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Good Sam
“RV towing is required during mechanical failures, tire emergencies when a spare won't resolve the issue, and more. Towing an RV, however, often requires a professional with the right equipment and knowledge to ensure the RV is towed safely and securely. ”
Hitting the road in an RV is all about adventure and independence. You bring your home with you, making it easy to explore scenic routes, quiet campgrounds, and spontaneous detours. But with that freedom comes the risk of unexpected hiccups such as mechanical breakdowns, tire blowouts, or getting stuck far from help. That’s where understanding your towing options becomes essential.
Having a roadside assistance plan that includes towing services - like Good Sam - can help you avoid unexpected expenses and delays. Unlike regular breakdowns, RVs require specialized equipment and experienced operators. Knowing how RV towing works helps you handle emergencies confidently and get back to enjoying your journey.
RV towing services handle everything from small travel trailers to massive Class A motorhomes. You should consider calling for professional help in these situations:
Understanding when to call for professional RV towing services versus attempting DIY solutions ensures your safety and prevents additional damage.
While technically possible, towing an RV yourself can be risky and often inadvisable. RV towing requires specialized knowledge, proper equipment, and experience that most RV owners don't possess.
Professional towing methods include:
Before attempting DIY towing, verify:
Your vehicle's GVWR information appears on a sticker inside the driver's side door frame. This represents the maximum safe operating weight, including passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. Exceeding these limits can cause brake failure and dangerous handling.
If you find yourself stranded, here’s what the typical process looks like for requesting RV towing service:
Know who to call – your RV roadside assistance provider, auto insurance company, or membership service. Having this information readily available ensures a quick response.
Collect your membership details, RV specifications (length, weight, type), exact location, and problem description. GPS coordinates help in remote areas.
Call your provider's 24/7 number with your membership information, RV details, location, and problem description ready.
With Good Sam, members can call 24/7 for immediate assistance across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Explain what's wrong, your exact location using landmarks, any safety concerns, and whether you need immediate assistance. More details help the response team prepare properly.
You'll get confirmation plus an estimated arrival time. Urban areas typically see faster response times due to provider availability as compared to rural areas.
Position your RV safely off the roadway, activate hazard lights, set up reflective triangles, and stay inside unless immediate danger exists.
Once the tow truck arrives, you can expect a series of safety checks and procedures. Here’s what typically happens:
Understanding RV towing costs helps you budget for emergencies. RV towing by a professional service provider can cost between $135-$150 an hour. The cost to tow a camper, RV, or big rig typically ranges from $4 to $7 per mile.
Factors that affect pricing:
Because these costs can add up quickly, it’s often smarter and more affordable to have a roadside assistance membership in place. Plans like Good Sam Roadside Assistance offer unlimited towing to the nearest service center without added charges, which can be a major relief when the unexpected happens on the road.
Having a few essentials on hand can make a huge difference during a breakdown. Here’s what to prepare in advance:
Essential Information:
Emergency Supply Kit:
Safety During Breakdowns:
While often used interchangeably, RV towing and roadside assistance serve different functions. Here's a quick breakdown:
RV towing services handle transportation when your RV cannot be repaired on-site – major mechanical failures, accident damage, or situations requiring shop facilities.
Roadside Assistance provides on-site solutions:
Some plans combine both services, offering unlimited distance towing plus certified RV technicians. Compare comprehensive coverage options to find the right plan for your travel style. Family coverage typically includes spouses and children at no extra cost, while some competitors charge additional fees per driver.
Many providers offer complete roadside assistance plans that combine both towing and on-site repair services for maximum convenience.
Prevention is always better than reaction. Use these expert-backed strategies to minimize your chances of needing a tow:
Regular Maintenance:
Weight Management: Stay within GVWR limits to prevent axle stress and brake failure. Distribute weight evenly and consider weighing your loaded RV periodically.
Route Planning: Use RV-specific GPS systems to avoid height restrictions, weight limits, and challenging routes. Popular navigation tools include RV LIFE and Garmin RV GPS.
Prevention Strategies:
Understanding RV towing services provides peace of mind for confident travel. Knowing the process, costs, and coverage options helps you make informed decisions during emergencies. Proper preparation and quality coverage make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a trip-ending crisis.
The next time you hit the road, don't just hope for the best—be prepared for anything. With proper knowledge and coverage, you can focus on creating memories, knowing professional help is available when needed.
A: No, your towing vehicle must match your RV's weight requirements. Verify manufacturer specifications and comply with state laws regarding brake controllers and safety equipment.
A: Most offer 24/7 service, but response times vary. Urban areas typically see faster responses, while remote locations may experience longer wait times.
A: Most providers tow to the nearest qualified repair facility. Some plans may include destination options within coverage limits.
A: Good Sam, as an established roadside assistance provider, offers different levels of coverage, and their plans include towing benefits for various vehicle types, including both motorized and towable RVs.