by 
The Curious Bag
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Recreational vehicle (RV) is a term used to describe any vehicle designed to be lived and vacationed in. "RV" covers both motor homes and trailers. A fifth wheel is a kind of trailer distinguished by the way it connects to the towing vehicle.
Basics
A fifth wheel is a trailer attached to the bed of a truck by a coupling device, the fifth wheel itself. Non-fifth-wheel trailers are towed by way of a hitch on the towing vehicle's bumper.
Fifth Wheel
The fifth wheel is a horseshoe-shaped device, attached to the truck bed with rails. A "kingpin" on the trailer hooks into the fifth wheel and locks, allowing it to pivot for turns.
Identification
A fifth-wheel RV has an "upper level" that extends over the truck bed and fifth-wheel hitch. Regular travel trailers are not visibly split-level, as there is no need for them to fit over a truck.
Types
Fifth wheels are commonly 26 to 35 feet long, though longer models exist. They contain the same features as regular trailers, i.e., a place to sit, sleep, a bathroom, kitchen and hookups. Some fifth-wheel trailers may be toy haulers (they have a built-in garage at the back).
Considerations
Fifth wheels are often heavier than trailers and need a full-blooded truck to pull them. They are, however, more stable when towed, with little to no swaying. The fifth-wheel hitch must be fitted as an aftermarket addition.
Source:
RVers Online: Motorhome vs. Trailer
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