Every year the recreational vehicle industry announces award winners for each category of vehicle. We have already covered the Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhome winners for 2021. Also, we spent some time going over entry-level, mid-priced, and luxury travel trailers. Today, we cover the winners of the mid-priced fifth-wheel RV models. 

About the fifth-wheel RV awards

Normally, there would be an entry-level category for fifth-wheels in addition to the entry-level travel trailer. However, this year, the RV News judges for the awards successfully argued that there really is no such thing as an entry-level fifth-wheel. Hence, the coverage of the fifth-wheel awards starts with the mid-priced category below. Three units snagged the award for mid-priced fifth-wheel of 2021. For reference, mid-priced is defined as having an MSRP under $60,000.

2021 East to West Tandara 320RL

The judges were quick to note the details of the 2021 Tandara 320RL by East to West. They were very pleased with the interior appointments, noting that the manufacturer was even thoughtful about where outlets and USB ports are placed within the model. Looking deeper into the RV, the judges liked the double-door pantry and the marine-grade flooring. Regarding the interior, they considered the appointments to speak of a “live here” vibe versus an “overnight stay” unit. The judges commented, 

“The fifth-wheel has the amenities expected or desired in the category, including a standard 14.7-cubic-foot residential refrigerator from Hisense, a 21-inch Magic Chef over, a 20-inch residential microwave, and a 48-inch fireplace.”

2021 Jayco Eagle HT 24RE

The Eagle HT 24RE fifth-wheel by Jayco provides large windows for an abundance of natural light and also includes a “whisper quiet” air conditioner with an option for a secondary air conditioning unit. It also was raised a bit over last year’s model to aid in towing. However, the real stand out feature of this fifth-wheel RV is the walk-in pantry.   

2021 Keystone RV Cougar 357UMR

The Cougar 357UMR is pretty unique. This fifth-wheel RV features something others don’t, a mud-room. The RV News judges noted that

“When you see a unit or floorplan no one else has done, you stop and take a second look. The Cougar 357UMR is that; the coach not only can meet remote workers’ needs by providing a comfortable, separate office space, but it also will be hailed by pet owners or people who just want to hose off mud and dirt outside before they go into the living area. Many brands and units boast about having versatility or utility in their product – the Cougar 357UMR delivers it.” 

The RV awards provide some clarity in a crowded market

There are so many RV manufacturers out there. Each of them explores travel trailers and fifth-wheels to some degree. So, in a shopping environment full of so many great choices, it is good to identify those models that climb to the top of the heap against their competition. That is why the annual awards are so important in providing some clarity. For shoppers, the awarded fifth-wheels above provide a good starting point in a search. Safe travels, my friends!