How To Choose The Right Hitch To Tow My RV

Towing your RV safely starts with one critical decision—choosing the right hitch. The wrong setup can lead to poor handling, uneven weight distribution, or even dangerous sway while driving. At RV Hero in Waco, Texas, we help RV owners find the perfect hitch for their setup, ensuring safe, stable, and stress-free adventures. Whether you tow a small travel trailer or a large fifth wheel, understanding hitch types and weight ratings is key to a smooth towing experience.

Step 1: Know Your RV’s Weight

Before shopping for a hitch, you need to know your RV’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)—the total weight of your trailer when fully loaded with gear, water, and supplies. This number is usually listed on a sticker near the trailer’s front or inside the manufacturer’s manual. Once you have that number, match it with your vehicle’s towing capacity. Your hitch must be rated to safely handle that total weight—ideally with a little room to spare for safety and performance.

Step 2: Understand the Main Hitch Types

Not all hitches are created equal. The type you need depends on your RV style, towing vehicle, and driving preferences.

1. Bumper Pull (Weight-Carrying) Hitch This is the most common hitch for smaller travel trailers. It mounts to the rear of your vehicle and uses a ball mount to connect to the trailer coupler. Bumper pull hitches are simple and versatile but best for lighter loads under 7,500 lbs.

2. Weight-Distribution Hitch When towing heavier trailers, weight-distribution hitches become essential. They use spring bars to spread the tongue weight evenly across your tow vehicle and trailer axles, improving balance and braking. This setup is ideal for mid-size travel trailers and SUVs.

3. Fifth-Wheel Hitch Designed for large RVs and heavy loads, fifth-wheel hitches mount inside the bed of a pickup truck. They use a kingpin-style connection that offers excellent stability, turning radius, and towing strength. If you have a large fifth-wheel camper, this is your best option for smooth long-distance towing.

4. Gooseneck Hitch Gooseneck hitches also mount in the truck bed but use a ball connection instead of a kingpin. They’re common in agricultural and commercial towing but also work well for heavy RVs and toy haulers. Gooseneck setups provide superior strength and keep the trailer closer to the truck for better control.

Step 3: Match the Hitch Class to Your Load

Hitches are rated by class, which determines how much weight they can safely handle.

• Class I: Up to 2,000 lbs (small utility trailers)

• Class II: Up to 3,500 lbs (small campers or pop-ups)

• Class III: Up to 8,000 lbs (mid-size travel trailers)

• Class IV: Up to 10,000 lbs (larger campers and toy haulers)

• Class V: Up to 20,000 lbs (heavy-duty towing and fifth wheels) If you’re unsure which class you need, the experts at RV Hero can review your setup and recommend the proper hitch type and weight capacity for your specific rig.

Step 4: Don’t Overlook Weight Distribution and Sway Control

Even with the right hitch, weight balance plays a major role in safe towing. Too much weight on the hitch ball can cause the rear of your vehicle to sag, while too little can lead to trailer sway. Weight-distribution hitches with built-in sway control systems help keep your trailer stable, especially in windy conditions or when passing large trucks. Investing in the right system makes a huge difference in handling and safety.

Step 5: Consider Your Vehicle Setup

Not every vehicle can tow every type of RV. Trucks and SUVs with factory-installed towing packages typically have stronger frames, upgraded brakes, and pre-wired connections. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, RV Hero can recommend the right towing accessories—like brake controllers, hitch receivers, or wiring harnesses—to make sure your rig is road-ready and legal.

Step 6: Installation and Safety Checks

Even the best hitch won’t perform properly if it’s not installed correctly. Our technicians at RV Hero ensure your hitch is mounted, torqued, and aligned to manufacturer specifications. Before hitting the road, we’ll also verify electrical connections, brake response, and safety chains. We always remind customers to recheck hitch pins and locks before every trip—it’s a simple step that prevents major issues.

Why Working with RV Hero Matters

Choosing a hitch isn’t just about towing—it’s about protecting your RV, your vehicle, and everyone on the road. At RV Hero, we specialize in RV parts, upgrades, and towing systems that fit your rig perfectly. From Class III weight-distribution hitches to fifth-wheel installations, we provide expert guidance and professional installation for every kind of traveler. We carry only trusted brands and ensure every component meets Texas towing standards.

Hit the Road with Confidence

The right hitch can make all the difference between a stressful haul and a smooth, confident drive. Take the time to match your hitch type, class, and capacity to your RV’s needs—and don’t hesitate to ask for expert help. Contact RV Hero today to find and install the perfect hitch for your RV. Our team in Waco, Texas, will make sure your towing setup is safe, reliable, and ready for your next adventure.