Today’s review is of the 2023 version of the Jayco Eagle HT 320FBOK. If you’re a regular reader of these columns, you might think that we just looked at this floor plan—and you’d be correct. But now I get the chance to ogle an Eagle for 2023. Hehe.
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Jayco Eagle HT
First and foremost, if you’re thinking “half ton” when you see the HT designation, forget it. At almost 9,000 pounds, this is a big beast that you’re going to want to control with something that’s got some oomph behind it. That’s not your half-ton truck, no matter what.
But what you get in exchange is a solid, well-made and hefty trailer. Instead of that light-feeling ultralight build, this has a solid, substantial feel that’s not common in travel trailers.
In fact, in many ways, this is more like a fifth wheel than a travel trailer. Except, of course, where you hook it to that tow vehicle. So let’s start with the jacks.
2023 upgrades
One of the biggest things I saw in this trailer are the jacks. Normally that’s not something you’d get all excited about—but this is different. The jack system on this is much more like a fifth wheel than a travel trailer.
For example, there is no tongue jack. Instead, there are two landing gear jacks, as you’d see on a fifth wheel, and that’s how you raise and lower the front of this trailer. There are a lot of advantages to this, the first of which is that you likely can drop down the tailgate of your truck because there isn’t a jack there.
The tongue of this trailer features two 30-pound propane bottles. Behind those is a rather large shelf where you could put a generator, if you chose to, or batteries, or all sorts of things. Rather than simply being the typical battery rails, this is an actual shelf. It is under a cove in the new front cap of this trailer, so it would be a great spot for a genny.
On the subject of that front cap, this is the first Eagle that sports a front windshield—but it actually makes sense the way it’s been implemented.
Front bedroom
One of the highlights of these trailers is an interior ceiling height that’s about six inches greater than you’d normally find in a travel trailer. At seven feet in interior height, this gives the Eagle a very, very open feel.
The windshield implementation on this specific model features a bench across the front in the bedroom and then closets on either side of that bed. It’s actually a nice place to sit. Also, there’s a big storage bay behind the sofa, sort of like a hope chest.
You can get either a queen- or king-sized bed in this model. The side tables on the queen-sized configuration are, of course, much larger. So if you’re wanting someplace to put phones or tablets or a CPAP machine, these are a good place for those.
The slide room on the road side also features windows in the side of the slide box. So you could open those for ventilation, plus there’s a window at the back. Jayco also has blackout shades all around.
Going into the main living space, there are closets on either side of the door of this trailer, one by the door and another on the road side. Likely, at least one of these will serve as a pantry.
A usable kitchen in the Jayco Eagle HT
Cooks will like a decent amount of counter space, lots and lots of drawers, and a big oven and microwave. This is an actual, real, usable kitchen. You also get a choice between a 12-volt DC compressor fridge or a propane-electric traditional RV gas absorption model.
Those waiting for a nice meal can sit in either a dinette or at a freestanding table and chairs, chosen at the discretion of whoever filled out the order form. While choosing things, that individual would also be able to choose between a trifold couch or theater seats, and this would be directly opposite the TV.
That slide room also features a flush floor like you’d see in some of those fancy Class A motorhomes. The flooring in the slide is the same as the rest of the floor, so it really works out nicely.
Flushing success
Lastly, the bathroom is also a big space in here. That extra ceiling height absolutely plays out well in the shower. The bathroom itself is spacious, too.
Further, there’s a space here that could serve multiple purposes. You could outfit this trailer with a washer and dryer by removing a cabinet, and it is plumbed for that. But if you leave it as it is, there’s a lot of storage, including hanging storage. There’s even a full-length mirror in here.
Jayco things
Jayco has been working to differentiate their offerings in a lot of ways. The one that I most gravitate toward is their JaySMART™ lighting system, where they flash the upper marker lights with the turn signals and also flash the side marker lights.
Those flashing upper lights might have stopped the idiot who rear-ended our travel trailer a couple of weeks ago—so I am a huge, huge advocate of this. Yes, I am referring to the new trailer we got in May. If you want more info on that, I mentioned it in my podcast, which you can hear here and see photos of the mess.
Jayco also has something called the JayPort™, which looks just like a receiver hitch but on the side of the trailer. This is where you’d hang the included Blackstone griddle. It’s a great idea.
There’s also a receiver hitch at the back of the trailer, but no bumper. No worries about that stinky slinky, folks. Jayco has a plastic tube for it under the trailer, which won’t rust.
Lastly, there is a provision to mount the observation camera over the door of this trailer so you can see who’s out there and what they’re up to when you’re inside without opening the door. Nice.
Boondocking and travel access in the Jayco Eagle HT 320FBOK
I am going to guess that this trailer is going to see more use as a destination model than anything. It really would be a nice rig to have if you’re traveling full time, particularly if you travel for work.
If you are off the grid, that 81 gallons of fresh water storage and 71 gallons of gray water storage would come in super handy. I could see a generator making a lot of sense out there in that alcoved tray on the tongue.
You’re not going to be able to access anything of consequence with the slides in, so this is not a mid-journey star. But I don’t see that as much of a big deal, either.
In conclusion
There is a lot to like about this, but the huge water storage and fifth wheel-like landing gear top my list. The interior is very, very spacious, and the whole trailer has a solid, high-quality feel to it.
I do wish the RV industry would never, ever, ever again use any designation that hints at what can tow trailers and, instead, provided universal information to help buyers make a safe and informed decision. But Jayco isn’t indicating that the HT means half ton. I can just see some dealers taking it and running with it.
The way this trailer feels and the open, high-end vibe just make this a cut above. It’s funny when I have to go looking for things I don’t like. The only thing I can spot here is the floor ducted heating, but that’s such a small nit to pick, quite frankly.
I think Jayco really nailed it here.
More from Tony
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Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a lifelong RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars. He also works closely with a number of RV manufacturers to get an inside look at how things are done and is a brand ambassador for Rockwood Mini Lite with his wife, Peggy.
You can also check out his RV podcast with Peggy.
These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers along with our writer’s own research. They are based on information from a single unit and may not reflect your actual experience. Shop your RV and dealership carefully before making a buying decision. We receive no money or other financial benefits from these reviews. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.
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##RVDT1941
I do not know why they put that couch in the master bedroom I rather have the closet space than the couch
Yes was thinking the same .
Id like to see the pictures.i like the stats. Thank you
OMG! Did a clown 🤡 design the interior. Good lord you couldn’t do worse 🙄 if you tried. Absolute worst.
What kind of rig do you have? This is the nicest TT on the market. You know nothing about Jaycos which are the best made, most reliable TTs and 5thWs extant.
Hi, Roger. I’ve had to delete some of “Ralph Cramdin’s” (note his “name”) comments. I think he’ll say anything just to get it posted, so I wouldn’t pay too much attention to what he says. Actually, he’s skating on thin ice at the moment. Have a good evening/night. 😀 –Diane
Diane, Thank you so much for your reply. I was quite surprised by the tone of this comment which seemed to be mean spirited. I simply have not heard such deprecating attacks on Jayco previously. I don’t own a Jayco. But I do admire its tireless attention to detail. This HT TT is high on my list for my next acquisition.
You’re welcome, Roger. I just wanted to put things into perspective for you, since you don’t see all of the incoming comments like I do. Have a good night. 😀 –Diane
Jayco has it coming, all the hot water lines were soft braided that popped off or leaked within the first month, with a pressure regulator! Ruined all cabinets etc. Second one has a 220 50 Amp sticker by the water tank filler. It is a 30 Amp trailer and the plug-ins on the other side. Quality is not a priority for Jayco profit is, what Warren Buffet wants mega profit and he owns about 78% percent of the Industry! He ruined Jayco!
Jayco went from #1 1 god knows where as soon as Thor bought them. Major Quality issues in the increased production demands and less pay for workers. That’s a fact. And this is a poor floor plan. Who wants a couch in the bedroom and another uncomfortable couch in the living area, No recliners? I have owned a few Jayco and probably never again. Good lord. I don’t skate either🙄
And apparently you will write anything just to post it also.
To me ,the bench in the bedroom makes no sense and doesn’t look very comfortable. The front windshield doesn’t provide a view unless you turn around.
A couch in the bedroom, but seating in the living room that’s no more than one gets in a small trailer. These designers must spend a lot of time in their bedrooms. To me, a complete waste of space vs a nice closet up front or more seating in the LR.
At 38′, I think they really missed the boat on usable layout in this one.
How do you get 81 gallons of water to the boondocking site ? Jayco voids warranties for carrying water in the tanks. So you would have a tank for fresh water in the tow vehicle and tanks for waste. Tony , how would you get the waste water into the tow vehicle ? A pump system perhaps or several small tanks that have to be lifted into the tow and out at the dump station . These are questions anyone thinking about boondocking with this trailer would like to have answers to. Don’t you think ?
Supposedly they have walked this one back. If you do an online search for “Jayco Warranty Carrying Water” you’ll find the info. Their position now is to ensure weight of water is included in your weight calculations to not go over weight ratings.
Will full tanks take it over on this one?
CCC is completely different from freshwater capacity. 81 gallons of water is over 700 pounds. Anyone who tows a rig with a full, water tank is asking for trouble. That much water (or any full freshwater tank) is going to destroy the rig’s center of gravity. Furthermore, a full tank of water sloshing back and forth will cause TTs to pitch over going around an Interstate corner at 65 mph plus. Rigs have been known to tumble over like a bowling pin carrying the tow vehicle off the road maiming (and yes killing) campers. The instructor who taught me how to tow a rig emphasized to never, ever tow a rig with a full water tank. I never carry more than 10-15 gallons max; enough for a navy shower on a dry camp stop over at a Harvest Host. My family loves to boondock. But we never fill the water tank to the brim until we are close to our final destination. We plan ahead on where to get water before we stop: Boy Scout Camps, vegetable roadside stands, restaurants, gas stations, Boondockers Welcome and Harvest Hosts have allowed us to fill our tank. And we call ahead to make arrangements where we can. Jayco will void the warranty if the amount of water in your tank plus your carry on exceed the CCC of the rig. This is misuse or abuse of the rig when something breaks or you have an accident. I’m with Jayco 100% on this. God may protect fools and drunks, but not stupid RVers.
Sounds like a really nice trailer. But no price!? 🙁
60K
$60,743. Sorry, Don. Tony added the chart after the fact (actually, about 20 minutes after you posted your comment). Have a great day. 😀 –Diane
I really like the light color scheme inside this trailer. I’m tired of the dark wood color in our trailer, but it is 10 years old and that was the fashion back then. I like that the kitchen is not in the slide. Less of a chance of problems coming from extending and retracting it. I absolutely love the 81 gallons of fresh water – a boondocker’s dream. But, a choice between batteries or a generator? How does that make any sense? No lights unless you fire up a ‘noise maker’? And speaking of lights, I wish manufacturers would mount the LED lights on the awnings on a deployed only use on the outside of the awning. That way the lights shine back on the trailer, not out into the campground which is annoying to everyone else. Something about blue lights in the dark . . .
I didn’t see a medicine cabinet in the loo. Wifey would walk out of the trailer and end her inspection right there.
In this case, HT means heavy trailer.
Other than all this, I really like this trailer.
The interior is pretty and the kitchen looks nice. But if you have more than 2 people someone will always be sitting at the dinette. And for that midnight bathroom trip, you have to walk through the living area? Pretty trailer but not as useful as some others you have reviewed.