Can a Class B Camper Van Tow a Car?
A Class B motorhome is a great option for smaller families and those looking to get away without all the hassle of a Class A or Class C RV. Of course, if you're driving a Class B you might wonder: "Can my Class B camper van tow a car?" Read on to find out!
What Is a Class B Van?
A Class B motorhome is a small, streamlined camper van that's more mobile and efficient than Class C motorhomes, with a similar level of comfort and capability. They're best suited for small groups, like a new family or a couple. Many Class B motorhomes come with galley kitchens, beds, and restrooms, and they offer enough power to tow items with you on your travels.
Can a Class B Camper Van Tow a Car?
Most Class B motorhomes are capable of towing a car behind them, but unlike their bigger counterparts Class A and Class C motorhomes, their maximum towing capacity is usually around 5,000 pounds. This is because Class B motorhomes are more compact, and drive more like a car or SUV—meaning that you generally won't need an extra car like you would with a larger Class A. However, you might still want to tow a boat or a few ATVs or motorcycles.
That being said—many cars weigh less than 5,000 pounds, so you might be good to tow one behind your Class B RV. Double-check your owner's manual and call an RV dealership to make sure before you head on your adventure.
Do I Need Any Special Parts to Tow with a Class B RV?
You'll need a few pieces of equipment before attempting to tow anything behind your Class B motorhome:
Trailer hitch
While most motorhomes come with a hitch, some will require an aftermarket installation.
Electrical connections
You'll need a way to transmit the electrical signals from your motorhome's rear brake lights, turn signals, and license plate light to the car's in order to be street-legal.
Four down towing accessories
To make the four-down towing technique work, you'll need a supplemental braking system, safety cables, wiring kit, and base plate kit installed.
Tow dolly equipment
If you opt to use the tow dolly method, you'll need safety chains and ratchet straps. Most tow dollies come with read-to-use ramps to make loading easier.
Car hauler equipment
Finally, if you're towing your car with a car hauler, you'll need ratchet straps to tie it down, a brake controller, and ramps if the trailer doesn't have any. A car hauler might require a separate license plate as well; check your local DMV.
Best Class B RV for Towing
Even though they're the smallest motorhome type available, Class B RVs still feature comfortable sitting areas, beds, bathrooms, kitchens, and other amenities. If you're looking to get a Class B RV that can also tow toys or a car, try one of the following models:
Know Your Class B Towing Capacity & Max Weight Limit
It's vitally important not to overload your Class B motorhome when you're towing. Check your owner's manual and look for the following terms:
Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)
The total weight of your motorhome plus all the people, food, water, propane, and other things in the rig, plus the weight of the vehicles or equipment you're towing. This weight should not exceed the recommended GCWR for your vehicle.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
A vehicle's GVWR is the weight of the vehicle itself plus anything that's on board. Don't exceed the maximum GVWR recommended by your Class B motorhome's manufacturer.
Hitch Weight Rating Plate
This is the maximum weight of an object that can be towed.
Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity (OCCC)
This is the maximum allowable weight of all occupants, including the driver, along with the weight of everything else on board.
When in Doubt, Talk with Class B RV Dealerships
If you're not sure whether your Class B can safely tow your car, contact the experts at Sunshine State RVs. We've worked with hundreds of people using their RVs to tow, and we can help you too!
If you're in the market for a new or used Class B RV that can tow your car, we can help you there too! Stop by our dealership for a great deal on a Class B motorhome today! We also offer many different types of new and used RVs for sale as well as RV trade-ins!