Which RV setup gets the best mileage?

[SOLER]

I had an 11' Lance slide in truck camper. It weighed ~ 3k lbs. Mileage was similar to pulling 30' 5th wheel (12k lbs). If mileage is what's going to make your decision, the difference is negligible. The only benefit I found in having a truck camper was pulling the boat behind it. I could tow the boat behind the 5th wheel, but was trying to not be 50 long going down the highway. I got rid of the truck camper for one reason - the weight on the truck was fatiguing! That was 3k lbs on the truck. You could have a 5th wheel with 2500-3000 lbs on the hitch (that would be a very large rv, btw) and not notice as much as a slide-in. It's because of the sway. When a gusty wind hits you, the whole truck/camper moves. Pulling a TT or 5thwheel, the same wind won't move the whole truck as much.

My .02

SOLER

 

[Randy Grant]

You really can't look at the total trailer weight when figuring it because it is a rolling load. Sure it is an effecting number, but not as much as you think. With my 2500 Duramax, I went from a 15000# trailer to a 9000# trailer(both fifth wheels) and saw no real change. As stated by many, frontal area is the biggest factor in mileage.

 

[Gero]

I dont think the mileage will be much different. A youtuber I watch has a heavy truck camper weighing 4000dry (5000lbs loaded) gets 10-12mpg. This is a dually v8 fast.

I pull a TT 5000lb loaded and get 10-12mpg on my 5.7 1500 3.21.

 

[Mega Man]

You really can't look at the total trailer weight when figuring it because it is a rolling load. Sure it is an effecting number, but not as much as you think. With my 2500 Duramax, I went from a 15000# trailer to a 9000# trailer(both fifth wheels) and saw no real change. As stated by many, frontal area is the biggest factor in mileage.

This is what people dont seem to get go pickup 200lbs and walk, then run (or 100 what ever. ) now put out on a cart and do the same... you have to get it to move but it's far less effort...

 

[rjmelehan]

What is your rear end gear ratio ....

 

[dexter]

I know, loaded question. But, my 2017 3500 dually hauling a 14,000# 5er gets decent mileage - around 11-13 mpg, but curious as to what I could expect with the same truck with my 5th wheel vs hauling a truck camper at roughly 3000#. Anyone with experience feel free to share. Best of the new year to all.

THese type. The most important factor is the wind resistance.

Think that with other trailers you are pulling a sail behind you.

https://www.google.com/search?q=col...mAhUJCs0KHV2ZCrIQ7Al6BAgDEDM&biw=1163&bih=560