The typical height of a travel trailer with an air conditioner ranges from 10 to 13 feet. This measurement is crucial for planning routes, ensuring bridge clearances, and even storing your trailer. This article provides a comprehensive overview of travel trailer heights and answers frequently asked questions, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next adventure.
Understanding Travel Trailer Height Dimensions
Knowing the precise height of your travel trailer, including the air conditioner, is non-negotiable for safe and stress-free travel. Overestimating or underestimating can lead to costly damage to your trailer or, worse, a dangerous accident. This section breaks down the key considerations.
Standard Height Range
As mentioned earlier, the standard height window for travel trailers equipped with air conditioners falls between 10 and 13 feet. This variance is due to several factors:
- Trailer Type: Smaller trailers like teardrops and pop-up campers tend to be shorter, while larger models like fifth wheels will generally be taller.
- Floorplan: The number of stories or raised sections within the trailer’s design influences overall height.
- Air Conditioner Model: Different air conditioner brands and models add varying amounts to the trailer’s overall height. A low-profile air conditioner will obviously add less than a standard model.
- Suspension and Tires: The height of the trailer’s suspension and tires contributes to the ground clearance, affecting the total height of the trailer.
Finding Your Trailer’s Exact Height
While the general range provides a good starting point, you need to know your trailer’s specific height. Here’s how to obtain that information:
- Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual is the best place to find the manufacturer’s specified height. Look for sections detailing dimensions or specifications.
- Manufacturer Website: Often, you can find the dimensions on the manufacturer’s website by searching for your specific make and model of trailer.
- Measuring Manually: If you can’t find the information elsewhere, you’ll need to measure yourself. Park the trailer on a level surface. Use a long, straight edge and a level to extend a line from the highest point of the air conditioner to the ground. Then, use a tape measure to determine the vertical distance between the ground and the straight edge. Accuracy is paramount.
Why Height Matters
Understanding your travel trailer’s height isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential for:
- Route Planning: Low bridges and overpasses are common hazards, especially on older roads. Knowing your height allows you to plan routes that avoid these obstacles. Many GPS devices designed for RVs allow you to input your vehicle’s height and will automatically route you away from low clearances.
- Storage: Whether you’re storing your trailer in a garage, carport, or storage facility, you need to ensure there’s sufficient overhead clearance.
- Accessibility: Consider accessibility to campgrounds and specific campsites. Some campsites may have low-hanging branches or other obstructions.
- Legal Requirements: Some states have height restrictions for vehicles on certain roads. Being aware of these regulations helps you avoid fines and ensure compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about travel trailer height, with answers designed to give you the information you need.
FAQ 1: Does the advertised height of a travel trailer include the air conditioner?
Generally, the advertised height may or may not include the air conditioner. Always double-check the fine print or contact the dealer to confirm whether the advertised height is with or without the air conditioning unit. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
FAQ 2: What is the maximum legal height for a vehicle in the United States?
The federal legal limit for vehicle height in the United States is typically 13 feet 6 inches (4.11 meters). However, it’s crucial to check state and local regulations, as some areas may have lower limits.
FAQ 3: How much does a typical RV air conditioner add to the height of a travel trailer?
A standard RV air conditioner typically adds between 8 to 15 inches to the overall height of a travel trailer. Low-profile models might add only 6 to 8 inches.
FAQ 4: Can I install a lower-profile air conditioner to reduce the overall height of my trailer?
Yes, you can install a low-profile air conditioner. However, consider the cooling capacity of the unit. A lower-profile unit may have a reduced BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating, which may not be sufficient for larger trailers or extremely hot climates.
FAQ 5: Should I include the antenna in my height measurement?
Yes, you absolutely should. Anything mounted on the roof, including antennas, satellite dishes, and solar panels, needs to be included in your overall height measurement.
FAQ 6: What happens if I hit a low bridge with my travel trailer?
Hitting a low bridge can result in significant damage to your travel trailer and the bridge itself. This can lead to costly repairs, potential injuries, and legal liabilities. It is crucial to plan your route carefully and be aware of your trailer’s height.
FAQ 7: Where can I find information about bridge clearances on my travel route?
Many GPS units specifically designed for RV travel include bridge clearance information. Additionally, you can consult trucking route maps and online resources that provide details on low clearances. State DOT (Department of Transportation) websites are also valuable resources.
FAQ 8: Does tire pressure affect the overall height of my travel trailer?
Yes, tire pressure can slightly affect the overall height. Underinflated tires will reduce the height, while overinflated tires will increase it. However, the difference is usually minimal (an inch or less). It’s more important to maintain proper tire pressure for safety and fuel efficiency.
FAQ 9: How often should I check the height of my travel trailer?
You only need to check the height of your travel trailer once when you first purchase it or after making modifications that could affect its height, such as replacing the air conditioner or installing a new antenna. Document this measurement clearly for future reference. It’s a good idea to re-measure after significant suspension work.
FAQ 10: Are there any apps that help with route planning for RVs, considering height restrictions?
Yes, several apps are designed for RVers that incorporate height restrictions. Examples include RV Trip Wizard, CoPilot RV, and AllStays. These apps allow you to input your RV’s dimensions and plan routes that avoid low clearances.
FAQ 11: How does the height of a travel trailer compare to the height of a fifth-wheel trailer?
Generally, fifth-wheel trailers are taller than travel trailers. This is due to their design, which often includes a raised front section that extends over the truck bed. Fifth wheels commonly range from 12 to 13.5 feet.
FAQ 12: What should I do if I am unsure about a bridge clearance?
If you are ever unsure about a bridge clearance, err on the side of caution. Find an alternate route, even if it adds some time to your journey. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Look for signage indicating vertical clearance, and if you have any doubt, take another route.
Conclusion
Knowing the height of your travel trailer with the air conditioner is critical for safe and enjoyable RV travel. By understanding the factors that influence height, knowing how to accurately measure your trailer, and being aware of legal requirements and route planning resources, you can confidently navigate the open road. Always prioritize safety and take the time to ensure you have the information you need to avoid potential hazards. Happy travels!