- 1). Decide what kind of travel trailer to rent. The main options are
*full-sized travel trailers, which hitch onto the car and are pulled by the car. The trailers are available in different sizes to accommodate different numbers of lodgers.
*pop-up trailers, which are smaller trailers with canvas upper sides. They are folded down every day before travel and "popped up" every evening for sleep. These units are smaller than travel trailers and less expensive to rent. - 2). Find a company that rents travel trailers. These companies can be located through an Internet search. If several competing rental companies operate in the same location, compare and contrast the prices that each charges for its rentals. Find a company that operates a branch in the area where the trip will begin and a branch in the area where the trip will end (if the trip will end somewhere other than the starting point). Check out the company's reputation with the Better Business Bureau. Check the branches of the company where the travel trailer will be picked up and dropped off. Some branches might not have as good a reputation as others.
- 3). Check the vehicle that will be towing the travel trailer. The vehicle should have
*Tires that can carry the extra weight.
*An engine, transmission, suspension, steering, front-end alignment, tire rating and tire condition that are sufficient to tow the trailer.
The owner's manual, the car manufacturer or an authorized automotive dealer will be able to determine whether the towing vehicle meets these tow ratings and capacities. The rented trailer must not exceed these tow ratings and capacities. - 4). Prepare the vehicle that will be towing the travel trailer. The vehicle will need
*A hitch that will securely tow the trailer (the rental company will specify which type of hitch is needed for each type and size trailer)
*A conversion adapter that will allow the trailer to be hooked up to the towing vehicle's electrical system, enabling an electrical connection to the trailer
*A hitch receiver
These items are available at many auto parts stores as well as camping stores. - 5). Have proof of age, a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and a major credit card ready to show when renting the trailer.
- 6). Carefully review the operating instructions for trailer rentals, including how to hook it up to the utilities in trailer parks. Other campers will always be happy to help once the trailer arrives in the park, but it's important to have a general understanding of the mechanics of "setting up camp" before starting out on a journey.
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