There’s nothing like taking a road trip in an RV when you can get where you’re going without the hassle and cost of air travel. You can stay wherever you want without worrying about finding a hotel and stop at attractions without renting a car. When you want to take an RV trip with your family or friends, a bunkhouse RV is a great option that provides extra sleeping space. Our Wilkins RV team here in New York invites you to get out on the open road with the top five best bunkhouse RVs on the market.
What Is a Bunkhouse RV?
A bunkhouse RV is a travel trailer with bunk beds that are towed by another vehicle via a ball and hitch. Bunkhouse campers are available in various sizes, ranging from small to large, and in a range of trailer types, from modest designs to luxury models.
In some models, a bunkhouse comprises a room separated by a door. In other designs, multiple bunk beds may be grouped in a room. Some models have bunk beds that are out in the open and not separated from the living area, but those often have a curtain so you can close off the area for some privacy.
Most often, a bunkhouse is pulled by a truck, as bunkhouse trailers are longer and tend to be heavier than standard RVs. You’ll need a ¾-ton (2500/250) or 1-ton truck (3500/350) to pull a bunkhouse trailer. There are lighter bunkhouse RVs that can be pulled with a ¼-ton truck (1500/150). These bunkhouse RVs usually sacrifice structural elements or furniture in the common living area. The general living space may also be smaller to keep the weight down and make room for the bunk beds.
Best Bunkhouse RV for Large Families: Jayco Eagle HT
Jayco Eagle HT 5th wheel IMG_4168 by Terry Bone is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0
Look to the Jayco Eagle HT Travel Trailer if you need extra space for a large family or group, as it comes with multiple options for bunkhouse floor plans. The Eagle HT models feature specialty laminate flooring, all-wood cabinetry, and numerous windows to let in plenty of natural light. In addition to the bunk beds, these models include convertible furniture for extra sleeping arrangements. The Eagle HT can sleep up to 10 people.
As a bonus, the Eagle HT allows you to travel off-grid, as it’s wired for an inverter, enabling you to run your RV off battery power. It also includes an 81-gallon freshwater tank, which is convenient for off-grid camping. Control your RV from the JAYCOMMAND Smart System using the tire pressure monitoring system, which allows you to monitor and control vital operations from your smartphone or tablet. You can get all this starting at $57,941.
Overall Best Bunkhouse RV: Forest River Heritage Glen
The Forest River Heritage Glen bunkhouse RV has many features for comfort, visual appeal, and functionality. This RV has hardwood cabinetry, a porcelain toilet, and high-quality vinyl flooring in a herringbone pattern. To add to its residential feel, it includes window coverings, fridges, and sinks. This travel trailer is luxurious and built with your comfort in mind, featuring a roomy interior and wide width.
You’ll find the stackable bunks in a double-bed size, which allows you to sleep up to four people. It comes in two models, one of which has two sets of bunk beds, providing eight people with somewhere to sleep.
In the main living area, this rig includes a peninsula kitchen with generous counter space and storage, an electric fireplace, and panoramic windows so you and your passengers can see the sights. The theater seating means you’ll be able to view the great outdoors in superior comfort.
There’s also convertible furniture if you require more sleeping space. You can enjoy meals at a family-sized dinette. A full bath and a half-bath are attached to the bunkhouse area for everyone’s convenience. Forest River trailers also have a comprehensive warranty for worry-free travel, starting at $77,444.
Best Lightweight Bunkhouse RV: Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite
If you don’t have a big truck or want to travel light, the Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer may be the one for you. These bunkhouse models come in seven floor plans, with even the largest model weighing less than 8,000 pounds. You can expect to find long-lasting quality cabinetry and countertops inside. The walls are constructed from bonded fiberglass and well insulated by Azdel to ensure comfortable travel in every season.
You can have full- or double-sized bunk beds or models that feature master suites with queen-sized beds. These models are eco-friendly and come with standard solar panels and prep. Add-on options include frameless dark-tinted windows, a second air-conditioning unit, theater seating, and extra amps, starting at $45,624.
Best Pet-friendly Bunkhouse RV: Coachmen Northern Spirit
If you want to bring your pets along, the Coachmen Northern Spirit Travel Trailer is an excellent choice because it has an area dedicated to your pets. This cool feature includes built-in food dishes, an outdoor shower with a bathing area for your dog, and an outdoor hitching post for a dog leash. Outside, you’ll find a solar panel, powered awnings, exterior LED lighting, a detachable power cord, and exterior speakers to bring your music out.
The interior contains a master bedroom and multiple bunk beds. You’ll also enjoy a bar-style breakfast nook and a spacious kitchen. There’s an option to add 50 amps to power a second air-conditioning unit for the master bedroom to keep you cool and comfortable. You can get into this RV starting at $74,750.
Best Bunkhouse RV for Indoor/Outdoor Living: Keystone Outback Ultra-Lite
If you want to avoid being cooped up indoors when you travel, the Keystone RV Outback Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer has a bevy of outdoor features to suit your needs. The Outback has four bunkhouse floor plans with great all-season capabilities for year-round camping. The largest Outback model has an outdoor kitchen, an electric fireplace, a rear bunkhouse, and a master bedroom, with a queen-sized bed and an under-bed pet kennel. There’s also an indoor kitchen for inclement weather. All models feature power awnings and exterior speakers so you can bring the party outside while you barbeque, starting at $64,786.
For a unique travel experience that’s spacious and comfortable, choose a bunkhouse RV with ample sleeping arrangements so you can bring your family and friends along for an unforgettable trip. Check out the selection at Wilkins RV with seven New York locations for your convenience. Visit our website to find the location nearest to you.
