Motor-Homes 101 - Class 3

So this post isn't exactly about motorhomes but rather the motorhome alternative..... travel trailers.  Travel Trailer use greatly outnumbers motorhome use at least in this part of the woods.  There is only one local dealer selling motorhomes as far as I know although you can find a decent selection in the local online classifieds.

Anyway the big obvious difference between motorhomes and travel trailers is the lack of a motor in the travel trailer, as a result you need something to tow it.  And don't think you will just hook the old CRV up to one of these babys and head out the highway.  You might get a pop up variety like this one from Jayco but only the smallest of these is under 2000 lbs, a CRV can only tow about 1400.  You can check some out at: http://www.jayco.com/products/camping-trailers/jay-series-sport/floorplans-specs

Unless you will be towing the smaller pop up type travel trailer you will need a pick-up truck.  And not just any pick-up truck.  You will need a full size pick-up with a towing package.  Even a modest size travel trailer can have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 6000 lbs, and that is very modestly sized.  The GVWR is the weight of the trailer plus its carrying capacity.  You should go by the GVWR and not the weight of the trailer because by the time you add water, propane tanks, luggage, bikes, bedding, food etc.... you will be closer to the GVWR than just the weight of the trailer.  And if you pull a trailer with a vehicle that can't handle the weight you will destroy your vehicle's engine and transmission.

In my next post I will get into more of the particulars about travel trailer sizes and amenities as well as recommended tow vehicles.