Forum Discussion

MisterCipher's avatar
MisterCipher
Explorer
Apr 19, 2018

Trailer Width - Pros and Cons

I'm shopping for a travel trailer that I can tow with the Toyota Highlander which just has standard side mirrors. I'm seeing widths from 90 inches to 102 inches. I'm concerned if I go too wide I'll need to use side mirror extenders which I'd prefer to avoid.

Are there advantages to narrower trailers? Or should I try to get the widest possible to maximize interior space?
  • deltabravo's avatar
    deltabravo
    Nomad
    Apr 21, 2018
    donn0128 wrote:
    If you dont want mirror extensions, then be prepared either for tickets, or no trailer. You absolutely MUST have a clear view behind you. It is the law afterall. So your choice is pretty clear.


    Show us this law?

    I've towed 50,000 miles transporting RVs to dealers from factories and can't see behind me with my tow mirrors, and no one has ever ticketed me.
  • Lantley's avatar
    Lantley
    Nomad
    Apr 21, 2018
    rbpru wrote:
    Size means nothing, Floor plan is everything. Floor plan remains when all else is forgotten or accepted.

    In my opinion you can never have a too big or a too adjustable set of mirrors.

    My after market extendable mirrors make my F-150 look like Dumbo the elephant going down the road. I would not trade them, they are worth a fortune when backing up.

    Safe travels

    This^^^ YOu are mixing unrelated criteria. Larger mirrors provide more viewing area regardless of your trailer width.
    A wider trailer will provide more interior space regardless of your mirror size.
    Don't overthink or over analyze. I will always want maximum interior space and maximum viewing area.
    There is no substitute for a good mirrors
  • rbpru's avatar
    rbpru
    Explorer II
    Apr 21, 2018
    Size means nothing, Floor plan is everything. Floor plan remains when all else is forgotten or accepted.

    In my opinion you can never have a too big or a too adjustable set of mirrors.

    My after market extendable mirrors make my F-150 look like Dumbo the elephant going down the road. I would not trade them, they are worth a fortune when backing up.

    Safe travels
  • PAThwacker's avatar
    PAThwacker
    Explorer
    Apr 21, 2018
    Frontal area limits will make you upgrade the tow vehicle regardless of width. I’d be hard pressed to attempt a 3500 pound low height pup with a highlander.
  • APT's avatar
    APT
    Explorer
    Apr 20, 2018
    The Grand Aero series of towing mirrors work very well, are very quick to put on/take off, and cost about $100. Not really any reason not to use them or something equivalent. Some universal mirrors vibrate, or are a hassle to install and adjust which may not be worthwhile.
  • GrandpaKip's avatar
    GrandpaKip
    Explorer II
    Apr 20, 2018
    Might as well figure on them. More than likely, you will want them, anyway.
    My camper is 90” and I wouldn’t be without the Aero mirrors while towing.
  • BizmarksMom's avatar
    BizmarksMom
    Explorer
    Apr 20, 2018
    You seriously will want the towing mirrors. Not just for seeing behind you while driving, they're helpful while backing up.
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Apr 19, 2018
    when I towed my TT with my HIghlander, I bought two strap on side mirrors that worked OK, a little vibration but they worked.
    bumpy
  • MisterCipher's avatar
    MisterCipher
    Explorer
    Apr 19, 2018
    Thanks for the great feedback. Sounds like width is not a primary consideration. I think I'm narrowing my choice down to the Coachman Apex. 90 inch width plus a slideout.
    -Lou

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