Are you new to RV towing or looking to make your RVing experience safer and more enjoyable? While there are plenty of nice-to-have RV upgrades and accessories, it's helpful to first focus on the essential towing must-haves every RVer needs for safe and comfortable traveling. As full-time RVers with almost a decade of experience towing our large fifth wheel through 42 states, we've discovered what gear is truly necessary to tow your RV confidently and stay out of trouble on the road. In this article, we'll share our insights on the essential equipment you need for a safe and secure RV towing experience.
Choosing the Right Tow Vehicle
One of the biggest mistakes we see RVers make is not choosing the right tow vehicle. This issue often stems from incorrect information provided by RV sellers. Remember, it's always better to have more towing capacity than you need rather than pushing your vehicle to its limits.
Towing Capacity Considerations
Before hitting the road, thoroughly research what your current or prospective vehicle can safely tow. Manufacturers provide specific weight limits that should never be exceeded. Never approaching your truck's maximum towing capacity is crucial, especially when dealing with mountainous terrain or large hills.
Payload capacity is equally important. This includes the weight of passengers, cargo, and the trailer tongue. Overloading can strain your vehicle's suspension and compromise handling.
Be wary of misinformation from RV sellers. Verify towing specs directly from your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website. Remember, actual towing capacity may be lower than advertised due to factors like aftermarket modifications or additional equipment.
Braking System Requirements
A robust braking system is essential for safe RV towing. Your tow vehicle must be capable of stopping both itself and the trailer effectively. Many newer trucks come with integrated trailer brake controllers. If yours doesn't, aftermarket options are available. This device activates the trailer's brakes in sync with the tow vehicle, improving stopping power and stability. Keep reading to learn more about brake controllers.
Vehicle Power and Torque
Adequate power and torque are vital for confident towing, especially in hilly or mountainous areas. Look for vehicles with strong low-end torque, which helps with acceleration and climbing. Diesel engines often excel in towing due to their high torque output. However, modern gasoline engines with turbocharging can also perform well.
Essential Towing Equipment
Proper towing equipment ensures safety and stability when hauling your RV. Investing in quality components is key for a smooth and secure towing experience.
Tow Hitches and Receivers
Selecting the right tow hitch is paramount for safe RV towing. Never compromise on quality to save money. A sturdy, well-made hitch provides the foundation for your entire towing setup.
We've always used B&W trailer hitches for both fifth-wheel RVs, and we highly recommend the quality of this brand. Their reputation for durability and reliability makes them a top choice among experienced RV owners of both travel trailers and fifth wheels.
When choosing a hitch, consider your vehicle's towing capacity and the weight of your RV. Ensure the hitch is rated to handle your specific load. Proper installation is vital for safety, so if you're unsure, consult a professional.
Weight Distribution Systems
For travel trailers, a weight distribution hitch is essential for balancing the load between your tow vehicle and trailer. This equipment helps maintain steering control and reduces stress on your vehicle's frame.
By evenly distributing weight, these systems minimize sway and improve overall stability. They're especially important for longer travel trailers or those with significant tongue weight.
Look for systems with adjustable spring bars to fine-tune the weight distribution. Some models include built-insway controlfeatures for added safety. If your weight distribution hitch doesn't include sway control, you may need to add on the device separately.
Sway Control Devices
Sway control devices are must-have accessories for travel trailer owners. They help prevent the side-to-side movement that can make towing dangerous, especially in windy conditions or when passing large vehicles.
There are two main types: friction sway controls and dual-cam systems. Friction controls are simpler and more affordable, while dual-cam systems offer more precise control.
For enhanced stability, consider also upgrading your truck's suspension with Timbren SES (Suspension Enhancement System). This addition can significantly reduce sway while also improving your vehicle's handling and control while towing.
Timbren SES To Support Your Truck's Suspension For Towing
When towing an RV, you may notice your truck's rear end squatting under the weight. This can lead to unstable towing and increased sway, compromising safety on the road.
Enter the Timbren SES, a game-changing accessory for RV towing. This device easily replaces your truck's rear bump stop, resulting in a smoother, more controlled ride while towing.
Installing Timbren SES is a breeze. You can do it yourself in about 30 minutes, and it requires no ongoing maintenance. It's a set-it-and-forget-it solution that pays dividends in stability and safety.
Many RV owners overlook this crucial accessory, but its impact is significant. You'll likely notice animmediate improvement in your towing experience after installation. After installing it on our truck, we experienced a comfortable and more stable ride, and I wish we had made this RV towing upgrade sooner.
The benefits of Timbren SES include:
- Reduced rear squat
- Improved stability
- Decreased sway
- Enhanced comfort while towing
- Increased peace of mind for you and your family
Don't make the same mistake we did and wait to install Timbren. Timbren SES can make a world of difference in your RV adventures, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trip.
Safety and Compliance
Proper safety equipment and compliance with regulations are essential for RV towing. These items help ensure a secure and legal towing experience on the road.
Brake Controllers
Brake controllers are crucial for safe RV towing. They activate your trailer's brakes when you apply the brakes in your tow vehicle. This synchronization prevents jackknifing and reduces wear on your vehicle's brakes.
There are two main types of brake controllers : proportional and time-delayed. Proportional controllers sense your vehicle's deceleration and apply trailer brakes accordingly. Time-delayed controllers apply a preset amount of braking power.
When choosing a brake controller, consider your trailer's weight and the frequency of your towing trips. Install the controller where you can easily reach it while driving.
Towing Mirrors
Towing mirrors extend your field of vision, allowing you to see beyond the width of your trailer. This improved visibility is crucial for safe lane changes and backing up your towable RV.
You have two options for towing mirrors : clip-on extensions or replacement mirrors. Clip-on extensions attach to your existing mirrors and are easily removable. Replacement mirrors offer a more permanent solution and often include additional features like power adjustment.
Choose mirrors that extend far enough to see past your trailer's widest point. Some models offer both regular and wide-angle views for comprehensive visibility.
Make sure your towing mirrors comply with local regulations regarding mirror size and placement. Properly adjusted mirrors reduce blind spots and enhance your overalltowing safety.
Cameras - Backup and Dashcam For Towing Safety
Dashcams are essential safety devices for RV towing. RVs with electric brakes often have longer stopping distances, making sudden braking risky. A dashcam can providecrucial evidenceif an accident occurs while you're towing.
After experiencing several of our own close calls on the road, we invested in a dashcam for peace of mind while towing. While often overlooked, this piece of gear is worth considering for your RV setup.
Backup cameras are equally important, especially when navigating tight campgrounds. Many RV sites require backing in, which can be challenging with limited visibility.
Installing a backup camera helps you avoid collisions with objects behind your RV. It's beneficial for spotting low-hanging branches, boulders, or campsite markers that might be hard to see otherwise.
Use a spotter along with your backup camera for added safety, or get out and look often. Potential hazards include:
- Low trees
- Picnic tables
- Utility poles
- Steep grades within the campsite
By combining technology and human assistance, you'll significantly reduce the risk of accidents while maneuvering your RV.
RV Safe GPS
When towing an RV, using a standard GPS can lead to serious problems. Regular navigation systems don't account for your vehicle's size and weight, potentially guiding you into hazardous, low-clearance situations.
RV-specific GPS units are essential for safe travels. These specialized devices consider your rig's dimensions and cargo, helping you avoid low bridges, narrow roads, and propane-restricted tunnel areas.
We use RV LIFE PRO, which creates routes safe for specific RV model specifications:
- Height
- Length
- Propane status
Investing in an RV-safe GPS can prevent costly damage and stressful situations. It allows you to focus on enjoying your journey rather than worrying about clearance issues or restricted routes. Choose a GPS designed for RV travel to ensure peace of mind on the road.
Final Thoughts On RV Towing Must-Haves
While RVing offers endless possibilities for adventure and exploration, ensuring your safety on the road should always be your top priority. By investing in these essential towing must-haves, you'll be well-equipped to handle the challenges of RV travel with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, when it comes to RV towing, it's always better to be over-prepared than under-equipped.
