Hitching Pop-Up Campers: A Quick Guide To Towing

Hitching a pop-up camper is a complex process that requires careful attention to safety. The hitch, a part that connects the camper to the towing vehicle, is available in various types and designs, with weight being a crucial factor in the selection process. The weight distribution of the setup must be considered to prevent the camper from swaying or crashing into other vehicles. Additionally, the hitch ball size, including its diameter, shank diameter, shank length, and shank rise, must be compatible with the towing vehicle and the camper. Proper lubrication, safety chains, and stabilizers are also essential for a secure connection.

Hitch types and weight classes

When choosing a hitch to tow your pop-up camper, it's important to select the right type and weight class to ensure a secure towing setup. Here's a detailed guide on hitch types and weight classes to help you make an informed decision:

Hitch Types:

• Weight Distribution Hitch: This type of hitch is typically used for RVs and larger trailers. It features dual spring rods connected to chains with metal ends. Weight distribution hitches help control the weight of your setup by reducing tongue weight, which is the maximum downward pressure on your hitch. While not commonly required for pop-up campers, they can enhance stability when towing heavier loads.
• Bumper Hitch: Bumper hitches are designed for lighter vehicles, making them a suitable option for pop-up campers. They are characterised by a square receiver tube that goes over the towing vehicle's bumper.
• Pintle Hitch: This hitch consists of two parts: the lunette, which resembles a thick metal ring, and the pintle, which looks like a metal wrench. Pintle hitches are capable of pulling significant weights but are generally not necessary for pop-up campers.
• Gooseneck Hitch: If you own a truck, a gooseneck hitch that fits in your truck's bed can be considered. While you won't need its high weight capacity for a pop-up camper, it's good to be aware of its capabilities.
• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: Similar in function to a gooseneck hitch but with a different design, a fifth-wheel hitch can handle substantial weights. It connects to the truck's king pin and is held in place with a jaw.
• Front Mount Hitch: One of the few front hitches available, the front mount hitch has a square receiver and is typically used for purposes other than towing a camper, such as trailer parking assistance and snowplough conversions.
• Rear Receiver Hitch: This hitch is similar to the front mount hitch but is installed at the back of your towing vehicle. It also has a square receiver and is an excellent choice for towing pop-up campers. Rear receiver hitches come in five weight classes, from the lightest to the heaviest.

Weight Classes:

In North America, hitch classes are defined in SAE J684, and there are four primary classes based on maximum towing weight capacity and tongue weight. When selecting a hitch for your pop-up camper, it's important to consider the "dry" or "shipping" weight of your camper and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). If your camper weighs less than 2,000 lbs., a Class I hitch will likely suffice, although opting for a higher class provides future upgrade options.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the hitch weight and GVWR may not directly correlate, as weight distribution within the camper can vary. Therefore, it's crucial to refer to the hitch weight or "tongue weight" specified by the manufacturer when making your selection.

Choosing the right ball mount

Trailer Level

Firstly, you want to ensure that your pop-up camper trailer remains level when hitched to your tow vehicle. Selecting a ball mount with the correct rise or drop is essential to achieve this. A level trailer will tow better and provide a smoother ride. It's important to measure the height from the ground to the top of the hitch on both the tow vehicle and the camper to determine the required rise or drop of the ball mount.

Ball Size and Hitch Compatibility

It's crucial to choose the correct ball size for your pop-up camper. The standard ball size for pop-up campers is typically 2 inches in diameter. However, some older or lighter-weight trailers may use a 1 7/8 inch ball. Always check the specifications of your camper to confirm the required ball size. Additionally, ensure that the ball mount you choose is compatible with the hitch on your tow vehicle. The ball mount should have the correct shank diameter and length to fit securely into the hitch receiver.

Weight Capacity

Consider the weight of your pop-up camper when selecting a ball mount. Ball mounts have weight ratings, and it's important to choose one that can handle the tongue weight of your camper. The tongue weight is the amount of weight exerted downward on the hitch by the camper. Ensure that the ball mount's weight rating exceeds the tongue weight of your camper for safe towing.

Adjustable Ball Mounts

If you plan on towing different trailers with varying heights, you may want to consider investing in an adjustable ball mount. These ball mounts offer multiple height settings, allowing you to tow trailers of different sizes while maintaining a level ride. Adjustable ball mounts are a versatile option that can save you from having to purchase multiple ball mounts.

Sway Control and Trailer Brakes

When towing a pop-up camper, consider adding sway control devices and trailer brakes to enhance safety. Sway control devices help reduce trailer sway, making towing more stable, especially in windy conditions or when large vehicles pass by. Trailer brakes assist in stopping the trailer and can be crucial in emergency situations. Some states even mandate the use of trailer brakes, so be sure to check the regulations in your area.

Safety precautions

Hitching a pop-up camper to your towing vehicle requires careful attention to safety. Here are some detailed safety precautions to follow when hitching and using a pop-up camper:

Choosing the Right Hitch:

• Select a hitch that is suitable for your pop-up camper's weight and size. Lighter-weight hitches are typically used for pop-up campers due to their lightweight nature.
• Common hitch types for pop-up campers include bumper hitches, rear receiver hitches, and gooseneck hitches.
• Ensure the hitch is properly secured to the towing vehicle and the camper, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Inspect the condition of your towing vehicle and camper before hitching. Check for water damage, mould, electrical issues, and proper functioning of equipment, accessories, coupling socket, and lights.
• Ensure the tires on both the towing vehicle and the camper are in good condition, with proper wear and inflation.
• Distribute weight and cargo evenly across the towing vehicle and camper to maintain stability.
• Perform a test drive after hitching to ensure the coupling is secure and functioning correctly.

Safety While Towing:

• Drive with caution, especially on uneven terrain or in unfavourable weather conditions.
• Avoid towing your pop-up camper in strong winds, thunderstorms, snowstorms, or floods. These conditions can pose a risk to your safety and the stability of the camper.
• Use stabilizers, jacks, and wheel chocks to secure the camper, especially when parked on uneven surfaces like hills or rocky areas.
• Ensure your camper hitch is always securely attached when parked.
• Regularly maintain your towing vehicle and camper, including winterization and cleaning, to prevent the degradation of parts and ensure safe operation.

Security Measures:

• Avoid locking the pop-up camper with a lock, as it may attract thieves.
• Use a small personal alarm attached to the zipper of the camper to scare off potential intruders.
• Utilize a safe box at the campsite or in your car to store valuables when they are not in use.
• Get camper insurance to protect yourself financially in case of theft or damage.
• Immobilize the camper when parked by using a towing headlock or wheel shoe.
• Park your camper with the tiller facing the driveway, if possible.

Trailer towing checklist

• Check your vehicle's towing capabilities: Review your vehicle's manual to understand its towing capacity and ensure it can handle the weight of your pop-up camper and any additional equipment.
• Choose the right hitch: Select a suitable hitch for your towing vehicle and pop-up camper. Common types include bumper hitches, weight distribution hitches, and rear receiver hitches. Ensure it meets the weight requirements and attaches securely to both the vehicle and the camper.
• Confirm ball mount and ball hitch compatibility: Check that the ball mount and ball hitch have the correct dimensions and weight capacity for your setup. The ball diameter, shank diameter, shank length, and shank rise are critical measurements to consider.
• Lubricate mechanical components: Grease the cable system, rollers, and wheel bearings of your pop-up camper to ensure smooth operation and reduce friction.
• Check tire pressure and wear: Ensure the tires are properly inflated and free from wear marks. Check the sticker label, owner's manual, or wheels for the recommended tire pressure.
• Verify exterior towing lights: Check that all exterior lights, including blinkers, are functional and visible to other drivers.
• Clean or replace the AC filter: Check the air conditioning unit's AC filter and clean or replace it if necessary.
• Distribute weight evenly: Ensure the weight of your pop-up camper and equipment is evenly distributed to avoid putting strain on the hitch or jack.
• Close and secure the pop-up trailer: Before hitting the road, make sure to fold and secure the walls, roof, and any expandable elements of the pop-up camper.

Hitching and unhitching processes

Hitching a pop-up camper to your towing vehicle requires careful preparation and attention to safety. Here is a detailed guide on how to properly hitch and unhitch your pop-up camper:

Hitching Process:

• Preparation: Study the process of hitching and create a physical checklist to ensure you don't miss any essential steps. Gather the necessary supplies, including lubricants, an apron, rubber blocks, duct tape, and a laminated checklist.
• Vehicle and Trailer Setup: Fuel up your vehicle and turn off appliances like the refrigerator and AC. Disconnect utilities, close and secure windows, vents, awnings, and antennas. Put away camping gear and move necessary items to the tow vehicle. Raise stabilizers and ensure wheel chocks are in place.
• Trailer Connection: Remove any hitch lock and flip up the receiver latch. Use a jack to raise the front of the trailer and lubricate the jack piston. Check wheel chocks if the trailer shifts during this process.
• Hitch Installation: Place the hitch close to the hitch receiver and lift it into position, sliding it gently into the receiver. If your hitch has removable sway control arms, remove them to make it lighter and easier to manoeuvre. Insert and secure the hitch locking pin. Apply grease to the hitch ball.
• Connecting the Vehicles: Use your vehicle's backup camera to slowly back into position, trying to align squarely with the trailer. Lower the trailer while pressing the brake on the tow vehicle to prevent it from shifting. Engage the safety brake and turn off the engine.
• Attaching Sway Bars: Attach sway bars to the trailer using chains that are ratcheted into place. Ensure you have the correct number of links attached before locking them. Attach the sway bars before fully lowering the trailer onto the hitch.
• Lowering the Trailer: Lower the trailer until the hitch ball is fully inside the ball receiver. Flip the receiver latch closed to lock the ball in place. Raise the jack and remove the jack blocks. Clean the jack blocks and the bottom of the jack foot to remove any lubrication residue.
• Connecting Brakes and Lights: Connect the brake and light cable to ensure proper signalling between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Attach the emergency brake release to the safety chain loops on the tow vehicle. This will engage the trailer brakes if the trailer detaches during transit.
• Safety Chains: Connect the safety chains, ensuring they don't drag on the ground. These chains are crucial in keeping the trailer attached to the vehicle in case of hitch or ball receiver failure.
• Final Checks: Remove wheel chocks and perform a final check around the trailer for open windows, latches, or forgotten camping gear. Conduct light checks to ensure brakes, running lights, and turn signals are functioning properly.

Unhitching Process:

• Parking and Stabilization: Park your vehicle and place wheel chocks on both sides of the trailer to prevent movement during the unhitching process. Ensure the area under the jack is flat and place rubber pads under it.
• Lowering the Jack: Lower the jack, positioning it in the centre of the rubber pad. Disconnect the brake cable, emergency chains, and emergency brake controller.
• Releasing Sway Bars: Use the jack to lift the trailer, reducing the tension on the sway bars. Once the tension is minimal, uncouple the sway bars.
• Unlocking the Hitch: Lower the trailer so that it puts some weight on the tow vehicle. Lift the ball receiver lock to release the hitch ball.
• Detaching the Trailer: Use the jack to lift the trailer off the hitch ball. If there is tension between the tow vehicle and the trailer, gently push down on the hitch to free the ball. You can also try moving the tow vehicle out of park to relieve the tension.
• Final Steps: Drive the tow vehicle forward and adjust the trailer to a level position using the jack. Carefully store the hitch using proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries.

Hitch Types for Pop-Up Campers:

When choosing a hitch for your pop-up camper, consider the different types available:

• Weight Distribution Hitch: Typically used for RVs, this hitch attaches to the back of the towing vehicle and features dual spring rods connected to chains with metal ends.
• Bumper Hitch: Recommended for lighter vehicles like pop-up campers, this hitch goes over the towing vehicle's bumper and is distinguished by its square receiver tube.
• Pintle Hitch: Consisting of a lunette (metal ring) and a pintle (metal wrench), this hitch is used for commercial-grade trucks and can pull significant weight, but it's not necessary for pop-up campers.
• Gooseneck Hitch: This hitch fits in the bed of a truck and can pull substantial weight, but it's not commonly used for campers.
• Fifth-Wheel Hitch: Similar in function to a gooseneck hitch but with a shorter and squatter design, this hitch can tow large pop-up campers and is exclusive to trucks.
• Front Mount Hitch: One of the few front hitches available, it has a square receiver and is used for tasks like trailer parking assistance and snowplough conversion.
• Rear Receiver Hitch: Similar to the front mount hitch but installed at the back of the towing vehicle, this hitch is suitable for pop-up campers and has five weight classes.

Frequently asked questions