7 Best RV Brands Reviewed
Are you looking for the best RV brands? You’ve come to the right place.
I’m Jeff, and after several years of RVing, I’ve learned a lot.
I’ve explored many others besides my RV, from friends’ RVs to ones owned by other RVers I’ve met at campsites.
I might not know every model out there, but I can tell you which brands are worth it and which ones might just waste your money.
In this article, I’ll write about the best RV brands, how to spot a reliable brand yourself, the types of RVs, and even which brands to avoid.
Ready to get started? Let’s get started!
What to look for in a top RV brand?
In this post, I will list the top RV manufacturers in the industry today.
But over time, new brands might appear, some brands could get better, and others might not keep up.
This article will help you learn how to choose a reliable RV brand for yourself.
Good Materials
It might seem obvious, but a reliable RV brand should use quality materials, just like any other good brand.
But it’s not only about the outer body or the wheels; it includes everything inside too.
This means using strong insulation, tough flooring, and furniture that lasts.
A good RV brand will source all these materials from trusted suppliers to ensure your RV is built to hold up well in every way.
Customer Support
Sometimes, even high-quality RVs break down or leave you needing a little help.
This is when reliable after-sales customer support becomes really valuable.
Luckily, an RV brand that puts effort into building a great RV usually won’t disappear once you’ve made the purchase.
If the RV quality is good, the customer support often matches it.
Still, it’s a good idea to do some research on your own.
Look at forums and review sites to see what other RV owners say about the brand’s support.
Also, check the brand’s website to find out if they offer helpful guides and manuals.
Appliances
The best RV brands don’t just focus on building a sturdy RV; they make sure the appliances stand out too.
If you buy a good RV from a trusted brand, the appliances will likely be decent.
However, the top RV companies go further by providing high-quality appliances that make you feel truly comfortable, almost like royalty, in your RV.
Price
It’s a good idea to choose a brand with a dealer close to you, even if it’s not necessary.
You might also need to look at financing options or trade-in deals, so having a nearby dealer can make things easier.
Bigger RV brands often have dealers nationwide, which can be helpful for repairs when you’re traveling.
Top 7 Best RV Brands
These 7 RV brands have shown they’re reliable and valuable over the years.
They are good in important areas like performance, design, and customer support.
If you want a top-quality Class A motorhome or a small, cozy teardrop camper, one of these brands will likely be just right for you.
Keystone RV
Keystone RV offers a wide range of RVs, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and destination trailers.
They’re known for adding smart features and new technology to their designs.
For example, they use sturdy welded aluminum for the floors and include upgrades like the HyperDeck flooring system and the SolarFlex solar package.
Keystone also aims to keep their RVs affordable, which is great for people looking for quality on a budget.
But, based on what I’ve heard from other RV owners, Keystone may have some quality control issues.
Some buyers have reported problems with things like appliances or leaks.
Their customer service doesn’t have the best reputation, either, as some feel they put more into building RVs than into helping customers afterward.
I think they’re a solid choice for budget-friendly RVs, and, while customer service could be better, the value of their RVs makes it a reasonable tradeoff.
Jayco
Jayco is part of the Thor family and offers a wide selection of RVs, just like other top brands.
Much like Grand Design RV, Jayco is known for making RVs that are dependable and sturdy.
If you’re after something that can handle rougher roads and challenging weather, Jayco is a good choice.
Jayco builds their RVs with lightweight but durable materials, using advanced building methods. This means you get an RV that’s strong but not too heavy.
Jayco’s RVs tend to be pricier than Grand Design RVs.
That’s because they’re designed with families in mind, so they offer more room for living, storage, and extra features like slide-outs.
One downside with Jayco is that their quality control could be better.
Issues like leaks, cracks, and plumbing problems are not uncommon.
On top of that, some dealers don’t offer the best customer support.
Despite these points, Jayco remains a great option for families who are willing to invest a bit more in a spacious and durable RV.
Winnebago
Winnebago is one of the oldest names in the RV industry, known for making dependable, high-quality RVs that people trust.
They make a range of RVs, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and various motorhomes.
Sticking to its strong reputation, Winnebago builds its RVs with durable, sustainable materials and runs strict quality checks to ensure everything is up to standard.
Winnebago RVs are known for their spacious and comfortable design, which often feels cozy and home-like.
Many people see them as a top choice in RVs, although their quality does come at a higher price, which might not suit those on a tight budget.
Grand Design RV
Grand Design RV offers a wide range of high-quality motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers.
Whether you’re looking for something luxurious or just practical, they have it all.
Known for their toughness and reliability, Grand Design RVs can handle rough roads and extreme weather without a problem.
They also offer great customer service, a 3-year limited warranty on the structure, and a lifetime warranty for the roof.
The company uses top-notch materials and equips its RVs with high-end stainless steel appliances and leather furniture.
The modern designs are one of my personal favorites too.
However, these RVs come with a higher price tag.
Because they are packed with features like slide-outs, they tend to be heavier, which means higher fuel costs.
Overall, Grand Design RV is a premium brand for those willing to invest in quality, whether it’s a luxurious fifth wheel or a top-class motorhome.
But if you’re on a budget, there are other options out there that might be a better fit.
Outdoors RV
Outdoors RV is all about creating RVs built for outdoor adventures.
Even though the company is relatively new, it has quickly made a name for itself in off-road travel.
They focus on travel trailers and fifth wheels, but what sets them apart is their strength.
These RVs are made with tough materials like fiberglass walls, rubber roofs, and steel frames, making them incredibly durable.
The floor plans are spacious, offering plenty of storage and large tanks.
Plus, you’ll find many features that make you feel right at home.
While their RVs can be pricey, their durability is second to none.
And for what you pay, you also get access to a network of over 100 dealers and service centers.
Airstream
Airstream has been around since 1931, even older than Winnebago.
Their goal is to create “the perfect travel trailer,” which is why their collection only includes high-quality travel trailers, touring coaches, and basecamp trailers.
Airstream trailers are easy to recognize because of their unique silver bullet shape and classic look.
They’re made with top-quality materials, like steel frames and hardwood floors.
Airstream also focuses on being eco-friendly.
You’ll find features like solar panels, composting toilets, and LED lights in their trailers.
Their lightweight and aerodynamic designs help save on fuel.
The only downside is the price.
Airstream trailers are among the most expensive, thanks to their eco-friendly features and high-quality build.
But considering they’re one of the top travel trailer brands, it’s understandable.
If you love stylish designs or want to make an eco-friendly choice, Airstream is a great option.
Newmar
Newmar specializes in one type of RV – Class A motorhomes.
They offer a wide range, from affordable models to high-end luxury ones.
Newmar is known for its quality and reliability.
In fact, it reminds me of brands like Thor, Keystone, and Jayco because they all use top-notch materials and advanced building techniques.
The big difference with Newmar is that they don’t have the quality control or customer service issues that some of the other brands do.
While their motorhomes come at a higher price, I believe it’s worth it.
If you’re looking for a Class A motorhome and are willing to pay a little extra for excellent quality control and customer service, Newmar is the brand to consider.
Brands To Avoid
Even if you’re new to RVs, you’ve likely heard of Forest River.
It’s one of the largest RV makers, along with Thor Industries.
But just because it’s big doesn’t mean it’s good.
While Thor’s RVs may have some issues with customer service and quality control, they’re generally reliable and well-made.
Unfortunately, Forest River doesn’t meet the same standard.
Their RVs are built with cheap materials, poor assembly, and bad workmanship.
Plus, their customer service is slow to respond and not helpful when you need assistance.
To put it simply, stay away from Forest River and any brands under its name.
Although their RVs might seem affordable, the problems you’ll face could end up making the money you saved not worth it.
The only brand I’d consider from them is Coachmen RV.
Which RV Manufacturer is Best for You?
There isn’t a single clear answer to the question of which RV brand is the best.
If you’re looking for the most luxurious and high-end RVs, then brands like Nemar and Dembell are top choices.
But, not everyone needs or can afford such expensive models.
That’s why I’ve included 7 different RV manufacturers to suit a variety of needs.
Take the time to carefully think about what you need and do thorough research.
Just because a brand is good doesn’t mean every RV they make is perfect, and similarly, not every RV from a lesser-known brand is bad.
If you need more help, feel free to check out our tips and guides.
We cover everything, from ideas for RV storage to keeping mice out and winterizing your RV. Also, if you’re looking for any RV gear, take a look at our list of the best options.