Towing a Car Behind Your Motorhome Tips and Tricks

Towing a car behind a motorhome gives you the freedom to explore once you reach your campsite. This guide covers everything from choosing the right tow bar and supplemental braking system to understanding vehicle compatibility and braking laws. Follow our RV towing tips to stay safe and avoid costly mistakes on the road.

There is something magical about pulling into a remote campsite and having a car ready to go. You do not need to unload everything from the motorhome just to grab groceries or explore a nearby trail. Towing a car behind a motorhome opens up a world of convenience and flexibility. Whether you are a seasoned RVer or just starting out, understanding the basics of a motorhome towing setup can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

The process is not as simple as hooking up a trailer. There are specific equipment requirements, legal considerations, and safety practices you need to know. This guide walks you through everything step by step. By the end, you will feel confident setting up your own towing car behind motorhome arrangement. Let us dive in.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right towing method: Tow bars, car dollies, and flat towing each have unique pros and cons for your setup.
• Check vehicle compatibility first: Not every car can be towed behind a motorhome. Always verify your vehicle’s towing capacity and manufacturer guidelines.
• Install a supplemental braking system: This is often required by law and critical for safe stopping distances.
• Use proper safety equipment: Safety chains, wiring harnesses, and towing mirrors are non-negotiable for a secure setup.
• Avoid common mistakes: Skipping pre-trip checks and ignoring local braking laws are the most frequent errors drivers make.
• Practice before your trip: Spend time driving with your towed vehicle to get comfortable with the extra length and weight.

Why Tow a Car Behind Your Motorhome

When you arrive at a campground, your motorhome becomes your home base. But exploring the surrounding area on foot is limiting. Having a toad vehicle (that is what many RVers call the towed car) changes everything. You can run quick errands, visit attractions, or simply stretch your legs on a scenic drive without packing up the entire rig.

Here are some of the biggest benefits of flat towing or towing a car behind your motorhome:

• Convenience: Grab the car and go without unloading the motorhome.
• Fuel savings: A small car uses far less fuel than a large motorhome for short trips.
• Flexibility: Explore areas your motorhome cannot reach, like narrow town streets or remote trails.
• Time savings: No need to set up camp, then break it down just to run an errand.
• More fun: Day trips become effortless, which means more adventures for the whole family.

Many people do not realize that RV trip planning becomes much easier when you have a separate vehicle. You can book a campsite in one spot and still cover a wide area during your stay. This is especially helpful in national parks, coastal towns, and mountain regions where parking the motorhome can be a challenge.

Towing Methods: Tow Bar vs. Car Dolly vs. Flat Towing

Not all towing setups are the same. There are three main methods to tow a car behind a motorhome, and each has its own advantages. Understanding the differences helps you pick the best option for your situation.

Tow Bar Towing (Flat Towing)

This is the most popular method among RVers. A tow bar connects the front of the towed vehicle directly to the rear of the motorhome. The car rides on its own wheels. This method is simple, lightweight, and easy to store. However, not all vehicles can be flat towed. Always check your vehicle owner manual for the correct drive shaft disconnect procedure if needed.

Car Dolly Towing

A car dolly is a small trailer that lifts the front wheels of the towed car off the ground. The rear wheels stay on the road. This method works with almost any vehicle, including those with automatic transmissions that should not be towed with all four wheels down. The trade-off is that a dolly adds more weight and takes up more storage space than a tow bar.

Trailer Towing

This is the most secure but also the most cumbersome method. You put the entire car on a full trailer. All four wheels are off the ground. This eliminates any risk of drivetrain damage. However, trailers are heavy, expensive, and hard to store. Most RVers only use this method for vehicles that absolutely cannot be towed any other way.

Comparison Table

Feature	Tow Bar	Car Dolly	Full Trailer
Weight	Lightest	Medium	Heaviest
Storage	Easy	Moderate	Difficult
Vehicle Compatibility	Limited	Wide	Universal
Setup Time	Fast	Moderate	Slow
Cost	Low to Medium	Medium	High
Drivetrain Risk	Medium	Low	None

For most people, a rear tow bar setup is the best balance of simplicity, cost, and functionality. It is worth noting that the motorhome accessories market has improved dramatically in recent years, making all three options more user-friendly than ever before.

Essential Equipment for Towing a Car Behind a Motorhome

Setting up a motorhome towing setup requires more than just a tow bar. There are several pieces of equipment that ensure safety and compliance. Skipping any of these can lead to dangerous situations or costly fines.

Tow Bar and Accessories

The tow bar is the centerpiece of your setup. Look for a heavy-duty bar rated for your vehicle weight. You will also need a baseplate that attaches to the front of the towed car. This baseplate provides a secure connection point. Make sure the hitch receiver on your motorhome matches the tow bar attachment size, typically a 2-inch receiver.

Supplemental Braking System

This is arguably the most important piece of equipment. When your motorhome brakes, the towed car adds significant momentum. A supplemental braking system applies the towed vehicle’s brakes independently. Many states and provinces require this by law. There are two main types: proportional systems that scale braking force to the motorhome, and timed systems that apply a set braking force.

For the best weight distribution and stopping control, a proportional system is the top choice. Brands like Demco, AL-KO, and Roadmaster offer reliable options.

Safety Chains and Wiring Harness

Never skip safety chains. They serve as a backup if the tow bar fails. Cross them under the trailer tongue for added security. A wiring harness connects the motorhome’s tail lights and turn signals to the towed car. This ensures other drivers can see your signals and brake lights. It is a simple setup that makes a huge difference in visibility and safety.

Towing Mirrors

A motorhome already has large blind spots. Adding a towed car makes them worse. Towing mirrors extend your field of vision so you can see the entire length of your setup. Clip-on mirrors are affordable and easy to install. For a permanent solution, consider aftermarket mirrors that replace your existing ones.

Braking Controller

If your motorhome has a braking controller, it sends a signal to the supplemental braking system in the towed car. This allows synchronized braking between the two vehicles. Make sure the controller is properly calibrated before each trip. A quick check takes minutes but can prevent a major accident.

Safety Tips and Legal Requirements

Safety should always come first when towing a car behind a motorhome. The rules vary by state, province, and country, so it is essential to do your homework before hitting the road.

Know Your Braking Laws

Most states require a supplemental braking system when the towed vehicle exceeds a certain weight, often around 1,500 to 3,000 pounds. Some states require brakes on any towed vehicle regardless of weight. Research the laws in every state or province you plan to travel through. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and fines can be expensive.

Check Towing Capacity

Your motorhome has a maximum towing capacity listed in its manual. This number includes the weight of the tow bar, the towed vehicle, and any additional equipment. Never exceed this limit. Overloading your motorhome’s hitch can cause handling problems, tire blowouts, and brake failure.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Before every trip, run through this quick checklist:

1. Inspect the tow bar for any cracks or loose bolts.
2. Check that the baseplate connections are tight.
3. Verify the supplemental braking system is engaged and working.
4. Test all lights: brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
5. Confirm safety chains are properly crossed and secured.
6. Make sure the wiring harness is plugged in and functioning.
7. Check tire pressure on both the motorhome and the towed vehicle.

Practice Makes Perfect

Even experienced RVers benefit from practice runs. Find an empty parking lot and spend time driving with the towed vehicle attached. Get a feel for the extra length, the wider turning radius, and the increased stopping distance. This practice builds confidence and helps you identify any issues before you are on a busy highway.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best RV towing tips are useless if you ignore them. Here are the most common mistakes people make when towing a car behind a motorhome:

• Skipping the supplemental brake: This is the number one mistake. Without it, your stopping distance increases dramatically, and it is illegal in most places.
• Ignoring vehicle compatibility: Not every car can be flat towed. Towing a vehicle that is not compatible can destroy the transmission.
• Forgetting to disconnect the driveshaft: For rear-wheel-drive vehicles being flat towed, the driveshaft must be disconnected to avoid transmission damage.
• Underestimating weight: The combined weight of the tow bar, baseplate, and car adds up quickly. Always stay under your motorhome’s towing capacity.
• Neglecting maintenance: Inspect all towing equipment before every trip. A worn tow bar or loose chain can fail when you need it most.
• Not using towing mirrors: Poor visibility leads to unsafe lane changes and turns. Do not skip this simple accessory.

Quick Tips Section

Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:

• Keep a spare baseplate in your motorhome garage in case the one on the towed car gets damaged.
• Label all towing connections so you can set up and break down quickly at each stop.
• Carry a small tool kit specifically for the tow bar and braking system.
• Take photos of your setup before departure so you can reference them during breakdowns or inspections.

Expert Tips for a Smooth Towing Experience

After helping hundreds of RVers set up their motorhome towing setup, here are some expert insights that make a real difference on the road.

First, invest in quality equipment. A cheap tow bar might save you money upfront but could fail under stress. Look for brands with strong reputations and solid warranties. The motorhome accessories you choose directly impact your safety and peace of mind.

Second, plan your RV trip planning around your towing setup. Not all campgrounds have easy backing room. When you reserve a site, ask about pull-through availability and the width of the pads. This small step prevents a lot of frustration at the campground.

Third, keep a vehicle recovery plan in mind. Carry a basic recovery strap, a jack, and a tire inflator. If something goes wrong on a remote road, you want to be prepared. Cell service can be unreliable in many RV destinations, so self-sufficiency is key.

Finally, stay patient. Towing a car adds a learning curve. The first few drives might feel awkward. Give yourself time to adjust. Within a couple of trips, towing will feel completely natural, and you will wonder how you ever traveled without it.

The beauty of towing a car behind a motorhome is the freedom it provides. You get the comfort of a full-time home on wheels combined with the agility of a compact car. That combination is hard to beat. With the right equipment, proper knowledge, and a little practice, you will be cruising down the highway with confidence in no time.

Remember that every RV towing tip in this guide serves one purpose: keeping you and your family safe while enjoying the open road. Take the time to set up correctly, check your equipment regularly, and never cut corners on safety. Your adventures will be all the better for it.

Now that you know the ropes, it is time to plan your next trip. Pick your destination, pack your gear, and enjoy the journey. Happy towing, and safe travels to you and your toad vehicle!

Frequently Asked Questions

What vehicles can be towed behind a motorhome?

Many front-wheel-drive and some all-wheel-drive vehicles can be flat towed. Always check your vehicle owner manual for the manufacturer’s towing guidelines. Some vehicles require a driveshaft disconnect or cannot be towed at all. Popular choices include compact SUVs and sedans that are lightweight and easy to tow.

Do I need a supplemental braking system?

Yes, in most cases. Not only is it required by law in many states and provinces, but it is also a critical safety device. Without it, your motorhome’s brakes alone cannot safely stop the combined weight of both vehicles. A supplemental braking system ensures the towed car slows down in sync with the motorhome.

How much does it cost to set up a towing system?

A basic tow bar setup costs between 1,000 and 2,500 dollars depending on the brand and features. Adding a supplemental braking system and other accessories like wiring harnesses and towing mirrors can bring the total to 2,500 or more. Think of it as an investment in safety and convenience for your travels.

Can I tow an automatic transmission car behind a motorhome?

It depends on the vehicle. Some automatic transmission cars are approved for flat towing, while others are not. The key factor is whether the transmission can be lubricated properly while being towed with all four wheels down. Always consult the owner manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm.

What is the difference between a tow bar and a car dolly?

A tow bar connects the towed car directly to the motorhome with all four wheels on the ground. A car doll lifts the front wheels off the ground while the rear wheels remain on the road. Tow bars are lighter and simpler, while car dollies work with more vehicle types but add more weight and storage requirements.

How do I maintain my towing equipment?

Inspect your tow bar, baseplate, safety chains, and wiring harness before every trip. Look for rust, cracks, or loose bolts. Lubricate moving parts on the tow bar regularly. Store all equipment in a dry place when not in use. Replace any worn or damaged parts immediately to keep your setup safe and reliable.

=== CONCLUSION ===

Towing a car behind a motorhome is one of the best upgrades you can make to your RV lifestyle. It gives you the freedom to explore without limitations and the convenience of having a car ready whenever you need one. From choosing the right tow bar and supplemental braking system to understanding vehicle compatibility and local laws, every step matters. The equipment options like a car dolly, rear tow bar, or full trailer each serve different needs, so pick what fits your setup best. Stay on top of safety checks, avoid common pitfalls, and always respect braking laws wherever you travel. With proper RV trip planning and a little practice, your motorhome towing setup will become second nature. Get out there, hit the road, and enjoy every mile with your trusty toad vehicle by your side.