RV With Car Storage – Your Complete Guide To Bringing Your Ride Along

ByEric James Updated on

Picture this: You’ve just arrived at a breathtaking national park or a secluded boondocking spot. Your RV is perfectly parked, offering all the comforts of home. But now you want to explore a winding scenic route, grab groceries in a nearby town, or hit a trailhead that’s too tight for your big rig. Do you break camp, pack everything up, and drive your entire motorhome?

For many outdoor enthusiasts, the answer is a resounding “no.” This is where the magic of rv with car storage comes in. It’s the ultimate solution for travelers who want the freedom of their home on wheels combined with the agility of a smaller vehicle.

This comprehensive guide from OutwardLab will walk you through everything you need to know about bringing your car along with your RV. We’ll explore different methods, offer practical tips, and help you navigate the common challenges. Get ready to explore further, live smarter, and embrace the true spirit of adventure!

The Freedom of RV with Car Storage: Why Bring Your Ride Along?

The open road calls, and your RV answers. But sometimes, even the most capable motorhome can feel like a limitation when you want to dive into local exploration. Adding a car to your setup transforms your travel experience, offering unparalleled convenience and flexibility.

Unlocking Remote Adventures

Many of the most stunning natural wonders and hidden gems are tucked away on roads less traveled. These paths might be too narrow, steep, or unpaved for your large RV. With a smaller vehicle, you can easily access trailheads, scenic overlooks, or charming small towns that would otherwise be out of reach.

Imagine parking your RV at a spacious campground and then hopping into your car to explore a remote canyon or a bustling market. You gain access to a world beyond the campground entrance.

Convenience and Flexibility on the Road

A second vehicle means you don’t have to pack up your entire camp every time you need supplies. Need milk? Run a quick errand in your car. Want to visit a museum or a local attraction? Leave your RV secured and take your agile vehicle.

This flexibility reduces travel stress and allows you to truly settle into a location. You can enjoy your campsite without constantly feeling the pressure to move your entire home base.

Enhanced Local Exploration

From navigating tight city streets to finding parking in popular tourist spots, a smaller car is simply more practical for daily excursions. You can park closer to attractions, explore historic districts, and generally blend in more easily with local traffic.

This allows for a deeper, more immersive travel experience, letting you connect with the places you visit on a more intimate level.

Understanding Your Options: Types of RV with Car Storage

When it comes to bringing a car along, not all RVs or methods are created equal. Your choice will depend on your RV type, the car you want to bring, and your comfort level with towing or specialized vehicles.

Toy Hauler Motorhomes: The Ultimate Solution

For many adventurers, toy hauler motorhomes offer the most integrated and convenient solution for rv with car storage. These specialized motorhomes feature a dedicated “garage” area, typically at the rear, designed to carry ATVs, motorcycles, golf carts, and even small cars.

Class A and Class C toy haulers provide this unique advantage. A Class A toy hauler, often exemplified by models like the Thor Outlaw, offers a spacious living area upfront with a separate, robust garage in the back. This garage often includes a ramp door that doubles as a patio, tie-downs, and sometimes even a separate entrance or bathroom.

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Some custom or high-end European models, like certain Vario motorhomes, can even feature sophisticated car garages that slide out or are built into the undercarriage, designed for smaller, luxury vehicles. When considering a toy hauler, pay close attention to the garage’s dimensions, weight capacity, and ventilation system to ensure it’s suitable for your specific car.

Towing a Vehicle: Flat Towing vs. Dolly Towing

If a toy hauler isn’t in your plans, towing a separate vehicle behind your RV is a popular and practical option. There are two primary methods:

Flat Towing (Four Wheels Down)

This method involves attaching your car directly to the back of your RV with a tow bar, allowing all four of the car’s wheels to roll on the ground. It’s often preferred for its simplicity once set up, as you don’t need to deal with a dolly.

  • Pros: Less equipment to store, easier to back up short distances (though generally not recommended for long distances).
  • Cons: Not all cars are “dinghy towable” (meaning they can be safely flat-towed without transmission damage). Requires a base plate installed on the car, a tow bar, and often a supplemental braking system.

Dolly Towing (Two Wheels Up)

A tow dolly is a two-wheeled trailer that lifts the front wheels of your car off the ground, allowing the rear wheels to roll freely. This is a versatile option, as most front-wheel-drive cars can be towed this way.

  • Pros: More cars are compatible with dolly towing. Less wear and tear on your car’s drivetrain compared to non-dinghy-towable vehicles.
  • Cons: Requires storing and maneuvering the dolly when not in use. Cannot back up without detaching the dolly.

RV with Integrated Garage (Beyond Toy Haulers)

While less common for full-sized cars, some larger, custom-built Class A motorhomes or bus conversions might feature a small, enclosed garage space designed for specific purposes, such as an ATV, motorcycle, or very compact car. These are often highly specialized and come with a higher price tag. Always check the payload capacity and dimensions carefully.

Planning Your Setup: Essential RV with Car Storage Tips

Successfully hitting the road with your RV and an extra vehicle requires careful planning and attention to detail. Safety is always the top priority.

Vehicle Compatibility and Weight Limits

Before you even think about attaching a car, understand your RV’s towing capacity. Look up your RV’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), and hitch rating. Never exceed these limits. Overloading is dangerous and can cause significant damage to your RV, compromise braking, and void warranties.

For towing, confirm your car’s curb weight and whether it’s suitable for flat towing or dolly towing. Consult your car’s owner’s manual – it will specify if it’s “dinghy towable” and provide instructions for towing. If you’re using a toy hauler, ensure your car fits both dimensionally and within the garage’s carrying capacity.

Choosing the Right Towing Equipment

The right gear makes all the difference for safe towing.

  • Tow Bar: For flat towing, invest in a high-quality tow bar rated for your car’s weight.
  • Base Plate: A custom-fit base plate is installed on your car’s frame to provide secure attachment points for the tow bar.
  • Safety Chains/Cables: Always use cross-mounted safety chains or cables as a backup connection.
  • Lighting System: Your towed car must have functional brake lights, turn signals, and running lights that mirror your RV’s signals. Wiring kits are available for this.
  • Supplemental Braking System: This is crucial and often legally required. A supplemental brake system applies the towed vehicle’s brakes in conjunction with the RV’s brakes, significantly improving stopping power and safety.
  • Tow Dolly: If dolly towing, choose a dolly that can handle your car’s weight and wheelbase.
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Loading and Securing Your Car in a Toy Hauler Garage

If you have a toy hauler, proper loading is key.

  1. Positioning: Drive your car onto the ramp and into the garage carefully. Try to center the weight as much as possible to maintain your RV’s balance.
  2. Tie-Downs: Use heavy-duty ratchet straps specifically designed for vehicle transport. Secure your car at all four corners to the garage’s D-rings. Ensure the straps are tight but not overtightened, which can damage suspension components.
  3. Ventilation: If your car will be running briefly inside the garage (e.g., for positioning), ensure adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Turn off the engine as soon as the car is secured.
  4. Fluids: Check for any fluid leaks from your car before departure, as these can damage the garage floor.

Overcoming Common Problems with RV with Car Storage

While the benefits are clear, traveling with an RV and a secondary vehicle can present unique challenges. Anticipating these can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smoother journey.

Maneuverability and Length Restrictions

Adding a towed vehicle or having a large toy hauler significantly increases your overall rig’s length. This can make tight turns, backing up, and navigating crowded areas more challenging.

  • Practice: Spend time practicing turns and backing up in a large, empty parking lot.
  • Route Planning: Use RV-specific GPS or apps that account for vehicle length and weight to avoid roads with restrictions, low clearances, or sharp turns.
  • Spotters: Always use a spotter when backing up, especially with a towed vehicle.
  • State Laws: Be aware of maximum length restrictions for RVs with towed vehicles in different states.

Fuel Economy and Performance Impact

Towing or carrying an extra vehicle adds considerable weight and drag. This will inevitably impact your RV’s fuel economy and overall performance.

  • Expect Less MPG: Plan for increased fuel costs. Your RV will work harder, leading to lower miles per gallon.
  • Slower Acceleration: Acceleration will be slower, and climbing grades will require more power. Downshift earlier and maintain a steady, safe speed.
  • Braking Distance: Your braking distance will increase. Always allow extra space between your RV and the vehicle in front of you.

Maintenance and Wear on Your RV and Towed Vehicle

The added stress of towing or carrying another vehicle means increased wear and tear on both your RV and the towed car.

  • RV Checks: Regularly inspect your RV’s tires, brakes, suspension, and engine components. Pay close attention to the hitch and chassis.
  • Towed Vehicle Checks: If flat towing, check your car’s tires, lights, and any supplemental braking system components before each trip. If dolly towing, inspect the dolly’s tires, bearings, and lights.
  • Fluid Levels: For flat-towable vehicles, ensure all fluid levels are correct as per the manufacturer’s towing instructions.

Sustainable and Responsible RV with Car Storage Practices

At OutwardLab, we believe in exploring confidently and connecting with nature responsibly. Integrating sustainable practices into your rv with car storage adventures ensures a minimal footprint and a positive impact on the environments you visit.

Minimizing Environmental Impact

Even with an extra vehicle, you can travel more sustainably.

  • Efficient Driving: Maintain a steady speed, avoid rapid acceleration and harsh braking, and keep your tires properly inflated on both vehicles to optimize fuel efficiency.
  • Route Optimization: Plan your routes to minimize unnecessary mileage. Group errands and explorations to reduce short car trips.
  • Leave No Trace: Always adhere to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife and natural habitats. This applies whether you’re in your RV or your smaller car.

Pre-Trip Checks and Regular Maintenance: Your RV with Car Storage Care Guide

A rigorous maintenance schedule is not just about safety; it’s also about efficiency and longevity. This is your essential rv with car storage care guide.

  1. Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure on your RV, car, and tow dolly (if applicable) before every trip. Proper inflation improves fuel economy and prevents blowouts.
  2. Fluid Levels: Ensure all fluids (engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid) are at optimal levels in both your RV and the towed vehicle.
  3. Lights and Signals: Verify that all lights and turn signals are working correctly on both vehicles and any towing equipment.
  4. Hitch and Connections: Inspect your tow bar, base plate, safety chains, and electrical connections for wear, damage, or looseness.
  5. Brakes: Test your RV’s brakes and, if applicable, your supplemental braking system for the towed vehicle.
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“Home is where you take it“: Respecting the Outdoors

The phrase “home is where you take it” truly embodies the RV lifestyle. When you bring your home and an extra vehicle into natural spaces, remember your responsibility as an outdoor steward. Respect quiet hours in campgrounds, keep your pets leashed, and be mindful of your energy and water consumption. Your actions contribute to the preservation of these beautiful places for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About RV with Car Storage

What kind of car can I tow with my RV?

The type of car you can tow depends on your RV’s towing capacity and whether the car is “dinghy towable.” Many compact and mid-sized SUVs and sedans are popular choices. Always consult your car’s owner’s manual to confirm if it can be flat-towed (all four wheels down) or if it requires a tow dolly.

Do I need a special driver’s license to tow a car with an RV?

In most states in the U.S., a standard Class D driver’s license is sufficient for driving an RV and towing a car, as long as the combined weight of the RV and towed vehicle does not exceed certain limits (typically 26,000 lbs GCWR). However, specific regulations vary by state. Always check the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) rules for your state and any states you plan to visit.

How does towing affect my RV’s fuel mileage?

Towing a car significantly increases your RV’s weight and aerodynamic drag, leading to a noticeable decrease in fuel economy. Expect your miles per gallon (MPG) to drop by 1-3 MPG or even more, depending on the weight of the towed vehicle and terrain. Factor this into your travel budget.

Can I put any car in an RV garage?

No, an RV garage (found in toy haulers) has strict limitations. You must consider the garage’s dimensions (length, width, height), its weight carrying capacity (payload), and the RV’s overall Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Only smaller, lighter vehicles like compact cars, ATVs, or motorcycles typically fit and are within weight limits. Always measure your vehicle and check the RV’s specifications carefully.

Bringing a car along with your RV opens up a world of possibilities, blending the comfort of your mobile home with the freedom of local exploration. Whether you opt for a versatile toy hauler or a reliable towing setup, the key to success lies in thorough preparation, understanding your equipment, and prioritizing safety.

Embrace the journey, explore confidently, and enjoy the unparalleled convenience of having your own ride wherever the road takes you. Stay safe and stay comfortable!

Eric James
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