Forum Discussion

CaptTyler's avatar
CaptTyler
Explorer
Aug 01, 2016

New Guy Here

Hi all. I have been wanting to get into RVing for a long time and have finally gotten the green light. I have a fairly big family, 3 little kids, a wife, and my mother-in-law. I can't squeeze them all in a truck, so I will be using a big SUV to pull a travel trailer. We have been looking at quad bunkhouse trailers in the 30 foot range. But that will come later. My issue right now is finding the ideal tow vehicle. Since I will have 3 adults and 3 small now but growing kids, I feel my only real options are to get a used 3/4 ton Yukon/Suburban, or an Excursion, although I have slightly considered a Nissan NV 3500, but I need 4x4. This vehicle will be mainly used for towing so I will be able to set it up with that in mind. I going to give myself about a month or so to find the right vehicle, then a few months to get it set up. I'm hoping to get the trailer next winter. I'm very comfortable pulling trailers, but have never towed a travel trailer, so I hope to get some good tips here and elsewhere. If anyone can give me some advice on my tow vehicle, I'm all ears. Thanks.
  • Artum Snowbird wrote:
    When you look at the carrying capacity of the SUV you choose, you will have to pick the very largest one. All the passengers weight and their carseats, toys, purses, and anything you put into the truck takes away from the load carrying capacity of the vehicle. The weight distributing hitch also is part of it. You are going to be close to the red light, and it will be a long learning experience to make it work for you and your big family.
    Yeah, I don't want to rush it and get an incorrect set up. What do most people do that have big families?
  • When you look at the carrying capacity of the SUV you choose, you will have to pick the very largest one. All the passengers weight and their carseats, toys, purses, and anything you put into the truck takes away from the load carrying capacity of the vehicle. The weight distributing hitch also is part of it. You are going to be close to the red light, and it will be a long learning experience to make it work for you and your big family.
  • Welcome to the scrum, Cap'n!

    I can't give you any help on this'n, but folks will be along in due course who can. Best of luck, and Happy Camping!