If you have ever seen a motorhome on the road, you have likely seen one that is pulling a vehicle along behind it. It’s even possible that you joked with the kids or grandkids, “Look at that small car pushing that big motorhome!” Those vehicles in tow are becoming more and more common as the population of retirees continues to rise and with it, the demand for motorhomes and RV toads.
What is an RV Toad?
What is an RV toad? No, it is not something brown and bumpy that catches flies. An RV toad is slang for “towed vehicle” and can be anything from sedans to SUVs to off-road vehicles. Also known as “dinghy towing,” RV toads are vehicles which motorhome owners bring with them during trips. It allows them to leave their RV stationary and use their toad for short trips.
The Main Benefits of an RV Toad
The primary advantage of an RV toad is to help motorhome campers quickly and easily get around the local area during their trips. Rather than having to drive their motorhome everywhere, an RV toad is a more convenient car for day-to-day errands.
Some smaller vacation towns or cities just aren’t reasonable places to drive around in a big motorhome. Narrow streets, sharp curves or steep hills and winding roads can present unnecessary difficulties when trying to maneuver a large motorhome. Toads can also be useful for trekking around large campgrounds that allow off-road vehicles.
If your toad is a vehicle you already own, it doesn’t cost much to tow around but saves you a lot in gas if you plan to make small side trips. When your campsite is “base camp” but there are many sightseeing trips nearby, your RV toad makes those short trips much more convenient than driving your motorhome. Your RV toad also allows the motorhome to stay in your ideal camping location if someone needs to run for food, water or other necessities.
Is There Any Reason to Skip an RV Toad?
The most likely reason you wouldn’t bring an RV toad is if you don’t have a good vehicle for it. Not all vehicles are towable – some may void your warranty or cause damage if you try to tow them.
Investing in another vehicle to be your RV toad can be a financial burden in to some people. You may decide that the cost is not worth the additional convenience. To find out if a vehicle you currently own is approved for towing, you can check the dinghy towing guide for the make and model year of your potential RV toad vehicle.
You also may not need a toad if you don’t plan to do much local travel once you reach your destination. You may want to do a lot of hiking and not need to travel far from your RV. Or, a bike may be all that you need to bring along to get around to the sights nearby. Good planning can also make an RV toad unnecessary for trips to the store; especially if you are staying in a location where amenities and supplies are located within walking or biking distance.
Unlike a bike, RV toads also add weight and impact your driving. Newer RV owners may already be afraid of tackling these new skills and wish to forego an RV toad.
Tips for Buying an RV Toad
Watch Your Weight!
Know your vehicle weight limits and understand the additional length a toad will add. Plan accordingly and be sure to look for vehicles designed to be towed before you simply tow your personal vehicle. It is also a good idea to consider your needs as they can change from trip to trip. Will you simply need something to drive around town, or will you need a good off-road vehicle for rougher terrain?
Don’t Add On Those Extra Pounds, Either
Whatever vehicle you decide on, make sure that you don’t rely on it for extra storage. Toads can help you move things around, but it’s best to keep the weight in your motorhome. It also adds convenience to keep your packed items nearby while you travel. If you pack something essential in your RV toad, you will have to pull over and exit your motorhome to get to it.
Consider Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of your toad vehicle will play a crucial role in the overall cost of your travels. This is particularly important if you plan on using the toad for a significant amount of driving while your RV is parked at your campsite. Toads with high fuel efficiency will help you save money over time. When you’re looking at potential toads, make sure to check the miles per gallon (MPG) rating. The higher the MPG, the more fuel-efficient the vehicle is. Vehicles like hybrids or compact cars tend to have high fuel efficiency, making them excellent choices for toads.
Ensure it Meets Your Needs
While fuel efficiency is important, it’s equally vital to ensure that your toad meets all of your specific needs. First, consider its primary purpose. If you plan to explore urban areas or tight places where maneuvering an RV would be difficult, a smaller toad vehicle like a compact car would be ideal. If you plan on going off-roading or exploring rough terrains, then an SUV or a vehicle with 4WD might be more suitable.
The vehicle’s capacity is another consideration. How many people will typically be traveling in the toad? If you have a large family, you’ll need a vehicle with more seating. Also, consider storage space. If you plan on carrying bikes, barbecue grills, or other large items, you’ll need a toad with plenty of cargo room.
Manual vs Automatic Transmission
In the past, manual transmission vehicles were the preferred choice for flat towing due to the mechanical simplicity and less risk of damage to the transmission. However, technology has advanced, and many modern vehicles with automatic transmissions are now also suitable for flat towing.
The most important thing is to check the owner’s manual or consult with the vehicle’s manufacturer to see if the specific model you’re considering can be safely flat towed. Some vehicles may require specific procedures to be followed to prevent damage to the transmission. So, it’s best to thoroughly research before making a decision.
Towing Equipment
The cost of towing equipment is often overlooked when budgeting for a toad. The basic setup for towing a vehicle four wheels down (also known as “flat towing”) usually includes a tow bar, base plates, safety cables, tow bar wiring, and often a supplemental braking system.
Each of these components plays a crucial role in the safe operation of a toad. The tow bar connects the toad to the RV, base plates provide a safe and secure attachment point for the tow bar, and safety cables are a backup in case the primary connection fails. Tow bar wiring allows the toad’s lights to mimic those of the RV for braking, turning, and running lights. A supplemental braking system helps the toad stop safely when the RV brakes and is required by law in many states.
When budgeting for your toad, keep these costs in mind. Depending on the specific components you choose, you might be looking at several hundred to over a thousand dollars for your towing setup. Additionally, installation might add to the cost if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
So, the next time you are out and see a motorhome with vehicle in tow you can flex your RV knowledge and say, “Look at that toad!”
Contact RV Wholesale Superstore
The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126
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