Best Hitches to Pull a Camper: Top RV Towing Hitches and Accessories
Finding the right hitch for pulling a camper involves matching weight capacities, mounting styles, and compatibility with your vehicle. This guide highlights five reliable hitches and accessories that help secure a trailer, manage sway, and simplify installation. The selections cover bumper receivers, adjustable hitch receivers, and lightweight mounting options designed for RVs, travel trailers, and campers. Use the quick reference table below to compare essentials at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Receiver Size | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| CURT 17063 MV Round Bar Weight Distribution Hitch with Sway Control | CURT | 2-5/16″ Ball | Weight distribution and sway control |
| Stromberg Carlson CC-300 Adjustable Accessory Hitch | Stromberg Carlson | 2″ | Bike racks and cargo carriers for back of camper |
| KUAFU Universal RV Trailer Hitch 2 Inch Class 3 | KUAFU | 2″ | Frame-mounted hitch for 72″ frames |
| CURT 13703 Camper Adjustable Trailer Hitch RV Towing | CURT | 2″ | Standard RV hitch for frames up to 72″ wide |
| TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801 | TOPTOW | 2″ | Bike racks and cargo carriers mounted on bumper |
CURT 17063 MV Round Bar WDT Hitch With Sway Control
This weight distribution hitch redistributes a portion of tongue weight to improve level towing, helping to stabilize a trailer behind a motor vehicle. It includes a sway control kit to mitigate trailer sway and features a grease zerk for ongoing lubrication, supporting smoother handling and easier maintenance. Compatible with a ball size of 2-5/16″, this unit aims to balance the tow vehicle and trailer for safer highway performance.
Stromberg Carlson CC-300 Adjustable Accessory Hitch
The CC-300 creates a 2″ hitch receiver on travel trailers and fifth wheels, enabling mounting of bike racks and cargo carriers at the back of an RV. It offers Class I mounting with the option to weld for Class II compatibility, broadening vehicle suitability. Built from durable alloy steel with a powder-coated finish, this hitch is designed for long-term use and can be attached to the frame or vehicle side wall with appropriate hardware.
KUAFU Universal RV Trailer Hitch 2 Inch Class 3
This 2″ Class 3 receiver is designed for heavy-duty use, suitable for up to 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight in certain configurations. It is framed for 72″ wide frames and provides height-adjustable mounting to fit varied vehicle setups. The unit emphasizes durability with a black powder-coated finish and includes hardware for straightforward installation, enabling compatibility with frames to attach a ball mount, cargo carrier, trailer hitch, or related accessories.
CURT 13703 Camper Adjustable Trailer Hitch
Designed for RV frames up to 72 inches wide, this hitch provides dependable strength rated for 3,500 lbs gross trailer weight and 350 lbs tongue weight (subject to the lowest-rated towing component). Its 2-inch receiver is standard for many travel trailers, and the installation is described as easy with included grade-8 hardware. The 3-piece adjustable design lets users tailor fit to various RV frame widths, enhancing versatility for different campers and vehicles.
TOPTOW RV Bumper Hitch Receiver 63801
Specifically designed to mount on bumper beams, this 2″ receiver is suited for carrying bike racks and cargo carriers. It notes a 200 lbs tongue weight capacity and includes four full threaded bolts and nuts for mounting to 4″ to 4-1/2″ bumper beams. The design is intended for simple installation on compatible RV bumpers, offering a practical solution for additional towing accessories without modifying the frame.
Fioracl Bolt-On RV Hitch Receiver
This 2″ receiver features an upgraded reinforced structure with laser-cut ribs and adjustable bolts to clamp onto 3-4″ bumper beams, reducing wobble. It supports up to 200 lbs secure cargo or bike racks when used as a bumper receiver (not intended for towing trailers). It is powder-coated for weather resistance and designed for versatile mounting options on travel trailers or bumper beams, expanding compatibility with multiple travel setups.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Weight ratings and compatibility: Verify Gross Trailer Weight and Tongue Weight ratings, and ensure they align with your camper’s specifications and your vehicle’s towing capacity. Different hitches support different maximums; never exceed the lowest-rated towing component.
- Receiver size and compatibility: The most common size is 2 inches. If you plan to tow larger trailers or use certain bike racks or cargo carriers, confirm that the receiver and hardware are appropriate for your needs.
- Mounting style: Hitches mount to bumper beams, frame rails, or dedicated hitch receivers. Decide whether a bumper-mounted option suffices or if a frame-mounted solution offers better stability and weight distribution.
- Weight distribution and sway control: Weight-distributing hitches redistribute tongue weight to improve level towing, while sway-control kits reduce trailer sway in windy or highway conditions. Consider models that combine both features for enhanced stability.
- Durability and weather resistance: Look for powder-coated finishes and robust materials (e.g., alloy steel) to withstand road salt and outdoor exposure. Check for rust-resistant components and long-term lubrication provisions (e.g., grease zerk fittings).
- Ease of installation and maintenance: Some units are bolt-on and require welding for higher-class compatibility, while others include hardware and simple assembly. Assess whether you prefer straightforward DIY installation or professional assistance.
- Accessory versatility: If you plan to mount bike racks, cargo carriers, or winches, verify that the hitch design supports these accessories or has compatible expansion options.
- Vehicle and frame fit: Ensure the hitch is compatible with your RV frame width, bumper configuration, and mounting location. Some models are designed for travel trailers, fifth wheels, or specific bumper dimensions.
- Warranty and support: Consider products from brands with clear warranty terms and accessible customer support should installation or compatibility questions arise.
This article presents objective, specification-driven information to help readers compare hitches for pulling a camper. Always verify current product details and cross-check with your vehicle’s owner manual before purchasing or installing any towing equipment.