What Is Dinghy Towing?
Dinghy towing, also called flat towing, allows you to tow a secondary vehicle (or “toad”) behind your motorhome with all four wheels on the ground. It’s a favorite among RVers because it’s quick to set up, easy to disconnect, and makes running errands or sightseeing much simpler once you’ve parked your rig and set up at the campsite.
Not every vehicle is suited for dinghy towing. Always consult the owner’s manual before towing. If the manufacturer does not explicitly approve a vehicle for flat towing, using it can result in serious drivetrain damage that may not be covered under warranty.
With the right setup, dinghy towing is one of the most convenient ways to enhance your travel experience.
Why Dinghy Towing is Often the Best Choice
There are three main ways to tow a vehicle behind your RV:
- Trailer towing, where the entire vehicle rides on a trailer
- Dolly towing, which lifts the front two wheels off the ground
- Dinghy towing, where all four wheels stay on the road
Many RVers prefer dinghy towing because:
- It requires less equipment (after initial setup)
- It’s faster to connect and disconnect
- It takes up less storage space at your destination
Once upon a time I had a Class C that was too small to pull a dinghy. It [stunk]. Now, I take my toad every time I hit the road. My [motorhome] gets maybe 7 mpg and my [dinghy vehicle] gets 34 mpg. It pays for itself in local trips. It also allows each of us to do our own thing. I can go golfing while the wife enjoys hanging out at the camp. She can go to a craft store while I go fishing. Having a toad give us flexibility. — Lt Keefer on THOR Forums
Confirm Your Motorhome’s Towing Capacity and GCWR
Before towing anything, check your motorhome’s tow rating. You can usually find this information in the RV’s owner’s manual or on a sticker located near the driver’s seat or inside a cabinet. You also must check the motorhome’s gross combination weight rating (gcwr). The gcwr is the maximum weight the RV can safely manage, including cargo, fluids, passengers, etc., plus the weight of the dinghy vehicle and its contents.
Considerations for your motorhome’s towing capacity must include:
- The weight of the towed vehicle
- Any cargo inside that vehicle
- Weight from added accessories like auxiliary braking systems
Part of your search for your Class C and TOAD must include the rig’s towing capacity and the TOAD’s weight, especially if you plan on using the TOAD to carry more stuff. — OMMM4747 on iRV2 Forums.
Exceeding this capacity can lead to poor handling, increased braking distances, and long-term damage to your rig. When in doubt, verify the numbers.
Choosing a Towable Vehicle in 2026
Each model year brings changes to drivetrains, software, and transmissions. A vehicle that was dinghy-towable last year may not be this year. Always confirm using the manufacturer’s documentation.
Common traits of vehicles that are dinghy-towable often include:
- Rear-wheel drive vehicles with manual transmissions
- Four-wheel drive vehicles with a transfer case that can be set to neutral
However, towing a vehicle not designed for flat towing can destroy the transmission or damage other drivetrain components.
Even approved vehicles may come with conditions such as:
- Speed or distance restrictions
- Required engine run times or pre-tow procedures
The owner’s manual is your first stop. Look for sections labeled “Recreational Towing,” “Dinghy Towing,” or “Flat Towing.”
Your owner’s manual is the definitive guide! Sometimes they make mid-year changes, so I always go by the Owner’s Manual … period. If it does not have a section about flat towing in it, then I’d assume it is NOT flat towable, at least without some kind of alteration like a transmission lube pump, drive shaft disconnect, etc. — NCC-1701A on iRV2 Forums
Some vehicles require a multi-step procedure before towing. Research this ahead of time to make sure it is something you are comfortable doing repeatedly.
2026 Manufacturer-Approved Dinghy Vehicles
| Brand | Models |
|---|---|
| BUICK | Encore GX AWD Envista |
| CADILLAC | Escalade 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Escalade ESV 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Escalade V 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) |
| CHEVROLET | Blazer 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Colorado 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Silverado 1500 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Silverado 2500/3500 HD 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Suburban 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Tahoe 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) TRAX Trailblazer AWD |
| DODGE | Durango AWD (two-speed transfer case) |
| FORD | Bronco (N/A Bronco Sport) Escape FHEV / PHEV Expedition 4WD F-150 4WD Super Duty 4WD Maverick HEV Ranger 4WD |
| GMC | Canyon / Canyon Denali 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Sierra / Sierra Denali 1500 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Sierra / Sierra Denali 2500HD / 3500HD 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) Yukon / Yukon XL / Denali 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ Neutral & 4WD Low) |
| JEEP | Gladiator 4WD Grand Cherokee 4WD (two-speed transfer case w/ 4WD Low) Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer 4WD (4WD Low) Wrangler 4WD |
| LINCOLN | Nautilus FHEV Navigator 4WD |
| NISSAN | Z (manual transmission only) |
| RAM | 1500 4WD 2500 4WD 3500 4WD |
*Listings compiled by Thomas Godwin
Required Equipment for Dinghy Towing
A safe and legal dinghy towing setup requires more than just a tow bar. You will need several key components, each playing an essential role in ensuring stability, safety, and compliance with the law.
Base Plate
The base plate attaches to the front of the towed vehicle and connects to the tow bar. Some base plate installations may require minor modifications to the vehicle’s trim. These components are vehicle-specific and should match the tow bar model you plan to use.
Popular brands include Blue Ox, CURT, Demco, and Roadmaster.
Tow Bar
Tow bars link the RV and towed vehicle. Choose one rated for your vehicle’s weight and ensure it is easy to use. Some offer foldable designs or tabless attachment points for a cleaner look.
Popular brands include Blue Ox, CURT, Demco, and Roadmaster.
Safety Cables or Chains
These provide a backup connection if the tow bar fails. They are required by law in the United States and Canada.
Popular brands include Blue Ox, CURT, Demco, Reese Towpower, and Roadmaster.
Auxiliary Braking System
A braking system in your towed vehicle improves stopping power and protects your RV’s brakes. Most states and provinces require it.
Popular brands include Blue Ox, Brake Buddy, CURT (RVi), Demco, and Roadmaster.
Breakaway Switch
If your vehicle separates from the motorhome, a breakaway switch automatically engages the dinghy’s brakes. This is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions.
Signal Light Wiring or Wireless Lights
You can connect your RV’s signal lights to your towed vehicle using a wired harness. Wireless LED tail lights are another option and are easier to install.
Rock Guard (Optional)
Rock guards protect your towed vehicle from road debris. Options include brush-style guards, solid panels, and split designs. Choose what fits your RV style and travel preferences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Towing a vehicle that is not approved for dinghy towing
- Skipping the auxiliary braking system
- Exceeding your RV’s towing/weight limit
- Failing to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s pre-towing procedure
- Using incompatible or improperly installed equipment
One small mistake can result in thousands of dollars in damage or a serious safety hazard. Always double-check every step.
Dinghy Towing Adds Freedom
Dinghy towing is one of the best ways to explore once you’ve reached your destination. You will not have to break down camp just to run errands, and your towed vehicle gives you the flexibility to see more of the places you visit.
With the right equipment, a towable vehicle, and attention to detail, dinghy towing is safe, legal, and highly convenient for today’s RVers.
For even more about this exclusive 2026 Dinghy Towing Guide, check out our announcements at RVBusiness, RV PRO, and Woodall’s Campground Magazine.
FAQs on Dinghy Towing
A: No. Only specific vehicles are manufacturer-approved for dinghy towing. Always check the owner’s manual.
A: Yes. It’s legally required in most states and provinces and helps prevent dangerous wear on your motorhome’s brakes.
A: Best case? You’ll void the warranty. Worst case? Catastrophic drivetrain damage. Simply put, don’t do it.
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