A glance into any RV dealership will bring you to the realization that fiberglass is the future of RV materials. They’re compact, cute, and aesthetically appealing.
What’s more, the RVs pack a powerful punch, offering reliability, durability, and better resistance to harsh climatic conditions. They will withstand all the ruggedness from the environment.
Now you understand why fiberglass RVs rank highest!
But there’s more to learn.
This article outlines the top 6 best fiberglass RV manufacturers and all you need to know about fiberglass RVs.
Read along!
Are Fiberglass Travel Trailers Better? Why?
The main reason fiberglass is becoming a more prominent RV material is that it wins the battle over many other RV sidings.
Let’s understand why.
Fiberglass RVs hold their resale value better than other models. With proper maintenance, they can last for 50+ years but still maintain the classic look. And while other models are dent magnets and removing the smallest ding can be a hassle, cleaning fiberglass RVs is a breeze!
And what’s more.
When it comes to saving your hard-earned money by increasing the gas mileage, fiberglass RVs still take the crown home! That’s because the gas mileage is determined by the RV’s overall weight and aerodynamics.
Fiberglass models have more streamlined shapes hence, better aerodynamics. They’re not so heavy. Combining these two factors means that your RV will consume less gas for a larger distance per mile.
Lastly, fiberglass strikes an excellent balance in durability and cleanliness. Though it is costlier than the aluminum models, they guarantee value for money!
6 Best Manufacturers of Fiberglass Travel Trailers
1. Scamp Trailers
Scamp is a genuine USA travel trailer manufacturer based out of Backus, Minnesota. It produces incredibly durable camping trailers and ranks among the top in the industry.
You can consider Scamp as your manufacturer if you’re looking for compact fiberglass RVs. It understands that not every driver possesses large towing trucks, which specialize in engineering lighter and smaller options.
The trailers were built in the early ’70s but are still in use even today. That shows the manufacturer’s commitment to designing durable and high-quality trailers. And even though the trailers are light, they also have a significant great deal of strength.
You don’t have to worry about insulation! The Scamp fiberglass campers will keep you warm in colder temperatures. The units also hold up against the harshness of any rugged terrain.
Pricing
The cost of a Scamp trailer can vary from $11,500 – $23,000. The price will vary depending on the size of your preferred RV and the amenities therein. Be sure to contact the company and inquire about the RV’s cost and its shipping costs.
Why Choose Scamp Fiberglass Trailers?
- Scamp trailers are lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Lightweight and easy to tow
- Easy to set up
- Among the most dependable trailers
2. Casita Travel Trailers
Casita Travel Trailers is a family-owned and operated manufacturer specializing in designing fiberglass RVs. The manufacturer has been operational since 1983 and now ranks among the most successful travel trailer companies in America.
The manufacturer boasts the quality artistry that gives the Casita Travel Trailers a competitive advantage. Another plus is the company’s exceptional customer satisfaction – the team of well-experienced and trained staff will meet all your needs within the shortest time possible.
Casita excels at designing durable camping trailers, especially the ideal choice for those looking to purchase fiberglass travel trailers. Countless people buy from Casita, making it a trendy option. You don’t have to worry about the brand’s quality.
Pricing
Casita Travel Trailers offers five different models, and their price starts at just over $25,000.
Why Choose Casita Travel Trailers?
- Quality, durable camping trailers
- Quality artistry and materials
- Exceptional customer satisfaction
- Each product has a warranty cover
- Secure shipping process
3. Airstream Nest
Airstream Nest ranks as America’s most popular trailer manufacturer. Each camper from this manufacturer comes with a classic look, and this has not been diluted over the years. If you’re the kind who pays full attention to details and looks, Airstream Nest should be the way to go!
The beautiful interior will make your stay as comfortable as possible – a home away from home! The RVs’ many windows let you view the exquisite landscape when traveling around the world.
But, besides the aesthetic appeal, the trailers are made from high-quality materials. They are more durable than their counterparts.
The RVs are light and easy to tow with a variety of mid-size SUVs. Drive your RV for an urban adventure, head out to the open country, or just reconnect with nature.
The compact design qualifies it as the perfect sidekick for any last-minute getaway. Don’t hesitate to buy from this manufacturer!
Pricing
Airstream’s own Basecamp travel trailer has a starting price of around $10,000. The Airstream Nest is the second least-expensive member of its travel trailer family, going at $42,900.
Why Choose Airstream Nest Trailers?
- Quality that lasts for generations
- Timelessly modern design
- Towable with an SUV
- Smart layout
- Trailers are available in different floor plans
4. Barefoot Campervans
Next in line is Barefoot Campervans! This brand comes ready to meet and exceed your expectations. Hand-built in fiberglass and fitted to the highest standards, Barefoot Campervans is the way to go if you’re interested in better quality RVs.
The manufacturer produces trailers with curvy bodies in a wide array of colors, giving the choice of picking what best suits your needs. The trailers are incredibly lightweight and durable. They also have a generous carrying capacity, and you can go for bigger options if you’re planning to travel with your family.
You can customize the interior depending on the number of floorplans. They include sofas, kitchens, and bathrooms. The convertible sofas create more space to accommodate more people in the RV.
Pricing
The Barefoot Campervans trailers starts at $33,600.
Why Choose Barefoot Campervans Trailers?
- Built with the highest standards
- Offer space to accommodate more people
- Incredibly lightweight and durable
- Larger trailers have a generous carrying capacity
- Better quality RVs
5. Oliver Travel Trailers
The Oliver Travel Trailers began in 2007, and since its launch, the manufacturer has gone on to produce the best camping trailers in America. The company is located in Hohenwald, Tennessee.
Oliver’s trailers feature double-shelled fiberglass and durable, composite hulls. Do not worry about the interior; these RVs are fully stocked with nearly all the higher-end features you need. From air conditioners, furnaces, microwaves, stoves, fridges, and entertainment systems.
Enjoy the countless upgrades that let you customize the fiberglass for your needs.
Oliver’s trailers are built to last, and if well maintained, they can be used by the next generation. Towing has never been easier with the Oliver Travel Fiberglass.
The overall design and specifications will ensure that towing is possible with mid-size trucks or vans. All you need to do is maintain the RV.
Pricing
The Olive Travel Trailers run from anything between $20,000- $40,00. You can find out more info about the manufacturer by contacting them directly or visiting their official website.
Why Choose Oliver Travel Trailers?
- Double-shelled fiberglass and durable, composite hulls
- Easy towing
- Built to last
- Easier and cheaper maintenance cost
- Next-gen travel trailers
6. Escape Trailers
The list couldn’t be complete without a mention of Escape Trailers manufacturers. The travel trailers come with high-quality construction and have a lightweight design.
This practical design keeps their looks classic and admirable. The manufacturer’s reputation for quality and excellent customer satisfaction gives it a strong competitive foothold in the RV industry.
The interior and exterior shells of the Escape RVs are constructed with utmost durability. You won’t have any issues with dust or water penetration. The uniform weight distribution of the RVs makes them lightweight and towable by SUVs and mid-size vans.
The main reason why you should consider Escape Trailers is their emphasis on customization. While many manufacturers give moderate amounts of freedom, Escape Trailers does a lot more than that! These RVs let you make the adjustments you want.
Every camping enthusiast needs a trailer with 100% fiberglass molding, and the Escape trailers do not disappoint! Do not wait any longer – choose this choice and enjoy a game-changing experience.
Pricing
All the Escape travel trailers have a 100% molded fiberglass body. Their base price starts at around $25,500.
Why Choose Escape Trailers?
- The trailer gives the user lots of freedom to customize
- High quality and lightweight
- Practical design while keeping their looks and
- Affordable price tag
- Built to last
How Long do Fiberglass RVs Last?
Fiberglass travel trailers win hands-down in durability and longevity. These RVs can still hold their value after many years of use, better than the aluminum models. Their streamlined shape provides better aerodynamics, giving them sturdiness and long lifespans.
The average lifespan of an RV is around 200,000 miles or 20 years. However, molded fiberglass trailers are more durable, and if well taken care of, they can last 50 years or even more.
That’s why you can still see the 1960’s Bolers around. But this longevity will significantly depend on some factors, especially the level and cost of maintenance.
This brings us to the next sub-topic
How Easy is the Maintenance of Fiberglass Travel Trailers?
The maintenance of Rvs is easy but quite costly. The 5-8 months maintenance process is a DIY activity, but you’ll need to buy the necessary maintenance materials like gel raisins, waxes, and polishes. With all these, maintenance will be a breeze!
The main culprits that oxidize the gel coat are heat and sun glare, making the coat appear cloudy. Smear a colored or translucent gel raisin material like a coat on your fiberglass RV. This coat will form a durable, glistening finish on the RV for some months but will be subject to fading as it weathers.
The polishes will reinstate the RV’s shine for some time until crevices form in the gel coat layer. It is also important to note that the polishes and waxes may only work for RV exteriors with zero to moderate oxidation levels.
You’ll also need to wash your RV with a significant amount of car wash at least once a month. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners as they may darken the gel-based coats. If you’re planning on cleaning the fiberglass moderately, elbow grease or a polishing compound will do the trick!
Fiberglass Travel Trailers with Other Material Types
The two most common siding materials of travel trailers are aluminum and fiberglass. Let’s discuss each:
Aluminum Vs. Fiberglass
You’ll know that your trailer is made of Aluminum by checking the texture. Aluminum RVs have ridges, while fiberglass trailers are flat and smooth on the exterior.
The main advantage of aluminum RVs over fiberglass RVs is the price; the former is way cheaper than the latter, making aluminum sidings the ideal pick for first-time RV buyers who are still unsure if the RV lifestyle will suit them.
The Aluminum sidings also have better malleability. That means, if your aluminum RV is involved in an accident, it’s probable that you only need to replace or remove the damaged sections.
And as you probably know, replacing or removing a shingle is cheaper and easier than a whole side, as may be required for fiberglass trailers.
Check the complete comparison between aluminum and fiberglass.
Go for Aluminum RVs if,
- You’re on a budget
- You want something cheaper and easier to maintain
- You want a lighter travel trailer – suitable for people with less powerful tow vehicles
- You’re interested in an RV that will keep you warmer in cooler temperatures
- You want a siding that will not delaminate
Conclusion
Given their overall weight and size, fiberglass RVs make ideal adventure campers for camping enthusiasts looking for something cozy and well-equipped with all the basic amenities.
Each manufacturer has its pricing schemas, and you’re the ultimate decision-maker. But you can rest assured that all the listed fiberglass RV manufacturers rank highest when it comes to designing and supplying high-quality camping trailers.
That said, you can go for fiberglass RVs if cost isn’t a huge factor. Unlike other RV siding materials, fiberglass’s resale value makes up for its initial price, and the gas mileage savings does not hurt.
All the best!
