Introducing my Outdoors RV “Glacier Peak” 5th Wheel
I’m going to start my “tour” of my new Outdoors RV Glacier Peak 5th wheel on the outside. I know that everyone loves to see the interiors of campers, but frankly, the outside is just as if not more important than what’s inside. As a point of encouragement, when you are considering a camper, you should spend as much time looking over the outside as you do enjoying the interior.
Outdoors RV: Built for 4 Season Living… REALLY!
The photo below, while NOT glamorous by any means depicts the ONLY plumbing that is not enclosed in the fully heated underbelly.
A full video tour of the outside of my Outdoors RV Glacier Peak F30RLS
Written commentary follows below.
Outdoors RV – a TRUE 4 SEASON Camper
As I did my outside walk-around, did you catch what I said about the 2″ thick (solid foam) insulation in all the walls. What I didn’t note what that INCLUDES the walls of the slides AND the roof of the slides. This provides NEEDED insulation in areas that many (most?) manufacturers ignore.
How about the VERY LIMITED exposure of plumbing outside the sealed (and heated) underbelly? This is important to avoid freezeups – even if you’re in a region where temperatures only occasionally fall well below freezing! The (fully heated) underbelly also seems to be very well designed (see photos below). Its so solid, I’m not sure that even a mouse can find its way in! (Poor mice)
Another design feature I’ve grown to appreciate is the storage compartments under the nose. (Check ’em out again!) The entire area is diamond plated (that’s nice!) and the main compartment is split into two doors that open up and down (the lower door is closed in my video). This makes it easy to load “stuff” into the main compartment (and it is BIG) and when you open it, its less likely something will fall out!
I should mention the chassis is custom designed for the floor plan it supports. This produces a better pull as you travel and allows Outdoors RV to use tanks with VERY large capacities – 82 gallons fresh water, 72 gallons grey water, 65 gallons black water. Conclusion? This trailer IS truly designed for full time living and spending some serious time “off the grid!”
Last thought before I move to the next video – consider how much time I’ve spent talking about the outside (and underbelly) – to me this part of a camper is as (or more) important than the interior.
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I’ve seen plenty of campers where the underbelly sags or has lots of tape used as sealant – not the case here!
Ok, next, its a few days (and TWO snowstorms) later, I have the skirting up. Allow me to share a few more observations as I complete my outside tour of my Outdoors RV Glacier Peak F30RLS.
A few additional thoughts –
The skirt is designed to stop air flow under the camper. The material is made of non-breathable vinyl (very heavy duty, sun resistant material). Contact me if you’re interested in getting a skirt for your camper (any type of camper) – they do VERY good work.
It ended up going down to 3F that next morning – and I notice a difference already in propane usage. In cold winter conditions, that can mean BIG savings in propane costs!
I LOVE the additional storage area where the kitchen trash can could be. I simply use plastic grocery bags instead. In a few days, I’m going to prepare an INSIDE TOUR of my new camper and will post a link HERE to that tour. STAY TUNED!
One thing you can be CERTAIN of… I purchased an extended service contract to cover my camper for 7 years – as I’ve said before I would not be without it. After the experiences I had with my prior camper – and its RARELY “the camper”, its the “3rd party components” that fail. I detail this in the post linked in this paragraph. If you’d like a quote for a “ESC” for your camper, contact me privately, I can help with that.
I also maintain a membership with CoachNet – for peace of mind while “on the road.” This is an emergency road service program that includes funds for hotel stays if your travel is delayed for a period of time. I’ve looked at other roadside service programs and this one tailored to the needs of a RV traveler.
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When it comes to purchasing your next camper…
Want a “guide by your side” when searching for and buying your next camper? Someone who will have your back and help you navigate the choppy waters when purchasing an RV? Contact me! I now offer a Concierge RV Buying (and Selling) Service – click HERE to learn more.
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How I came to know about Outdoors RV
I’ve been a RV owner now since 2003, and full time since 2011. My winters are spent in ski country out west. I have experienced conditions as cold as -35F for several mornings in a row. I have had furnaces fail on -23F nights! You learn and you adapt. I have had many interactions with owners of all types of RV’s from motorhomes to trailers, and from that I developed a perspective on the industry and the various manufacturers campers and how they’re made.
Prior to getting into the industry as a consultant/salesman, I realized that most trailers are built poorly and do not last. As an “insider”, my opinion was reinforced as I engaged in ongoing discussions with management and service personnel. Few companies stand out from this “sea of mediocrity” and Outdoors RV is among the best I’ve found.
After establishing my personal needs – a 5th wheel that did not exceed 35 (real) feet, did have “dual opposing slides”, a large fridge, microwave/convection oven, a well designed bedroom and ABOVE ALL was constructed and insulated well, the pack of competitors for my hard earned bucks became fairly small. I was fortunate to be aligned with a dealer who offered Outdoors RV trailers so I had the opportunity to learn more about them AND see how they held up over time as I’m now completing my 3rd year in the business.
Don’t get me wrong, there ARE worthy competitors – but for the money, design, quality, engineering and features, Outdoors RV deserves a VERY close look if you’re in the market for a new travel trailer or 5th wheel. Feel free to reach out to me if you have questions or just want to talk RV’ing. There is space provided below to post – I answer ALL.
In closing… I’m often asked what RV equipment (water & sewer hoses & accessories; electric; winter specific) I use. Click the image below to see my “best picks” in all these areas and more.
This entire post focused upon the EXTERIOR of my camper. Want to see my review of the campers INTERIOR?? Click HERE.
IMPORTANT UPDATE: This model which has proven to be AMAZING for my needs nearly 2 years into owning it is NO LONGER PRODUCED by Outdoors RV. If you’re looking for similar quality – contact me for ideas regarding what’s made today that meets the same standards. (traveler@rvacrossamerica.net)
Like the content? Want updates/new posts as I write them? Then join me here…
Southern California is where we found some and the one we thought if purchasing is a mountain series. What is the difference? I called all round the country and must have missed Casper.
Dawn,
The one I have available is also a mountain. Titanium is an upgraded package (much like “lariat” to “xlt” on ford trucks). Titanium adds about $10,000. to the price tag. I can probably save you on this trailer over a california dealer. For starters, they have to charge california sales tax unless they deliver it out of state (for a hefty delivery fee). The dealers I’ve worked with out there also charge large fees for dealer prep and such. Feel free to call me (561 676 1205) or email me at traveler@rvacrossamerica.net and we can discuss further. Al
I know that Outdoor RV will no longer be making the F 30RLS full profile RV. I have found one and am considering purchasing. There are very few out there. My question is…I know you have been in yours for a while and do you feel that it is still top quality for your lifestyle. Any advice would be appreciated.
Dawn, definitely! Now, in my own self interest, I have to point out that I work with a dealer in Casper, Wyoming and I have one on our lot that I can deal on. Where is the one you’re thinking of purchasing? Is it titanium or mountain? By the way – its not necessarily true that the F30RLS is discontinued. What ORV is doing is putting them aside to launch two new series of travel trailers and they may return to the 30RLS and 30RKS manufacturing in the future. Al
Hi Al, Currently looking for a small fifth wheel to camp here in Oregon. Of course there are no Glacier Peaks around as mentioned they won’t be around til Autumn. We have looked at the fox mountain which seems comparable. What is your opinion on those. I like the ORV better from the one I walked thru a few months ago. But don’t know how available they will be. We want a loveseat recliner which no one offers in these smaller models. Don’t care for the recliner chairs as they have to be pulled out so far from the wall to recline and without a double slide it takes up the whole space. I know we can post purchase one and replace the existing seating. We will most likely do that. We do mostly weekend camping so don’t need something we have to live in. When do you expect to have them there and if we wanted to order is it too late to do so since it is August ? Laura
First, the fox mountain does not compare to any glacier peak. The fox mountain is a low end product compared to arctic fox – which while arctic fox is built as well as glacier peak, it does not have as nice an interior. Right now I have a 30RLS and 30RKS Glacier Peak on my lot, due to various issues here, I do not know when I’ll see more glacier peaks (earliest December).
Hi Al, My wife and I are looking at a 2017 30RLS. I was about to go with it until I noticed the somewhat low CCC of 2400 lbs. I was planning on adding a full solar system and by the time I add water, propane and assorted essentials I would be down to approximately 1500 lbs for cargo. Do you think that would be sufficient? it would be just the two of us for the most part. Or should we be looking at the 28RLS, having 3900+ lbs. CCC? We could possibly be living in it full time for a few months or longer.
Your weight will likely be ok, however I want you to consider a few things:
1) the 2017 30RLS is the FIRST BUILD of this full profile 5th wheel – I would recommend avoiding ANY first build of any 5w! Also – if this is on a dealers lot, it has been sitting there for well over a year. Those 2017’s hit the dealers lots in Feb 2017.
2) Do not buy a 28RLS if you plan to spend any significant amount of time in it. Why? The bed is North-South and that leaves the wardrobe in the slide – it is MUCH smaller than the 30RLS bedroom wardrobe. Further, its a mid-profile – smaller fridge, small microwave and no convection.
Solution? I have a 30RLS in Mountain in a 2018 model. I could make you an offer on it – but it won’t be as deeply discounted as a 2017 is.
PS – I still LOVE my 30RLS
Al, great site with lots of good info. I’m looking to get rid of my toy hauler (23′ bumper pull) and upgrade to a higher end fifth wheel such as the ORV or similar quality. Just don’t use the garage function enough to justify the cost/weight. Few questions for you:
1. Length – I’ve heard there is a breakdown somewhere around 30′, with regard to towability, access to many places, and electrical service required.
2. I’ve seen some other manufacturers’ units with the front living area. Does ORV offer this configuration? If not, is there a similar quality manufacturer who does?
3. I read your comparison of the Augusta. Are there any other brands/lines out there you’d compare to the ORV? I know they may come at a higher cost, but I’m curious what else out there compares in terms of quality, durability, features, etc.
Thanks in advance and thanks for all the info you’ve provided here!
If your camper is a “model 30” or lower number, you are treated as a 30 ft camper. This gets you past the gate at parks with such restrictions. As far as 34 or 35 ft vs. 30 ft, yes, you’re limiting yourself somewhat, but if you plan to spend any significant time in the camper, I see 30 ft as too small.
Front living is not currently offered by ORV. You sacrifice storage space in the main bay under what would be the living room. There is no quality mfr who does front living in a 35 ft or smaller trailer.
I would not compare Augusta to ORV – I know my post compares the two, but there really is no comparison. The ORV is head and shoulders above it. No other company at ANY cost really compares. I state this strongly as for example, New Horizons DOES make a better camper – but do you want to pay around $200,000. and then need a F550 or freightliner to pull it? As to others, no, Vilano falls short, Grand Design does not hold a candle, Mobile Suites DRV does not make a trailer under 38 ft any longer, all the other Thor and Forest River (crap) does not hold a candle to it, and Arctic Fox (their cousin) does not make a true competitor to the 30RKS and 30RLS Outdoors RV. The 29-5 made by AF has only 1 slide in the living area – that to me is a non-starter. I know I’m coming across strong on this, but truly there is NO other company doing what Outdoors RV is – even for double the money. If you do want one – let me know. They’re going to be hard to get for the next several months. Al
Alan,
Thanks for this blog and your comparison, i have been looking at and researching RV’s for over a year now trying to get a definitive brand /manufacturer and you’ve confirmed what my gut was telling me. I look forward to seeing these in person in Denver at the RV Show 2018. Denver is the closest dealership to me for OutdoorsRV product as I live in Kansas City MO. I’ve often wondered why this awesome RV is not sold from other dealers in the Midwest. I am somewhat apprehensive about a purchase so far from home in case something should need fixed. Can you give me any tips/pointers for long distance purchase, extended warranty info? Thanks again for your blog and all the information you provide. REALLY! Thank you!!!
Christine,
Generally I recommend buying local BUT Outdoors RV is a CLEAR EXCEPTION to this rule. Here’s why: First, they limit their dealer base to the Western US (and Canada) because they can barely keep up with demand with their existing dealers. Opening more, farther east would simply push demand beyond their capacity to produce. As an example, if I take an order on a Glacier Peak (any of the 5th wheels TODAY, I won’t be able to supply the camper to the buyer until OCTOBER. (Currently I have 3 Glacier Peak 5th wheels in stock and when they’re gone, I’ll have no more until autumn). Now – as to buying from a distant dealer, I can tell you, the dealer I work for in Casper, Wyoming has done several sales to folks on the east coast. We always have the buyer plan to spend a few days in Casper to “shake down” their trailer and we do a VERY thorough walk-through and orientation (frankly we do far more to earn business from those at a distance than our competitors in the Denver metro area.) ALSO – the company is great about approving warranty work by dealers east of their dealer base. I’ve personally worked with their warranty guy and he’s easy to work with. Now as to extended warranties, whether you buy your trailer from me or not, I can get you an excellent deal on a “ESC” from a reputable firm that is very fair when it comes to paying claims. What is it you’re looking for and what is your timeline? Al
Was interested in the F26RLS but see it has been discontinued. Was wondering why, really liked the floor plan. Could it have been because of the large slideout with the weight of dinette and sofa on it. I have found one on dealer lot thats equipped the way i like, but now second guessing.
I do not know specifically why the 26RLS is no longer offered. Sometimes a company discontinues a model simply because it was not selling well. Now… consider this – if you’re going to spend some significant time in your next 5th wheel, I’d encourage you to consider the 30RLS (or 30RKS) as these are full profile rigs and have much more living and storage space. Alternately, the 28rls will be built later this year. What state do you live in and how much time do you plan to spend in your next 5th wheel?
We are in Alaska. Wanting to spend 3~4 months of winter down south. (I’m retired). Plan to leave it in storage around Seattle area during the summer. Dont want anything too large as getting into State and Fed parks out West could be a hassle if not impossible.
If you look at the mid-profiles (26 and 28 models), you’ll see a MUCH smaller clothes closet in the bedroom, smaller fridge, smaller microwave (and no convection oven option), and overall less storage than the 30 (full profile) models. Now as to length – the 26 is a true 30 ft camper (bumper to hitch), the 28 is 34ft and the 30’s are 34 to 35 ft. By calling the full profile models a “30”, you WILL gain access to parks with a 30 ft limit (and of course check to insure that a true 33ft 9inch or 34 ft 11 inch camper can fit in their sites (which they most likely can.) I went into the 30RLS for this reason AND to gain the extra storage space (the bedroom/bathroom in the 30RLS/30RKS models is truly exceptional) – I recently did a post highlighting the inside so you can see the features there. If you want me to quote you on any of their models, I have a 26RKS, 30RLS and 30RKS in stock at this time and I know we can do special orders but I do not expect delivery on those orders until Autumn as that will be Outdoors RV’s next build of Glacier Peaks. Al
Hi Al,
I am delighted to have found your website. I look forward to purchasing a GP from you. Here are a few of my questions:
What is the difference between a Travel Trailer and a Fifth Wheel besides the hitch setup?
Height, storage area, ground clearance? Do travel trailers have slides? Also, could you go back and forth inside comfortably with the slides kept *in*?
Thank you for all of your informational videos and your blog.
I look forward to doing business with you in the future.
Jackie,
I’m going to post here to help others see answers to your questions as well…
Here are a few of my questions:
What is the difference between a Travel Trailer and a Fifth Wheel besides the hitch setup?
travel trailers do not pull as well as a 5th wheel. Simply put, having a hitch over your rear axle in the bed of a pickup truck creates a more stable towing situation than when the hitch is on your bumper. On windy days, its a travel trailer that has to pull over well before a 5th wheel in tow has to pull over.
Height, storage area, ground clearance?
About 13 ft 3 in for a 5th wheel to just under 11 ft for a travel trailer; storage area in a 5th wheel is SIGNIFICANTLY better – the 5th wheel has a LARGE storage bay under the bedroom/bathroom complex. Ground clearance is about the same. AND – the Outdoors RV have shocks which further protects the trailer when traveling ‘off road’
Do travel trailers have slides?
Most do, yes. In fact one thing I look for (especially for full time travelers) is “dual opposing slides” in the living area. This opens the living area quite a bit. Also – a slide in the bedroom (again for full timers) is vital, and if the bed is “in the slide” (an east-west bed like my camper has), you get your closet in the front cap – this gives you plenty of space for clothes & storage inside.
Also, could you go back and forth inside comfortably with the slides kept *in*?
Typically, no. In some models, you can move about somewhat, but the slides are designed to be slid out to move about. That said, even when you’re traveling and you stop for a lunch break – you can slide the slides on battery power and it only takes a minute or so. Just pick a spot with about 3 ft on each side of your camper to slide them out.
Thank you for all of your informational videos and your blog.
My pleasure. I should let you know that Outdoors RV is dedicating their production lines for the spring/summer to building travel trailers. That means the Glacier Peak 5th wheels that I currently have is ALL I will have until Autumn 2018! (I got this news from the factory rep just yesterday.) At this time, the dealer I work with has 1 26RKS (mountain), 1 30RKS (titanium) and 1 30RLS (mountain) in stock. All are 2018 models. Once these sell, I do not expect to see more Glacier Peaks until Sept or Oct at the earliest.
By the way, I plan on using my Glacier Peak (non-titanium version)
in the desert Southwest.
A great place to travel with it. Depending upon my future plans, I may be in that region more than I have been in the recent past.
All the best,
Hi Al
Thanx for the quick reply. On further exploration I have discovered a dealer nearby. By comparison ball park price of $95k here. Seen some American ads for around $70k. ( Is that comparable to where you work?) If so the currency exchange plus border tax plus the trip there and back might mean not worth it.
The nearby dealers Titanium unit does not include generator or AC#2 as you mentioned . Seems odd not to include these items as they seem like essentials to me. Like selling incomplete rigs.
Their website is not very clear ( probably to encourage a talk with a salesperson) and I wonder what is the difference between a Titanium and a Mountain model?
Also the difference tween 30RLS AND 30KLS?
Thanx for letting me pick your brain a little more. You’ve certainly got me sold on the Glacier Peak but 38C below in Manitoba right now. Wonder how the GP would handle that?
Re your thoughts on furnaces- Lots recommend a portable propane heater saying the furnace fan will drain your batteries and on shore power use electric heaters to avoid moisture. You seem to imply that the rv furnace is rather flimsy so I would use it little as possible to try and make it last longer. plus with propane heat creating moisture wouldn’t that apply to the furnace as well?
cheers
Tim
Ok, several issues here in your letter
1) My price will be VERY competitive. What I can sell it for specifically depends upon the options you choose. Further, I’m not seeing the Canadian wiring listed anywhere at the moment – its possible that issue no longer exists, I will look into it for you. I can tell you that even with the currency conversion, we can save you several thousand dollars.
2) No 2nd A/C and no gen is provided with any option. Why? The rig is wired for A/C in the bedroom and you can have a dealer add it easily. As to the gen – the new generators are smaller, more efficient, and quieter. You can easily transport them in your storage bays and set them outside the rig to run. The days of wiring in a big, heavy, loud Onan are coming to an end.
3) 30RLS vs 30RKS (the only 2 options) – rear living vs. rear kitchen (detailed in their latest brochures on their site – find the glacier peak page on their site, look for the brochure link
4) -38C – it will handle that as well or BETTER than virtually anything else. You’ll need to review my latest post (to be posted sometime today on my site).
5) furnaces – YES – run your furnace! No, moisture in the GP is NOT an issue. Space heaters only serve to heat the interior, not the underbelly – and at such cold temperatures, you NEED to avoid a freezeup.
Al
Tim,
Just learned that the ORV factory is not likely to build ANY MORE Glacier Peak 5th wheels until AUTUMN. That means what we have in stock is what we have to sell. I can take an order but they WILL NOT build one until they schedule a full “run” of that model. Currently in Glacier Peak, I have a 30RLS, 30RKS (titanium) and a 26RKS. That’s all I’m likely to have until Autumn!!
Now regarding Canada, there are certain endorsements & a wiring difference & a small plumbing change that are made on models going to Canada. It is up to you to check with your vehicle registration authorities & the border patrol authorities as to what happens if you bring a trailer across to Canada that does not have these endorsements & changes. We as an American dealer can not order a Canadian modified trailer as per the factories policy.
Al
Hi Al
Thanx for the helpful info.
I am in BC Canada and the prices here are at least double what you mention in your post which leads to my question:
Is it possible/worthwhile to buy a 5th wheel from you and bring it home to BC ?
If so what is involved and approximately what would the fees, taxes etc total?
cheers
Tim
Yes, you can buy here and take it to BC – however, I believe Canada requires some kind of canadian wiring certification and they will not sell those rigs to us here in the states. If you were to buy here, it would be on you to gain canadian certification (call the factory if you wish to learn more about this). We would provide you with all paperwork to cross the border. We do not charge sales tax. You would simply declare the value upon crossing the border and owe your taxes to your province and federal government (gst, hst) when you get home. We can fix a price on what we have – right now I have a 30RLS in stock at the store. I believe it is not titanium. Al
I want you to come to n down here to Texas in August. Super interested to know if by 4 seasons, you mean 3.
I have a 30 amp right here on my property.
J,
I spent a month in the Corinth/Denton area in August 2012. I’m VERY aware of how hot / oppressive it is. Now as to the Glacier Peak in those conditions and your situation: It IS a 4 season camper. The same insulation that keeps me separated from -16F outside is going to keep the camper cooler in the summer 110F heat. I have personally experienced this effect in Casper on our RV sales lot. Know this: It gets HOT in casper too! July temperatures are often 95 – 100 in the afternoon. When I walk into a Glacier Peak it is ALWAYS 10 – 15F cooler than any other camper on our lot. (These are campers that are sitting dormant on our lot – they have no electricity and no a/c is running.
Now – you have an issue. For almost any camper (of any size over 30ft), you’re going to need 2 a/c units installed and that requires 50A service. So, yes, the Glacier Peak would be a great choice. But… you should upgrade your electric service for best results.
Al
No doubt I will, just waiting on my electrician. I’m down to the purchase of one of two 5th wheels.
The ORV or a Forest River Cedar Creek Hathaway 34rl2.
It’s unfortunate that one simply doesn’t see many ORV’s down this way, and it’s hard to find accounts from real owners in the south. There are no dealers anywhere nearby. For our area, they are hard to buy.. and hard to decide to take the risk on.
And not just the heat, but in full sun heat… Sometimes you get stuck right in the full sun, and it can be killer hot inside your rv. you start blocking off windows with silver bubble wrap…. but who wants to live in a cave?
J,
Forgive my having a STRONG view but the FR Cedar Creek when compared to a ORV is like comparing a Ford Pinto to a fine tuned Euro sports car. FACT: Forest River products are INFERIOR – period. Of this there is no debate. ALL OF THEM. The corporation and all of its subsidiaries like Cedar Creek are a BIG part of the problem in the RV industry today. They use poor quality materials, shoddy workmanship and when things break, they do their best to DODGE warranty claims (ask ANY service writer in the RV industry) and take FOREVER to ship parts. The forest river label is best looked upon as a WARNING label. Sorry to be so direct, but there is NO comparison between Cedar Creek and ORV.
As to having to travel, I’ve had folks travel from NY, Ga, and FL to my store in Wyoming to get a ORV. Why? They recognize quality when they see it. All I can do J is offer my testimonial as an OWNER and having sold MANY of these over the past 3 years. Its quite clear to me as I stated in a prior message that any trailer that can keep -16F cold out of the trailer will do just as well with 110F heat.
Facts speak for themselves – 2″ thick solid foam walls (including the slide walls and ceiling); thermo-pane windows (NO NEED TO CREATE A CAVE); triple insulation above and below you – and a heeled truss roof (FAR better separation between the roof and interior than is seen in almost any other camper). As I sit here its 20F outside, I have not heard the furnace for nearly an hour and the temperature is holding near 65F.
If you decide you want one and want me to quote you on a trailer, let me know. I’m here to advise, but I can also sell the ORV product.
Who does my warranty work down here? I have a fabulous, well known independent that’s worked on my past two RVs. I’d prefer to use the for any work.
Can you put a generator in the orv?
For that matter, I have a short list of specific questions…
1) Does the small couch in the 30RLS pull out into a bed? (have a child)
2) can you reach the fridge with the slides closed?
3) Is the second A/C ducted or is it only direct dump into the bedroom?
4) What size is the second A/C?
5) What is the CCC of your unit as configured?
6) Do these windows just tilt out to open?
For some reason, on this page, a lot of the photos you have posted have a description of like.. the underbelly, but the photo itself is of the desert floor.