Can I tow a car or trailer behind my RV?

Towing a Car or Trailer Behind an RV: Key Tips and Best Practices

Many RV enthusiasts want to bring along a second vehicle or trailer for extra convenience during trips. Whether it’s a small car for running errands or a utility trailer packed with outdoor gear, towing can be a practical option when you’re exploring new destinations. Yet, proper preparation is essential to avoid safety hazards or mechanical stress on your RV. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about towing behind an RV, including how to determine towing capacity, what equipment you’ll need, and the best ways to stay safe on the road.

Understanding Dinghy (Toad) Towing

When you see a car rolling behind an RV on all four of its wheels, it’s referred to as “dinghy towing” or “toad towing.” This approach typically attaches a vehicle directly behind the RV using a specialized tow bar. Dinghy towing is popular because it’s straightforward: once you arrive at your destination, you can simply detach the car, hop in, and explore areas where a large RV can’t easily maneuver. However, dinghy towing requires that your vehicle be compatible with this setup. Certain cars can be pulled with all four wheels on the ground, while others need modifications.

Step One: Check Weight Ratings and Capacities

Before you tow a second vehicle or trailer, confirm that your RV can handle the load. Manufacturer specifications are your best friend here. You’ll see a few key ratings:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum total weight your RV can safely carry, including passengers, fuel, cargo, and hitch weight from your towed load.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum combined weight of your RV plus whatever it’s towing. Your GCWR must not be exceeded.
• Maximum Tow Rating: Specific to the towing setup. This is the maximum weight your RV’s hitch and drivetrain are designed to pull.

Make sure the car, trailer, or cargo you plan to tow (plus extra gear) doesn’t exceed these ratings. Ignoring tow limits can lead to unsafe handling, increased wear on your brakes, and possible damage to your engine or transmission.

Equipment You’ll Need

There’s more to towing than just hooking up a hitch and driving off. Equip yourself with the right tools and hardware to maintain a secure connection:

• Receiver Hitch: This is mounted to the RV’s frame. It must match the weight capacity required by your towed vehicle or trailer.
• Tow Bar or Tow Dolly: Use a high-quality tow bar if you’re dinghy towing. For vehicles not suitable for four-down travel, a tow dolly (which lifts the front wheels off the ground) might be an option.
• Safety Chains or Cables: These act as backup to maintain a connection if the tow bar or main coupling fails.
• Braking System: Many jurisdictions require a supplemental braking system for the towed vehicle. This reduces stopping distance and helps keep you in control.
• Lighting and Wiring: The towed vehicle or trailer must have working brake lights, taillights, and turn signals. A proper wiring harness is crucial.

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installing and using this equipment. If you’re not sure how to do something, consult a mechanic or an RV service professional. Properly attaching cables and verifying that your braking system works can mean the difference between a smooth trip and a roadside emergency.

Balancing and Weight Distribution

When towing a trailer, weight distribution matters. Too much weight on the tongue can cause the back of your RV to sag, making steering and braking more difficult. Too little tongue weight, however, can cause the trailer to sway or fishtail. Generally, aim for a tongue weight that’s about 10% to 15% of the trailer’s total load. Use a weight-distribution hitch if necessary to even things out, especially with heavier loads.

Meanwhile, if you’re dinghy towing a car, one advantage is that weight is distributed across all four wheels of the towed vehicle, rather than concentrated on a hitch point. Still, confirm that your entire setup is balanced side to side, ensuring that neither the RV nor the towed car is leaning in a way that could impair handling.

Driving Tips for Towing

Driving an RV on its own can be challenging. Adding a second unit to the mix means you’ll need to be even more vigilant. Here are some tips:

• Go Slower: Keep your speed under control. Momentum takes longer to build and likewise more distance to stop when towing.
• Allow Extra Space: Leave plenty of following distance, especially when merging or braking.
• Check Mirrors Frequently: Always know what’s happening behind you and watch for any sway.
• Plan Fuel and Rest Stops: Not every gas station or parking area can accommodate your extra length. Map out stops in advance.
• Practice Turning: Wide turns are a must. Be aware of your swing when cornering or navigating tight spaces.

Safe driving when towing is all about predictability, patience, and preparation. New to towing? Practice in a large, empty lot, or on a quiet back road before heading onto main highways. The more comfortable you become, the smoother your vacation will go.

Navigating Local Laws and Requirements

Laws regarding towing vary by jurisdiction. Some regions have specific rules about what types of braking systems are required, which lights are necessary, and whether a second vehicle can be “flat towed” (all wheels on the ground). To avoid tickets, fines, or safety issues, research the areas you’ll travel through:

• Check the speed limits for vehicles towing a trailer.
• Read up on braking requirements—certain states or provinces require supplemental brakes if the towed load is beyond a certain weight.
• Know whether you’re allowed to tow more than one item behind your RV (also called double-towing). Many places do not permit this, even if you see others doing it.

A little research ahead of time can help you avoid logistical headaches and keep you more confident in your setup.

Maintaining Your Towing Setup

Over the course of a long trip, parts can loosen. Make it a routine to inspect your hitch, tow bar, wiring, and tires at every pit stop. Look for any unusual wear on your safety chains or cables. Check that all lights are functioning and that your supplemental braking system is operational. If you notice anything out of place, address it right away instead of waiting until it becomes a serious problem.

When to Consider Trailer or Car Storage

Sometimes, you won’t want to bring along a second vehicle on your RV adventure—especially if you’re not planning to venture far from your campground or you’re traveling on narrow mountain roads. In other cases, you may prefer to store your car, boat, or utility trailer securely instead of leaving it in your driveway. That’s when a spacious, hassle-free storage solution can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to temporarily park a cargo trailer or you need car storage in a convenient location, an outdoor facility can give you peace of mind.

For instance, if you have a utility trailer that you only use part of the year, finding cargo and utility trailer storage can help you avoid crowding your driveway. Many facilities also offer pull-through stalls for customers, simplifying the process of dropping off and picking up your trailer. Whenever you want to tow it behind your RV again, it’s ready to go—without taking up space at home.

Insurance and Liability

Always check with your insurer about coverage for towing a second vehicle or trailer. Some policies may cover your towed vehicle under your RV policy, while others require separate coverage. It’s important to clarify what happens if there’s an accident or if the towed car suffers damage along the way.

Likewise, if you plan to store a car or trailer at a facility, confirm whether your existing auto policy covers storage, theft, or damage. Storage facilities often encourage renters to ensure they have coverage for their vehicle to protect against unpredictable events. Verifying that your insurance aligns with your needs allows you to travel and store your belongings with greater peace of mind.

Tips for Safe Hookup and Detachment

Attaching or detaching a towed vehicle is a step-by-step process:

1. Park on a Flat Surface: Set your parking brake and ensure the RV is stable before hooking up or detaching.
2. Follow a Checklist: It’s easy to miss a step if you’re rushing. Use a written or mental checklist so that you connect all cables, secure pins, and test the wiring.
3. Double-Check Lights: Turn on your RV’s headlights and blinkers to verify that the towed vehicle’s lights respond properly.
4. Watch Clearance: Be mindful of your environment, whether it’s traffic, curbs, or uneven ground, so you aren’t forced to maneuver awkwardly while hooking up.
5. Perform a Test Drive: Drive forward slowly. Check your mirrors to ensure everything appears level and stable with no dragging or swaying.

Detaching is basically the reverse: make sure you’re on flat ground, chock wheels if needed, and release tension on the tow bar before undoing pins or cables. Taking your time at these steps helps prevent potential accidents or equipment damage.

Gas Mileage and Wear Considerations

Towing will almost certainly affect your RV’s gas mileage. Heavier loads can require more trips to the pump, and mountainous or hilly terrain can amplify the effect. Additionally, towing puts some added stress on your RV’s engine and transmission over time. Budget for extra maintenance, such as more frequent fluid checks and possibly an upgraded cooling system if you frequently haul a heavy car or trailer.

This trade-off can be worth it if having that spare vehicle greatly increases convenience, but it’s good to be aware that towing can impact your travel costs and wear-and-tear maintenance.

Choosing Between Towing Methods

In many cases, you have multiple ways to bring a second vehicle. Dinghy towing, tow dollies, and trailers each have benefits:

• Four-Down (Dinghy) Towing: Quick to set up once the system is installed, and it’s very convenient for day trips. But not all cars are suitable without modifications.
• Tow Dolly: Lifts the front wheels off the ground. It can be used with many vehicles, but you might need space to store the dolly at your destination.
• Enclosed Trailer: Offers extra protection for the car and may let you bring additional storage. However, the trailer itself adds significant weight and length.

Review your own preferences, the specifics of your vehicle, and the potential for weather exposure when deciding which method works best.

Seasonal and Long-Term Storage

If you only tow a car or trailer for part of the year—maybe during summer road trips or winter escapes—then you might be left with the question of where to keep it the rest of the time. Letting your extra vehicle or trailer sit in a residential neighborhood can be stressful, especially if local bylaws restrict on-street parking of oversized vehicles. That’s where having access to a secure, hassle-free storage lot can be a smart solution. It’s especially important if you need to store multiple vehicles. A well-maintained facility that offers 12×40 ft gravel stalls can provide enough room to park even the biggest setup without tangling with driveways or street curbs.

Many RV owners find that it’s worth investing in a flat-rate storage plan to ensure they’ve always got a dedicated spot to stash their towing equipment. Plus, if it’s just outside the city, you’ll have convenient access when it’s time for your next trip. Look for a fenced and gated facility that offers reliable security and no hidden fees so you can focus on your travels rather than the complications of parking.

Wrapping Up

Towing a car or trailer behind your RV can bring a new level of freedom to your adventures, but it comes with responsibilities. You’ll need to familiarize yourself with proper towing gear, local regulations, and safe driving techniques. As long as you stay within your weight restrictions and maintain your equipment, towing can be a smooth, efficient way to enhance your travels.

If you decide not to bring a second vehicle, or if you need a place to keep it secure when it’s not in use, cargo and utility trailer storage can be a worthwhile option. Whether it’s a small car, a family camper, or a work trailer, storing it properly ensures peace of mind and convenience. Good luck on your RV journeys—and here’s to safe and enjoyable towing wherever the road takes you!