How to Choose a Bunkhouse Camper
Why the Bunkhouse Layout Matters for Families
A bunkhouse camper gives kids their own sleeping space — separate from the master bedroom. This sounds simple, but it changes the whole dynamic of camping as a family. Parents get privacy. Kids get a space that feels like theirs. Everyone sleeps better and fights less.
If you have two or more kids and plan to camp as a family, a bunkhouse floor plan is almost always the right decision. The question is which one — and that depends on how many people you are sleeping, what you are towing it with, and how much you want to spend.
Bunkhouse Layout Types
Double Bunks (Most Common)
Two bunks stacked vertically — a lower and an upper. Standard configuration. Works for two kids, fits in most mid-size travel trailers. The lower bunk is often wider and serves as a sofa during the day in some floor plans.
Triple Bunks
Three bunks stacked, or two on one side and one on the other. Sleeps three kids in the bunk room. Requires a larger trailer — typically 30 ft or longer. If you have three kids or frequently bring cousins, this is worth looking for.
Bunkhouse with Master Bedroom
The standard family floor plan: master bedroom at the front or rear, bunk room at the opposite end, living area and kitchen in the middle. Provides the best separation between adult and kids sleeping areas.
Bunkhouse with Murphy Bed
Some floor plans combine a bunkhouse with a Murphy bed in the main living area. The Murphy provides an additional sleeping surface for guests or an extra adult. Maximizes capacity without increasing trailer length significantly.
Key Decisions Before You Shop
How many people are sleeping? Count everyone — adults and kids. A floor plan that sleeps six in theory may mean two people on a fold-out dinette. Know where everyone will actually sleep, not just the maximum listed on the sticker.
Ages of your kids. Young children fit easily in standard bunks. Teenagers need more bunk length and often want more separation. If your kids are older, a bunk room with a door or curtain matters more than it does for a 5-year-old.
What are you towing it with? Bunkhouse trailers tend to be longer and heavier than standard models. A bunkhouse floor plan that sleeps eight is typically 32–36 ft and may push past half-ton tow limits. Know your payload capacity before you fall in love with a floor plan. Call us at (330) 534-4044 and we will help you match.
Bunkhouse Models We Carry
All three of our major lines — Jayco, Forest River Salem, and Rockwood — offer bunkhouse configurations across several floor plans. Current availability changes with inventory. Call (330) 534-4044 or visit homesteadrv.com for what is on the lot today.
| Brand / Line | Bunkhouse Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jayco Jay Flight | Multiple bunkhouse floor plans | Jayco's best seller — moves fast. Well-appointed, mid-range pricing, excellent bunkhouse selection. Call to confirm current floor plans in stock. |
| Jayco Jay Flight SLX | Bunkhouse floor plans across the range | More than entry-level — a fully capable line with honest pricing. Broad floor plan variety; some buyers camp their entire careers in the SLX line and never feel underserved. |
| Salem Hemisphere | Bunkhouse travel trailer floor plans | Mid-range to premium; well-appointed family layouts |
| Rockwood Signature Ultra Lite | Bunkhouse configurations available | Premium lightweight; families who want quality without max weight |
| Jayco Eagle (Fifth Wheel) | Bunkhouse fifth wheel floor plans | For families with 3/4-ton or 1-ton trucks wanting maximum space |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bunkhouse travel trailer for a family of five?
For a family of five, look for a floor plan with a dedicated master bedroom, a double or triple bunk room, and a convertible dinette for an additional sleeping surface if needed. The Jayco Jay Flight and Jay Flight SLX both have floor plans that hit this configuration well in the 30–34 ft range. Jay Flight moves fast — call (330) 534-4044 early and we will pull current floor plans that match your family size before the right one sells.
Can a half-ton truck tow a bunkhouse camper?
Some bunkhouse floor plans are within half-ton range — particularly in the Jayco Jay Flight SLX and Rockwood Ultra Lite lines. But many bunkhouse trailers exceed half-ton payload limits when loaded. Tell us your truck year, make, model, and payload number and we will match you to floor plans that actually work. Call (330) 534-4044.
How many does a bunkhouse camper sleep?
Most bunkhouse travel trailers sleep 6–10 people, counting bunks, master bedroom, and convertible dinette/sofa surfaces. The listed sleep number on a camper assumes every surface is used. For comfortable sleeping where everyone has a real bed, count the dedicated sleeping surfaces only.
What is the difference between a bunkhouse and a toy hauler for families?
A bunkhouse is built specifically for sleeping capacity and family living. A toy hauler has a rear garage for powersports equipment that converts to sleeping space. Toy haulers work for families who also bring ATVs, motorcycles, or bikes — but the garage conversion is less comfortable as a bedroom than a dedicated bunkhouse. We carry both. Call (330) 534-4044.
Do you have bunkhouse campers in stock in Girard, Ohio?
Yes — we typically carry bunkhouse floor plans across Jayco, Salem, and Rockwood. Availability changes with inventory. Check homesteadrv.com or call (330) 534-4044 to confirm what is on the lot right now.
More Bunks. More Memories.
Family-owned dealership. No-pressure sales. Girard, Ohio — serving Northeast Ohio and Western PA.
(330) 534-4044 | Browse Bunkhouse InventoryProduct specifications, features, and availability are subject to change without notice. RV manufacturers reserve the right to make mid-year changes to models, options, and standard equipment. Information on this page is provided as a general reference only. Always verify the specific details of any unit with our staff before making a purchase decision. Homestead RV Center is not responsible for typographical errors.