When planning an RV road trip, one question that often arises is whether it’s possible—or advisable—to tow a car behind your rented RV. Towing a car can provide added convenience, offering you flexibility when you arrive at your destination. However, it is not always as simple as hitching up your vehicle and hitting the road. There are several factors to consider when towing a car with your RV rental. Here’s everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
1. Understanding RV Towing Capabilities
Before you even think about attaching your car to the RV, it’s essential to understand whether your rented RV is capable of towing a vehicle. Not all RVs are equipped to tow, and it’s important to check the towing capacity of your rental. The weight of the car you plan to tow must be within the RV’s towing limit, which is usually outlined in the RV’s manual or by the rental company. Exceeding the towing capacity can lead to serious safety risks, including mechanical failure or accidents on the road.
Typically, RVs fall into two categories when it comes to towing:
- Motorhomes (Class A, B, and C): These are often equipped with towing capacities, but the weight and type of vehicle you can tow will depend on the model and the class of the RV.
- Travel Trailers and Fifth-Wheel Trailers: If you are renting a travel trailer or fifth-wheel, the towing vehicle (typically a truck or SUV) must have the proper towing capacity to handle the load.
To avoid complications, always confirm the towing capacity of your RV rental and compare it with the weight of the vehicle you wish to tow.
2. Types of Towing Systems
When towing a car with an RV, it’s crucial to choose the right towing system. There are three primary methods for towing a car behind an RV, each with its own set of advantages and considerations:
- Flat Towing (All Four Wheels on the Ground): This is one of the most common methods for towing a car behind an RV. It involves attaching the car to the RV using a tow bar, allowing the car’s wheels to stay on the ground while being towed. Many vehicles are suitable for flat towing, but it’s important to check the car’s owner manual to ensure it can be safely towed in this manner.
- Tow Dolly (Two Wheels on the Ground): A tow dolly lifts the front two wheels of the car off the ground while leaving the back wheels on the road. This method is ideal for cars that cannot be flat towed, but it can be less convenient since you must load and unload the car onto the dolly each time you stop.
- Car Trailer (Four Wheels on the Ground): A car trailer is the most secure method for towing a car, as it lifts the entire vehicle off the ground. This option is best for heavier vehicles or those that cannot be safely towed with a tow bar or dolly. However, trailers are bulkier and can be more challenging to maneuver.
Each towing method requires specific equipment, which may or may not be provided by the RV rental company. It’s essential to inquire about what’s included in your rental and whether additional towing equipment will need to be rented separately.
3. Rental Company Policies on Towing
Not all RV rental companies allow their vehicles to be used for towing. Policies vary widely, and some companies have restrictions on towing altogether. If towing is permitted, there may be additional fees involved for the equipment, such as a tow bar or dolly. Some rental companies also require you to purchase additional insurance coverage when towing a vehicle to ensure that you are protected in case of an accident or damage to the car or RV.
Before committing to an RV rental, make sure to carefully review the rental agreement, particularly the sections regarding towing. Pay attention to any clauses that restrict or prohibit towing, and confirm with the rental company whether towing a car with the RV is permissible. If towing is allowed, ask for a full list of requirements and equipment needed.
4. Additional Costs of Towing
While towing a car can provide significant convenience, it often comes with added costs. Besides the potential fees for renting the necessary towing equipment, you should consider the additional fuel consumption and maintenance expenses that come with towing. The added weight of the car will increase fuel consumption, meaning you may need to budget for higher gas costs. Furthermore, the wear and tear on the RV’s transmission, brakes, and suspension can lead to higher maintenance costs, especially if you plan on towing for long distances.
Also, be mindful of the tolls and road fees. In some areas, additional charges apply for vehicles with trailers or vehicles being towed, so make sure to factor these costs into your overall trip budget.
5. Safety Considerations When Towing
Towing a vehicle behind your RV requires additional attention to safety. It’s crucial to ensure that the car is properly secured and that all towing equipment is correctly installed. Double-check the hitch, tow bar, and any safety chains to make sure they are tightly fastened before setting out on the road. Regularly inspect the car’s tires, lights, and brakes if it is being flat towed to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
When driving with a towed vehicle, remember that the RV’s handling will change. The added weight of the car may affect braking distance and maneuverability, so it’s important to drive with extra caution, especially in windy conditions or on mountainous roads. Practice braking and turning in safe areas before hitting the highway to get accustomed to the altered driving dynamics.
6. Alternatives to Towing a Car
If towing a car with your RV rental is not an option or seems too complicated, there are alternative ways to have a vehicle available at your destination. You can consider renting a car at your destination, which may be more convenient than towing a vehicle. Alternatively, if you plan on staying in one location for a while, some RV parks and campgrounds offer shuttle services or have rental cars available on-site.
7. Is Towing Right for You?
Ultimately, whether or not towing a car with your RV rental is the right decision depends on your travel needs. Towing offers the benefit of flexibility, allowing you to explore without needing to drive your RV to every destination. However, it requires careful planning, additional costs, and consideration of the RV rental company’s policies. For some travelers, the added convenience is well worth the effort, while others may prefer to explore alternative options that offer more simplicity.
If you do decide to tow, make sure to choose the appropriate equipment, confirm the rental company’s policies, and drive safely while towing. With proper planning, towing a car can enhance your RV experience and provide the freedom to explore at your own pace.