Fifth wheel campers provide a great way to travel and explore the country. They are much larger than traditional RV trailers and offer more amenities.
But before you decide on a fifth wheel camper, you’ll want to make sure you have the right truck to pull it.
When determining what size truck can pull a fifth wheel camper, the most important factor is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This number represents the total weight of your truck, including passengers, cargo and any other items that may be added.
The fifth wheel camper’s GVWR should not exceed this number by more than 10%.
In addition to considering your truck’s GVWR, you’ll also need to think about its towing capacity. This is the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can safely tow without causing damage or putting yourself and others at risk.
Factors such as engine size, transmission type, and even tire pressure can all affect your vehicle’s towing capacity. It is important to know the limits of your particular model before attempting to tow any type of trailer.
When it comes to what size truck can pull a fifth wheel camper, pickup trucks are usually the best choice. Most full-size pickups have a GVWR that is well above what is needed for a fifth wheel camper and they also generally have higher towing capacities than other vehicles. Depending on the model of your pickup truck and its engine size, you may be able to tow up to 18,000 pounds or more.
In addition to full-size pickups, some mid-size pickups such as Ford Rangers or Chevy S-10s may also be suitable for hauling fifth wheel campers. However, these smaller trucks will usually have lower GVWRs and lower maximum tow weights than their larger counterparts.
Conclusion
When deciding what size truck can pull a fifth wheel camper, it’s important to consider both your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and its maximum tow weight capacity. Full-size pickups generally offer the best option when it comes to hauling fifth wheel campers as they typically have higher GVWRs and higher tow weights than other vehicles. Mid-size trucks may also be suitable depending on their engine size and other factors.
