Towing a car behind an RV gives you freedom on the road while keeping your primary vehicle safe and ready for the next journey. This approach works well for long vacations, cross-country trips, and weekend getaways without sacrificing mobility at your destination.
Use this guide to understand the main methods, safety rules, and practical steps for pairing a tow dolly, trailer, or flatbed with your RV lifestyle.
| Method | Best For | Capacity Range | Driver Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tow Dolly | Front-wheel drive cars | Up to 2,000 lb | Intermediate |
| Trailer ( enclosed ) | All drivetrains, valuables | Up to 5,000 lb | Intermediate |
| Flatbed Trailer | Oversized or non- running vehicles | Up to 10,000 lb | Advanced |
| Integrated Fifth-Wheel | Permanent installation, heavy loads | Up to 20,000 lb | Advanced |
Preparing your car for towing
Proper preparation prevents damage and keeps you compliant with state and federal rules. Each vehicle has a weight limit, clearance range, and drivetrain layout that affect which towing method is safe.
Check manufacturer guidelines
Review the owner’s manual for explicit towing instructions, listed towing capacity, and recommended fluids. Some manufacturers require special lubricants or prohibit towing behind an RV on public roads.
Inspect tires and brakes
Verify tire pressure matches the spare or temporary towing spec, and confirm that the parking brake fully releases. For trailers with electric brakes, ensure the wiring harness connects cleanly and the brake controller is programmed to the trailer weight.
Choosing the right towing equipment
Selecting the correct dolly, trailer, or fifth-wheel setup balances capacity, ease of use, and compatibility with your RV chassis. An underspecced system strains engines and brakes, while an oversized unit wastes fuel and driveway space.
Tow dollies for everyday cars
Dollies lift the front wheels off the ground and are ideal for front-wheel drive cars on moderate trips. They are easier to store than full trailers but still demand careful backing and wider lanes when turning.
Enclosed trailers for value and weather protection
Enclosed trailers shield cars from dirt, rain, and highway debris, which is helpful for classic, luxury, or low-clearance vehicles. Look for reinforced couplers, anti-rattle hardware, and secure tie-down points that keep the vehicle stable over uneven roads.
Flatbeds and gooseneck setups for heavy or abnormal loads
Flatbeds are useful when wheels cannot spin, the car has custom underbody work, or you are hauling motorcycles or small utility vehicles. These systems require more backing practice, larger mirror extensions, and adherence to height and weight restrictions on interstates.
Safe driving habits while towing
Handling an RV plus a towed car changes braking distance, lane position, and how quickly situations develop on the highway. Practicing in empty lots and light traffic helps you internalize the new dynamics before hitting long stretches of road.
Speed and following distance
Reduce your speed by several miles per hour and add at least one extra second of following distance for every 10 mph of travel. This compensates for extra weight and helps prevent sudden trailer sway or coupling stress.
Lane changes and turning
Signal early, check blind spots with mirrors designed for towing, and make wide, deliberate lane changes. When turning, swing wide on right turns and avoid cutting the corner to prevent tire rub against curbs or guardrails.
Maintenance and inspections
Scheduled maintenance extends the life of both your RV and the towed car while reducing the risk of breakdowns in remote areas. A short checklist before each trip can catch loose bolts, wiring issues, and fluid leaks before they become major problems.
- Verify tire pressure and tread depth on both the RV and the towed vehicle.
- Test lights, including brake, turn, and reverse signals, with a helper or camera.
- Lubricate hitch pins, safety chains, and electrical connectors.
- Inspect safety chains, breakaway cable, and surge brake components for wear.
- Check fluid levels, especially transmission and engine oil in the RV.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I tow my car behind an RV on interstate highways?
Yes, you can tow a car on interstates if it is legal for your vehicle to be towed, your equipment is rated for the weight, and you follow speed limits. Many states allow this, but some have specific rules regarding mirrors, lighting, and maximum lengths, so check local regulations before you go.
Do I need special brakes or lighting for a tow dolly?
Most states require trailers and dollies over a certain weight to have their own braking system and synchronized lighting. Check your dolly’s specifications and your state’s laws; many systems include electric brakes and lights that plug into the RV’s wiring harness for safety and compliance.
How do I prevent my car from rolling while on a tow dolly?
Set the parking brake only if the manufacturer allows it during towing, and use wheel chocks at both front and rear wheels. This combination keeps the car secure without risking drivetrain damage when the parking brake is engaged on a slope.
What should I do if the trailer starts to sway while driving?
Resist the urge to swerve or brake hard; instead, ease off the accelerator and stabilize your speed. Gradual corrections and a controlled slowdown usually stop sway, while sudden moves can make it worse. If conditions allow, safely pull over to check coupler tension, load balance, and tire pressure before continuing.