Finding the perfect travel trailer can feel overwhelming, especially when you have a specific layout in mind. For many RVers, a rear kitchen floor plan offers significant advantages. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits of rear kitchen travel trailers, dives into popular models, and helps you navigate the decision-making process.
Why Choose a Rear Kitchen Travel Trailer Floor Plan?
Rear kitchen floor plans offer a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics, appealing to a broad range of RVers. Here's why they're a popular choice:
-
Outdoor Kitchen Convenience: The rear kitchen is often positioned near the exterior door, providing easy access to grills, campfires, and outdoor seating areas. This seamless transition between indoor and outdoor cooking spaces enhances the RV camping experience.
-
Spacious Living Area: Relocating the kitchen to the rear frees up significant space in the main living area, creating a more open and inviting atmosphere. This is particularly beneficial for smaller travel trailers where space is at a premium.
-
Improved Airflow: With the cooking area situated at the back, smells and heat are more easily vented to the outside, keeping the living area comfortable, even while preparing meals.
-
Enhanced Privacy: In some models, the rear kitchen layout subtly creates a separation between the cooking area and the sleeping/living areas, providing a sense of privacy, particularly useful for families or couples.
-
Easy Cleanup: Many rear kitchen models are designed with ample counter space and storage solutions, making meal preparation and cleanup more efficient.
Popular Models and Features to Look For:
While specific models change frequently due to manufacturer updates, several brands consistently offer attractive rear kitchen travel trailer options. When browsing, consider these key features:
-
Counter Space: Ample counter space is crucial for comfortable meal preparation. Look for models with extended counters or island options.
-
Storage: Sufficient cabinet and pantry space is essential for storing food, cookware, and other kitchen essentials.
-
Appliances: Pay attention to the quality and size of the refrigerator, stovetop, and oven. Consider your cooking habits when evaluating these appliances.
-
Lighting: Adequate lighting is vital for nighttime cooking and cleanup. Look for models with well-lit countertops and overhead lighting.
-
Ventilation: Effective ventilation is crucial to remove cooking odors and steam. Check for powerful exhaust fans and strategically placed windows.
-
Exterior Storage: Many rear kitchen models offer additional storage compartments on the exterior, ideal for storing camping gear, outdoor cooking equipment, or extra supplies.
Examples of Brands Often Featuring Rear Kitchen Floor Plans (Note: Specific models and availability change frequently. Always check with the manufacturer for the most up-to-date information):
- Grand Design: Known for their high-end construction and innovative designs, Grand Design often includes rear kitchen options in their travel trailer lines.
- Airstream: While Airstream is known for its classic designs, some of their models incorporate modern layouts that include rear kitchens.
- Jayco: A popular choice for families, Jayco offers a variety of travel trailers with different floor plans, including those with rear kitchens.
- Forest River: Forest River produces numerous brands, and many of their travel trailers have rear kitchen options available.
Choosing the Right Rear Kitchen Travel Trailer:
Before making a purchase, consider the following factors:
-
Your budget: Prices vary widely depending on the brand, size, and features. Set a realistic budget before you start your search.
-
Your needs and preferences: Consider the size of your family, your cooking habits, and your camping style when choosing a model.
-
Towing capacity: Ensure your vehicle has the capacity to tow the chosen travel trailer safely and legally.
-
Pre-owned vs. new: Buying a pre-owned trailer can save money, but it's crucial to have it inspected thoroughly before purchase.
By carefully considering these factors and thoroughly researching available models, you can find the perfect rear kitchen travel trailer to enhance your RV adventures. Remember to visit dealerships, explore different models in person, and ask plenty of questions before making your final decision. Happy travels!