Travel trailers make for a convenient and comfortable way to hit the open road and explore the country. If you’re in the market for one, chances are that you’ve come across several blogs that claim fiberglass trailers are the holy grail of RVs. But are fiberglass travel trailers really better?
Fiberglass travel trailers are better. These trailers are lighter and stronger than those made of other materials like aluminum, making them easy to tow and durable. They’re also aerodynamic, making them more fuel-efficient.
This article will take a detailed look at fiberglass travel trailers, comparing them with their steel and aluminum counterparts in an effort to help you decide which is the right choice for you. Let’s get started!
The Benefits of Fiberglass Travel Trailers
As mentioned in the introduction, fiberglass travel trailers have impressive features that make them the better choice for many travelers. If you’ve never owned one, you might wonder what the fuss is about.
To help you understand, let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of fiberglass travel trailers.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Are Lightweight
One of the main benefits of fiberglass travel trailers is that they are much lighter than their steel and aluminum counterparts. That means that you can tow them with a smaller vehicle, which can be a big advantage if you’re planning on doing a lot of off-roading or traveling in areas with narrow roads.
Besides, being lighter also makes them more fuel-efficient, which means you’ll save money on gas. If you’re looking for a travel trailer that’s easy to tow and won’t break the bank at the pump, then a fiberglass model is worth considering.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Are Durable
Another significant advantage of fiberglass travel trailers is that they are incredibly durable. Fiberglass is much more resistant to impact damage than steel and aluminum trailers, which can dent and ding easily.
You won’t have to worry about your trailer being damaged if you hit a pothole or a rock on the road. Fiberglass is also more weather-resistant than other materials, so it’s less likely to suffer from water damage or corrosion.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Are Easy To Maintain
Any RV owner knows that maintenance is a crucial part of owning a recreational vehicle. Not only do you have to worry about keeping the interior clean and comfortable, but you also have to ensure that the exterior is in good condition. That’s especially true for travel trailers that are exposed to the elements regularly.
Fortunately, fiberglass travel trailers are straightforward to maintain. Because they don’t rust or corrode, you won’t have to worry about doing any special maintenance to keep them in good condition.
A quick wash with soap and water is usually all it takes to keep a fiberglass trailer looking new. So if you’re looking for a low-maintenance travel trailer, check out one made with fiberglass.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Are Aerodynamic
One of the best things about fiberglass travel trailers is that they are highly aerodynamic. That’s because fiberglass is a very smooth material, which gives the vehicle a sleek surface that cuts through the air quickly.
The improved aerodynamics offer a significant advantage over travel trailers made from other materials like aluminum or steel, which are much more susceptible to wind resistance. As a result, you’ll find that your fiberglass travel trailer is easier to tow and will get better gas mileage than its counterparts.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Have a Sleek Design
If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish travel trailer, a fiberglass model is the way to go. Fiberglass trailers have a very different aesthetic from traditional RVs, and many people find them much more attractive.
Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so you’ll have to decide if a fiberglass travel trailer is right for you. But there’s no denying that these trailers have a unique look that will turn heads when you’re on the road.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Don’t Corrode
One of the best things about fiberglass travel trailers is that they don’t corrode like steel and aluminum trailers do. That’s because fiberglass is a non-conductive material, so it won’t rust or oxidize when exposed to moisture.
Moreover, fiberglass is chemically resistant to acids and other corrosive materials, so it won’t be damaged by them either. As a result, you can rest assured that your fiberglass travel trailer will last for many years, even if you take it on the road in all kinds of weather conditions.
The Downsides of Fiberglass Travel Trailers
Despite all of the advantages of fiberglass travel trailers, there are a few downsides to consider. After all, no RV is perfect, and fiberglass models are no exception.
Here are a few things to remember if you’re considering a fiberglass travel trailer.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Are More Expensive
One of the most significant drawbacks of fiberglass travel trailers is that they can be more expensive than other RVs. That’s because fiberglass is a relatively new material in the RV world, so it often costs more to manufacture.
Additionally, fiberglass travel trailers often come with more features and amenities than other types of RVs, which can also drive up the price. So if you’re on a budget, a fiberglass travel trailer might not be your best option.
Fiberglass Travel Trailers Can Be Difficult To Repair
If you damage your fiberglass travel trailer, it can be challenging to repair. That’s because fiberglass is a very strong material, so it’s not easy to work with.
As a result, you might have to take your trailer to a specialized repair shop if you want it to be fixed properly. That can be time-consuming and expensive, so it’s something to remember before purchasing a fiberglass travel trailer.
Fiberglass Needs Regular Gel Coating
Fiberglass also needs to be regularly maintained to be kept in good condition. That’s because the gel coat, a clear coating that protects the fiberglass from damage, can break down over time.
As a result, you’ll need to have your trailer professionally recoated with gel every five years. That’s an added expense you’ll need to factor into your budget if you decide to go with a fiberglass travel trailer.
Tip: If you own a fiberglass RV and need an affordable and effective coat, get this Protech Presto! Gelcoat Rejuvenator from Amazon.com. It’s an environment-friendly product and features a high gloss restorer that will help you maintain your trailer and extend its lifespan.
Fiberglass Can Cause Respiratory Irritation
Another downside of fiberglass is that it can cause respiratory irritation. That’s because the tiny fibers that make up the material can become airborne and be inhaled.
If you have asthma or another respiratory condition, you might want to avoid fiberglass altogether. But even if you don’t have a pre-existing condition, you should still be careful when working (or coming in contact) with the material.
Fiberglass Is Susceptible to UV Damage
Finally, fiberglass is also susceptible to UV damage. That means if you leave your trailer in direct sunlight for too long, the gel coat can start to break down.
As a result, your trailer’s color may fade, causing it to look old and worn. Besides, the UV damage can also make your trailer more susceptible to leaks and other problems. Therefore, if you want your trailer to last for many years to come, you’ll need to take care of it and ensure it’s not exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
How To Choose the Right Fiberglass Travel Trailer
If you’ve decided that a fiberglass travel trailer is a suitable option for you, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before choosing one. If you rush the process, you might end up with a trailer that doesn’t meet your needs or is not well-suited for your lifestyle.
Here are six tips to help you choose the right fiberglass travel trailer:
1. Define Your Needs
The first step is to define your needs. That means looking closely at how you plan to use your trailer and what features are most important to you.
For example, if you’re an avid outdoorsy person, you might want a trailer with plenty of storage space for all your gear. A;ternatovely, if you have a large family, you might need a trailer with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
Whatever your needs are, make sure you take the time to define them before you start shopping for a trailer.
2. Consider Your Budget
The next step is to consider your budget. Fiberglass travel trailers can be expensive, so ensure you have the financial resources to purchase one.
Additionally, you also need to factor in the cost of maintaining and repairing your trailer over time. So if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider a different type of RV.
3. Research Different Brands
Once you know what you need and how much you’re willing to spend, you can start researching different brands. There are a few things you should look for when doing your research, such as the quality of the materials used and the company’s reputation.
You can also read online reviews to understand what other people think about different brands. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can start visiting dealerships to see the trailers in person.
4. Compare Prices
When you’re at the dealership, compare prices before making a purchase. The last thing you want to do is overspend on your trailer.
So take the time to compare prices and get the best deal possible. In addition, you should also ask about any discounts or promotions that might be available.
5. Take a Test Drive
If you’re buying a used trailer, you should always take it for a test drive before making a purchase. This will allow you to ensure the trailer is in good condition and everything works properly.
If you’re buying a new trailer, you might be unable to take it for a test drive. However, you should still ask the dealer if you can inspect the trailer thoroughly before making a final decision.
6. Read the Warranty
Finally, read the warranty before buying a fiberglass travel trailer. That way, you’ll know what’s covered and what’s not if something goes wrong with your trailer.
Besides, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So take the time to read the warranty and ensure you understand it before making a purchase.
That said, here’s a video that may come in handy when buying a travel trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPBoPvDraK0
Conclusion
Fiberglass travel trailers provide a wide array of benefits, but they come with a few downsides as well. So make sure you do your research before making a purchase.
And if you take the time to follow the tips above, you’ll be sure to find the perfect fiberglass travel trailer for your needs. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the outdoors. So don’t rush the process and take your time to find the perfect trailer for you.