Toy Hauler

A relatively new type of RV is the SURV, or Sport Utility Recreational Vehicle, also known as a "toy hauler."

There are two kinds of toy hauler - motorized and towable.

The motorized toy hauler is essentially a motorhome with a garage. Built either as a Class A or Class C motorhome, part of the floorplan is devoted to a room for carrying motorized fun machines such as ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, jet skis, dune buggies or other toys. A large door on the side or rear, with integral ramp, provides easy access. The garage space will usually have an easy-to-clean vinyl or metal floor, tie-down hooks and perhaps some utility cabinets and storage. Some even have an optional fuel tank for dispensing gas to your toys. The rest of the motorhome then has the expected amenities, such as a bathroom, galley and sleeping quarters.

When the vehicles are off-loaded, many SURVs have beds in the “garage” area. Some are cleverly mounted on tracks that move the mattresses to the ceiling, out of the way. Just push a button, and a single bed or bunk beds move down and provide as many as four additional sleeping spots while the toys are parked outside.

• Sleep up to six
• Typically cost $100,000 to $350,000 new

The fifth wheel and travel trailer “toy haulers” are also known as SURV trailer (Sport Utility RV) or SUT – Sport Utility Trailer. These generally have a garage area at the rear of the rig, perfect for motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis or other motorized toys. A built-in ramp eases loading or unloading, and tie-downs help secure the motorized cargo. This garage area can be separated from the living space by a wall with a door, so that if you travel without your toys, you can still utilize the cargo space from inside the rig. Or, when the vehicles are parked outside the trailer, the garage space can be used as a bedroom. Some even have beds that cleverly fold into the sides or slide up against the ceiling.

Another type of SURV trailer has an open platform at the front of the trailer for the toys. When buying an SURV trailer, make sure your towing vehicle can handle the fully loaded weight of the trailer, with all its equipment and potential toys.

• Sleep up to 12
• Typically cost $21,000 to $65,000 new