New to travel trailers. Seeking guidance

Yes to brake controller and wd hitch. Wow! Insurance costs really varies from state! I pay around 200 for full coverage in NJ and we have some of the highest rates in the country. Actually we don't even need to insure a trailer. Liability is covered by the TV and the rest is optional. I would definitely NOT get an extended warrantee. They are designed for one thing....line the pockets of the dealer.

Jason - Welcome to RVing.

Answers to your questions are easily found on this forum. Have you done some research here? You have lots of good questions from all directions and it might be a good idea to do some research and then split up your questions into separate "chunks". That way you have the best chance of getting useful answers to all of your questions.

To start you off I will answer some:

1. You need to find out for sure what your trailer is capable of - payload as well as tow capacity. You will need to ensure you do that a transmission cooler as well.

2. A 30 - 32' trailer will be at the limit of your truck's capacity since the unladen (light) load is a useless load to go by. If shopping around a better number to base decisions on is the GVWR or maximum load,

3. Yes you will need both a brake controller as the trailer will have brakes and they need to be activated in response to your truck's braking inputs.

4. Yes you will need a weight distribution hitch and sway control.

5. Insurance varies widely and you should be considered after you settle on a trailer. For example, mine in Harris County with full replacement coverage etc. costs $700 per year and it is stored in a storage lot.

6. Figure on rule of thumb 30% off MSRP.

7. Extended warranties can be a great idea especially if you are careful and understand exactly what is covered, how it is covered, and whether you can / are willing to do the repairs yourself. The cost of the warranty is often paid off in one or two covered repairs.

There you go. There are no "right" answers to fit everyone on many of the above issues, and many people will have many approaches that work for them but are useless to others. Your situation will likely be no different.

M109Pilot wrote:
Hi everyone. While I am not new to camping I am new to the whole RV style of camping.
My name is Jason. My wife and I are in the market looking to purchase a new (not used) tow behind travel trailer but we have many questions that I am hoping to get some answers too.

I drive a 2013 Toyota Tundra with a towing cap of 10,000 pounds. my truck is equipped with a towing package and is all set to go, as far as I know.
In an effort to gain as much knowledge as I can before I jump in and make some mistakes I have the following questions.

We are looking at a trailer that is about 30 feet long, no longer than 32. Weight should be about 5-7K pounds empty. From what I have learned so far I would be right to think I need a brake controller and some sort of weight distribution system?

What is a ballpark area for me to think is fair for insurance?

How much negotiation room are there with dealers? I hate to haggle but will if there are deals to be found!

Is it worth it to purchase an extended warranty when I buy the trailer?

I am sure to have more questions but for right now that is all I can think of. I am eagerly looking forward to hearing from everyone!

Thank you,
Jason

Make certain you understand how payload will affect your choice. Yes on the BC and WD. Insurance should be around $200 per year. About 30% off of MSRP. No on extended warranty. JMO