceeds a set range.”So-called multiplexing set-ups to control RV systems aren’t new. But because Winnebago built Connect entirely in-house, it offers arguable advantages over the third-party technology common in other rigs. Winnebago’s customer service team can troubleshoot remotely, fixing bugs while owners recline at camp. Accessed on the vehicle’s 10-inch touchscreen or remotely via smartphone, Connect uses a built-in modem to enable over-the-air software updates. Owners can add full internet service for an additional fee.
    Winnebago View review

    Photo Credit: Kraig Becker

    Other new features worth noting on the 24T include power-reclining theater seating, a Murphy bed that packs away when not in use and a spacious rear garage large enough for two full-size e-bikes, featuring multiple 120V AC outlets for recharging while in transit. And, thanks to its Mercedes Sprinter chassis, the View includes lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blindspot warnings and a digital rearview mirror.While the 2025 View 24T is Winnebago’s first vehicle to feature the Connect system, the company has bigger plans.“Stay tuned,” Kuelbs says. “Our intent is to release this to the entire Winnebago model lineup, including our towables.”
    Winnebago View review

    Photo Credit: Winnebago

    Dimensions

    GVWR: 11,030 lbs.Overall Length: 25′ 8″Exterior Height: 10′ 7″
    Winnebago View review

    Illustration by Dee Duncan

    1. The View comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is an optional upgrade.
    2. A 5,000-pound trailer hitch makes it easy to tow a cargo trailer or boat.
    3. 240 watts of solar come standard from the factory.
    4. The large gear garage is heated, and features LED lighting and L-track cargo tie downs.
    5. The powered awning includes LED lights and can be deployed using Winnebago Connect or a smartphone.
    6. A 15,000 BTU air conditioner and 25,000 BTU furnace keep the View comfortable in a variety of weather conditions.
    7. The View comes with an amplified digital TV antenna and is satellite ready.
    8. The View’s built-in LP tank has a 50.76 lbs. capacity.
    9. Automatic hydraulic leveling jacks stabilize the vehicle at the campsite.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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  • Best in Class: Our Favorite RVs for 2025

    The world of RVs can be sprawling, especially when you consider the field’s full spectrum, somehow embracing both landship Class As and nimble, tiny, camp-ready trailers. Looking forward into 2025, we tried to take it all in. We roamed big shows and scoured remote corners of the internet, searching and sifting to pick some all-stars from the crop of new vehicles hitting the road. We found a dynamic world of high design and sometimes whimsical ambition—an industry that’s exploring every cultural niche and lifestyle pursuit it can think of. We noticed a growing cohort of “destination” trailers, speaking to folks who see their rig as something more than a means from Point A to B. We saw many clever remixes of nostalgic looks and high-tech amenities. Some of the most interesting vehicles take age-old RV categories and blur their boundaries. Read on—you’ll see the rides that caught our eye. And maybe yours?
    Bowlus Rivet

    Photo Credit: Bowlus

    The Best High-Tech Tin Can

    Bowlus Rivet

    MSRP: $150,000GVWR: 3,500 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 4Length: 25’ 3”
    Lightweight and built to last, the Bowlus Rivet impresses with its retro styling and high-tech features. The travel trailer’s self-powered electric drive system makes it easy to tow behind just about any vehicle, including an EV. At the campsite, the Rivet’s 8kWh battery pack and 660-watt solar array allow owners to camp off-grid for up to two weeks at a time. It’s no less impressive inside, with yacht-inspired styling and amenities, including a gorgeous galley kitchen.
    Winnebago Access

    Photo Credit: Winnebago

    The Best Starter Kit RV

    The Winnebago Access delivers excellent build quality, plenty of amenities and great customer service in an affordable package, ideal for families and couples. MSRP: $23,000
    Forest River Rogue Armored

    Photo Credit: Forest River

    The Best for Campground Movie Night

    The Forest River Rogue Armored 26L140’s primary bedroom comes with a built-in 4K video projector and a window blind that converts to a screen. Popcorn seasoning is up to you. MSRP: $70,000
    best rvs for full-timing

    Photo Credit: Brinkley RV

    The Best Mobile Office Space

    The Brinkley Model Z 3515’s rear office includes an adjustable-height desk for road warriors looking to clock in from the great outdoors. MSRP: $120,916
    Keystone Cougar

    Photo Credit: Keystone

    Note From the Field: “My favorite couple’s travel trailer is the Keystone Cougar 22MLS. It’s only 27 feet, meaning many half-ton trucks can tow it. You don’t need a monster truck. It also has a redesigned basement for storage, more headroom and a bigger sleeping space.” —Josh Winters  (@JOSHTHERVNERD)

    Best Game-Changing Camper

    Lance 1172 Truck Camper

    MSRP: $84,266Dry Weight: 4,063 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 5-6Length: 20’ 4”
    This one redefines what we thought possible with a truck camper. Two slide-outs create a surprisingly spacious interior and modern amenities stack up: a large dinette, a dry bath, a well-appointed interior kitchen, a plush couch. With room for up to six adults, the 1172 makes the perfect basecamp for anglers, hunters, hikers and other outdoorsy wanderers. A residential queen-size bed will be a welcome luxury after a long day on the trail.
    best class a motorhomes

    Photo Credit: Coachmen

    The Best for Continental Flair

    Compact and nimble, the Coachmen Euro 25EU offers the space and comfort of a Class A motorcoach while driving like a camper van. The RV’s European styling helps it stand out on the road and at the campsite, too. MSRP: $218,878
    best class a motorhomes

    Photo Credit: Newmar

    The Best for Retired Major Leaguers

    The Newmar King Aire is the kingpin among luxury RVs, with high-end features like Italian leather furniture, quartz countertops and heated tile floors. All floorplans include a primary bedroom suite with a massive bathroom, a second half-bath and a kitchen with upscale residential appliances. MSRP: $1,637,440
    SylvanSport GOAT

    Photo Credit: SylvanSport

    The Best Off-Road Explorer

    The SylvanSport GOAT gets high marks for its versatility and rugged design. Built for off-road travel, this pop-up camper quickly transforms into a toy hauler or utility trailer, extending its use well beyond the campground. MSRP: $19,495
    Westfalia Pop-Top camper van

    Photo Credit: Westfalia

    Best for Nostalgia Surfers

    Westfalia Wave Pop-Top

    MSRP: $179,849GVWR: 9,350 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 6Length: 20’ 9”
    The storied Westfalia brand returns to North America in groovy form with the Wave Class B camper van. Available in two models—the Wave Skylight and Wave Pop-Top—this neo-throwback delivers a lot of features in a form factor that is somehow both modern and retro at the same time. The Pop-Top model comfortably sleeps six, practically unheard of in a vehicle of this size. That’s enough space for your whole crew to roll on down the road.
    Airstream Interstate 19X Outland Edition

    Photo Credit: Airstream

    The Best Very Limited Edition

    The Airstream Interstate 19X LE Outland Edition’s premium Sony sound system and colorful LED lights turn any campsite into a dance party. But with only 30 units produced, most of us will be lucky even to see one. Still, pretty cool stuff. Consider the standard Interstate 19X as a more accessible alternative. MSRP: $344,000
    Outside Van Parks

    Photo Credit: Outside Van

    The Best for #VANLIFE

    Built with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the Outside Van Parks is made for exploration. This Class B model rides on an AWD Sprinter chassis, comfortably sleeps two and has the best dry bath we’ve seen in a camp van. MSRP: $236,000
    Keystone Montana High Country

    Photo Credit: Keystone

    The Best for Free-Range Families

    With two bathrooms, a spacious primary bedroom and a second bedroom with bunk beds, the Keystone Montana High Country 397FB is the perfect family fifth-wheel. It even comes with built-in desks for schooling on the road. MSRP: TBD at press time
    Alliance RV Benchmark

    Photo Credit: Alliance RV

    Note From the Field:  “If I’m picking a towable, I’d have to say the Alliance RV Benchmark 44LFT. You have big windows and tall ceilings. It feels like a tiny house rather than a large RV. They knocked it out of the park with this destination trailer.” —Matt Foxcroft (@MATTSRVREVIEWS)
    Gulf Stream Vintage Cruiser

    Photo Credit: Gulf Stream

    Best for Retro Cute

    Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser

    MSRP: $38,684GVWR: 4,384-5,060 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 4-6Length: 23’ 1”- 26′ 1″
    Stepping inside a Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser is a bit like traveling back in time. These lightweight towables embrace the wood-grain paneling and color schemes of a bygone era to crank the nostalgia vibes. Modern appliances—like a 12V fridge and a microwave—do little to break the illusion that you’re somehow camping in the 1950s. Charming and fun.
    best destination campers

    Photo Credit: Crossroads RV

    The Best for Camp Cocktails

    Destination trailers have grown in popularity recently, but the Crossroads Hampton HP374BAR still manages to stand out amid the trend. Its dedicated wet bar just might make it the ultimate party RV. We’ll have ours shaken, not stirred, thank you. MSRP: $100,588
    Leisure Travel Vans 60th Anniversary Edition

    Photo Credit: Leisure Travel Vans

    Best for Small Scale Living

    Looking for an RV that drives like a camper van but offers plenty of luxury? The Leisure Travel Vans Unity has you covered. We especially like the Corner Bed model, which includes a spacious sleeping area, a comfy lounge space and a gorgeous galley kitchen. MSRP: $195,470

    The Best for Spoiling Yourself

    Luxury Super Cs don’t come any plusher than the Renegade RV XL X45BDM. This model features porcelain tiled floors, maple hardwood cabinets and 1.5 baths. An outdoor entertainment center can combine big-game watching with fresh-air lounging. MSRP: $762,559
    Jayco Pinnacle

    Photo Credit: Jayco

    Best Escape Pod

    Jayco Pinnacle 38SSWS

    MSRP: $120,243GVWR: 17,650 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 4Length: 40′
    What’s not to love about this action-packed travel trailer? Built for couples—plus occasional overnight guests—this roomy towable feels like home in all the right ways. You’ve got your theater seating, multiple smart TVs, a modern island kitchen—and not one fireplace, but two. We especially love the massive primary bedroom suite, complete with king-size bed, a bathroom with a walk-in shower and its own couch. Washer/dryer prep, ample storage, and large holding tanks make this model ready for full-time living.
    Living Vehicle HD30

    Photo Credit: Living Vehicle

    The Best for Off-Grid Glamping

    With its 100-gallon freshwater tank, 600W solar panel and 4,800Wh lithium house battery, the Living Vehicle HD30 is an invitation to get far, far gone. The travel trailer’s foldout side patio, spa-like bathroom and luxurious bedroom don’t hurt either. MSRP: $399,995
    Mammoth Overland ELE

    Photo Credit: Mammoth Overland

    The Best for “True” Extremes

    Outstanding build quality, off-road tires and a beefy suspension give the Mammoth Overland ELE (Extinction Level Event) legitimate off-road cred. But let’s be real: The standout attributes are the sealed interior cabin, air purification system and on-board bear spray defense system. What’s out there, anyway? MSRP: $67,000
    Ember RV Overland

    Photo Credit: Ember RV

    The Best for a Freestyle Lifestyle

    There is a lot to love with the Ember Overland Edition 221MSL, which comes equipped with 1,200W of solar, off-road tires and a burly suspension. Of note: the versatile EmberTrack space, which can be used for bunks, gear storage or an office. MSRP: $66,023
    best toy hauler RVs

    Photo Credit: Thor

    The Best for Serious Rough-Housing

    THOR Outlaw

    MSRP: $295,350GVWR: 26,000 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 6Length: 39′ 10″
    The THOR Outlaw stands out as one of the few Class A toy haulers on the market. The design combines these two distinct styles by adding a 10’ 2” garage to the rear of a luxurious motorcoach. The result is a distinctive blend of comfort and functionality, with room to haul a UTV or a golf cart. As you would expect, the rear cargo ramp converts into a patio, extending the living space to the outdoors.
    KZ SportsterX

    Photo Credit: KZ RV

    The Best Trail Buddy

    Available in both travel trailer and fifth-wheel models, the KZ Sportster X is a toy hauler ready to pack out everything from kayaks and e-bikes to large UTVs. Copious amounts of storage, elevated interior design, LED accent lighting and integrated JBL Bluetooth sound system help accentuate the fun. MSRP: TBD at press time
    Tiffin Phaeton

    Photo Credit: Tiffin

    The Best Classy Class A

    A king-size bed, 1.5 baths, a gigantic closet and a drop-down front bunk all elevate the Tiffin Phaeton 44 OH. Optional upgrades can run to a washer/dryer combo, a dishwasher and an outdoor gas grill. MSRP: $550,559
    Forest River Sabre

    Photo Credit: Forest River

    Note From the Field:  “We don’t often get a truly new thing, but electric fold-down decks are trending. The Forest River Sabre 33RLP is by far one of my favorites. The deck is only four feet wide, so it doesn’t take up all your campsite space, and it’s like a big window when it’s closed.” —Jason Epperson (@RVMILES)
    Storyteller Overland HILT

    Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland

    The Best Backcountry Beast

    Storyteller Overland GXV HILT

    MSRP: $446,322GVWR: 19,500 LBS.Sleeping Capacity: 4Length: 27′
    This animal’s heavy-duty off-road chassis allows it to roam just about anywhere. But it’s the 16.8kWh house batteries and 120-gallon freshwater tank that allow you to stay out in the hinterlands about as long as you want. Inside, this burly number is surprisingly refined and luxurious. We love the HILT’s massive U-shaped dinette with seating for five and its comfortable queen-size cab-over bed. An upscale wet bath and galley kitchen add a touch of class and convenience.
    Grand Design Lineage

    Photo Credit: Grand Design

    You Need It? They Have It:

    A Super-High-quality Class C: Grand Design Lineage Series M Trailer powerhouse Grand Design’s first motorized foray doesn’t disappoint.
    Pleasure Way Plateau XLTS

    Photo Credit: Pleasure Way

    A Go-Anywhere In-Style Class B: Pleasure-Way Plateau XLTS Camp off -grid with 500W solar panel and 600Ah lithium batteries.
    Northwood AFox Edge

    Photo Credit: Northwood

    A Foolproof Year-Round Camping Solution: Northwood AFox Edge A well-equipped travel trailer built to take on the elements.
    Entegra Coach Cornerstone

    Photo Credit: Entegra Coach

    A Class A with a Buttery-Smooth Ride: Entegra Coach Cornerstone Comfortable and refined, both inside and out.
    [caption id="attachment_68194" align="alignnone" width="1200"]luxury RVs photo credit[/caption]

    Photo Credit: DRV Luxury Suites

    A Fifth-Wheel Nicer Than Most Airbnbs: DRV Mobile Suites The gold standard for luxury fifth-wheel trailers.

    This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.

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