Towing A Car While Pulling A Camper: Is It Possible?

Towing a camper and a car at the same time is possible, but it requires careful planning and adherence to safety precautions. It is essential to check the laws and regulations of the state you are in and any others you plan to travel through, as the rules vary. Some states allow double towing, while others prohibit it due to outdated road infrastructure. Additionally, some states have restrictions on the total length of the units, the type of trailer, and the weight and towing capacity of the vehicles involved.

Before embarking on a trip with a towed camper and car, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and that you have the necessary equipment, such as hitches, electrical connections, and braking systems. Proper weight distribution, functioning lights and signals, and well-maintained tires are also important factors to consider.

Towing a camper and a car simultaneously is a complex task that requires skill and knowledge. It is important to be vigilant and cautious while driving and manoeuvring, as it can significantly impact your ability to stop safely and turn.

Flat towing, tow dolly, or car hauler

Flat towing, tow dolly, and car hauler are three methods of towing a vehicle. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best method depends on the type of vehicle being towed, as well as the preferences and constraints of the person doing the towing.

Flat Towing

Flat towing involves connecting the vehicle being towed to the tow vehicle via a tow bar, with all four wheels of the towed vehicle remaining on the ground. This method is simple, as it usually only requires one person to hook up the vehicle and load it onto the tow vehicle. It is also secure, as the vehicle being towed is fully lifted off the ground. Additionally, flat towing is compatible with most vehicle types. However, flat towing can be more cumbersome and may require more effort to load the vehicle. It also requires significant towing capacity and can be challenging to store due to its bulkiness.

Tow Dolly

A tow dolly is a partial trailer that lifts the front wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground, while the rear wheels remain on the ground. This method is generally less expensive than flat towing and is compatible with most drivetrains. Tow dollies are also easier to store due to their smaller size. On the downside, tow dollies can be more challenging to manoeuvre and back up, especially for those who are new to towing. Additionally, some states may require additional insurance and registration for tow dollies.

Car Hauler

A car hauler is a type of flatbed trailer that lifts the entire vehicle being towed off the ground. This method is advantageous as it keeps the vehicle being towed completely off the road, preventing any wear and tear. Car haulers are also easier to manoeuvre and store compared to tow dollies. However, car haulers may not be compatible with all vehicle drivetrains, and their large size can make it difficult to find a safe location to store them, especially in limited spaces like campgrounds.

Hitches and weight distribution

Types of Hitches

Hitches are devices that connect the trailer to the towing vehicle, and they come in different classes with varying weight capacities:

• Class I hitches are suitable for small cars and have a towing capacity of up to 2,000 lbs.
• Class II hitches are designed for standard-sized cars or small SUVs and can handle up to 3,500 lbs.
• Class III hitches are typically used for vans, trucks, and SUVs, with a starting capacity of 3,500 lbs and above.
• Class V hitches are meant for large vans and trucks, with a capacity ranging from 12,000 lbs to 20,000 lbs.

Weight Distribution Hitches

Weight distribution hitches are essential when the trailer's weight starts to approach or exceed half of the towing vehicle's weight. These hitches redistribute the weight by transferring weight from the front axle of the trailer to the rear axle of the towing vehicle, improving stability and safety. They are especially recommended when:

• The trailer weight exceeds 5,000 lbs for half-ton trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
• Tongue weight exceeds 500 lbs, which can cause uncontrollable trailer sway or make the front of the trailer "dive".
• The trailer being towed is high-profile or lightweight, as they are more susceptible to wind gusts and road conditions.
• There is noticeable rear suspension sag on the towing vehicle when the trailer is attached.

Calculating Towing Capacity

To ensure safe towing, it's crucial to understand the weight ratings of both the towing vehicle and the trailer:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum weight the RV can handle, including axles and tire ratings.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The maximum weight allowed for the towing vehicle and the trailer when fully loaded.
• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): The weight of the trailer as it leaves the assembly line, including basic amenities and appliances.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): The maximum additional weight you can load into your RV, calculated by subtracting UVW from GVWR.
• Hitch Weight or Tongue Weight: The amount of weight exerted on the towing vehicle's hitch ball, typically recommended to be 10-15% of the total trailer weight.
• Rear Axle Weight Rating (RAWR): The amount of weight the towing vehicle's rear suspension can handle.

When calculating towing capacity, it's recommended to have a capacity of at least 125% of the RV's GVWR. Additionally, the fully loaded trailer weight should not exceed 80% of the towing vehicle's capacity.

Safety Considerations

• Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines in the owner's manual for both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
• Ensure that the hitch components, including the sway bar and hitch, are rated for the proper weight.
• Consider the weight distribution of your load and aim for the 60/40 rule, placing 60% of the loaded weight in front of the trailer's center axle and 40% behind it.
• Regularly inspect and maintain your hitch and towing equipment to ensure they are in safe working condition.

Electrical connections

When towing a car with your RV, you will need to have an electrical connection between the two vehicles for lights, turn signals, brakes, etc. Coaches usually have a 6-pin or 7-pin connector mounted near the hitch itself. The type of connector you will need depends on the towing method you choose.

Tow-Bar Type Hitch

This is the most common and convenient towing method. It involves towing the vehicle with all four tires on the road, also known as "towing 4-down." This method requires a ball hitch or single-point connection at the RV and a two-point connection system at the towed vehicle. This type of connection allows the vehicle to swivel at the RV end while providing two stable connections to the front of the towed vehicle.

Most coaches have a 7-pin connector, but some have a 6-pin or even a 4-pin connector. The 4-pin connector is typically used for light towing and has three pins of one gender and one pin of the opposite gender. The 6-pin and 7-pin connectors are used for towing larger loads and are "keyed" round metal connectors.

Tow Dolly

The tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer with a "ball hitch" adapter that connects to the RV. The front wheels of the towed vehicle are driven onto the trailer and secured with straps and chains. This method does not require any specialized wiring or tow-bar adapters, but it can be physically demanding to hook up and disconnect. Backing up with a tow dolly can be challenging due to the short pivot point, which causes the towed vehicle to turn unpredictably.

Trailer

A trailer can be used to tow a vehicle behind an RV, and no mechanical or electrical modifications are needed for the towed vehicle. However, some campgrounds frown upon this method due to the extra storage space required for the trailer.

Electrical Connection Tips

When making electrical connections between your RV and the towed vehicle, it is important to ensure that the pins line up properly. If you are having difficulty making a connection, you may need to lubricate the pins with dielectric grease or remove any burrs or debris from the receptacle. It is also important to keep the connections clear of water and debris when not in use.

You can find pre-made cables and wiring kits for towed vehicles at most camper part stores. It is recommended to purchase both the male and female ends of the connector as a set to ensure a proper fit.

Vehicle weight ratings

When towing a camper and towing a car, it is essential to understand the weight ratings of the vehicles involved. Here is a detailed overview of the key vehicle weight ratings to consider:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): This is the maximum weight your vehicle can tow and can be found on a sticker in the driver's side door frame, in the owner's manual, or from the manufacturer. It is important to ensure that the total weight of your vehicle, including passengers, cargo, and liquids, does not exceed the GVWR.
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): The GCWR is the maximum weight allowed for the tow vehicle and the trailer when fully loaded. It is calculated by adding the weight of the tow vehicle (including passengers, liquids, and cargo) to the weight of the trailer (including its cargo and liquids).
• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): This is the weight of the trailer as it rolls off the assembly line, including basic amenities, batteries, and LP containers. It does not include passengers or additional cargo.
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): The CCC is the maximum amount of weight you can add to your RV. It is calculated by subtracting the UVW from the GVWR. Keep in mind that any accessories added and your camping gear will reduce the CCC.
• Hitch Weight/Tongue Weight: This refers to the amount of weight exerted on the tow vehicle's hitch ball. It is important to ensure that the hitch is rated for the proper weight and can handle the tongue weight of the trailer.
• Payload Capacity: This is the amount of cargo weight your tow vehicle can hold, including the weight of passengers and cargo inside the vehicle, as well as the hitch weight of the trailer.
• Rear Axle Weight Rating (RAWR): This is the amount of weight your vehicle's rear suspension is rated to handle. When towing a larger trailer or fifth wheel, ensure that the RAWR exceeds the trailer's hitch weight and any additional cargo in the truck bed.

When determining if your vehicle can handle towing a camper and a car, it is crucial to consider all these weight ratings and ensure that you do not exceed the specified limits. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for safe towing practices.

Safety equipment

Safety is a key consideration when towing a vehicle, and there are several pieces of equipment that can help ensure a safe journey. Here is a list of safety equipment to consider when towing a car behind a motorhome:

• Supplemental Braking System: A supplemental braking system is essential for safely towing a vehicle. It applies the brakes on the towed car when the brakes are applied in the motorhome, ensuring both vehicles slow down and stop together. This is a legal requirement in some states/countries.
• Baseplate: A baseplate is used for flat-towing a vehicle and can be vehicle-specific or universal.
• Safety Cables: Safety cables, or breakaway systems, connect the brake system on a trailer to the back of the tow vehicle. They activate the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes unhooked, helping to prevent accidents.
• Wiring Harness: A wiring harness may be needed to connect the trailer or towed car to the motorhome's lighting system, ensuring legal and safe operation.
• Weight Distribution Hitch: This type of hitch helps keep the tongue weight of a trailer at a safe level (around 10-15% of the load) to reduce the risk of losing control.
• Lights and Signals: The towed vehicle must have functioning brake lights and turn signals. These should be connected and synchronised with the motorhome to ensure other drivers can see your intentions.
• Safety Chains or Cables: In addition to a breakaway system, safety chains or cables provide added security by connecting the motorhome and the towed vehicle.
• Valid Licence Plates and Registration: Both the motorhome and the towed vehicle must have valid licence plates and registration.
• Auxiliary Transmission Cooler: Towing places additional stress on the motorhome's transmission. An auxiliary transmission cooler helps regulate the temperature of the transmission fluid and prevents overheating.
• Rear Camera: A rear camera can improve visibility and make reversing easier when towing a vehicle.
• Trailer Brake System: Some manufacturers use trailer brake systems, which provide independent braking control of the towed vehicle, improving braking performance and stability.

Remember to always check the relevant laws and regulations for the areas you will be travelling through, as these can vary by state/country. Additionally, regularly inspect and maintain your equipment, tyres, and vehicle systems to help ensure a safe journey.

Frequently asked questions