How to Tow a Camper

A camper gives you the opportunity to travel and camp just about anywhere without giving up some of the modern conveniences of home, like a proper kitchen, running water and television. Your camper also represents substantial a substantial investment that is worth protecting. Learn how to properly tow your camper and ensure that you get years of enjoyment out of it.

Instructions

    • 1

      Perform a safety check. With your camper hitched up and ready to go, walk around your rig to make sure everything is safe and secure. Check the pin that secures the ball joint to the receiver. Make sure the safety chains are properly hooked to the tow vehicle and not touching the ground. Check that tow lights and brake lines are plugged into the towing vehicle. Make sure all of the trailer's jacks are retracted.

    • 2

      Take it slow. Highway speed limits are lower for tractor-trailers for good reason: they take longer to stop and speed up, and they are quicker to roll over. The same things apply to your rig when you tow a camper. Leave plenty of space between yourself and the car in front of you and avoid sudden turns when possible.

    • 3

      Give yourself plenty of room. You have probably seen the signs on the back of semi trucks that say, "This vehicle makes wide right turns." A camper faces the same situation. Your vehicle is at least twice as long as usual when you tow your camper, so make an allowance for that before you change lanes or make a turn. Reconnoiter gas stations and parking lots before you enter them and avoid a situation where you have to back up to make your exit.

    • 4

      Familiarize yourself with local laws about towing a trailer. They vary by state, so check up on the regulations where you intend to travel to avoid unpleasant run-ins with the authorities.