Know the Difference: RV vs Trailer

Know the Difference: RV vs Trailer
Know the Difference: RV vs Trailer

Recreational Vehicle (RV) vs. Trailers

The concept of a mobile home increases the curiosity of many people and, when it comes to buying or traveling a Recreational Vehicle, it always comes a big question: Which one is the best option for me? The truth is that everyone has their pros and cons like everything in life, but our intention is to solve all the questions, comparing the advantages and disadvantages of these, so you can choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle and your needs.

This time we will focus on trailers specifically. These models range from the most basic and economical, similar to tents to the most comfortable, with rooms, furniture, and equipment for the home.  Trailers need to be attached to another vehicle to be dragged around since they don’t have a motor of their own so that’s why they depend on the 2nd vehicle. The vehicle will be released once the trailer is parked. They are usually pulled by V8 trucks, some minivans or trucks. They are very roomy and usually can take up to 6-8 people depending on the style of trailer, this is one of the biggest advantages plus their price, they tend to be cheaper like caravans since they don’t have a motor included. But trailers can sometimes be a disadvantage for inexperienced drivers, because of the total length of the tow vehicle plus the trailer makes some driving maneuvers difficult.

There are different types of trailers such as:

1. Fifth-wheel trailers

Higher load capacity, with a high-strength gooseneck hitch at the front and a hitch pin at the bottom for increased stability.

2. Popup Trailer

Smaller, lighter to carry and easier to park. They can be towed with a medium minivan. They usually have a canvas roof that expands and includes a kitchen, shower, and toilet.

Before buying or renting a trailer, check the technical data sheet of your car. In it you will see the data of weight and maximum towable load, take them into account before getting a trailer of this type; it should never exceed half the weight of the vehicle to which it is hooked.

Driving a vehicle with a trailer is not easy at first, it is advised to practice before going on a holiday and see yourself on the road facing more complex maneuvers.  Try making small turns, as the trailer will move to the opposite side and don’t forget to try going on reverse as well. As in the previous case, you must increase the safety distance and have the additional space you occupy when overtaking.

Properly distributing the load when traveling with a caravan is a key factor. If your vehicle has a self-leveling suspension, lighten the weight of the luggage compartment so that it does not become unbalanced and keep the center of gravity of the caravan in front of the wheel axle.

 

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