New To Towing (Help)

[howellsp]

My wife and I will be travelling across country next year (4500km) and would like to buy a small TT but don't know where to start. My TV specs are listed below.

2009 Dodge Journey SXT
3.5L V6 6-speed (auto stick)
Tow package (rated 3,500lbs)
Traction Control
Trailer sway damping
Electronic roll mitigation
GVWR-5450lbs

What type of hitch should I get?
Trailer weight recommendations?
Setup?
Any and all help would be appreciated.

[bikendan]

Well, your car severely limits your choices.

I'm sure your owner's manual will state a trailer frontal area limit, which any regular TT will exceed.

If you were just doing local short trips, then you might be fine.

But for the kind of trip you're talking about, you should only consider a popup, A-frame or Scamp/Casita fiberglass trailer.

[Artum_Snowbird]

I don't like to burst the bubble, but I think I would reconsider the vehicle. After looking at Car Complaints and seeing the reputation for brake problems with this model year, the idea of loading it up with a trailer in tow and heading for a relaxing holiday just seems like maybe not....

You want to be sure your vehicle is overrated for the load behind it, because you will be a long ways from home with a lot of gear.

If you think you are going to proceed anyways, start learning about combined weight of vehicle and trailer, with axle weights and hitch weights, tire capacity, getting wider mirrors, trailer wiring, brakes, brakes, and brakes.

[Bedlam]

Scamper and Casita are popular US brands of the fibergalss tub trailers, but there are some made in Canada that often I see crossing the NW border.

[MFL]

I think one of the fiberglass shell trailers would work for you. The Scamp model or several other similar types. They are light, tow easily, and more waterproof than a tent type trailer.

Jerry

[donn0128]

Smaller tent trailer or tear drop is really going to max your vehicle out.