Measuring a travel trailer isn’t as straightforward as grabbing a tape measure and going to town. The industry uses specific standards to determine length, height, and width, and understanding these is crucial for everything from campsite reservations to storage planning and legal compliance. We’ll break down the process, ensuring you know exactly how to accurately measure your travel trailer.
The Definitive Answer: How Do You Measure a Travel Trailer?
The stated length of a travel trailer, the number most commonly advertised and used for campground compatibility, is not the interior living space length. Instead, it’s the overall length from the coupling (hitch) to the rearmost exterior point, typically the bumper or spare tire. This includes the hitch, any ladders, spare tire carriers, and anything permanently affixed to the trailer’s ends. Height is measured from the ground to the highest point on the roof, generally an air conditioner or vent. Width is measured at the widest point of the trailer, usually including the awning rails.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Understanding your travel trailer’s dimensions is paramount for several reasons:
- Campground Reservations: Most campgrounds have length restrictions. Overestimating or underestimating your trailer’s length can lead to denied access or being placed in an unsuitable site.
- Storage Solutions: Whether storing your trailer at home or in a paid facility, precise dimensions are essential for finding the right space.
- Towing Safety: Knowing the weight and dimensions of your trailer impacts the selection of a suitable tow vehicle and understanding the overall vehicle’s handling characteristics.
- Legal Compliance: Some states have restrictions on trailer length and width, especially when traveling on specific roads. Knowing your trailer’s dimensions ensures you are compliant with local laws.
- Insurance Purposes: Accurate measurements can be necessary for insurance policies.
Mastering the Measurement Process
Measuring Length
The length measurement is perhaps the most crucial and often misunderstood aspect of travel trailer dimensions.
- Preparation: Park your trailer on a level surface. Ensure the tires are properly inflated.
- Tools: You’ll need a long tape measure (at least 30 feet, preferably 50 feet), a helper, and a notepad and pen to record your measurements.
- Procedure: Starting at the very front of the hitch coupler (the part that connects to your tow vehicle), extend the tape measure to the rearmost point of the trailer. This includes the bumper, any protruding ladder, spare tire, or anything else permanently attached at the back. Ensure the tape measure is straight and taut.
- Recording: Record the measurement in feet and inches. Round up to the nearest foot, as this is how most campgrounds categorize sites.
Measuring Height
Height is equally important, especially when navigating bridges or tunnels.
- Preparation: Park your trailer on a level surface. Ensure the tires are properly inflated.
- Tools: You’ll need a long measuring tape, a ladder (if necessary), and a helper.
- Procedure: Locate the highest point on your trailer’s roof. This is often the air conditioner unit, a satellite dish, or a vent. Use the measuring tape to measure from the ground to the top of this point. Ensure the tape measure is vertical.
- Recording: Record the measurement in feet and inches. Round up to the nearest inch to be safe.
Measuring Width
Width is critical for ensuring you can navigate roads and fit into storage spaces.
- Preparation: Park your trailer on a level surface.
- Tools: You’ll need a measuring tape and a helper.
- Procedure: Locate the widest point of your trailer, typically the awning rails or the sides of the body. Measure the distance between these points. Ensure the tape measure is perpendicular to the trailer’s sides.
- Recording: Record the measurement in feet and inches. Round up to the nearest inch.
Avoiding Common Measurement Mistakes
- Ignoring the Hitch: The hitch is a significant part of the overall length and should never be excluded from the measurement.
- Forgetting Protrusions: Don’t overlook items like ladders, spare tires, and antennas.
- Uneven Ground: Measuring on uneven ground will result in inaccurate measurements.
- Inaccurate Tape Measures: Ensure your tape measure is in good working order and not stretched or damaged.
- Rounding Down: Always round up to the nearest inch or foot to avoid problems.
- Relying Solely on Manufacturer Specs: While manufacturer specifications provide a good starting point, they may not be entirely accurate. Always verify with your own measurements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What’s the difference between “box length” and “overall length” in a travel trailer?
Box length refers to the length of the actual living space of the trailer, excluding the hitch and any rear protrusions. Overall length, as previously discussed, includes everything from the hitch to the rearmost point. Campgrounds almost always use overall length for site size calculations.
FAQ 2: Does the awning need to be factored into the width measurement?
No, the awning itself does not need to be factored in, unless it’s a permanent, rigid awning that protrudes beyond the awning rails when retracted. The awning rails, however, usually represent the widest part of the trailer’s body and must be included in the width measurement.
FAQ 3: How accurate are the manufacturer’s listed dimensions?
Manufacturer dimensions are a good starting point but are not always perfectly accurate. Production variations, optional equipment, and measurement techniques can lead to discrepancies. It’s always best to verify the dimensions yourself.
FAQ 4: What happens if I underestimate the length of my travel trailer when booking a campsite?
Underestimating your trailer’s length can lead to several problems. The campground might deny you access if your trailer doesn’t fit the site, or you might be forced to squeeze into a smaller space, potentially damaging your trailer or surrounding property.
FAQ 5: Should I measure my trailer with or without the weight distribution hitch attached?
Measure the trailer with the weight distribution hitch detached. The weight distribution hitch is an accessory and is not considered part of the trailer’s permanent length.
FAQ 6: Does the height measurement change when the air conditioner is running?
No, the height measurement remains the same whether the air conditioner is running or not. The measurement is taken from the ground to the top of the air conditioning unit itself, not the airflow it generates.
FAQ 7: Are there legal limits on travel trailer dimensions?
Yes, most states have legal limits on trailer length, width, and height. These limits vary by state and sometimes even by specific roads. Consult the regulations for the states you plan to travel through.
FAQ 8: How do I find out the weight of my travel trailer?
The weight of your travel trailer is usually listed on a sticker or plate located on the trailer itself, typically near the entrance door or on the frame. You can also find this information in the owner’s manual. Always weigh your trailer when loaded to confirm the actual weight.
FAQ 9: Do I need to re-measure my travel trailer every year?
It’s a good practice to re-measure your travel trailer periodically, especially if you’ve made any modifications or added equipment that could affect its dimensions. Once a year is a reasonable interval.
FAQ 10: What’s the best way to measure the interior height of my travel trailer?
The best way to measure the interior height is to use a tape measure and extend it from the floor to the ceiling at the highest point inside the trailer. Be mindful of any obstructions, such as light fixtures or air conditioning vents.
FAQ 11: Why do some campgrounds ask for the “total length” of my rig, including the tow vehicle?
Some campgrounds, particularly smaller ones, need to consider the space required for both the trailer and the tow vehicle. Knowing the “total length” helps them ensure adequate space for parking and maneuverability.
FAQ 12: What should I do if my travel trailer is slightly longer than the maximum length allowed at a campground?
Contact the campground directly and explain your situation. Some campgrounds may be willing to make exceptions, especially if the excess length is minimal. However, be prepared to look for an alternative campground if they cannot accommodate your trailer.
By understanding the proper methods for measuring your travel trailer and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently navigate the complexities of campsite reservations, storage planning, and legal compliance. Safe travels!