What Open Road RV Is
Open Road Brands manufactures travel trailers and fifth wheels sold through RV dealerships across North America. The company makes models in several weight and price ranges, from smaller towable trailers to larger fifth wheels that require a heavy-duty truck. You do not buy directly from the manufacturer — you purchase through an authorized dealer, who handles financing, delivery, and warranty registration.
Open Road is owned by REV Group, a publicly traded company that also owns other RV brands. The trailers come with a manufacturer's warranty that typically covers structural defects and appliances for a set period, though the exact terms depend on which model you purchase and when.
Key Takeaways
- Open Road RVs are sold only through authorized dealerships, not directly from the company, so you will need to find a dealer in your region and negotiate price there.
- You must own or have access to a vehicle capable of towing the trailer's dry weight plus cargo, or have a truck powerful enough to handle a fifth wheel.
- The manufacturer's warranty covers structural and appliance defects for a limited time, but you should review the specific coverage document before purchase because exclusions vary by model.
- Financing, insurance, and campground fees are separate costs beyond the purchase price and should be factored into your total budget.
- Inspecting the trailer in person before purchase and taking delivery photos protects you against damage claims later.
Understanding Towing Requirements and Vehicle Compatibility
Before shopping for an Open Road trailer, you must know your vehicle's towing capacity. This number is listed in your vehicle's owner manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb. The trailer's dry weight — what it weighs empty — is the baseline, but you also need to account for cargo, water, propane, and passengers once you are traveling. Most trailers weigh 30 to 50 percent more when loaded than when dry.
For towable trailers, your vehicle's engine, transmission, and brakes must all handle the load. A truck rated to tow 10,000 pounds should not regularly tow a 9,500-pound trailer because you have no margin for error or cargo. Fifth wheels require a truck with a bed-mounted hitch and typically need a heavier-duty vehicle than travel trailers of similar size.
If your current vehicle cannot handle the trailer you want, you will need to budget for a new or used truck capable of doing so. This cost often exceeds the price difference between a smaller and larger trailer, so it is worth calculating early in your planning.
Dealer Selection and Price Negotiation
Open Road trailers are sold through a network of independent RV dealerships. Finding the right dealer matters because they handle warranty claims, service, and often financing. Start by searching "Open Road RV dealer near me" or visiting the Open Road Brands website, which lists authorized dealers by region. Call ahead to confirm they stock the model you are interested in — not all dealers carry the full product line.
Prices vary significantly between dealers and by season. RV prices are typically highest in spring and summer and lower in fall and winter. Dealers also negotiate on price, trade-in value, and add-ons like hitches, awnings, or extended warranties. Get quotes from at least two dealers before committing, and ask each one what is included in the base price versus what costs extra.
When you find a trailer you want to see, visit in person and walk through it completely. Check that all appliances work, doors and windows open and close smoothly, and there are no visible cracks, water stains, or damage. Take photos or video of the condition before you sign anything. If the dealer makes repairs before delivery, document those too.
Warranty Coverage and What It Protects
Open Road trailers come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The standard warranty typically runs for one year from the date of purchase, though some components may have shorter or longer coverage periods. Appliances like refrigerators and water heaters often have separate warranties from their manufacturers, which may be shorter than the trailer warranty.
The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from accidents or misuse, or issues caused by improper maintenance. It also does not cover cosmetic damage like fading or minor dents. You should request a copy of the full warranty document from the dealer before purchase so you understand exactly what is and is not covered.
Warranty claims are typically handled through the dealership where you purchased the trailer, not directly with Open Road Brands. If you move far from your original dealer, you may need to find another authorized dealer in your new area to service warranty issues. Some dealers charge a service fee even for warranty work, so ask about this when you purchase.
Financing, Insurance, and Ongoing Costs
The purchase price is only the beginning. Most buyers finance their RV through the dealership, a bank, or a credit union. RV loans typically run 10 to 15 years and require a down payment of 10 to 20 percent. Your interest rate depends on your credit score, the loan term, and current market rates. Get pre-approved for financing before you shop so you know your budget and can negotiate from a position of strength.
RV insurance is separate from auto insurance and covers the trailer itself, liability if someone is injured on your property, and personal belongings inside. Costs vary based on the trailer's value, your driving record, and the coverage level you choose. Request an insurance quote before you purchase so you can factor it into your total cost of ownership.
Beyond purchase and insurance, budget for campground fees (which range from free to $60+ per night depending on the facility), propane refills, maintenance, and repairs. Tires on RV trailers need replacement every five to seven years regardless of mileage, and this can cost $800 to $2,000 depending on the trailer size. Keeping these costs in mind helps you decide whether RV ownership fits your budget.
Delivery, Setup, and First-Time Use
After you purchase, the dealer arranges delivery to your home or a location of your choice. Delivery fees vary but typically range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on distance. Before the trailer arrives, make sure you have a level spot to park it and that your driveway or parking area can support the weight. Soft ground or gravel may not be suitable for long-term parking.
When the trailer is delivered, the dealer should walk you through all systems: how to operate the water pump, furnace, air conditioning, stove, and toilet. Ask them to show you where the fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks are located and how to dump and refill them. Request written instructions or a manual for any system you do not fully understand.
Before your first trip, practice hitching and unhitching if you have a towable trailer, or backing up if you have a fifth wheel. Take a short trip close to home to test all systems and identify any issues while you are still within the warranty period and close to the dealer.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Water leaks are the most common problem in RV trailers. They often start around roof seams, window frames, or where plumbing penetrates the walls. To prevent leaks, inspect the roof and seams regularly and reseal them every few years with RV-grade caulk. Keep gutters clear and park in a way that allows water to drain away from the trailer.
Tire blowouts happen more often on RVs than on cars because trailers carry heavy loads and tires sit unused for long periods. Check tire pressure before every trip and replace tires before they reach the age limit, even if tread looks acceptable. Carrying a spare tire and knowing how to change it is essential.
Appliance failures are common because RV appliances are smaller and work harder than their residential counterparts. Keep the refrigerator level, run the furnace regularly even in summer to keep seals from drying out, and follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule for the water heater and air conditioner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return an Open Road RV if I change my mind after purchase?
Return policies are set by the individual dealership, not by Open Road Brands. Most dealers do not allow returns once the trailer leaves the lot, though some offer a short window (typically 24 to 72 hours) if the trailer has not been used. Ask about the dealer's return policy in writing before you sign the purchase agreement.
What is the difference between a travel trailer and a fifth wheel?
A travel trailer has a hitch that connects to your vehicle's bumper and can be towed by a wide range of trucks and SUVs. A fifth wheel has a hitch that mounts in the bed of a pickup truck and requires a heavier-duty vehicle. Fifth wheels are generally more stable on the road and offer more living space for their weight, but they require a truck you may not already own.
How long does an Open Road RV last?
With proper maintenance, an RV trailer can last 20 to 30 years or more. The lifespan depends on how often you use it, how well you maintain it, and how it is stored. Trailers stored outdoors in harsh climates deteriorate faster than those stored in a garage or covered area.
Do I need a special driver's license to tow an Open Road trailer?
Most states do not require a special license for towing a travel trailer, even large ones. Fifth wheels may have different rules depending on the trailer's weight and your state's regulations. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call them directly to confirm the requirements for the specific trailer you plan to tow.
What should I do if I find a defect after taking delivery?
Contact the dealership when ready and request a warranty inspection. Document the defect with photos and keep all communication in writing. If the dealer refuses to address it, escalate to the dealership's manager or owner. You can also contact Open Road Brands directly, though they typically direct warranty claims back to the selling dealer.