When it comes to discerning the “best” RV makes and models, you may find the camping community has some lively ongoing debates. The brand name one RVer swears by another despises. Yet another will only purchase rigs from a specific make.
We’re not going to offer an evaluation of the different RV manufacturers on the market because it would be too difficult to make a reliable statement. That said, we can help you make sense of the mix of names that can quickly start glazing your eyes over during your search.
Choosing the Right RV Type and Features
Getting an idea of which type of RV you’re after is a good first step toward researching the specific model you want, since manufacturers tend to specialize in certain vehicle body styles over others. For example, there are a few travel-trailer-specific manufacturers, like Casita, as well as some who only deal with Class A or Class C motorhomes.
Still, other manufacturers are opportunists, dipping their toes into each of the most popular RV body styles to cast the widest possible net. Either way, achieving a solid understanding of the features and amenities you’re looking for will go a long way towards pointing you to the right RV brand and maker!
RV Manufacturers
Airstream
Beloved of many and well-known as one of the very first camper manufacturers on the market, Airstream has been around for almost a hundred years. Today they offer some of the highest-quality travel trailers in the business.
For one thing, Airstream trailers are constructed of aluminum, as opposed to the fiberglass casings of so many other trailers. Their sturdy construction makes them less prone to water damage, leading to a much longer lifespan. it’s not that uncommon to see 30-year-old vintage Airstream trailers on the road in campable condition!
Casita Enterprises, Inc.
Another fan favorite with a rightly-rabid following, Casita Enterprises has been manufacturing small, lightweight travel trailers since 1983. The company builds 16- and 17-foot trailers with a unique, high-quality two-shell fiberglass construction. These are easy-to-tow campers that withstand the test of time.
Although they’re small, Casitas come stacked with some pretty cushy amenities. Especially if you upgrade to the company’s Deluxe models. Available as an option across every line of Casita trailers, Deluxes come with full bathrooms and standard air conditioning.
Coachmen RV
Coachmen RV is actually a division of the motorhome manufacturer Forest River Inc., which we’ll talk about in more detail below. But this brand is so well-known — and so frequently seen on RV dealership floors — we wanted to give it its own section.
Coachmen does have its own line of motorhomes, including large Class A coaches as well as Class Cs and Bs. This manufacturer is best-known for its specialization in travel trailers, including toy haulers, fifth wheels, pop-up campers, and more. From ultra-lightweight trailers to large, amenity-filled fifth-wheel floorplans, Coachmen likely has a rig that fits both your camping style and your budget. Many of their products are available at entry-level pricing.
Dutchmen RV
Many recognizable travel trailer brands fall under the Dutchmen umbrella, including Coleman, Atlas, Aerolite, and Endurance trailers. You can custom-build your RV with a hand-selected floorplan by purchasing from Dutchmen directly, or use the company’s RV finder to locate a dealer offering its products near you.
Forest River RV
Forest River RV offers a wide range of recreational vehicles. These include Class A and Class C motorhomes as well as fifth wheels and regular travel trailers. The RV manufacturer is actually a division of an even larger motor company, which produces pontoons, park models, buses, cargo trailers, and commercial trucks.
Well-known brands under the Forest River umbrella include Flagstaff, Cherokee, and Cardinal trailers. As well as Berkshire and Georgetown motorcoaches. You can see the full line of recreational vehicles produced by the Forest River at this webpage.
Gulf Stream Coach
Family-owned and operated since 1983, Gulf Stream Coach is a one-stop shopping destination for anybody in the RV market. They offer a wide range of RV body styles in a number of very well-known brands. Some of which have been in production for over 15 years. Trailmasters, Kingsports, Streamlites, Sedonas, and Conquests are all manufactured by Gulf Stream. Their full line of products includes over 22 brands and 140 different models.
Jayco, Inc.
Jayco’s been in business since 1968, meaning they’ve just recently celebrated their 50th birthday. Over the course of that time, they’ve had lots of opportunities to perfect the art and science of creating comfortable, efficient, and affordable recreational vehicles. Including a variety of travel trailers as well as Class A and Class C motorhomes.
Keystone RV Company
Founded in 1996, Keystone RV is well-known for its lines of affordable, high-quality towable vehicles. These include fifth wheels, toy haulers, and destination trailers. The company is constantly innovating new technologies to make their products even more comfortable and effective. Like in-floor residential heat ducts, five-point slide room construction techniques, and a seven-layer protective coating on their trailer caps.
When you purchase directly from the manufacturer, you’ll have the chance to create a totally custom trailer. Hand-choosing the amenities and features you want from over 150-floor plans. But Keystone trailers are also commonly seen on dealership floors nationwide. Enter your information on the website to find a Keystone dealer near you.
Winnebago
You’ve almost certainly heard of this American-based manufacturer, who’s such a cornerstone of the market that sometimes their brand name is synonymous with RVs themselves. Based in Forest City, Iowa, Winnebago has been in business since 1958
The company offers a full range of products. From large, luxurious Class A diesel pushers to lightweight travel trailers and everything in between. One customer favorite is the company’s Minnie Winnie line, which offers top-of-the-line amenities in smaller Class C floorplans. This means you can get a lot of coach for surprisingly low prices.
American Coach
American Coach crafts premium motorhomes. Such as the American Dream, American Eagle, and Eagle Heritage Edition lines of Class A diesel pushers. These vehicles are large and luxurious, filled to the brim with full-sized amenities and high-quality appliances. They make your camping trip feel like anything but roughing it. Along with their Class As, American Coach has also now joined the ranks of Class B RV manufacturers, dealing with Mercedes-Benz-built Sprinter vans in particular.
You can build your own motorhome at the American Coach website, or use their handy tool to find a dealer near you.
Fleetwood RV
Fleetwood offers high-quality Class A and Class C vehicles at relatively affordable price points. This makes them a favorite among family campers looking to hit the road in style. From 40-foot Class A diesel pushers to well-built class C coaches, Fleetwood has something on offer for every camping style, size requirement, and budget.
Click through the company’s addictive build-your-own program, or use this tool to find a dealer near you.
Monaco Coach
Owned by the larger REV Group Inc, a specialty vehicle manufacturer, Monaco Coach has been crafting top-end motorcoaches for half a century. This maker deals exclusively with luxurious Class A diesel pushers.
With this manufacturer, it’s all about attention to detail. Their rigs come stocked with efficient and comfortable amenities. Like Whirlpool appliances, in-motion satellite systems, and full-tile showers. But also, the little touches that turn a motorcoach into a motorhome. For example, embroidered driver and passenger seats and under-chassis lighting.
Newmar Corporation
Towards the top of most lists of best motorhome brands, Newmar is one of the best-known high-end RV manufacturers in the country. Offering a wide selection of Class A coaches with both diesel and gas engines. They offer versatile builds and a plentitude of floorplans.
Newmar’s coaches are renowned for their unparalleled build quality and longevity. This is thanks to a work ethic based in the company’s faith-centered mission. To click through all the delicious options for your own Newmar coach, use the custom build tool.
Thor Motor Coach
Founded in 2010, this Elkhart-based motorhome manufacturer is known for its luxury diesel pushers. Including large Class As but also smaller Class C/Super C and Class B/B+ coaches.
Thor Motor Coach offers a neat tool to help you figure out which of its many products will work best for your needs. This is a good way to start before moving on to its custom build program. You’ll also find Thor products at a wide range of American RV dealerships.
Tiffin Motorhomes
Building both Class A and Class C motorcoaches, Tiffin is well-known for its high quality and craftsmanship across a wide range of models. Class A lines include both gas-run engines and diesel pushers. All of which come packed with top-end amenities and spacious living areas.
You can contact Tiffin directly both for troubleshooting help and for assistance finding a vehicle or dealer near you. Tiffin coaches are also found at a wide variety of American RV dealerships.
RV Dealers – Explore RV Manufacturers
Finding an RV dealer you’re comfortable with is just as important as screening RV manufacturers for quality and customer satisfaction.
That’s why, when searching for an RV dealer, it’s important to take a look at the user reviews generated by other customers who’ve interacted with their service teams. Is the dealer easy to get on the phone if you encounter an issue? Are their prices fair, and are they willing to match other prices you might find elsewhere? It’s worth doing your homework. Forging a relationship with a so-so dealership will only bring you pain in the long run, especially if you’re financing your purchase.
Not sure where to start? RV shows are a great resource for meeting and greeting representatives from a wide range of dealerships in your area. You can get a feel not only for the vehicles they have available but which people you’re most comfortable with.
No matter if you’re brand-new to the world of RVing and just trying to get a feel for the market or if you’re a long-time camper ready to discover your next favorite vehicle, learning about manufacturers and brand names is just the starting place. The real research happens out there on the road — so get to it!
