How Tall Are Travel Trailers? A Complete Height Guide

What is the average height of a travel trailer? The average travel trailer height is between 10 and 12 feet. This guide provides a detailed look at travel trailer height, why it matters, and what you need to know before hitting the road. We’ll cover everything from standard heights to factors that influence travel trailer dimensions and offer essential tips for navigating low clearances.

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Why Travel Trailer Height Matters

Knowing your travel trailer height is crucial for several reasons:

• Safety: Colliding with low-hanging obstacles, such as bridges or tree branches, can cause serious damage to your RV and pose a safety risk to you and others.
• Route Planning: Many roads have height restrictions. Knowing your travel trailer height allows you to plan routes that avoid these areas, preventing costly detours or dangerous situations.
• Storage: Whether you plan to store your travel trailer at home or in a storage facility, you need to ensure it will fit.
• Campsite Selection: Some campsites have height restrictions due to trees or other overhead structures.

Potential Consequences of Ignoring Travel Trailer Height

• Damage to Your RV: Hitting a low bridge or tree can damage the roof, air conditioner, or other components.
• Accidents: Attempting to drive under an obstacle that is too low can lead to accidents and injuries.
• Fines: Some areas may have fines for violating height restrictions.
• Inconvenience: Getting stuck or having to turn around due to a low clearance can disrupt your travel plans and add stress to your trip.

Fathoming Average Travel Trailer Height

The average travel trailer height generally falls between 10 and 12 feet. However, this is just a general range. Many factors can affect the travel trailer height, and it’s important to know the exact travel trailer dimensions of your specific model.

Factors Influencing Travel Trailer Height

Several factors can influence the height of travel trailers:

• Model and Manufacturer: Different manufacturers have different design standards, which can affect the overall travel trailer height.
• Air Conditioner: The air conditioner unit, typically mounted on the roof, adds to the overall height.
• Roof Rack: If your travel trailer has a roof rack, it will increase the height.
• Satellite Dish or Antenna: These items also add to the overall travel trailer roof height.
• Suspension: The type of suspension can affect the ride height of the towable RV height, slightly altering the overall height.
• Tire Size: Larger tires can slightly increase the overall height.

Average Height by Travel Trailer Type

Here’s a general overview of the average height of travel trailers based on type:

• Small Travel Trailers (Under 20 feet): 9 – 11 feet
• Medium Travel Trailers (20-30 feet): 10 – 12 feet
• Large Travel Trailers (Over 30 feet): 11 – 13 feet

Keep in mind that these are just averages, and individual models may vary.

How to Determine Your Travel Trailer Height

It’s essential to know the exact travel trailer height of your RV. Here’s how you can find it:

1. Check the Manufacturer’s Specifications: The most reliable source is the manufacturer’s specifications. This information is usually found in the owner’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
2. Measure Your Travel Trailer: If you can’t find the manufacturer’s specifications, you can measure the height yourself. Use a measuring tape or laser measuring tool to measure from the ground to the highest point on the roof, including any accessories like the air conditioner. Be sure to measure on a level surface.
3. Account for Accessories: Make sure to include the height of any accessories you have added, such as a satellite dish or roof rack.
4. Document Your Measurement: Keep a record of your travel trailer height in an easily accessible place, such as your glove compartment.

Tools for Measuring Travel Trailer Height

• Measuring Tape: A standard measuring tape can be used to measure the travel trailer height.
• Laser Measuring Tool: A laser measuring tool provides a more accurate and convenient way to measure the height.
• Level: Use a level to ensure you are measuring on a level surface.

Example of Measuring Your Travel Trailer Height

Imagine you have a travel trailer. To find the exact height of travel trailers you should:

1. Park your travel trailer on level ground.
2. Use a long measuring tape. Start from the ground. Extend the tape to the top of the highest point on your travel trailer’s roof. This should include anything like the air conditioner.
3. Note the measurement. For instance, it might be 11 feet and 6 inches.

Deciphering Travel Trailer Height Clearance

Travel trailer height clearance refers to the minimum vertical space required for your travel trailer to pass safely under an overhead obstacle. It’s crucial to understand this concept to avoid collisions.

Finding Height Restrictions

• Road Signs: Pay attention to road signs that indicate height restrictions. These signs are usually posted in advance of low bridges or overpasses.
• GPS Navigation Systems: Many GPS navigation systems allow you to input your RV height and will route you around areas with height restrictions.
• RV Trip Planning Apps: Several RV trip planning apps can help you find campgrounds, points of interest, and potential hazards, including low clearances.
• Trucker’s Atlases: Trucker’s atlases often include information about height restrictions and other important details for large vehicles.

How to Calculate Required Clearance

To calculate the required clearance, you need to know your travel trailer height and add a safety margin. A good rule of thumb is to add at least 1 foot to your travel trailer height.

Example: If your travel trailer height is 11 feet, your required clearance would be 12 feet.

What to Do if You Encounter a Low Clearance

• Stop and Assess: If you encounter a low clearance, stop your vehicle and assess the situation carefully.
• Do Not Proceed if Unsure: If you are unsure whether your travel trailer will clear the obstacle, do not proceed.
• Find an Alternate Route: Use your GPS or atlas to find an alternate route that avoids the low clearance.
• Contact Local Authorities: If you are unable to find an alternate route, contact local authorities for assistance.

Standard Travel Trailer Height: What to Expect

While average travel trailer height ranges from 10 to 12 feet, knowing what constitutes standard travel trailer height can help you when comparing different models. Keep in mind that “standard” is a broad term, and heights can vary within each category.

Comparing Heights Across Different Travel Trailer Types

• Pop-Up Campers: These are the shortest type of camper height, typically around 7-8 feet when closed, but can extend to 9-10 feet when fully open.
• Teardrop Trailers: These small, aerodynamic trailers usually have a camper height of around 6-7 feet.
• Hybrid Trailers: These trailers combine features of both travel trailers and pop-up campers, with a height of around 9-11 feet.
• Fifth Wheel Trailers: Fifth wheel trailers tend to be taller than traditional travel trailers, often exceeding 12 feet in towable RV height due to their multi-level design.

How Add-Ons Affect Standard Heights

• Air Conditioners: Add approximately 6-12 inches to the base height.
• Awnings: These do not typically affect the overall height.
• Roof Racks: Add approximately 4-8 inches, depending on the rack’s design.
• Solar Panels: Add approximately 1-3 inches.

Tips for Navigating with Your Travel Trailer

• Plan Your Route Carefully: Use RV-specific GPS apps or websites to plan your route, taking into account height restrictions and other potential hazards.
• Use a Spotter: When navigating tight spaces, have someone spot you to help avoid collisions.
• Drive Slowly: Driving slowly gives you more time to react to unexpected obstacles.
• Be Aware of Overhangs: Watch out for tree branches, awnings, and other overhangs that could damage your travel trailer.
• Regularly Check Your Equipment: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and your suspension is in good working order to maintain the correct ride height.

RV Height: Beyond Travel Trailers

While this guide focuses on travel trailers, it’s important to remember that the concept of RV height applies to all types of recreational vehicles, including motorhomes, fifth wheels, and truck campers.

Motorhome Height Considerations

Motorhomes are often taller than travel trailers, with some models exceeding 13 feet in height. This makes it even more important to be aware of height restrictions and plan your route accordingly.

Fifth Wheel Height Considerations

Fifth wheel trailers are similar in height to large travel trailers but can sometimes be even taller due to their design. Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s specifications and measure your fifth wheel carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the legal height limit for RVs?

  The legal height limit for RVs varies by state, but it is typically around 13 feet 6 inches. Always check the regulations in the states you plan to travel through.
  * Can I raise the height of my travel trailer?
  

  Modifying the suspension or tires to increase the height of your travel trailer is possible, but it can affect handling and stability. Consult with a professional before making any modifications.
  * Who is responsible for damage caused by hitting a low bridge?
  

  The driver is typically responsible for damage caused by hitting a low bridge. It is the driver’s responsibility to know the height of their vehicle and to plan their route accordingly.
  * What is the best GPS for RVs?

  Several GPS systems are designed specifically for RVs. Some popular options include Garmin RV series, Rand McNally RVND series. These GPS devices allow you to input your RV’s dimensions and will route you around low clearances and other potential hazards.
  * How does travel trailer height affect fuel economy?

  Taller travel trailers have more wind resistance, which can negatively impact fuel economy.
  * What is the average camper height including air conditioner?

  The average camper height including the air conditioner is about 10 to 12 feet. Air conditioners typically add about 6 to 12 inches to the overall height.
  * What is the best way to store a travel trailer to protect it from the elements?

  The best way to store a travel trailer is in a covered storage facility. If that’s not possible, use a high-quality RV cover to protect it from the sun, rain, and snow. Also, make sure to properly winterize your travel trailer if you live in an area with cold winters.
  * Is it possible to adjust the height of my travel trailer’s suspension?

  Yes, it is possible to adjust the height of a travel trailer’s suspension, but it’s not a common practice and should only be done by professionals. Modifying the suspension can affect the trailer’s handling and stability, so it’s crucial to ensure any adjustments are done correctly.
  * What kind of damage is most common when hitting overhead obstructions?
  Common damage includes roof damage, air conditioner damage, and awning damage. It is important to regularly inspect these areas after any potential impact.

Knowing your travel trailer height, travel trailer dimensions, and travel trailer height clearance is essential for safe and enjoyable RV travel. Always measure your travel trailer carefully, plan your route accordingly, and be aware of your surroundings. By following these tips, you can avoid costly damage and ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.