To Toad or not to Toad.

We're hoping to try Alaska next year without a toad behind our 24 foot E450 V10 Class C, but we'll be traveling with friends who can disconnect from their trailer so we can explore with them riding in their 4X4 tow pickup.

Our Class C's length is so short and the chassis so much over-kill for the coach's weight - and since our ground clearance is pretty good with larger diameter M&S tires - we're able to both get around in small towns fairly well and explore carefully off-highway. It's our preference when traveling by ourselves to have self-containment with us at all times on RV trips. For example, we even go back to the RV to use it's bathroom or have lunch when on foot in small towns or tourist areas.

However, when on a cruise to Alaska years ago we noted that some of the places we stopped at along the coast could not even be reached by vehicle. I guess we'll have to skip these places on an RV trip to Alaska.

Most states require a brake system on toads, but many set a weight limit such as under "N" lbs don't need them. To be safe from a legal as well as damage point, get one. We just started lowing last year and now would not go without. Seeing the sights, shopping are two advantages, but so is having a vehicle to use in case of a breakdown.

I pull a 2014 Ford Explorer, 4 wheels down on any of our trips that may require a second vehicle(read..Tourist areas). E450 V-10 31'. You hardly know it's there, even being full sized SUV, it's dwarfed by the coach even mileage doesn't change much. I use a Blue Ox Tow bar and a Brake Buddy system in the Explorer. I also hard wired the Explorer's tailights with a four prong plug located by front tow bar mounts. Has worked flawlessly and I really don't mind towing it at all. Good Luck !

X2 you will need a toad unless you just want to see from the MH. The Ready brake system as above is what I'm towing with except I have a 4-runner and about the same coach weight.

LEN

I take a toad for any trip more than one night, just depends on how much of an explorer you are. I've read that BC requires brakes on a toad, but it may be bad information so you should check. I'd probably go with a Ready Brute tow bar and brake combo but there are many options.