Travel Trailer Towing Guide: Hitch, Ball & Weight Distribution

Travel trailers (also called "bumper pull" trailers) connect to a ball on a receiver hitch under your tow vehicle's rear bumper. Here's what you need.

Step 1 — Receiver hitch on your vehicle

Most trucks and SUVs that tow campers need a Class III (2-inch) receiver hitch. Many already have one from the factory — look for a square 2-inch opening under the bumper.

Receiver Hitches by TruckAll Class III Hitches

Step 2 — Weight distribution hitch (with sway control)

For most campers over about 5,000 lb, a weight distribution hitch spreads the load across all your axles and reduces trailer sway. Pick one based on your trailer's loaded weight:

Up to 6,000 lbUp to 8,000 lbUp to 12,000 lbUp to 14,000 lb

Tongue weight tip: Tongue weight is usually 10–15% of your trailer's loaded weight. A 7,000 lb trailer has about 700–1,050 lb of tongue weight.

Step 3 — Ball mount & hitch ball

If you're not using a weight distribution hitch, you'll need a ball mount (sized so your trailer sits level) and a ball that matches your trailer's coupler (stamped on the coupler — usually 2" or 2-5/16").

Ball MountsHitch Balls

Step 4 — Safety basics

Hitch pins and locks keep everything secured and theft-proof.

Pins, Clips & LocksWD Parts & Sway Control

Not sure? We'll help. Send us your vehicle year, make and model plus what you're towing and we'll tell you exactly which parts you need. Contact us.

Pro tipsWhat experienced installers check

  • Size weight distribution by tongue weight. It’s typically 10–15% of the loaded trailer weight.
  • Your lowest-rated part sets the limit: receiver, ball mount, ball and vehicle tow rating.
Our Fit Guarantee Tell us your vehicle before you order and we’ll confirm the part fits. If we confirmed it and it doesn’t fit, we’ll cover return shipping and waive the restocking fee. Check my fit →