Motorhomes exploded in popularity during 2020 and 2021 due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on air travel. As a result, many families hurriedly looked for alternative methods of travel, finding a solution in RV’s (recreational vehicles) which allowed them the freedom to travel while continuing to avoid large crowds.
For those who are looking to stow additional recreational toys like motorcycles and ATVs, RV toy haulers have further revolutionized the way outdoor enthusiasts can experience the great outdoors as they offer a perfect blend of living space and storage for an adventurous lifestyle.
What Are RV Toy Haulers?
Credit: Camp Addict
As previously mentioned, RV toy haulers are a specialized type of recreational vehicle designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts who want to bring along their recreational “toys,” such as motorcycles, ATVs, bicycles, or other large equipment.
Toy haulers are larger vehicles that combine living quarters with a dedicated space for storage and transportation of toys. They combine convenience and comfort as you travel and enjoy outdoor activities.
Key Features
Cargo Space
The uniqueness of toy haulers lay in its versatility and the ability to bring along your favorite rec vehicles. Therefore, it makes sense that the heart of any hauler is in its cargo space, often referred to as “the garage”, which is really just a large empty space in the back of the RV. This area is typically equipped with a large ramp door for easy loading and unloading of recreational vehicles.
Credit: RV Life Mag
Depending on the design, the garage space can be an added value in that it is storage area but also doubles as a flexible space that can serve as an additional living or sleeping area.
Credit: RV Life Mag
Living Quarters
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Moving into the interior of the toy hauler are the living quarters. This space has all of the amenities you would typically find in traditional RV’s such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, and living area. Depending on the size and design of your toy hauler, layouts can vary in set up.
For instance, kitchen size is often an area of sacrifice in order to fit everything into a modest length rig. Pantries and countertops are drastically reduced or outright eliminated in order to save on space.
Storage can also take a hit due to the lack of lower cabinetry in order to make space. However, this square layout can result in spacious room for beds as most toy haulers will incorporate bunk beds, with a queen or full size mattress on both the top and bottom bunk.
If you’re loathe to sleep on a small twin bed and want more room, you’re in luck.
Utilities and Appliances
Credit: Campers Inn RV
Toy haulers are equipped with essential utilities and appliances such as kitchens with stoves and refrigerators.
When you’re travelling off the grid, you’ll be bringing necessities with you and storing them within the RV itself.
It’s expected that there will be overnight travel, which is why RV’s also have the comfort and convenience of bathrooms with toilets and showers, heating and cooling systems, and electrical setups for lighting and appliances, making it very much a home on-the-go.
Types and Sizes
Toy haulers come in various types, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes. The choice of type and size depends on individual preferences, towing capacity, and the specific needs of the owner.
For instance, here are several examples of toy haulers and their respective layouts:
Jayco Octane Super Lite
Credit: Campers Inn
- Sleeps up to 6 people
- Convertible sofa bed
- Bunk beds
Coachmen Freedom Express Blast
Credit: Campers Inn
- Sleeps up to 4 people
- Queen bed
- 70” rollover sofa
Grand Design Momentum G-Class
Credit: Campers Inn
- Sleeps up to 6 people
- Queen bed
- Rollover sofas
Awnings and Outdoor Features
To enhance the outdoor living experience, some toy haulers come equipped with awnings, outdoor kitchens, entertainment systems, and patio spaces. These features add a layer of convenience and enjoyment to your camping adventures.
Considerations Before Purchasing
Now, if you’re thinking that RV toy haulers sounds like a pretty fantastic way to road trip this upcoming season, you’ll also want to consider factors such as your vehicle’s towing capacity. Even some large SUV’s don’t have what it takes to pull 8000 pounds of towing weight.
You’ll need to account for the size of recreational toys you’re planning to bring, how many people you’re travelling with, and your preferences for living and storage space.
Toy haulers are also not cheap. For example, the Jayco Octane Super Lite’s MSRP starts at $34,529 while larger models such as Jayco’s 2024 Seismic Luxury Series starts at $146,000 USD. Not chump change by any means.
Conduct thorough research to find a toy hauler that aligns with your specific needs and provides a perfect balance of comfort and functionality.
Renting A Toy Hauler: A More Affordable Solution
If you don’t have the big bucks on hand or you’re not looking to spend a fortune on purchasing a toy hauler, you can rent motorhome and travel trailer toy haulers starting from $100 to $200 per night.
Credit: Thor Industries
Whether to rent a toy hauler depends on various factors, including your specific needs, frequency of use, budget, and preferences. Renting might be cost-effective for occasional use, but the cumulative cost of multiple rentals can add up.
Owning a toy hauler might be a better choice if you’re planning on using it frequently and if you prefer a living space with specific amenities.
Conclusion
RV toy haulers open up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts, allowing them to bring their favorite toys on the road without compromising on comfort. So if you’re either a weekend warrior or a full-time RVer, be sure to explore the diverse range of toy haulers on the market to accompany you on your next adventure.
