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HappyPhantom's avatar
HappyPhantom
Explorer
Feb 14, 2016

How much does the length of a TT affect driving?

We are in the process of purchasing our first travel trailer, and being first-timers, we have really only been looking at TTs shorter than 28', which has limited our choices somewhat. We have seen quite a few that we really like that are 30'. Therefore, my question is, how much of a difference does 2 extra feet of a TT make in driving? Would is cause considerably more sway on the highway? Is it much more difficult to maneuver into a campground space? Or, as newbies, should we stick with the shorter TT until we can build up some experience with towing?

25 Replies

  • If you have a more than adequate tow vehicle with a good WD hitch with anti sway, pulling it down the road doesn't make a difference if it's 28 or 30'. The added length may have an impact when maneuvering in tiqht quarters, such as some campgrounds and gas stations. I pulled a Sunline that was almost 30', but with a 1 ton truck and Hensley hitch, I never had any sway at all...period! But I can tell you that going from almost 30' to almost 27' (Minnie Trailer), it is a little easier, at times, to navigate around gas pumps, tight campground turns etc.

    If you need and want the 30' trailer, just make sure you have the truck to tow it and a good hitch! Then, take your time and learn how much room you need for turns, and be careful not to get yourself boxed in at a gas station. More than once, I've had to skip a station and find a different one. I also keep an extra empty gas can in the truck bed in case I absolutely have to get some gas in the tank and need to use the can.
  • It all depends on what you are towing it with?


    A 30' is not difficult to handle or maneuver. As for sway, your tow vehicle makes all the difference. Once you get over 30' the extra 2ft makes a big difference unless you have a 3/4 or 1 ton. I learned this the hard way!
  • Weight is your first consideration. Wheel base on your truck is another. The shorter the wheel base, the more sway. One of the biggest differences I noticed was when I went for 26ft to 32 ft was tracking. My 26 followed me where ever I went. With the 32, I had to swing wider. This was more obvious on narrow mtn roads. I found myself staying on highways more and hesitant to go to the campgrounds we loved up in NC. I downsized back for a more comfortable driving experience.
  • With your 2014 Toyota Tundra 4x4, 5.6 liter you will have the ability to tow either of those. There is a learning curve for sure, and going to the limit is never a good idea until you research it yourself, get the right hitch and mirrors, and really think about it.

    Many have done just fine, but it really helps if you are familiar with how a trailer tows, and how to back it up.

    Buy a good used unit first at a smaller size, and try that. If you choose wisely, and still want to go bigger, you could. You have the power, but do you have the experience?