Enclosed Trailer vs RV: Which One is Better for Camping?

By Albert - On Sep 15, 2023

Camping is a great way to enjoy nature, relax and have fun with your family or friends. But when it comes to choosing the best vehicle for your camping trips, you may be wondering whether an enclosed trailer or an RV is a better option. Both have pros and cons; the best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and needs.

Here we will compare enclosed trailers and RVs regarding comfort, convenience, fuel efficiency, and other factors.

What is an Enclosed Trailer?

An enclosed trailer is a type of trailer that has a roof and walls that protect your cargo from the elements. Enclosed trailers, like those distributed by Millenium Trailers, can be used for various purposes, such as transporting goods, equipment, vehicles, or animals.

Some people also convert enclosed trailers into campers by adding insulation, windows, doors, furniture, appliances, and other amenities. Enclosed trailers come in different sizes, shapes, and styles and can be customized to suit your needs.

What is an RV?

An RV, or recreational vehicle, is a motorized vehicle with living space and camping amenities. RVs can be divided into two main categories: motorhomes and towable trailers.

Motorhomes are self-contained vehicles with an engine, a steering wheel, and a gas pedal. They can be driven by themselves without the need for another vehicle. Towable trailers are vehicles that need to be towed by another vehicle, such as a truck or an SUV. They do not have an engine or a steering wheel.

Pros and Cons of Enclosed Trailer Camping

Enclosed trailer camping has some advantages and disadvantages compared to RV camping. Here are some of them:

Pros:

Cheaper than RVs – You can buy a new or used enclosed trailer for a fraction of the cost of an RV. You can also save money on maintenance, insurance, and registration fees.
Customizable than RVs – You can design your floor plan and choose your desired features and accessories. You can also change or upgrade your trailer as you wish.
More stealthy than RVs – You can park your trailer in places where RVs are not allowed or welcomed, such as residential areas or parking lots. You can also avoid attracting unwanted attention from thieves or vandals.
More versatile than RVs – You can use your trailer for other purposes besides camping, such as hauling goods, equipment, or vehicles. You can also detach your trailer from your towing vehicle and use it as a storage space or a shed.

Cons:

Less comfortable than RVs – Your trailer may have less living space, headroom, and amenities than an RV. You may also have to deal with more noise, vibration, and heat from the road.
Less convenient than RVs – You may have to set up and break down your trailer whenever you want to camp or move to another location. You may also have to hook up and unhook your trailer from your towing vehicle and deal with electrical, water, and sewer connections.
Less fuel efficient than some RVs – Depending on the size and weight of your trailer and towing vehicle, you may consume more gas or diesel than a smaller or lighter RV. You may also have to pay more tolls or fees for using bridges, tunnels, or highways.
Harder to drive than some RVs – You may need more skills and experience to tow your trailer safely and smoothly. You may also have more difficulty maneuvering, parking, or backing up your trailer.

Pros and Cons of RV Camping

RV camping also has some advantages and disadvantages compared to enclosed trailer camping. Here are some of them:

Pros:

More comfortable than enclosed trailers – You may have more living space, headroom, and amenities in your RV than in your trailer. You may also enjoy more privacy, security, and climate control in your RV.
More convenient than enclosed trailers – You may not have to set up and break down your RV whenever you want to camp or move to another location. You don’t need to hook up and unhook your RV from another vehicle or deal with electrical, water, and sewer connections.
More fuel efficient than enclosed trailers – Depending on the type and size of your RV, you may consume less gas or diesel than a larger or heavier trailer. You may also pay less tolls or fees for using bridges, tunnels, or highways.
Easier to drive than enclosed trailers – You may not need as much skills and experience to drive your RV as you would to tow your trailer. You may also have less difficulty maneuvering, parking, or backing up your RV.

Cons:

More expensive than enclosed trailers – Your RV may cost more to buy, maintain, insure, and register than your trailer. You may also have to pay additional fees for camping, repairs, or replacements.
Less customizable than enclosed trailers – You may have to settle for a pre-made floor plan and features that may not suit your needs or preferences. You may also have less flexibility to change or upgrade your RV.
Less stealthy than enclosed trailers – You may be unable to park your RV in places where trailers are allowed or welcomed, such as residential areas or parking lots. You may also attract more attention from thieves or vandals.
Less versatile than enclosed trailers – You may not be able to use your RV for other purposes besides camping, such as hauling goods, equipment, or vehicles. You may also be unable to detach your RV from your driving vehicle and use it as a storage space or a shed.

Conclusion

So, which is preferable for camping? The answer is determined by your personal preferences, camping style, and budget. While an RV may offer more comfort and convenience, it may also be more expensive and limit mobility. On the other hand, an enclosed trailer may offer more flexibility and versatility but may require more skill and effort to tow and set up.

When deciding between an enclosed trailer and an RV, it’s best to try them out yourself. Rent or borrow one and see how it feels. You can also visit dealerships to compare models and read reviews from other campers to make an informed decision.