If you're looking for a serious upgrade in your camping lifestyle, the forest river cardinal luxury fifth wheel 3700flx is one of those rigs that immediately catches your eye and doesn't let go. It's not just a camper; it's basically a high-end apartment on wheels that happens to have a hitch. For anyone who has spent years cramped in a tiny travel trailer or a mid-profile fifth wheel, stepping into this model feels like a massive breath of fresh air.
What sets this specific layout apart is the "FL" in the name, which stands for Front Living. While many RVs put the living room in the back, the 3700FLX elevates the lounge area to the front, over the truck bed. This creates a distinct separation of space that you just don't get in more traditional floor plans. Let's dive into what makes this particular Cardinal model such a standout in a crowded market.
That Front Living Room Vibe
When you walk up the steps and turn left, you're greeted by a living room that honestly feels more like a residential den than a mobile home. Because it's elevated, the ceiling height is a bit different, but the way they've utilized the five slide-outs (yes, five!) makes the room feel incredibly wide.
You've got dual tri-fold sofas facing each other, which is perfect if you're traveling with family or friends because you can actually have a conversation without craning your neck. In the center, there's usually a set of power theater seats that face a massive entertainment center. We're talking about a large LED TV that often hides away on a "televator" and a 5,000 BTU fireplace that kicks out enough heat to take the chill off a crisp autumn morning. It's the kind of spot where you can genuinely see yourself spent a rainy afternoon watching movies and not feeling like you're "stuck" inside a box.
A Kitchen Built for People Who Actually Cook
One of the biggest complaints about RV living is the lack of counter space. The forest river cardinal luxury fifth wheel 3700flx tackles this head-on. The kitchen is located in the center of the unit, creating a natural hub for the home.
You'll find a massive kitchen island that provides plenty of room for meal prep or just setting out snacks. The appliances are residential-grade, meaning you get a large microwave, a proper oven, and a French-door refrigerator that can hold a week's worth of groceries easily. No more playing Tetris with your milk and eggs every time you go to the store.
The storage in the kitchen is also worth mentioning. Forest River didn't skimp on the cabinets. You've got deep drawers for pots and pans and a pantry that can actually fit boxes of cereal and stacks of canned goods. Plus, the solid surface countertops aren't just durable; they look fantastic and are super easy to wipe down after a messy taco night.
The Master Suite Retreat
Moving toward the back of the coach, you pass the bathroom and head into the master bedroom. Since this is a luxury model, you're usually looking at a king-size bed as the standard. It sits in its own slide-out, which opens up enough floor space so you aren't shimmying along the walls just to get to your closet.
Speaking of closets, the rear of the 3700FLX features a massive hanging wardrobe. If you're a full-timer, this is a godsend. There's also dedicated space for a washer and dryer prep, so you don't have to spend your Saturdays at a sketchy laundromat down the road. The windows in the bedroom are positioned to allow for a nice cross-breeze, and there's plenty of storage under the bed for those extra blankets or seasonal gear you don't need every day.
A Bathroom That Doesn't Feel Like an Afterthought
Let's be real: RV bathrooms are usually cramped and depressing. But in the forest river cardinal luxury fifth wheel 3700flx, the bathroom actually feels like a room. The shower is a one-piece fiberglass unit with a seat and a skylight, so even if you're on the taller side, you won't be bumping your head against the ceiling.
They've included a porcelain foot-flush toilet (a must-have for luxury rigs) and a vanity with a decent amount of counter space for your toothbrush and morning essentials. It's clean, it's modern, and it functions just like the one you have at home, which makes a huge difference when you're on a long road trip.
Built for the Long Haul
It's easy to get distracted by the pretty interior, but what's happening underneath the skin of the Cardinal Luxury 3700FLX is just as important. This rig is built for four-season living. It features a heated and enclosed underbelly, which is crucial if you plan on camping in places where the temperature drops below freezing.
The construction uses high-gloss gel-coated fiberglass walls and a vacuum-bonded frame. It's sturdy, and you can feel it when you're walking around inside; there's a sense of "solidness" that cheaper trailers lack. It also comes with a hydraulic leveling system. If you've ever spent an hour messing with plastic blocks and a spirit level, you know how life-changing it is to just push a button and watch the RV level itself.
Exterior Features and Storage
Outside, the forest river cardinal luxury fifth wheel 3700flx continues to impress. Because the living room is raised, it creates a massive pass-through storage area underneath. You can fit your camping chairs, folding tables, grills, and even a few bicycles in there without much effort.
The awning coverage is usually generous, providing a nice shaded area for outdoor hanging. Many units also come equipped with outdoor speakers and prep for an exterior TV, making it easy to host a tailgate or just enjoy a quiet evening under the stars with some music.
Who Is This Rig For?
Honestly, the 3700FLX isn't for everyone. It's a big, heavy machine. You're going to need a serious truck to pull this—likely a one-ton dually if you want to be comfortable and safe on mountain passes.
However, if you are a full-timer, a "snowbird" heading south for the winter, or someone who wants to spend weeks at a time at a luxury RV resort, this is exactly what you're looking for. It bridges the gap between a traditional camper and a vacation home. It's designed for people who don't want to sacrifice their lifestyle just because they're on the move.
Final Thoughts
The forest river cardinal luxury fifth wheel 3700flx represents the pinnacle of what the Cardinal line has to offer. Between the five slides, the massive front living area, and the residential kitchen, it's hard to find many faults with the layout. It's spacious, well-built, and packed with the kind of features that make life on the road feel easy.
If you're tired of feeling like you're "roughing it" and you want a rig that makes you feel like royalty every time you step inside, the 3700FLX should definitely be on your shortlist. It's a significant investment, sure, but for the comfort and quality you get in return, it's a pretty compelling package for the serious traveler.