Your average recreational vehicle is designed to hold a great deal of stuff—there’s no doubt about that. And if you’re towing, you’ll have the additional space provided by your passenger vehicle. Sometimes, though, you may want to add a third vehicle to that towing setup, like a boat trailer or powersports trailer. Having these items on hand can make a trip instantly more fun, but the challenge of towing both an RV and a trailer behind it is not one to be undertaken lightly.
So how do you triple-tow? RVs and Boats For Less is Chubbuck’s RV dealer, so we’ve provided you with this guide to RV triple-towing to simplify the process and make it easier for you to get to where you’re going with everything you want to tow.
Check State Laws
Before you attempt this process, learn the towing laws of the state you’re in. For example, here in Idaho, triple-towing is permitted provided the total length of the three vehicles does not exceed 75’. Trailers that weigh more than 1500 lbs (a limit that you’ll certainly pass with two trailers) must have an independent brake light system set up. Breakaway chains may also be a necessity in some areas.
If you’re traveling out of state, then you’ll need to learn the laws there as well. Some states restrict the length even further, down to 65’ total, and others may require that the second vehicle has a gooseneck or fifth wheel hitch. Don’t simply assume you’re good to go in one state just because you can legally triple-tow in another! You could end up paying a hefty fine if you break state laws.
Think About The Size
No single part of your towing setup should be overweight. Weight limits are always important when towing, but it becomes more difficult to stay under them when you’re towing a third trailer. The initial towing vehicle, whether it’s a truck or a motorhome, will have a gross combined weight limit that you’ll have to stay under, so make sure that first vehicle is strong enough to handle everything you want to tow.
Consider Other Drivers
Safety while triple-towing isn’t necessary just to protect you and your family and your vehicles. You’ll also need to think about other vehicles on the highway and on city streets, as it’s your responsibility to be vigilant and protect them when you’re carrying so much extra weight. You can never predict how other drivers will behave, particularly if road conditions are bad due to weather, disrepair or traffic, so remain watchful and exercise a greater deal of caution than you normally would.
Increase your following distance to several seconds instead of the customary two seconds. Stay in one lane as much as you can and signal any lane changes or exits well in advance. Never go over 55 or 60 miles per hour when triple-towing, since trailer tires aren’t made to go any faster than this. Also, the increased amount of weight behind your main vehicle means that it’ll take you longer to come to a complete stop.
Allow other vehicles to maneuver around you and pass you rather than attempting to pass them. Make sure that you’re using your mirrors wisely to see as much as you can on either side of your trailer, since you won’t be able to see directly behind you. A backup camera installation can help with this, though.
We hope this guide to triple-towing helps you go on your next camping adventure confidently. Don’t have an RV? Stop by to see us at our Chubbuck dealership to check out our available inventory of new and used RVs for sale near Twin Falls and Pocatello. RVs and Boats For Less also serves our friends down in the Utah cities of Logan and Salt Lake City.
