The Best States For Triple Towing Your Camper

what states can you triple tow camper

Triple towing is a practice that involves towing two vehicles behind the vehicle being driven. While it is a legal practice in some states, it is prohibited in others. The laws regarding triple towing vary across different states in the US, with some allowing it within certain limitations and others forbidding it entirely.

Characteristics Values
States where triple towing is allowed Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Wyoming
States where triple towing is not permitted Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin
States with conflicting reports None

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States that allow triple towing

Triple towing is when you tow two vehicles behind the vehicle you are driving. For example, you might tow a fifth wheel or travel trailer behind your tow vehicle and then tow something else, such as a smaller trailer or boat, behind that.

Triple towing is dangerous, which is why many states don't allow it. However, about half of the US states do permit it, albeit with certain restrictions. These include:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Wyoming

Some states that permit triple towing require drivers to apply for a special permit. This usually involves a small fee and, in some cases, a test to demonstrate that the driver's setup and skills are fit for the road.

Even in states where triple towing is allowed, there are often specific regulations that include legal length, width, height, and weight, as well as possible non-commercial license endorsements. For example, in Nebraska, the maximum combined length allowed is 65 feet, whereas in Illinois, the maximum is 60 feet.

It is important to research the laws in each state you plan to travel through, as they can vary significantly.

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States that don't allow triple towing

Triple towing is illegal in most states along the East Coast of the United States.

  • Alabama
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Illinois
  • Kansas
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Mississippi
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Rhode Island
  • Texas
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin

While some states allow triple towing, or "hauling doubles" as it's known in the commercial trucking world, the laws vary from state to state, and even within states. For example, while triple towing is legal in Illinois, the maximum allowable width for vehicles on some roads is 102 inches, while on others, it's only 96 inches.

In Nebraska, the maximum combined length for one or two vehicles is 65 feet, whereas in Illinois, the maximum combined length is 60 feet, and one vehicle must be a fifth-wheel trailer.

Tips for towing safely

  • Check that your fifth wheel is equipped to tow another vehicle.
  • Learn your unladen vehicle weight (the weight of your fifth wheel before you load it up).
  • Check your insurance coverage for triple towing.
  • Check your brakes and tires (including pressure).
  • Remember that your risk increases with every additional item you're towing.
  • Increase stopping distances.
  • Consider weather conditions.

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Maximum vehicle length

The maximum length of vehicles when triple towing varies from state to state. Here is a list of the maximum vehicle lengths for triple towing in several states:

  • Nebraska: The maximum combined length for a two- or three-vehicle combination is 65 feet.
  • Illinois: The maximum combined length of a two- or three-vehicle combination (with a fifth-wheel trailer only) is 60 feet.
  • Indiana: The maximum combined length of a three-vehicle combination is 65 feet.
  • Idaho: The maximum triple towing length is 75 feet.
  • Indiana: The maximum towing limit is 60 feet.
  • Minnesota: The second trailer must be for recreational equipment, such as a boat, snowmobile, or ATV 4-wheeler.
  • California: A special endorsement is required on a driver's license to drive a motorhome that is over 40 feet in length.
  • Connecticut: The maximum combined length is 60 feet. Triple towing is not permitted.
  • Florida: The maximum combined length is 60 feet. Triple towing is not permitted.
  • Georgia: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is not allowed.
  • Iowa: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • Kansas: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is not allowed.
  • Louisiana: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • Michigan: A special endorsement is required on a driver's license to drive a motorhome that is over 40 feet in length.
  • Mississippi: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is not allowed.
  • Montana: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • North Dakota: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • Ohio: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • South Dakota: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • Utah: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.
  • Washington: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is not allowed.
  • Wyoming: The maximum combined length is 65 feet. Triple towing is allowed.

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Maximum speed limit

When triple towing, it's important to follow the speed limits set by each state. While some states may have a blanket speed limit for all vehicles, others have specific rules for large trucks and RVs, which typically apply to vehicles over a certain weight or with more than two axles. Here are the maximum speed limits for triple towing a camper in different states:

Alaska

The default speed limit for trucks and cars in Alaska is 55 mph, but it can go up to 65 mph on certain interstates. If you're towing a mobile home, the speed limit is further reduced to 45 mph.

Idaho

In Idaho, the maximum speed limit for triple towing is 75 mph. However, you must not exceed speeds of 65 mph to stay within the legal limit.

Indiana

Indiana has a more restrictive speed limit for triple towing, with a maximum limit of 60 feet in length and 65 mph in speed.

Illinois

Triple towing is not permitted in Illinois.

Nebraska

In Nebraska, the maximum combined length for triple towing is 65 feet. While there is no specific speed limit mentioned, it's important to abide by the posted speed limits and drive at a safe speed for your vehicle.

Minnesota

Minnesota allows triple towing, but only with a fifth wheel and a watercraft/ATV/motorcycle/snowmobile combo. The maximum speed limit for triple towing in Minnesota is 65 mph.

California

In California, vehicles with a declared gross weight of more than 26,000 lbs are subject to a reduced speed limit of 55 mph. This includes trucks with a manufacturer's rated capacity of more than one ton.

Washington

Washington has a unique set of rules for triple towing. They post signs for "trucks", which include vehicles over 10,000 lbs or those that are towing. The speed limit for these vehicles is set at 60 mph.

Other States

While the above states have specific regulations for triple towing, other states have varying rules. For example, Colorado allows double towing (towing two trailers) but does not specifically mention triple towing. Florida, on the other hand, prohibits double or triple towing altogether. It's important to check the specific regulations for each state you plan to travel through.

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Safety measures

Triple towing is a dangerous endeavour that requires careful preparation and adherence to safety measures. Here are some essential safety tips to consider before attempting to triple tow a camper:

Check State Laws and Regulations:

Before embarking on your journey, thoroughly research the laws and regulations of each state you plan to travel through. Triple towing is illegal in many states, especially along the East Coast. Each state has its own specific restrictions, including maximum vehicle width, length, and height. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines and legal consequences.

Assess Your Driving Skills and Experience:

Triple towing significantly increases the complexity of driving. Ask yourself if you have enough driving experience, especially in handling large vehicles or challenging conditions such as bad weather or tyre blowouts. Always be cautious and honest about your skill level.

Calculate Combined Weight and Towing Capacity:

Ensure that your combined weight and towing capacity are within safe limits. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific towing guidelines. Overloading your vehicle can lead to dangerous situations and mechanical failures.

Inspect Your Vehicle and Equipment:

Have your fifth wheel thoroughly inspected to ensure it is equipped to tow another vehicle. Check if you have the necessary hitches, such as a gooseneck or ball hitch. Additionally, make sure your hitch is rated for the weight it will be carrying.

Configure Safety Equipment:

Special configurations of safety equipment are required for triple towing. Attach safety chains to the outer edge of your fifth-wheel hitch. You will also need to wire the rear trailer brake lights and turn signals into your fifth-wheel RV or up to the truck pigtail.

Optimise Brakes and Tyre Pressures:

Ensure that your brakes and tyre pressures are optimised for towing. Well-maintained brakes and proper tyre pressures are crucial for safe towing, especially when dealing with the increased weight of triple towing.

Drive with Caution:

When triple towing, your vehicle's handling, acceleration, and braking capabilities will be significantly affected. Drive slowly and carefully, giving yourself extra time and space to manoeuvre, accelerate, and stop. Avoid backing up or attempting to reverse, as it will be extremely challenging to control all three vehicles in unison.

Utilise a Backup Camera:

Install a backup camera to improve visibility behind your vehicle, especially when changing lanes on highways and navigating turns. This will enhance your safety and make it easier to monitor surrounding traffic.

Comply with Speed Limits:

In states where triple towing is permitted, there are often specific speed limits for triple-towing vehicles. Comply with these speed limits to avoid getting a ticket and to ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers. Remember that accelerating and braking will take longer due to the increased weight.

Avoid Bad Weather Conditions:

Driving in bad weather, such as slick roads or reduced visibility, can be extremely hazardous when triple towing. Wait for favourable weather conditions before embarking on your journey to minimise the risk of accidents.

Frequently asked questions

Triple towing is when you tow a trailer (like a fifth wheel) behind a towing vehicle and then attach another trailer to the fifth wheel.

No, triple towing is not legal in all states. It is important to check the regulations of the specific state you are in and any states you plan to travel through.

Triple towing can be dangerous, so it is important to have the proper experience and knowledge. It is also crucial to check your weight and towing capacity, as well as your insurance coverage.

Yes, some states only allow certain types of vehicles to be triple towed, such as recreational vehicles or boats.

Speed and length restrictions vary by state, but it is common for states that allow triple towing to have speed limits of 55-65 mph and length limits of 60-75 feet.

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