Can You Tow A Utility Trailer Behind A Travel Trailer? Guide

Yes, you can tow a utility trailer behind a travel trailer, but whether you should and whether it’s legal are entirely different questions. This practice, often called “double towing” or “triple towing” (when you include the tow vehicle), is complex and subject to many regulations and safety concerns. This guide dives deep into the world of towing two trailers, covering the laws, risks, necessary equipment, and much more.

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Towing Two Trailers: Is It Legal?

The first question on most people’s minds is about the legality of travel trailer double towing. The answer is, frustratingly, “it depends.” Laws regarding towing doubles legality vary significantly from state to state and even between provinces in Canada. Some states explicitly permit it, some explicitly prohibit it, and others have specific restrictions on length, weight, and which types of vehicles can do it.

• States Where Double Towing is Generally Allowed (with restrictions): Examples include Arizona, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Texas. However, these states typically have overall length restrictions.

• States Where Double Towing is Restricted or Prohibited: Many states either severely restrict or outright ban towing two trailers. You’ll need to research the specific laws of each state you plan to travel through.

• Canadian Provinces: Similar to the US, regulations vary by province. Some provinces allow it with restrictions, while others do not.

How to Find Out the Laws:

1. State Department of Transportation (DOT) Websites: Each state’s DOT website is your best source for accurate and up-to-date information. Search for “towing laws [state name]” to find the relevant page.
2. RV Forums and Clubs: Online RV forums and clubs can be helpful for gathering information, but always verify the information with official sources. Laws change, and anecdotes are not a substitute for legal counsel.
3. Commercial Trucking Resources: Because double towing is common in the commercial trucking industry, resources aimed at truckers can sometimes provide insights into relevant regulations.
4. Always Confirm: Confirm the information with official sources (DOT, DMV) before hitting the road.
5. Consult Professionals: Contact a professional for more accurate information.

Key Considerations When Checking Laws:

• Maximum Length: Many states have strict limits on the overall length of the combined vehicles (tow vehicle, travel trailer, and utility trailer).
• Weight Restrictions: You must adhere to the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of all vehicles and trailers involved.
• Braking Requirements: Many jurisdictions require all trailers to have functioning brakes.
• Hitch Requirements: Specific hitch types and safety chain configurations might be mandated.
• Permits: Some states might require special permits for travel trailer double towing.
• Lighting: All running lights, turn signals, and brake lights must be functional and visible.

The Risks of Double Towing: Fathoming the Challenges

Even if double towing is legal in your area, it doesn’t mean it’s without significant risks. Triple towing risks are amplified compared to towing a single trailer, so safety should be your top priority.

Increased Stopping Distance:

• Adding a second trailer dramatically increases your stopping distance. This is due to the increased weight and inertia.
• Give yourself significantly more following distance than you would when towing a single trailer.

Reduced Maneuverability:

• Turning, backing up, and navigating tight spaces become much more challenging.
• Plan your routes carefully to avoid areas with narrow roads or difficult turns.

Sway and Instability:

• Sway is a dangerous side-to-side movement of the trailer. Adding a second trailer compounds the risk of sway.
• Proper weight distribution, sway control devices, and a stable tow vehicle are crucial to mitigate sway.

Hitch Stress and Failure:

• Towing two trailers puts a tremendous amount of stress on your hitches, tow vehicle, and trailer frames.
• Ensure that all your equipment is rated for the increased weight and forces involved.

Tire Blowouts:

• Overloaded or under-inflated tires are more prone to blowouts.
• Regularly check your tire pressure and inspect your tires for wear and damage.

Mechanical Issues:

• The increased strain on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension can lead to premature wear and tear or even mechanical failure.
• Perform regular maintenance on your tow vehicle and trailers to prevent breakdowns.

The “Whip” Effect:

• The second trailer can experience a “whip” effect, where it oscillates wildly from side to side, especially at higher speeds or during sudden maneuvers.
• This effect can be extremely difficult to control and can lead to loss of control of the entire rig.

Table: Comparing Single vs. Double Towing Risks

Risk	Single Towing	Double Towing
Stopping Distance	Increased	Significantly Increased
Maneuverability	Reduced	Severely Reduced
Sway Risk	Moderate	High
Hitch Stress	Moderate	Very High
Mechanical Strain	Moderate	High
Overall Complexity	Lower	Much Higher

Equipment Requirements: Gearing Up for Towing Two Trailers

If you’ve determined that double towing is legal and you’re comfortable with the risks, you’ll need to ensure you have the right equipment. Double towing safety depends heavily on having equipment that’s up to the task.

Tow Vehicle:

• Sufficient Towing Capacity: Your tow vehicle must have a GCWR that’s high enough to handle the combined weight of the vehicle, travel trailer, utility trailer, passengers, and cargo. Exceeding your GCWR is dangerous and illegal. Always check towing capacity limitations!
• Powerful Engine: A powerful engine is essential for pulling the extra weight, especially on hills.
• Heavy-Duty Brakes: Your tow vehicle’s brakes must be in excellent condition and capable of stopping the entire rig safely.
• Stiff Suspension: A stiff suspension will help to control sway and improve handling. Consider adding aftermarket suspension upgrades.

Travel Trailer:

• Strong Frame: The travel trailer’s frame must be strong enough to handle the additional stress of towing a second trailer.
• Rear Hitch Receiver: You’ll need a hitch receiver installed on the rear of your travel trailer. This receiver must be properly rated for the weight of the utility trailer.
• Safety Chains: Safety chains are essential for connecting the utility trailer to the travel trailer. Use heavy-duty chains that are properly rated for the weight of the trailer.

Utility Trailer:

• Proper Size and Weight: Choose a utility trailer that’s appropriately sized for your needs and that doesn’t exceed the weight limits of your travel trailer’s hitch receiver.
• Working Brakes: Electric brakes on the utility trailer are highly recommended, especially for heavier trailers.
• Secure Load: Ensure that any cargo on the utility trailer is properly secured to prevent it from shifting during travel.

Hitches and Connections:

• Weight-Distributing Hitch: A weight-distributing hitch is highly recommended for towing a travel trailer, especially when you’re also towing a second trailer. It helps to distribute the weight of the trailer more evenly across the tow vehicle’s axles, improving handling and reducing sway.
• Sway Control: Sway control devices are essential for mitigating sway. There are two main types of sway control: friction sway control and electronic sway control.
• Ball Mount: Use a ball mount that’s properly sized for the hitch receiver and the trailer coupler.
• Safety Chains: Use high-strength safety chains that meet or exceed the weight rating of the trailers. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer.
• Breakaway Cable: A breakaway cable connects the utility trailer’s brakes to the tow vehicle. If the trailer becomes detached, the breakaway cable will activate the trailer’s brakes, helping to prevent a runaway trailer.

Double Towing Techniques: Mastering the Skill

Even with the right equipment, towing a trailer behind a trailer requires specialized driving techniques. Practice in a safe, controlled environment before hitting the open road.

Pre-Trip Inspection:

• Tires: Check the tire pressure on all tires (tow vehicle, travel trailer, and utility trailer) and inspect them for wear and damage.
• Lights: Ensure that all lights (running lights, brake lights, turn signals) are working properly on all vehicles and trailers.
• Hitches and Connections: Inspect all hitches, ball mounts, safety chains, and breakaway cables for signs of wear or damage.
• Brakes: Test the brakes on the tow vehicle and trailers to ensure they’re functioning properly.
• Load Security: Verify that any cargo on the utility trailer is properly secured.

Driving Techniques:

• Slow and Steady: Drive at a safe and moderate speed. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or steering.
• Wide Turns: Take turns wider than you normally would to avoid hitting curbs or other objects.
• Extra Following Distance: Maintain a significantly larger following distance than you would when driving a single vehicle.
• Anticipate Traffic: Anticipate traffic conditions and plan your moves well in advance.
• Use Mirrors: Regularly check your mirrors to monitor the position of the trailers and watch for other vehicles.
• Avoid Distractions: Avoid distractions such as cell phones and eating while driving.
• Rest Stops: Take frequent rest stops to avoid fatigue.

Backing Up:

• Backing up with one trailer is challenging enough. Backing up with two trailers is extremely difficult and should be avoided whenever possible.
• If you must back up, do so slowly and carefully. Use a spotter to help guide you.

Emergency Maneuvers:

• Practice emergency maneuvers, such as braking and swerving, in a safe, controlled environment.
• Know how to react if the trailer starts to sway.
• If you experience a tire blowout, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.

RV Double Towing Laws: A State-by-State Rundown (Examples)

This is not an exhaustive list and is subject to change. Always consult official state sources.

State	Double Towing Allowed?	Length Restrictions (Approximate)	Other Restrictions
Arizona	Yes	65 feet	Varies
California	No	N/A	Not allowed
Florida	No	N/A	Not allowed
Montana	Yes	75 feet	Varies
Texas	Yes	65 feet	Varies
Washington	No	N/A	Not allowed

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify the towing two trailers regulations with the relevant state or provincial authorities before towing two trailers.

Alternatives to Double Towing

If the legality, risks, or complexity of double towing seem overwhelming, consider these alternatives:

• Larger Tow Vehicle: Upgrading to a more powerful tow vehicle with a higher towing capacity might allow you to tow everything in a single trailer.
• Larger Travel Trailer: A larger travel trailer might have enough storage space to eliminate the need for a utility trailer.
• Truck Camper: A truck camper can be a good option if you need a smaller living space and the ability to tow a trailer.
• Shipping: Consider shipping items that you would normally carry in a utility trailer.
• Rentals: Rent equipment at your destination instead of hauling it with you.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Towing Two Trailers

Q: What is double towing?

A: Double towing refers to the practice of towing two trailers behind a single tow vehicle. This typically involves towing a travel trailer and then towing a smaller utility trailer behind the travel trailer.

Q: Can I double tow an RV in all states?

A: No, can you double tow rv depends on the state. Laws vary widely. Some states permit it with restrictions, while others prohibit it outright.

Q: What are the main risks of double towing?

A: The main risks include increased stopping distance, reduced maneuverability, sway and instability, hitch stress, tire blowouts, and mechanical issues.

Q: What equipment do I need for double towing?

A: You’ll need a tow vehicle with sufficient towing capacity, a strong travel trailer with a rear hitch receiver, a properly sized utility trailer, weight-distributing hitch, sway control devices, safety chains, and a breakaway cable.

Q: Are there length restrictions for double towing?

A: Yes, many states have strict limits on the overall length of the combined vehicles. These limits vary by state.

Q: How can I improve my safety when double towing?

A: Drive slowly and steadily, maintain a large following distance, anticipate traffic, use your mirrors frequently, avoid distractions, and take frequent rest stops. Also, perform regular inspections of all equipment.

Q: What is the “whip” effect?

A: The “whip” effect is a dangerous oscillation of the second trailer from side to side. It can be difficult to control and can lead to loss of control of the entire rig.

Q: What should I do if my trailer starts to sway?

A: If your trailer starts to sway, gently apply the trailer brakes and gradually reduce your speed. Avoid making sudden steering corrections.

Q: Where can I find the laws on double towing in my state?

A: Check the website of your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Q: Is double towing worth the risk?

A: Only you can decide if double towing is worth the risk. Carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential dangers. If you’re unsure, consider the alternatives.