RVing is either a hobby or a lifestyle but either way there are many myths out there when it comes to some basics about the industry and campers. We are going to bust those myths wide open.
Myth #1 – The model number on the side of the camper indicates the camper’s length.
False. For travel trailers, the model number USUALLY indicates the length of livable space the camper provides. We suggest adding anywhere from 3 to 5 ft to the model number to get the estimated total length of the camper.
For 5th Wheel campers in particular, the model number does not always relate to the length of the camper. Half-ton towable, mid-profile and full-profile 5th Wheels have variations in pin box locations & depths, nosecone profiles, and a variety of other variables, so the length of the camper is not easily determined by the model number.
Myth #2 – The side of the camper says, “4-Season Package”, which means I can stay warm and camp all winter long.
False. When the side of the camper has a 4-Season Package, an All-Season’s Package, or a Climate Package indicator (every manufacturer has a different name for it), this typically means that the camper’s underbelly is enclosed, insulated and possibly heated. It can also indicate higher R-Value insulation in particular locations, layers of astrofoil, or even sometimes heat pads on the holding tanks. These feature extend your camping season allowing you to camp earlier in the spring and later in the fall, but they do not necessarily provide enough insulation for winter camping – especially in the Adirondacks. Winter camping also creates the issue of moisture and condensation inside of your camper, leading to a multitude of other issues.
Myth #3 – I need a special license to tow my travel trailer or 5th Wheel camper.
False. The campers we sell at Plattsburgh RV Store do not require a special license to travel with inside of the United States.
Myth #4 – I can tow any camper or hook up to any 5th wheel I want with my truck or vehicle.
False. Determining your vehicle’s tow capacity is one of the first points our Camping Specialists will verify to be sure you will be safely towing your camper (investment) down the road. Your engine size, gear ratio, bed length and cab size are all factors in determining your vehicle’s tow capacity. If you have a permanent site at a local campground or plan to camp at a local property of choice then arrangements can be made to deliver your camper to your site if towing it yourself is not an option.
Myth #5 – If the camper doesn’t say, “Ultra-Lite”, then it must be heavy.
False. Camper weights are listed in 2 ways. The dry weight of a camper is what the camper weighs by itself without anything in it. The gross weight is the weight of the camper plus the maximum amount of weight (your cargo plus the weight of the full fresh water tank) is designed to hold. We recommend between 1000 and 1500 pounds of cargo carrying capacity depending on the size of your family and the type of trip you are planning. Our Camping Specialists can assist you in determining if the camper you are looking at matching the tow capacity of your vehicle.
Myth #6 – I don’t need a brake control.
False. The brake control in your vehicle is how you will activate the brakes on your camper. Think of it this way, you are driving down a mountain side and your camper picks up speed. You can increase the brakes on your camper by pushing the brake control to slow your camper down. This will save the brakes on your vehicle. You don’t want your camper to push you down the road.
