Written by Greg Long
Finding the Perfect 5th Wheel That’s Under 30 Feet
Finding the right RV can feel like trying to squeeze a sofa through a doggy door—frustrating, time-consuming, and often impossible.
If you’re tired of wrestling with oversized rigs that barely fit into campsites, you’re not alone. Many campers are on the lookout for a fifth wheel that’s big on features but easy to manage.
At Bish’s RV, with nearly 40 years of experience under our belts, we’ve seen it all—from the giant mega-ton RVs that need their own zip code to the snug little trailers that could double as a quaint guest house when your mother-in-law visits.
We know what makes a great fifth wheel, and we’ve cherry-picked the best ones that keep it under 30 feet without sacrificing on the good stuff you’re looking for.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 5 shortest fifth wheel campers under 30 feet.
These models offer all the comfort and luxury you crave, packed into a size that won’t have you sweating every tight turn. Get ready to meet your new compact and cozy adventure partner!
Want to see even more short 5th Wheels?
Watch Josh the RV Nerd’s Ultimate Guide to 5th Wheels less than 30′.
Table of Contents
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Reasons for Choosing a Short Fifth Wheel
(Under 30′)
Maneuverability and Ease of Towing
- Maneuverability: Shorter fifth wheels are easier to maneuver, especially in tight campgrounds, narrow roads, and urban areas. This makes parking and navigating less stressful.
- Ease of Towing: Fifth wheels, due to their hitching mechanism, offer better stability and weight distribution compared to travel trailers. This results in a smoother towing experience and reduces the likelihood of sway.
Versatility and Accessibility
- Versatility: A fifth wheel under 30 feet can access a wider variety of campsites, including those in state and national parks that often have length restrictions.
- Accessibility: Smaller fifth wheels are easier to store at home or in smaller storage spaces, providing added convenience when not in use.
Reasons to Choose a Fifth Wheel Over a Travel Trailer
Superior Towing Experience
- Weight Distribution: The fifth wheel hitch is located in the bed of the truck, which helps distribute the weight more evenly over the axles. This creates a more stable towing experience and reduces the risk of trailer sway, particularly important for those new to towing or driving long distances.
- Turning Radius: Fifth wheels generally have a tighter turning radius compared to travel trailers, making them easier to maneuver when making sharp turns or backing into a campsite.
Enhanced Living Space
- Interior Space: Fifth wheels often have a bi-level design, providing a more spacious and home-like feel. The raised forward section is typically used for the bedroom, offering more living space in the main area.
- Storage: Fifth wheels typically offer more storage options, both inside and in the basement compartments. This is ideal for those planning extended trips or who need to bring along a lot of gear.
For a detailed comparison, check out our article, Is a Fifth Wheel or Travel Trailer Better?
Choosing a short fifth wheel under 30 feet gives you all the perks of RV living without the hassle of driving a huge land yacht.
Whether you’re squeezing into a snug campsite or just want a smoother towing experience, these small models deliver big on comfort and convenience.
Want to save even more money?
Check out these Clearance-Priced 5th wheels that are perfect for couple’s.
Top 5 Shortest Fifth Wheels Under 30 Feet
1. Keystone Cougar 23MLE
Length: 27′ 11″
Maximum Weight: 9,990
Sleeps: Up to 4
If you’re looking for a fantastic couples’ fifth wheel, the Keystone Cougar 23MLE should be at the top of your list. Since its debut, this model has quickly become the number one selling Cougar fifth wheel, and it’s easy to see why.
Unlike many smaller fifth wheels under 30 feet, the Cougar 23MLE doesn’t skimp on kitchen countertop space. You’ll find plenty of room for all your food prep needs, making it a dream for any traveling chef.
The entertainment setup is equally impressive, with a TV positioned directly across from the theater seating, ensuring a great viewing experience.
One of the standout features of the Cougar 23MLE is its flexibility. The superslide significantly expands the living space, providing more room for seating and dining.
You can also choose between a booth dinette or a table and chairs, catering to your personal preference. While there isn’t a bar and stools option yet, the existing configurations are both practical and comfortable.
Key Features of the Keystone Cougar 23MLE:
- Spacious Kitchen: Large countertop space and plenty of storage, perfect for meal prep.
- Private Front Bedroom: Big sleeping area with lots of storage and options for a king or queen bed, featuring accessible storage.
- Centrally Located Bathroom: Includes a porcelain foot flush toilet and enclosed linen storage.
- Impressive Entertainment Setup: TV directly across from the theater seating in the slide-out for a perfect viewing experience.
- Smart Storage Solutions: Despite being a smaller fifth wheel, it offers plenty of storage options throughout, making it easy to keep your belongings organized.
See Keystone Cougar 23MLE Pricing and Availability
2. Forest River Rockwood/Flagstaff 281RK
Length: 28′ 11″
Maximum Weight: 9,836
Sleeps: 4
Finding a compact fifth wheel that has all the features you’re actually looking for is like discovering a unicorn in the wild, and the Forest River Rockwood 281RK is just that.
Measuring just under 29 feet, this model combines practicality and luxury, making it a standout choice for couples.
Previously known as the 2442BS, the Rockwood 281RK has been rebranded for clarity. Whether you call it Rockwood or Flagstaff, you’re getting the same exceptional RV.
This model features a unique floor plan where the kitchen and dining areas blend seamlessly, maximizing space without sacrificing functionality.
The Rockwood 281RK includes two slides, one of which houses the bed, significantly enhancing the bedroom’s space and comfort.
The full front closet and queen bed slide provide plenty of room for a comfortable night’s sleep.
The kitchen dominates the lower deck, creating huge counter space and a practical dining area.
The Rockwood 281RK also comes with Goodyear Tires, TPMS, torsion suspension, and automatic leveling, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
The exterior includes a 20-foot awning and an outdoor griddle, perfect for enjoying meals outside.
Key Features of the Forest River Rockwood/Flagstaff 281RK:
- Spacious Kitchen and Dining Area: The kitchen and dining areas blend seamlessly, offering extensive counter space and a practical dining arrangement.
- Large Front Bedroom: Features a queen bed slide and a full front closet, providing plenty of room to move around and lots of storage for your clothes and belongings.
- Dual Slide-Outs: Two slide-outs significantly expand the living space and enhance comfort.
- Solar Ready: Comes with a 200-watt solar panel and an 1800-watt inverter, ideal for off-grid adventures.
- Smart Storage Solutions: Includes soft-close drawers, a large pantry, and convenient storage options throughout the RV. Great for a small RV.
See Forest River Rockwood/Flagstaff 281RK Pricing and Availability.
3. Grand Design Reflection 100 22RK
Length: 26′ 11″
Maximum Weight: 9,995
Sleeps: 4
The Grand Design Reflection 100 22RK is a remarkable fifth wheel that has cracked the code for combining a small, compact size with exceptional travel access.
As part of the new Reflection 100 series, this model is designed to be lean, clean, and more price-effective, offering everything that matters without any unnecessary extras.
Weighing in at less than without your gear, it can carry an extra 3,000 lbs of cargo, allowing you to load up all your essentials without worry.
One of the most impressive features of this model is its reworked slide-out, which enables full travel access to the bedroom and bathroom even when the slide is closed—a feature rarely seen in other fifth wheels with similar floor plans.
With a 12V compressor fridge and the option to add a second air conditioner, this fifth wheel ensures you have all the comforts of home on the road.
The exterior is equally impressive, featuring Goodyear endurance radials, a More Ride suspension upgrade, and a 3,000 lb towing package, enhancing both safety and convenience.
Key Features of the Grand Design Reflection 100 22RK:
- “Road-Mode” Travel Access: Innovative slide-out design allows full access to the bedroom and bathroom, even when on the move.
- Efficient Kitchen Layout: Plenty of counter space and storage, complete with a full-size sink and handy overhead cabinets.
- Comfortable Living Area: Theater seating directly across from the dinette, creating a perfect spot for socializing or relaxing.
- Modern Conveniences: Auto leveling system, 12V compressor fridge, and optional second air conditioner keep things easy and comfortable.
- Eco-Friendly Solar Setup: Equipped with a 180-watt solar panel and 60 amp MPPT controller for extended off-grid capability.
See Grand Design 100 22RK Pricing and Availability.
4. Alliance Avenue 23ML
Length: 27′ 11″
Maximum Weight: 9,995
Sleeps: 2
The Alliance Avenue 23ML is a top pick for couples looking for a smaller fifth wheel that doesn’t skimp on comfort or features.
This new model replaces the older 22RK or 23RK and brings a lot of improvements. It’s designed to be compact yet spacious, making it easy to tow while still offering plenty of room inside.
Measuring just under 28 feet long, the Avenue 23ML is perfect for trips to state and national parks. It’s equipped with Goodyear Tires, auto leveling, and a MorRyde suspension package, ensuring a smooth ride and easy handling.
The widebody design adds extra space inside without making the RV longer, giving you more room to move around.
The Alliance Avenue 23ML also features easy-to-clean, carpetless, and ventless flooring, making it perfect for pet owners. The interior is modern and can be easily personalized to match your style. Plus, it comes with a Bluetooth speaker system, so you don’t need outside speakers that could cause leaks.
Whether you’re planning a big road trip or a weekend getaway, the Alliance Avenue 23ML offers the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. It’s easy to tow and packed with thoughtful features that make traveling more enjoyable.
Key Features of the Alliance Avenue 23ML:
- Compact Yet Spacious: The widebody design gives you more interior space without making the RV longer, so it feels roomier inside.
- Travel-Ready Layout: You can access the kitchen, dining area, bedroom, and bathroom even when the slide is closed, which is great for quick stops or overnight stays.
- Heavy-Duty Towing Capabilities: Equipped with a 3,000 lb towing hitch, perfect for bringing along bikes or a small trailer.
- Comfortable Bedroom: The true queen bed offers plenty of space to sleep comfortably, with lots of storage around and under the bed.
- Modern Kitchen: The kitchen has plenty of counter space, large cabinets, and a residential-size microwave for easy meal prep.
See Alliance Avenue 23ML Pricing and Availability.
5. Jayco Eagle 29.5BHDS
Length: 34′ 7″
Maximum Weight: 11,500
Sleeps: 9
Finishing off our list is the longest of the short fifth wheels—the Jayco Eagle 29.5BHDS.
Even though it’s slightly more than 30′ (measuring just under 35 feet) this bunkhouse fifth wheel is big enough to sleep a large family while still being easy to tow and maneuver.
This model has recently graduated from the Eagle HT series to the full Eagle series, bringing along some impressive upgrades.
It features double over double bunks, perfect for kids or even adults, with clever storage options throughout. Beneath the bunk area, you’ll find a massive “junk in the trunk” storage system that’s ideal for all your camping gear.
The Eagle 29.5BHDS also comes with a large camp kitchen, which doubles as an outdoor entertainment center.
One standout feature is the giant sliding pocket privacy door that separates the bunk area. This means you can keep the space open during the day for a spacious feel and close it off at night for privacy.
The Jayco Eagle 29.5BHDS also includes an innovative entertainment system that integrates with a large storage cabinet and a fireplace. It also has a redesigned freestanding table with multiple configurations, and a true queen bed with a new windshield feature.
Key Features of the Jayco Eagle 29.5BHDS:
- Double Over Double Bunks: Spacious enough for kids or adults, with dedicated storage and easy access.
- Massive “Junk in the Trunk” Storage: Large storage area under the bunkhouse for all your camping gear.
- Sliding Pocket Privacy Door: Separates the bunk area for privacy at night and opens up the space during the day.
- Versatile Dining Area: A redesigned table with multiple configurations, perfect for dining, working, or extra seating.
- Outdoor Camp Kitchen/Entertainment Center: Combines cooking space with entertainment features for outdoor fun.
See Jayco Eagle 29.5BHDS Pricing and Availability.
The Perks of Choosing a Short Fifth Wheel
Opting for a short fifth wheel means more than just easy towing and maneuverability.
With a compact camper, you’ll have access to parks and campsites that longer rigs simply can’t fit into. Plus, they’re a breeze to store when the camping season comes to an end.
At Bish’s RV, we’ve been selling fifth wheels for nearly 40 years, and we love helping people find the perfect camper for their adventures.
Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just getting started, we’re always happy to guide you to the right fifth wheel—even if you don’t end up buying from us.
Next Steps to Finding a Small 5th Wheel
Check out our Budget-Friendly 5th Weel Inventory to find the camper you want at a price you can afford.
Got Questions? We got answers!
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Greg Long
Bish’s RV Content Manager
Amateur adventurer; professional dreamer.
aka: The Bish-Blog-Guy