What many people thought would be a fad has turned into one of the fastest growing segments of the RV industry. Several manufacturers took a wait-and-see attitude before incorporating toy haulers into their lineups, but they too have now jumped onto this bandwagon. Today, the manufacturer that does not have a toy hauler model in their offerings is the exception rather than the rule.

As these units move into the mainstream of RV activity, they are evolving from “novelty” to “must-have.” Their host of amenities, upscale interiors and exteriors as well as high-end luxury features has caught the attention of many, not to mention the level of convenience that they offer. Here is a brief glimpse of some unique features and amenities that make toy haulers such a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

2008 KZ Inferno
2008 KZ Inferno
KZ Inferno Fifth Wheel
One of the most innovative toy hauler product lines on the market right now is the new KZ Inferno fifth wheel. Located in Shipshewana, Ind., KZ has been manufacturing quality RVs for 30 years. They were one of only seven RV manufacturers to earn the prestigious RVDA Quality Service Award last year, their sixth consecutive year earning the award. Although this is an industry award, its designation is important to RV buyers because award recipients are determined by dealer ratings on their level of satisfaction in areas such as sales, management, product quality and service as well as warranty administration and support.

As KZ continues to bring products to the market that provide the functionality and amenities that are in demand, the Inferno line-up offers the perfect combination of luxury, utility, modern design and unsurpassed features. Its unique floorplans provide a level of privacy never before seen in toy hauler products. Additionally, they offer an exhaustive list of features including reversible furniture design, specialty woodwork and upgraded entertainment systems.

The Inferno became an instant fan favorite the day it arrived at dealerships. From front to rear, you will be impressed with the thought and engineering that went into its design. Looking at it straight on, a dynamic fiberglass front end-cap highlighted with a custom LED backlit logo shield sets it apart from all others when traveling down the highway. Solidly built, the Inferno rides comfortably on three 6,000 lb. axles. With a GVWR of 18,000 pounds, most Inferno models have a net carrying capacity between 4,500 and 6,100 pounds. The combination of the TrailAir™ air ride hitch and EquaFlex™ suspension system provide an exceptional towing fifth wheel.

Not only is the outside amazing, the same goes for the cavernous interior. The design configuration of the unique bedroom suite offers independent access to both the bathroom and bedroom through full-length glass doors. Cleverly placed between the doors is a quality entertainment system with LCD TV and CD and DVD player, and a built-in lighted trophy shelf. Yes, KZ really has thought of everything. Not only is this RV perfect for those who like to compete with their toys (and win), but it is a great home-away-from-home during their travels.

The kitchen is well-equipped and includes a bar-top counter extension for eating on-the-run. In the garage, a built-in beverage dispenser (ideal for full-size kegs) provides a cold refreshing drink after a long day of fun. And what better way to enjoy your cold drink than while relaxing outside? The outside Alpine EX Sound System comes complete with a sub-woofer and amplifier that are capable of entertaining the entire neighborhood!

2008 Keystone Raptor
2008 Keystone Raptor
Keystone Raptor Fifth Wheel or Travel Trailer
If you are inclined to bring several people along to partake in the fun, the luxurious Keystone Raptor fifth wheel may be the RV for you. With nine floorplan configurations to choose from, the Raptor is so generously equipped and spacious you won’t want to go home. Some of the amenities include large bay windows, a fully-equipped kitchen with free-standing table and chairs, and an Onan 5.5 generator with prep and fuel station. Also included is an on-board service station, consisting of a 1300 PSI power washer and air compressor/power charger.

Fall in love with the single-level master bedroom suite (offered in all bed-slide models) that features a queen bed, roomy dresser, huge front closet and an additional hanging closet. En suite, you will also find a neo-angle shower with skylight and a vanity with wall storage. What better way to relax and sooth those aching muscles after a day of trekking through the trails?

On some Raptor models, the cushy U-dinette easily converts into a comfortable bed that sleeps two. There is also storage space for your gear both under the bed as well as in the cabinets overhead. The triple slide Raptor’s spacious kitchen has a stove, oven, refrigerator, microwave oven and double sink. You are sure to enjoy the convenience of casual dining at the bar countertop and for additional sleeping accommodations, there is a loft with queen bed, entertainment center and storage cabinets as well as two queen electric beds with bottom twin sofas in the garage.

When morning comes, you can easily convert the garage into an open-air entertainment room for the folks who prefer to stay back while the others go out to play. Feeding the need for sound is the Alpine 5.1 surround sound system that even includes an iPod dock. This RV is built for fun! With a generator that is noise rated for use after hours you can entertain into the night without worrying about disturbing your neighbors, if there are any around.

2008 Forest River XLR Fifth Wheel
2008 Forest River XLR Fifth Wheel
Forest River XLR Fifth Wheel or Travel Trailer
Another luxury sport utility trailer, available as a fifth wheel or travel trailer, is the Forest River XLR. Formerly known as the All-American Sport, this redesigned and renamed RV has grabbed a lot of attention from RVers. With its dual fuel tank system, modern graphics and Gel Coat fiberglass on the outside as well as the new wood tones, fabrics, furniture and larger cargo areas on the inside the XLR has made an instant impression.

Inside, the XLR 37X16 can sleep a handful of family members and friends comfortably. A queen bed in the bedroom, a queen airbed sofa in the galley and a queen loft with cabinet in the rear near the garage area provide ample sleeping space. Additionally, this model boasts the largest garage of any toy hauler, which has a spring-assist ramp door. The 16’ garage has eight D-rings throughout the area that are secured in steel as well as 1” thick floor decking and durable “non-slip” rubber on the floor and ramp door.

There are two entry doors to the XLR, one located mid-ship and the other in the garage. With cabinets over the sofa and dinette, as well as drawers under both for storage…the capacity for bringing along your personal belongings is abundant. When the action comes inside, the comfortable galley offers a slideout that contains a refrigerator, stove and sink across from a roomy corner dinette. There is also a ceiling fan above the dinette. As with the Raptor, the bathroom in the XLR features an enclosed neo-angle garden tub and shower.

Another very popular option available in five of the 10 XLR floorplans is a sliding glass door that provides outdoor viewing of the garage-turned-patio from the expansive and contemporary kitchen/living room area. Evening entertainment in the 8’ X 12’ garage of the 37X12 floorplan can be further enhanced with the Hid-N-Screen that covers the rear door opening, protecting guests from night flying insects and pests while taking in the sights and sounds.  

Keystone Passport Break Away Travel Trailer
Now if you are reading this and wondering how on earth you are going to enjoy this type of RVing when your tow vehicle is a half-ton pick-up truck or SUV, no worries – you don’t have to trade your tow vehicle to enjoy your toys. The Keystone Passport Break Away is an ultra-light, fuel-efficient travel trailer that provides a well-engineered RV offering the perfect combination of utility, comfort and ease of towability.  

Creature comforts include a 19” LCD TV, MP3 holder and large overhead cargo nets for stowing gear. Standard in the Break Away is an electric Sit-N-Sleep sofa bed that converts the garage into a roomy bedroom or living room area at the touch of a button. What better way to relax after a hard day of play than in your own tub or shower? As with most other toy haulers, the Break Away offers a stove, refrigerator and double kitchen sink in the kitchen, and also boasts a wardrobe closet and pass-through storage compartment in the front of the trailer.

The 8’ X 10’ garage found in the Break Away has a low rear ramp angle making loading and unloading your toys a breeze. It also boasts laminated fiberglass, aluminum-framed construction, which provides lighter weight and extra strength. The Spread Axles Design delivers better weight distribution and enjoyable towing and handling. If your travel enjoyment calls for outdoor cooking, the exterior slide-out cook center with LP Quick Connect system is simple and fun to use.

Although we just touched on these, you can see there is quite a selection of versatile RVs to match your outdoor enjoyment requirements. These toy haulers, or sport utility trailers, are bringing new people into the RV lifestyle every day. Even experienced RVers are opting for a toy hauler because they are so versatile. And if you opt to leave your toys at home, the garage is great for an on-the-road office, a workshop that will allow you to take your hobby with you, or housing all of the things you need for a great tailgate experience with friends at the stadium.