How to Store an Inflatable Boat in a Fifth Wheel

Many campgrounds are located near lakes, rivers or other bodies of water, so campers may wish to haul their own boats during their trip. Fifth-wheel trailers block the frame hitch on trucks, making it impossible to haul a standard boat trailer along with the fifth-wheel trailer. The truck bed is also blocked by the fifth-wheel hitch so that canoes cannot be carried in the bed. The compressibility of inflatable boats makes them ideal for hauling in fifth wheels. These boats come with two-piece oars and accessories making it easy to stow them away in a fifth wheel.

Things You'll Need

  • Vacuum cleaner
  • 12-volt air pump
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the area or storage compartment on the fifth wheel for the boat to be stored in. Ensure that the storage area has adequate amount of space for the boat and boat accessories.

    • 2

      Remove the accessories and motor from the boat, if applicable.

    • 3

      Remove the air fill valve protector caps and open the fill valves. Use a vacuum cleaner or 12-volt pump to to deflate the boat.

    • 4

      Fold the boat according to the manufacturer's directions. Place the folded boat and accessories into the boat storage bag and seal it.

    • 5

      Place the folded boat into the fifth wheel's storage compartment. Ensure there are no sharp objects in the space to puncture the boat.

    • 6

      Close and latch the hatch to the storage compartment.