What is the easiest vehicle to tow behind a motorhome?
When planning a motorhome adventure, many travelers prefer to bring along a secondary vehicle for added convenience. This vehicle, often referred to as a "toad" or "dinghy," allows for easy exploration of areas where a motorhome might be too large to navigate. But not all vehicles are created equal when it comes to towing. In this article, we’ll explore the easiest vehicles to tow behind a motorhome and what makes them ideal for the job.
What Makes a Vehicle Easy to Tow?
Not every car is suitable for towing behind a motorhome. The easiest vehicles to tow typically share the following characteristics:
- Flat Towing Capability: Vehicles that can be towed with all four wheels on the ground (flat towing) are often the easiest to manage. This eliminates the need for a trailer or dolly.
- Manual Transmission or Specific Automatic Transmissions: Many manual transmission vehicles are towable without modifications. Some automatic transmission vehicles are also towable, but it depends on the make and model.
- Lightweight Design: A lighter vehicle is easier to tow and puts less strain on the motorhome's engine and brakes.
- Manufacturer Approval: Always check the owner’s manual to ensure the vehicle is approved for flat towing. Some vehicles require modifications or additional equipment to make them towable.
Understanding these factors can help you narrow down your options and choose a vehicle that fits your needs.
Popular Vehicles for Towing Behind a Motorhome
Over the years, certain vehicles have become favorites among RV enthusiasts due to their ease of towing and reliability. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Jeep Wrangler: Known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the most commonly towed vehicles. It is flat-towable and requires minimal setup.
- Honda CR-V (Older Models): Many older Honda CR-V models with manual transmissions are flat-towable, making them a practical choice for travelers.
- Chevrolet Equinox: Certain models of the Chevrolet Equinox are approved for flat towing, offering a comfortable and spacious option for families.
- Ford F-150: For those who need a truck, the Ford F-150 is a popular choice. Some configurations are flat-towable, but always verify the specific model.
- Subaru Crosstrek (Manual Transmission): This compact SUV is lightweight and versatile, making it a great option for towing.
These vehicles are widely regarded as reliable and easy to tow, but always consult the owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to confirm towing compatibility.
Tips for Safe Towing
Once you’ve chosen the right vehicle, it’s important to follow best practices for safe towing. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use the Right Equipment: Invest in a high-quality tow bar, base plates, and safety cables to ensure a secure connection.
- Check the Weight Limits: Verify that your motorhome can handle the weight of the towed vehicle, including any additional cargo.
- Install Supplemental Braking: Many states require a supplemental braking system for the towed vehicle to improve safety and reduce wear on the motorhome’s brakes.
- Practice Driving: Towing a vehicle changes the handling and braking of your motorhome. Practice in a safe area before hitting the road.
- Inspect Regularly: Check all connections, lights, and equipment before each trip to ensure everything is in working order.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a stress-free towing experience and make the most of your motorhome adventures.
Conclusion
Choosing the easiest vehicle to tow behind your motorhome depends on your specific needs and preferences. Popular options like the Jeep Wrangler, Honda CR-V, and Chevrolet Equinox offer a combination of reliability and towing ease. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual and seek advice from a trusted mechanic to ensure your setup is safe and compliant with regulations. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to explore new destinations with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you tow a vehicle with an automatic transmission?
Yes, there are specific requirements and modifications that need to be made to a car with an automatic transmission in order to safely flat tow it. Most automatic transmissions are not designed to be towed without the engine running, as the transmission relies on the flow of fluid to stay lubricated and cooled.
What is the alternative to towing a car behind a motorhome?
Tow dollies are good alternatives to flat towing. They allow towing a vehicle by driving the front wheels onto the dolly. The vehicle can then be pulled by the RV while the rear wheels roll on the road.
What is the lightest car to tow behind a motorhome?
Smart Fortwo:
Its maneuverability and ease of use add to its appeal as the lightest car to tow behind RV.
Is it easier to tow a trailer or drive a motorhome?
Maneuverability
Towing felt quite a bit more challenging and exhausting for us. Whereas motorhomes drive and reverse like a car and take much less practice and experience to feel confident behind the wheel. Towing felt more stressful, especially in windy weather conditions and traffic.
Can you flat tow a smart car behind a motorhome?
According to a representative from Smart, “We never approve flat towing on any of our cars. But, if you have to or need to, you must follow the specific instructions of the owners manual.
Can you tow an automatic transmission car behind a motorhome?
There are ways to make it possible to flat-tow a vehicle with an automatic transmission. However, this can be an expensive ordeal and difficult to maintain. Most RV dealers are capable of installing the necessary equipment to make your vehicle ready to flat-tow.
What is the easiest vehicle to flat tow behind a motorhome?
One of the best SUVs for flat towing is the Jeep Grand Cherokee. It offers a spacious and comfortable interior, while still being able to go offroad if desired. The Grand Cherokee tows easily and is a popular choice for taking short trips, running errands or seeing the sights.
What is the easiest way to tow a car behind an RV?
Dolly or Trailer: Almost any vehicle can be towed using a dolly or trailer, but make sure to check the weight limits of both the dolly/trailer and the RV. Tow Bar: If flat towing, install a tow bar on the RV and a base plate on the car. Safety Cables: Attach safety cables to prevent the vehicle from breaking away.
What is the safest and easiest way to backup a trailer?
Probably the best beginner advice I have heard given is to instruct the driver, once in position and ready to begin backing, is to let go of the steering wheel and grasp it with one hand at the bottom (6 o'clock position) and steer with that hand. When backing, the trailer will go in the same direction as the hand.
Which is better, flat tow or dolly?
CONCLUSION. If you can't tell, we're big fans of flat-towing. For about the same price as a dolly, you can completely outfit your towed - and the convenience and longevity you get out of a flat-towing setup is far superior.
