Since the mid-1990s when they are first introduced, slides have become increasingly popular on RVs, whether Class A or Class C motor homes, on fifth-wheels, or on travel trailers (and even tent trailers).
"Today, it would seem that all, or certainly the vast majority, of coaches sold are slide equipped," says Peter Mercer (aka Lug Nut, RV.net, April 23, 2009).
Yet for all their popularity, pop-outs have their pros and cons.
Advantages of Slides
The main benefit of slideouts is probably the sensation of spaciousness they provide, which is especially important to full-time RVers and to those who do long-term stays in their RV. Curtis on The Fun Times Guide (May 20, 2009) put it this way: "The feeling of openness and the ability to have more than one person standing in the RV's living room at a time will dismiss that closed-in feeling instantly, "
- Greater interior room when opened, especially for bedrooms
- Chairs can be rearranged for visiting with guests
- Especially beneficial for extended stays
- Push-button convenience for extension and retraction
- Families may find the extra floor space an advantage
"A bedroom slideout is probably the most desired slideout of all because the bedrooms inside RVs are notorious for being cramped." – Curtis
Disadvantages of Slides
RV technician Ray Oberreuter, writing on his blog, "RV-Motorhome-Answers" claims that "The nature of the [slide out] systems themselves invites a host of electrical, mechanical and logistic challenges."
The most frequently cited challenge is the tendency for gasket and seal failures. According to Curtis, "slideouts are the leading source of RV water leaks". Oberreuter agrees: "Sealing slide outs is a major challenge – especially in the extended position.... Achieving a watertight seal around the entire slide may be one of the most challenging aspects in sealing today’s slides"
The disadvantages:
- Reduced fuel economy from increased weight
- Cramped inside (and possibly unlivable) with slides retracted
- In truck stops or rest areas, there may not be room to open the slides
- Prone to leaks and gasket failures as seals age and dry.
- Some older campgrounds may have sites too narrow for slides (trees in the way, etc.)
- Increased maintenance required by slide rails and mechanics
- More gadgets means more things that can potentially go wrong
- Higher motorhome insurance costs
- Reduced "basement" storage space
"The areas around your slide can be the most open area of your motor home, fifth wheel or travel trailer. Water, light, varmints, insects, etc can get in," says Oberreuter
Final Thoughts on RV Slideouts
Slideouts keep the travel profile low while offering greater interior space when camped, an advantage for those who live in their RVs for long periods. On the other hand, they add weight and mechanical complexity.
RVs without slides are suitable for singles or couples, and recommended for those who travel a lot, do urban boondocking, or like to stay in state, provincial, and national parks and recreation areas. However, the fixed interior room means that a good layout is important. Mercer notes that "It is surprising how roomy one [non-slide RV] feels" if it has a good floor plan. Larger windows, smaller overhead cabinets, and light décor can all contribute to a more spacious feel.
"In my opinion," concludes Curtis, "slideouts are nice – but only if you stop a lot and for long periods of time. Otherwise, they tend to cramp the interior space of your RV quite a bit while you're driving."
The last word goes to Lug Nut: "So, for those [who] might be shopping for a used coach, don’t necessarily turn your back on a non-slide rig. It may just be the best coach you ever had."
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