What is the definition of “reliable”? Is it how long the travel trailer lasts, the amount of maintenance it requires, or the construction? We’ve taken all aspects into account and assessed some of the most popular travel trailer brands to answer this question. It can be hard to pick, and we understand the need to hit the target in one go as trailers aren’t the cheapest.
With our help, you will be able to find a dependable trailer that ticks all your boxes. When we’re asked about the most reliable travel trailer brands, a few names pop into our minds. We’re not just picking the ones with the most durable outer shell or longest lifespan, because we’re evaluating every aspect. Here are some trusted brands that made the list.
Top 5 most reliable brands of travel trailers:
1. Airstream
We’re not surprised that Airstream takes the top spot. The brand is known for its legendary “silver bullet” trailers that have been around since the 1930s.
Sure, the traditional silver bullet designs may have seen a modern makeover, but you may still be able to spot some vintage units on the road.
airstream.com
Having a vintage Airstream on the road is more than just a flex (think driving a vintage Cadillac), there is a reason why they are still up and about.
The biggest reason is that Airstream units are so durable and tough, and most importantly, they are made to last! You can see the proof on the streets.
One more reason we love Airstream is that they are eco-friendly and try to be sustainable. The insulation in their travel trailers comes from recycled glass.
Yes, Airstream is expensive, but the environmentally conscious choices the brand makes plus the impeccable construction justify the price.
2. Grand Design RV
Grand Design RV is pretty new in the industry having been established in 2012, but that does not stop it from being one of the most trusted brands. The brand’s expertise extends to fifth wheels and toy haulers as well.
How do we know that Grand Design RV is one of the best? Well, they have the awards to prove it! Under their belt are multiple Quality Circle awards and each of their products undergoes a rigorous inspection.
granddesignrv.com
Another thing that’s great about the brand is its customer-centric value. What they do is 100% for the customer. They take thoughts and feedback very seriously and implement them into their next designs.
They have the livability of their products in mind and their loyal customer base is satisfied year after year.
3. Riverstone by Forest River
Forest River is America’s largest RV manufacturer but they do more than that. As part of the Forest River Owned Group, the brand’s umbrella encompasses Riverstone, which is our focus for today.
Riverstone creates durable units that have a luxurious vibe that is reflected in their high-end furnishings. We like how their walls are not welded, which prevents the swaying back and forth while on the road.
forestriverinc.com
What’s more, they also use real wood for cabinetry – talk about elegance!
What else makes them reliable? It’s their meticulous inspection of each unit to make sure they only put forth the best products.
4. Winnebago
Winnebago is perhaps the most famous RV travel trailer brand of all time. In fact, their brand name has become synonymous with trailers (think Band-Aid or Kleenex).
Their history makes it no surprise that the name is so renowned because they got their start way back in 1958!
winnebago.com
They care about the customer, the quality, the results, and incorporating innovation over time. They make more than travel trailers as you can find Winnebago camper vans, motorhomes, and fifth wheels among many others.
Reviews don’t lie, and Winnebago has some of the best ones around. You can see the amount of care and attention that goes into product manufacturing when you take a tour of their facility.
5. Heartland RV
Heartland is also quite a new one, as they got their start in the early 2000s. However, this fact does not change their commitment to customer service, quality, and dedication.
heartlandrvs.com
Heartland RV is on par with the more prominent brands in terms of innovation integration. For starters, they are the proud inventors of the tight turn technology that decreases the radius for turns.
What Makes a Travel Trailer Reliable?
There are several things that determine the reliability of a travel trailer, and we’ll take an in-depth look at each.
Construction
How the trailer is made and with what material can make all the difference. The construction is what really impacts the other two categories. Don’t hesitate to look into the history of a brand to see how the products have held up over time.
Is the trailer made out of aluminum, steel, fiberglass, or wood? Each of these materials has pros and cons. What are the processes of quality assurance and has the brand won awards in this area? These are all factors to look at when determining the construction.
Lifespan
The typical lifespan of a trailer is 10 years in its prime but it can last for 20 to 25 years depending on how well you take care of it. As we said, the construction matters as well as the maintenance, which takes us to the next section.
Maintenance
There is no way around maintaining a travel trailer – it has to be done. Safety checks, fluid changes, and regular inspections will make sure your trailer remains in tip-top shape.
What makes a reliable trailer is the amount of necessary maintenance you need to do to upkeep the unit.
Final Thoughts
The brand really does matter when it comes to travel trailer reliability. The amount of work the company puts into ensuring the best quality can make all the difference in the value of your investment.
Sure, you may be paying more for a more reliable brand, but that is money saved on maintenance and repair down the line so don’t skimp on quality if you can.
Up Next:
What is The Lightest Travel Trailer With a Slide Out?
What is the Lightest Airstream Trailer? (weight rankings)
What is the Best Month to Buy A Travel Trailer?
(featured image: granddesignrv.com)
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