After pouring over RV manufacturer's brochures, wading through RV websites and throwing a slew of questions at the friendly RV salesperson, you've finally selected the perfect trailer or fifth-wheel; but your homework isn't over yet.
Now is time to take the next step and determine what kind of tow vehicle you'll need to pull your dream RV. And from the list of makes and models to the healthy inventory of options, the choices are plenty. Make sure you're covered with Good Sam Roadside Assistance before you head out so that you can be covered for emergencies.
Tow Vehicle Weight
Despite the debates about gas versus diesel, two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, long or short bed, automatic or standard, or conventional cabs versus cabovers, the first and foremost issue remains weight considerations. You can use Camping World's tow guide to find out what you can safely tow.
What is the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?
To ensure safe towing, you'll to identify the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This can usually be found on the data plate of the trailer.
Check the Towing Guides
Then collect the towing guides from all the tow vehicle manufacturers under consideration. The towing guides will provide the maximum loaded trailer weight and the gross combined weight rating GCWR.
Always assume that you'll load the trailer to GVWR. To determine the maximum loaded trailer weight from the towing guide, simply enter the chart at the GVWR of the trailer and follow the table to the required tow vehicle. The towing guide will help you identify the size truck required as well as recommended equipment.
For some, calculating the towing capacity of a tow vehicle is about as much fun as cleaning the holding tanks; but it's crucial for RV safety as well as extending the life of your tow vehicle's engine.
Do you have good RV Roadside Assistance?
Make sure your RV roadside service plan covers your tow vehicle as well as your travel trailer or fifth-wheel. All of the Good Sam Roadside Assistance plans provide full coverage for your RV as well as your tow vehicles and all of your household vehicles.
Although RVing offers so much enjoyment, and it's a luxury to have access to so many choices when it comes to RV travel, RVers must take the time and energy to do their homework when purchasing any RV-related product or service.
