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RedBeef's avatar
RedBeef
Explorer
Jul 09, 2021

Can morbidly obese person use a travel trailer?

Hi everyone. I tried searching for the answer, but had no luck finding someone discussing this topic. I have a friend who is morbidly obese. I know this person is at least 400 pounds, possibly as much as 450. He might be gifted a small travel trailer from his elderly grandparents(I don't know the model), and from what I gather it is probably around 2600 pounds and likely around 18'. It is one of the ones that have a queen or full size bed on one end, a small table, half fridge, and a toilet/sink bathroom. No kitchen area. My concern is that the structure of the trailer may no be able to handle a single person of 400+ pounds. He came by so see my travel trailer once, which was new at the time, about 24", with a kitchen, small full bathroom, queen bed, decent sized table and seats, and bunk beds. Not a big trailer, but bigger than the one he is supposed to be getting. When he stepped on the single drop-down step to get in, I thought for sure it was going to break off because it bowed quite a bit and when I looked later on, I saw it had a 280 pound weight limit. When he was inside, it felt like the floor bowed with each step he took. I tell you this only to explain what I saw first hand with his weight in an RV. So, if he gets his trailer, do you think there will be an issue with the overall structure of the trailer? I know it can hold several people that would easily weigh a bunch over 400 pounds, but the weight is distributed and not concentrated in one place. On my trailer, the bed base is only a thin 1/4 inch plywood with a 2x2 cross shaped joist/brace. I assume similar style beds are about the same. Again, I know it could hold two adult people of 200 lbs with no problem, but again, the weight is more evenly distributed. Finally, if he is able to physically fit in the tiny bathroom to use the toilet, would a typical plastic toilet hold that much weight? I care a great deal about my friend, but of course, weight is a touchy subject and I don't want to insult him by expressing my concerns with out researching it first. But if it could be an issue, I want to make sure he knows some of the potential downsides beforehand, so it won't be a shock/disappointment if it turns out that he can't safely use it. In a nutshell, do you think a small RV is enough to accommodate a 400 to 450lb person? Thank you so much for your help.

17 Replies

  • I agree with time2roll. If the person can enter and exit and hitch up, yes, but KD has a good point.
  • My biggest worry would be the plastic toilet, shower, and it's tight confines. Other than that, as long as he fits thru the door it should be fine.
    Using the campground bathroom would probably be a good idea.
  • Specific items might need to be reinforced but it's unlikely the main structure would fail.

    Assuming a single step, it's probably pretty low to the ground so a sturdy box on the ground might be a good alternative.

    Most bed frames are 1/2" plywood, so probably not going to fail and it would be simple enough to add a 1/2" layer on top.
  • The average RV is built to accommodate average size people. The structure, starting with steps, and even the furniture, is designed for average size/weight.

    While many things can be redone/beefed up, for a very heavy person, I don't think a small trailer will end up being a great experience for your friend.

    I hope I'm wrong! :)

    Jerry
  • My short answer is a person of that size needs to buy a size appropriate unit, but even then size could be an issue. Reminds me if a story my neighbor told me. He and his wife are gospel singers and had a great big DP Motorhome/touring bus that had been built for Wynonna Judd. The very first time she set foot in it she said to sell it cause she couldn’t get her FA into the bathroom. My neighbor bought it for a fraction of the cost.
  • I would try to assume this person is already aware of the issues of his weight. If he fits through the doors and can get it hitched up by himself I would say go for it. OK to go to a campground with a shower house for more space. May only last a couple trips and that is fine too. Will provide a few memories and maybe some inspiration to lose a few pounds. Can't hurt to take a walk in the woods.