Utah, with its majestic national parks, diverse landscapes ranging from arid deserts to snow-capped mountains, and an abundance of recreational opportunities, is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For many, the ideal way to experience this beauty is with the freedom and flexibility a travel trailer provides. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or a newcomer to the lifestyle, finding the perfect travel trailer for sale in Utah is the first step towards countless adventures.

travel-trailers-for-sale-in-utah
(Picture: rvtrader.com)

This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about purchasing a travel trailer in Utah, from understanding different types and popular brands to navigating the buying process, financing options, and essential regulations.

Why Choose a Travel Trailer for Utah Adventures?

Travel trailers offer a unique blend of comfort and mobility, making them an excellent choice for exploring Utah. Unlike motorhomes, they can be detached from your towing vehicle, allowing you to set up camp and then use your truck or SUV for day trips and errands. This versatility is particularly valuable when visiting national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Arches, where vehicle restrictions might apply to larger RVs.

Furthermore, travel trailers are generally more affordable to purchase and maintain than motorhomes, making them an accessible option for a wider range of budgets. They come in a vast array of sizes and floorplans, catering to solo travelers, couples, and large families alike.

Types of Travel Trailers You'll Find in Utah

The world of travel trailers is diverse, with various types designed to suit different needs and preferences. In Utah, you'll commonly encounter the following:

  • Conventional Travel Trailers: These are the most common type, ranging from small, lightweight models easily towed by SUVs to large, luxurious units requiring heavy-duty trucks. They offer a wide range of amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living areas.
  • Fifth-Wheel Travel Trailers: Designed to be towed by a pickup truck equipped with a special hitch in the truck bed, fifth-wheel trailers offer a higher ceiling, more spacious interiors, and often multiple slide-outs for expanded living space. Their towing mechanism provides a more stable and smooth ride.
  • Toy Haulers: A popular choice for adventurers, toy haulers feature a dedicated "garage" area at the rear of the trailer, perfect for transporting ATVs, motorcycles, kayaks, or mountain bikes. This cargo space often converts into additional living or sleeping quarters once the toys are unloaded. Toy haulers come in both conventional travel trailer and fifth-wheel configurations.
  • Pop-Up Campers (Folding Campers): These compact and lightweight trailers expand at the campsite to offer sleeping areas and a small kitchen. They are highly towable, even by smaller vehicles, and provide a more immersive camping experience, akin to tent camping but with added comfort.
  • Teardrop Trailers: Minimalist and often retro in design, teardrop trailers are incredibly lightweight and easy to tow. They typically feature a sleeping area inside and a small galley kitchen accessible from the rear. They are perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a no-frills, efficient camping solution.

New vs. Used Travel Trailers: What's Right for You?

When searching for travel trailers in Utah, you'll have the choice between buying new or used. Each option presents distinct advantages:

New Travel Trailers

Pros:

  • Latest Features and Technology: New models come with the most up-to-date amenities, innovative floorplans, and advanced RV technology.
  • Warranty Protection: New travel trailers are backed by manufacturer warranties, offering peace of mind against potential defects and repairs.
  • Customization Options: Depending on the dealer and brand, you might have the opportunity to customize certain features or choose specific upgrades.
  • No Prior Wear and Tear: You're the first owner, so there's no concern about previous maintenance history or hidden damage.

Cons:

  • Higher Purchase Price: New travel trailers come with a premium price tag compared to their used counterparts.
  • Depreciation: Like cars, RVs begin to depreciate the moment they leave the dealership lot.

Used Travel Trailers

Pros:

  • Lower Purchase Price: Used travel trailers offer significant cost savings, allowing you to get more RV for your money or stay within a tighter budget.
  • Slower Depreciation: The steepest depreciation typically occurs in the first few years, so a used RV will depreciate at a slower rate.
  • Established Reliability: Reputable used models often have a proven track record, and you can research common issues for specific years or brands.
  • Immediate Availability: Used trailers are usually available for immediate purchase, without waiting for manufacturing or delivery.

Cons:

  • Potential for Hidden Issues: Used RVs may have wear and tear or unforeseen maintenance needs. A thorough inspection is crucial.
  • Limited Warranty (or None): Most used RVs will have expired warranties, or only offer a limited used RV warranty from the dealership.
  • Outdated Features: Older models may lack some of the modern conveniences and technologies found in new RVs.

Where to Find New and Used Travel Trailers in Utah:

  • Dealerships: Utah boasts numerous RV dealerships, particularly in the greater Salt Lake City area, St. George, and other populous regions. These dealerships offer a wide selection of new and used travel trailers, often with financing options, service departments, and parts stores. Examples include Parris RV, The RV Store of Utah (Castle Country RV), Indy RV Sales, Camping World, Bish's RV, and Neal's RV.
  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like RVTrader.com and KSL Classifieds are excellent resources for finding both dealer inventory and private seller listings in Utah.
  • Private Sellers: Buying directly from a private owner can sometimes yield better deals, but requires more due diligence in terms of inspection and title transfer.

Popular Travel Trailer Brands in Utah

Several brands have gained popularity among Utah RVers due to their quality, features, and suitability for the local terrain. Some of the frequently seen brands include:

  • Forest River: A prolific manufacturer with a wide range of travel trailer lines, including Cherokee, Alpha Wolf, Wolf Pup, Grey Wolf, and Salem. Known for offering diverse floorplans and price points.
  • Keystone RV: Another major player, offering popular lines like Bullet, Springdale, and Passport. Keystone is known for its variety and often features family-friendly layouts.
  • Jayco: Recognized for their quality construction and diverse offerings, Jayco produces the Jay Flight, a consistently popular travel trailer.
  • Alliance RV: Gaining traction for its owner-focused design and modern amenities, Alliance RV offers lines like the Avenue and Delta.
  • Grand Design RV: Known for their attention to detail and customer service, Grand Design offers the Imagine and Transcend travel trailer lines, often featuring spacious interiors and quality finishes.
  • Outdoors RV: This brand specializes in rugged, four-season travel trailers designed for extended adventures, making them a good fit for Utah's varied climates.
  • Airstream: While at a higher price point, Airstream's iconic aluminum travel trailers are known for their durability, timeless design, and strong resale value.
  • Coachmen RV: Offers various travel trailer series, including Catalina and Freedom Express, known for their functional layouts.
  • CrossRoads RV: Produces the Zinger and Sunset Trail lines, often offering family-friendly layouts and competitive pricing.
  • Dutchmen RV: Known for its range of models, including Aspen Trail and Kodiak, catering to different budgets and needs.
  • Heartland RV: Offers a variety of travel trailers, including the Prowler and North Trail, with diverse floorplans and features.
  • nuCamp RV: Specializes in lightweight and compact trailers like the T@B teardrop and T@G models, perfect for those seeking smaller, more agile options.
  • Sunset Park RV: Known for their lightweight and often retro-styled trailers like the Sun Lite and Sunray, appealing to those seeking easy-to-tow options.
  • Venture RV: Offers modern and lightweight travel trailers like the Sonic and SportTrek.
  • Wayfinder RV: A newer brand gaining popularity, offering a range of models like Go Play, Go Lite, and Skybreaker.

Key Considerations When Buying a Travel Trailer in Utah

Before making a purchase, several factors should influence your decision:

  1. Towing Capacity of Your Vehicle: This is paramount. Know your vehicle's Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) and tongue weight capacity. Never exceed these limits. Travel trailers have Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR) that include the trailer's dry weight plus all cargo, water, and propane.
  2. Budget: Determine your overall budget, including the purchase price, taxes, registration, insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. Don't forget about potential upgrades or accessories.
  3. Size and Layout: Consider how many people will be traveling and sleeping in the trailer. Do you need bunk beds for kids? A separate bedroom? A large kitchen or living area? Think about how you'll use the space.
  4. Camping Style: Are you planning weekend trips to developed campgrounds, or do you envision extended boondocking (dispersed camping without hookups)? This will influence your need for features like solar power, large freshwater tanks, and robust off-road capabilities.
  5. Amenities and Features: Make a list of "must-have" features (e.g., air conditioning, heating, full bathroom, outdoor kitchen, slide-outs) and "nice-to-have" features.
  6. Seasonality: Utah experiences all four seasons. If you plan to camp year-round, consider a four-season or "Arctic" package for better insulation and climate control.
  7. Condition (for Used Trailers): For used RVs, a thorough inspection by a certified RV technician is highly recommended. Check for water damage, appliance functionality, tire condition, and structural integrity.
  8. Resale Value: While not the primary concern, some brands and models hold their value better than others. Researching resale trends can be beneficial.

The Buying Process: Steps to Take

  1. Research and Prioritize: Begin by researching different types, brands, and models that fit your needs and budget. Read reviews and watch video tours.
  2. Set Your Budget: Determine your maximum expenditure, including all associated costs.
  3. Secure Financing (if needed): Get pre-approved for an RV loan. Many Utah banks and credit unions (like Bank of Utah and UCCU) offer specialized RV loans with flexible terms. Pre-approval gives you a clear understanding of what you can afford and strengthens your negotiating position.
  4. Visit Dealerships and View Private Listings: See travel trailers in person. Walk through different models, test appliances, and inspect the exterior and interior. Don't hesitate to ask questions.
  5. Test Drive (for towing): If possible, hitch the travel trailer to your towing vehicle (if you already own it) to get a feel for how it handles.
  6. Thorough Inspection: For used trailers, hire a professional RV inspector. For new ones, do a walk-through inspection with the dealer to identify any initial issues.
  7. Negotiate Price: Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially on used models or during off-peak seasons.
  8. Finalize Purchase: Sign all necessary paperwork, including the purchase agreement, title, and registration documents.
  9. Insurance: Obtain RV insurance before hitting the road.
  10. Pre-Delivery Walkthrough (PDI): Before taking delivery, a detailed walkthrough with the dealer is crucial. They should demonstrate how all systems work (electrical, plumbing, appliances, slide-outs, hitching, etc.). Take notes and ask questions.

Utah Travel Trailer Regulations

Familiarize yourself with Utah's specific regulations for towing and registering travel trailers:

  • Registration and Title: All travel trailers weighing more than 750 lbs must be titled and registered with the Utah DMV. Annual registration fees apply. New trailers purchased from a Utah dealer are exempt from inspection for initial titling.
  • Brakes: Your travel trailer must have a service braking system capable of stopping the combination within 40 feet from 20 mph. A parking brake system is also required.
  • Dimensions: 
    • Maximum total length (vehicle + trailer): 65 feet
    • Maximum trailer length: 40 feet (includes bumpers)
    • Maximum width: 102 inches (with some exceptions for appurtenances)
    • Maximum height: 14 feet
  • Hitch and Safety Chains: Every towed vehicle must be coupled with a safety chain, cable, or equivalent device in addition to the primary hitch. These must be securely connected to the chassis of both vehicles and have no more slack than necessary for turning.
  • Lighting: Required lighting includes tail lights, brake lights, license plate lights, and turn signals. Trailers over 80 inches wide must also have clearance lights.
  • Mirrors: Your towing vehicle must have mirrors on the left and right sides (or one inside and one left-side exterior) to provide a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.
  • Lane Restrictions: Vehicles towing trailers are generally prohibited from operating in the left-most general-purpose lane on highways with more than three lanes traveling in the same direction.
  • Load Extension: If your load extends more than four feet beyond the rear of the vehicle, specific lighting (at night) or red flags (daytime) are required to mark the extremities of the load.

Always consult the official Utah DMV website or local authorities for the most current and detailed regulations.

Utah: A Travel Trailer Paradise

Once you've acquired your ideal travel trailer, Utah truly opens up as an unparalleled destination. From the iconic red rock formations of Southern Utah's "Mighty 5" National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands) to the majestic mountains of the Wasatch Front, the serene beauty of Lake Powell, and the vast open spaces of the Uinta National Forest, there are endless opportunities for camping and exploration.

Utah offers a wide variety of RV parks and campgrounds, ranging from full-hookup resorts to primitive dispersed camping sites. Many state parks, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands provide designated camping areas, often requiring reservations during peak seasons.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect travel trailer for sale in Utah is an exciting endeavor that promises years of unforgettable adventures. By understanding the different types of trailers available, weighing the pros and cons of new versus used, familiarizing yourself with popular brands, and navigating the buying process with diligence, you'll be well on your way to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant recreation that the Beehive State has to offer. Happy trails!