When we chose a Grand Design travel trailer, it was primarily because we could get the layout we wanted at the price point we needed. But we were also attracted to them for their interior design and the many features that support full-time living, such as a heated underbelly and dual air conditioners. Perhaps the final push was the glowing review of Grand Design from our sales representative. He didn’t just tell us Grand Design was great, but encouraged us to look at online reviews and owner forums.
This article focuses on my picks for the best Grand Design travel trailers in 2026, and how they stack up against one of their top competitors, Jayco.
The Best Grand Design Travel Trailers of 2026
Grand Design offers dozens of floor plans, from lightweight options in the Serenova line to spacious luxury in the Reflection line. Reviewing them all can be overwhelming, so I narrowed it down to small, medium, and large travel trailers, with options for couples, families, and solo travelers.
Transcend 295QBT
The Transcend 295QBT is actually Grand Design’s latest version of the camper we chose when it was the 297QB. Even though we are a travel couple with no kids or pets, we selected the model for the layout. Our families visit often, so we wanted a place for them, and at just under 36’, it sleeps up to ten!
What makes it unique is the rear bunk room with a full-size bottom bed and twin bunks overhead. The front main bedroom has a queen-sized mattress and a surprising amount of storage. Additional sleeping space is available on the sleeper sofa and convertible dinette.
Enjoy a full indoor kitchen and an outdoor griddle and refrigerator. The bathroom is adjacent to the main bedroom, a plus to me, whereas some travel trailers place the bathroom by the rear bunks.
To customize our space, we removed the bottom bunk and converted it into an office for remote work. The overhead bunks provide storage for our stand-up paddleboards and more, and when necessary, a bed for an extra guest. I wanted to share that tidbit to emphasize the space’s versatility and the importance of making a camper your own.
Jayco Comparison: The Jay Feather 29QBH is a strong bunkhouse competitor at a similar length, sleeping up to 11 with the optional king bed and theater seating. Solid-surface countertops are only available with the optional Premier Package, and the Transcend’s interior finishes feel more premium out of the box. The Jay Feather’s appeal is largely thanks to Jayco’s longer track record.
Transcend 335BHT
Images by Camping World
Sleeping up to twelve, the Transcend 335BHT is a great camper for hosting the extended family, or all the kids’ friends!
The rear bunk room includes four beds: two upper bunks, a larger lower bunk, and a 70” sleeper sofa. During the day, the sleeper sofa offers extra hangout space for the kids or guests, with a TV mount on the bunk room wall.
To match all that sleeping space, the living area has a large U-shaped dinette. Adjacent, you can choose between a sleeper or a theater-style sofa. The theater-style is a nice option if you don’t need more sleeping capacity than what you already get in the two bedrooms.
The main bedroom has a queen-size mattress and a surprisingly large closet that spans the entire front wall. Inside, there’s a laundry chute to the exterior pass through storage, keeping it out of the way and making it easy to grab on the way to the campground laundry room. But it’s also prepped to easily install a washer and dryer for added convenience.
At just over 37 feet, you’ll want to check campsite length restrictions when making reservations. Whether you are full-time RVers homeschooling along the way, or a large family who loves to camp on the weekends, this travel trailer is definitely one to consider.
Jayco Comparison: Compare against the Jay Flight 321BDS. The rear bunk room has an entertainment center rather than just a TV mount. The bathroom has a private entrance, making it easy to clean up the mess there rather than tracking it through the living area.
Transcend Xplor 22RBX
Images by Camping World
The Transcend Xplor 22RBX might be the best mid-size Grand Design travel trailer for a couple. I thought it deserved a place on this list because its layout feels like a small apartment.
Measuring less than 27’, it still has a private bedroom with a queen-sized mattress. It’s always a plus to have a separate living and sleeping space. In the main living area, the U-shaped lounge/dinette is standard, but theater seats are an option. The 84” dinette is great for hosting dinner guests or game nights, and also offers a workspace for digital nomads. The adjacent kitchen comes with a pull-out pet dish for furry travel companions.
At the camper’s rear, the bathroom spans the full width, giving two people enough space to use its amenities simultaneously.
Jayco Comparison: The Jay Flight 225MLS is a sensible match for the 22RBX: a lightweight rear-bath couples trailer that sleeps up to four. Out of the box, the Jayco is better suited to camping on established sites with hookups. If you want more off-road readiness, the Xplor edges ahead.
Imagine AIM 16MLA
The Imagine AIM 16MLA is one of Grand Design’s smaller travel trailers, measuring just 19′ 8″. With a dry weight of 3,813 pounds, it’s a great option for towing with a capable SUV or a smaller truck.
It has an open, studio-style floor plan. The queen mattress has storage on one side and underneath. Flowing into the living area, there’s a roll-over sleeper sofa facing the kitchen. For a small camper, there is a surprising amount of kitchen counterspace. With a two-burner gas cooktop and an air fryer/microwave combo, you will have plenty of cooking options.
I really appreciate a few of the upgrades in this year’s model, including the built-in soap dispenser and dedicated trash can storage in the kitchen. The bathroom spans the full rear width of the camper, maximizing the space.
Chances are, you’ll want to spend most of your time outside if you’re camping for a weekend or summer getaway. The AIM 16MLA comes with a folding table that can be used indoors or outside. You’ll also find the LP quick connect for grilling, plus a spray port for cleaning.
Jayco Comparison: The Jay Feather 18RBF is slightly larger, but has a similar layout. The open floor plan extends to the rear bathroom, which is slightly more compact than in the 16MLA. Flip-up dinner trays are attached to both sides of the sofa, eliminating the need for a dinette or the Imagine’s folding table. One additional amenity is the fireplace.
Serenova 160GL
I first saw the Serenova line at the 2025 Florida RV Supershow, and I loved it! The exterior immediately draws attention, looking more like a spaceship than an RV. With its sleek, rounded design and multitude of windows, it’s one of the sharpest Grand Design travel trailers.
At just over 20’, the Serenova 160LG is marketed as a compact, luxury travel trailer. Inside, you’ll find imported Italian cabinetry, solid-core cabinet stiles, and residential accent lighting. The front has a U-shaped dinette, surrounded by windows. The bathroom has space-saving features like the flip-up sink, while still maintaining a full, dry bath. In the rear, the queen-sized bed is framed by additional windows and has overhead storage. It’s a cozy layout, with a bright design accentuated by the natural light.
For solo or couple campers, this small travel trailer is definitely one to consider. You’ll enjoy the upgrades and look sharp in any campground.
Jayco Comparison: The Jay Feather Air 17FK is my choice as a close competitor to the 160GL. Both are compact, feature-forward solo or couples trailers with an emphasis on weight savings and off-grid capability. As a new 2027 floor plan, the 17FK looks impressive on paper. The Serenova’s advantage is Grand Design’s track record of interior fit and finish, which we’ve always appreciated in our rig.
Imagine 2300MK
Images by Camping World
Similar to the Transcend Xplor 22RBX, the Imagine 2300MK is perfect for couples or solo travelers.
As part of the Imagine upgrades, you will enjoy an upgraded residential-style shower, a 200-watt solar package, and solid surface countertops throughout. In my experience, solid surface countertops are so much better! They are longer-lasting and similar to what you would find in many residential kitchens. We recently had to upgrade our pressed-surface counters, stripping them down to the base and then pouring a marbled epoxy. We are very happy with the result!
The main bedroom has a queen-sized mattress and its own entry door. In the main living area, you can choose between a theater dinette or a U-shaped lounge. I love the bar seating at the kitchen counter, which provides dining space for two while keeping the other seating reserved for reading or watching movies.
This camper also has a full-width rear bathroom with a spacious countertop, linen closet, and medicine cabinet. This Imagine travel trailer offers upgrades that make life on the road more enjoyable.
Jayco Comparison: The Eagle 265FKDS is a premium travel trailer starting at a slightly higher price point than the Imagine 2300MK. The 265FKDS also has a 7’1″ interior height versus the Imagine’s slightly lower ceiling. For buyers who are stretching toward the top of the Imagine category, it’s worth knowing the Eagle exists. But the Imagine 2300MK delivers exceptional value without requiring that stretch.
Reflection 345RLTS
At first glance, you might think the Reflection 345RLTS is a much larger fifth wheel. At nearly 39’, the layout is as spacious as you’ll find in a travel trailer.
The open living area has two sofas, both a theater-style and tri-fold, so you won’t lose extra sleeping quarters. I love the kitchen, especially the island and its undermounted sink and pull-out trash can cabinet. The booth dinette is standard for families, but the freestanding option might better serve a camping couple.
The bathroom is mid-trailer and fairly standard, but the primary suite is huge. It even includes a washer-and-dryer hookup, plus an expansive closet that spans the entire front wall. The 345RLTS also includes an Arctic 4-Season Protection Package, making this one of the best 4-season travel trailers.
Jayco Comparison: The Eagle 320MKTS offers many of the same design options as the Reflection 345RLTS. Although not as long, at 33’8”, the living area is very spacious, with a tri-fold sofa and dinette, facing the entertainment center and fireplace. The one feature that absolutely caught my attention is the built-in desk facing the large rear window. Few travel trailers offer this, even though there are many digital nomads on the road!
Grand Design vs Jayco: Which is the Better Travel Trailer Brand?
Images by Camping World
Jayco is one of the largest RV manufacturers, founded in 1968. Grand Design is a much newer RV maker, founded in 2012.
Is Grand Design better than Jayco? Or vice versa? It depends on where you are in your RV journey.
If you’re a first-time buyer, camping on a budget, or want the widest possible selection of floor plans at accessible price points, Jayco is the stronger choice. In particular, the Jay Flight lineup offers reliable construction, a 2-year limited warranty and 3-year structural warranty, and enough floor plan variety to suit almost any camping style. Jayco’s dealer network is also one of the largest in the industry, which matters when you need service on the road.
If you camp frequently, plan to full-time, or want to keep your trailer long enough for resale value to factor into the decision, Grand Design earns its premium. Grand Design’s 1-year limited warranty is shorter than Jayco’s on the front end, but the 3-year structural warranty and 5-year frame warranty — both fully transferable to new owners — reflect a brand confident in what they’re building. Every time we’ve called or emailed Grand Design service over the past five years, they’ve been helpful and quick to respond.
Jayco for value and variety. Grand Design for build quality and long-term ownership. It comes down to how you camp and how long you plan to keep it.
Common Grand Design Problems and Owner Concerns
Over our five years, our biggest issues have been the peeling countertops and two leaky windows. The RV dealer replaced the windows, as they were still under warranty, and we haven’t had an issue since.
Like every major RV manufacturer, Grand Design has its share of reported owner issues. The most common complaints across owner forums include plumbing leaks, seal failures, and peeling non-solid-surface countertops — the latter being something we’ve experienced firsthand. Construction defects occasionally make it through quality control, which is why a thorough inspection before you leave the dealership is essential.
As of the date of publication, a class action lawsuit filed against Grand Design over alleged frame defects in campers sold between 2020 and 2023 remains ongoing. We recommend checking current records if this is a factor in your purchasing decision.
No matter what trailer you choose, maintenance is just as important as it is in a house. We have ours checked yearly, and do quarterly maintenance. Whether it’s checking seals, monitoring tire pressure, or occasionally weighing the camper to ensure it isn’t overweight, there are numerous steps you can take to make your trailer last.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’d call Grand Design a premium brand rather than a true luxury one. The build quality, fit, and finish feel elevated in our travel trailer compared to others we see in its price range. The Reflection and Serenova lines push closest to luxury territory. But if you’re comparing Grand Design to Airstream or Living Vehicle, you’re in a different conversation. What Grand Design excels at is delivering a near-luxury experience at a price that doesn’t require you to take out a second mortgage, which, for most of us, is a sweet spot.
Jayco is one of the most respected mid-tier manufacturers in the travel trailer market and has been for decades. Their strength has always been consistent construction quality and strong warranties across a wide range of price points. The Eagle is the closest Jayco comes to luxury, with premium finishes and a comprehensive cold-weather package, but I’d still consider that upper-mid-tier. For buyers who want a reliable, well-built trailer without paying a luxury premium, Jayco is a consistently popular choice.
Grand Design consistently ranks among the top travel trailer brands for resale value, largely because of its reputation for construction quality and high owner satisfaction. A well-maintained Reflection or Imagine typically retains 55-65% of its value after five years, outperforming the category average for mainstream travel trailer brands. The Reflection line holds particularly well because buyers shopping for used models in that price range know what they’re getting. If maximum resale value is your top priority, a well-maintained Airstream is the gold standard. But if you want strong resale value without Airstream’s upfront price, Grand Design is a smart choice.
If you’re interested in RVs, shop around and do your homework! Find an RV you love, one with the right layout for your lifestyle, and a price point you won’t regret. Talk to other RV owners, whether in person or via the online forums, and visit a local RV show.
Compare these to our picks for the best travel trailers in 2026.
Would you add other floor plans to this list of the best Grand Design travel trailers? Let us know in the comments below!
