Choosing the proper combination of truck and trailer is elemental to realizing the freedom and wonder of travel in an RV. RV trailers have many benefits as well as some concessions that need to be considered and fitted to each individual situation. If done properly and with understanding, travel can be a wonder filled adventure. Without thoughtful knowledge of what is needed, RVing with a trailer can cause those dreams to fizzle.RV Trailers range in size from a few hundred pounds to more than 15 tons, so there is no lack of options from which to choose. There are two general types of RV Trailers. They are based on the type of hitch used to connect the trailer to the vehicle and are generally associated with the size of the trailer. Smaller trailers use a ball mount hitch which is near the bumper of the tow vehicle. Sometimes this is called bumper pull or conventional towing. As trailers increase in size there is another way to connect or hitch the tow vehicle and trailer. The hitching position moves from the bumper area towards the center of the vehicle, usually near the center of the bed of the pickup truck. This is called a fifth wheel hitch and supports heavier weights. Gooseneck hitches are also sometimes used for heavier trailers and the hitching position is also located near the center of the bed of the pickup truck.When attached, the tow vehicle and trailer are referred to as a combination vehicle. The tow vehicle may often be a passenger vehicle that one drives daily like a pickup truck, SUV, or even a car. Despite the familiarity with the regularly used tow vehicle, once a trailer is attached, the combination vehicle is significantly different. New skills and techniques need to be learned and this can sometimes be difficult because driving the tow vehicle gives the illusion that nothing is different from regular daily driving. However, the additional weight, length, width, and height of the added trailer significantly changes maneuverability and how the combination vehicle responds. The skill and responsibility of the RV owner is elevated.
