How to Pick a Small Toy Hauler RV for Summer Fun

Everyone knows that summer is the best time for fun and adventure. The sun is shining, the weather is nice, and wander lust kicks in. With the desire to hit the open road, many travelers opt for an RV as their primary source of recreation, but how do you decide which RV is right for you? If you love outdoor adventures and all that comes with it, you may want to consider opting for a small toy hauler RV.

Man driving ATV with group on mountain road

The toy hauler combines a standard travel trailer with a built-in garage area to store your kayaks, canoes, water skis, dirt bikes and other summer “toys.”  A lightweight toy hauler gives you a comfortable place to rest your head and an area where to store your toys and equipment while on the road.

How to Choose Your Toy Hauler

The primary reason to select a toy hauler RV for your summer fun is the storage capacity for your gear, such as mountain bikes, jet skis, snow mobiles, or other small recreational vehicles and equipment. The toy hauler features a ramp door for easy loading and unloading, and also doubles as the rear wall of the vehicle transforming your trailer into a comfortable, fully mobile residence.

Next, consider towing capacity when choosing your small toy hauler RV. The towing capacity of a vehicle is usually listed on the inside of the driver’s side door or you can find it in the owner’s manual. Find out what your vehicle is capable of towing and then determine the true weight of the RV you are looking at when fully loaded with equipment and gear.Also, take the time to consider the frame and overall construction of your toy hauler. Many models are constructed with a lightweight aluminum framework that will last longer than other models.

Before you buy, here are a few questions you should ask yourself when shopping for a small toy hauler:

  • What is the combined weight of all the items you need to haul?
  • What is the size of the toys you need to haul?
  • How much supporting equipment do you need to bring?
  • Will you need to detach and use the towing vehicle at the destination?
  • How many travelers will you be taking on your summer road trip?

Now that you know what to look for and what questions to ask when shopping for a toy hauler, the next step is to decide what type of toy hauler would be best for your summer plans. We’ve listed out three different types of toy haulers, each offering unique features.

Toy Hauling Options

Cargo Trailer

Cargo trailers are the most basic option for hauling your toys. They can certainly be used to haul equipment and ORVs behind your motor home or pickup truck, but they won’t offer you the convenience of sleeping compartments, kitchen, or bathroom facilities that toy hauler RVs offer. Cargo trailers feature a side entry door and a drop-down ramp for loading and unloading your summer toys and gear like kayaks, canoes, or dirt bikes, but don’t allow you to really bring the comforts of home on your adventure.

Travel Trailer

The Travel Trailer is ideal for the weekend adventurer or families planning on taking a short trip. Small travel trailers are popular with RV enthusiasts because they don’t require a special heavy-duty tow vehicle. Most travel trailers can be pulled by SUVs or standard pickups with a ball hitch attached. Some travel trailers come with optional slide-outs; moveable parts inside your toy hauler that allow you to reconfigure the interior. Another great benefit of a toy hauler travel trailer is the easy maneuverability, perfect for those off-road excursions.

Fifth Wheel

If you plan on bringing along a couple friends for your adventure or you have a large family, you might want to consider a fifth wheel. Fifth wheels, or fivers, are not considered “small RVs” but provide the large living space that a group may need. Many models feature large storage spaces, kitchens with high-end appliances, and living rooms with flat screen TVs – all the comforts of home!

Fifth Wheels also have an easy to detach hitch that connects to your towing vehicle and distributes the weight of the trailer allowing for greater control. Toy hauler Fifth Wheels are designed to allow you quick access to your truck. Once you’ve reached your destination, simply detach and go.

Whether it’s a road trip to a national park, white water rafting, or camping with the family, toy haulers are a great choice for your summer adventures.

Not sure if a small RV is right for you? Download our comparison guide to learn more!

Talk to Our Experts

If you have questions or you’re ready to buy a toy hauler for your next outdoor adventure, the professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help! Visit us in person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, Ohio or call us at (844) 601-1171.

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