4 Down vs Trailer - RV-Dreams Community Forum

Tylersamma · RV-Dreams Family Member

4 Down vs Trailer

Tmcblane · RV-Dreams Family Member

40' with a trailer is a long unit. A lot of the campgrounds we have been in would have been tough to get around in. 4 down is pretty painless, you have less weight and investment. The trailer would be nice for some extra space but it is another 3500 lb to tote behind you which equates to fuel milage.

ahoweth · RV-Dreams Family Member

We have towed a car 4-down since 93. In my opinion towing 4-down is the only way to go. Most of the parks we have stayed in are hard pressed to provide space for the trailer, limiting greatly the places you will really enjoy stopping in. The trailer also adds some things that require additional maintenance and concerns as you travel. A flat trailer will add 4 tires and wheel bearing sets that have to be maintained, in addition to those of the automobile. A tow doly will add 2 additional tires and wheel bearing sets. You may be required to tag a trailer, depending on your home states laws regarding trailers. In some cases insurance may be affected as well. The additional weight should also be a concern as it affects fuel mileage as well as braking distance on the road.

For me simpler is important and towing 4-down is simpler. Tow bars for the toad have evolved a lot in the last 20 years and are quite easy to use now. One person can easily connect the toad. Secondary braking systems have also evolved to a good level, easing the braking requirements for towing 4-down.

Whichever way you go I hope you have a wonderful time.

bjoyce · RV-Dreams Family Member

We tow 4-wheels down but I have talked to people who trailer their car. Some do it because they want that particular tow car for running around, they either do not want to buy another or love the car (or truck). Some do it to protect their tow car, even a Jeep that can be towed 4-wheels down. I think that is another instance of loving the car. Others use a trailer so they can back up, for some people this is a priority. You can't back up a motorhome with a tow car, but can if you have a trailer. In almost five years of having a tow car we have disconnected to back up about once a year, so it is not a priority for us but I can see for some people it is. Others tow an enclosed trailer so they can take more toys and stuff with them in addition to the car.

As others said it is the dealing with the trailer that makes it a pain compared to 4-wheels down. More expenses, more maintenance, more weight, and you need a place to put the trailer when camped. But if you want it, you want it.