Top 10 best RV Trailer Hitches
Buyer’s Guide, Comparison and Advice
Serene views. Campsite adventures. Friends and family. For the safest experience out on the open roads, consider our trustworthy trailer hitch options for all your RV needs. Read on to discover more about the products we offer to tailer your trailer experience around you.
Let’s start with the basics of Trailer Hitching.
What is a Trailer Hitch?
The Trailer Hitch
The vital link between your RV and travel trailer. Its is welded or bolted to your RV and offers the ability to be attatched or removed as you please. There are 2 types of Trailer Hitch;
The Fixed-Drawbar Type
A one-piece hitch designed with the trailer ball in mind. It is not compatible with accessories such as ball mounts, bike racks and cargo carriers.
The Receiver Type
Connects to a portion of the vehicle chassis. It has a back-facing opening, suitable for hitch accessories.
Types of Trailer Hitches
Our aim is to find the right hitch for you and your road-trip needs. Below is a brief outline of each hitch and the RV build it is compatible with.
Fifth Wheel Hitch
For heavy duty purposes, this is the hitch for you. It connects the trailer to the back of your vehicle and is compatible for trailers weighing between 15,000 lbs and 24,000 lbs.
Gooseneck Hitch
This hitch connects to a gooseneck trailer via a hitch ball. It provides the ability for high loading capacity. For tight turning circles and larger trailers, this is a suitable option.
Receiver Hitch
Attaching to the underside of the vehicle at the back, this hitch is the most common option on the market. Some rigs are fitted with this hitch straight out of the factory.
Bumper Hitch
Versatile and easy to install, this hitch is bolted to the bumper of the rig. The perfect option for light-duty service.
Front Mounted Hitch
This fronted mounted hitch is fitted under the frame of your vehicle. If power while parking is an issue, this hitch has you covered. Not recommended for long drives.
What to Look for When You are Buying a Trailer Hitch?
If you are going to buy a trailer hitch for your RV, follow our advice below.
Trailer Weight
Arguably the most important factor when choosing a hitch is the weight of your trailer. Hitches fall into four categories.
- Class I hitch can carry up to 2,000 lbs (light loads).
- Class II hitch can carry up to 3,500 lbs (light loads).
- Class III hitch can carry up to 5,000 lbs (larger loads like campers, boats, etc.).
- Class IV hitch can carry up to 10,000 lbs (larger loads like campers, boats, etc.).
Towing Capacity
Before purchasing your brand spanking new hitch, have you considered what you are going to carry in your trailer?
It is important that the hitch you are ordering has a suitable towing capacity for what you plan to carry.
Quality
Although quality is at the heart of what we do, rarely a hitch may be damaged in transit. A damaged hitch may lead to further problems with your trailer connection therefore we advise you check for any imperfections before use.
Weight Distribution
The hitch’s role is to balance the weight of your trailer and vehicle evenly and prevent a drop off at the hitch-tongue. To avoid stopping halfway through your journey, we advise correct weight distribution practice is obtained for a safe and smooth drive.
Sway Control
Imagine that you are finally at your dream campsite location and one last turn proves too much for your trailer. Having the correct hitch will allow your trailer to have a tight rotation circle and prevent accidents, especially when turning corners in poor conditions.
10 Best RV Trailer Hitches
# 1. EAZ LIFT 48069 Elite Kit
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 10,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 1,200lbs
A rigid and reliable option. Packed with ease of use in mind, the U-bolts and chained package are pre-fitted to the spring bars.
Pros
- Adjustable sway control depending on road conditions.
- Adjustable tension bar for different kinds of trailers.
- Easy to install.
- Silent Friction Bar.
Cons
- Sometimes, the bolts might loosen up.
Verdict
Proven to provide a smooth driving experience, this RV hitch does exactly what it says on the box. Its reliable, easy to install and user friendly.
# 2. Husky Center Line TS with Spring Bars
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 800lbs – 1,200lbs
If adaptability is what you seek, look no further. This hitch boasts weight distribution and sway control all in one unit, without the need for excess hardware. Made from forged steel it delivers the promise of durability.
Pros
- Excellent sway control.
- High pulling power.
- Lightweight frame.
Cons
- Not easy to install.
Verdict
For some, driving at the speed limit in an RV may seem daunting. With this RV hitch, speed is not an issue for your trailer. The combined sway control and weight balance abilities allows a worry-free and safe drive, even when on the motorway.
# 3. CURT 14301 Class 4 Trailer Hitch
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 10,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 1,000lbs
Weight Distribution: 12,000lbs
If rust is what you are worried about, this hitch has your back. Coated with “black powder” this hitch does not rust, chip or get adversely affected by UV rays.
Pros
- Easy to install.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Durable.
- Adaptable style.
Cons
- Unfinished components.
Verdict
Bike racks, boats and campers all fall into the list of things this hitch can manage with ease. It is quick to install and regarded as the most reliable and versatile hitch on our list.
# 4. Pro Series 49901 Reese
Description
This product contains everything you need for a happy holiday. It’s fabricated head and welded hitch bar combo enhances the performance and towing capability all while providing excellent safety standards.
Pros
- Excellent weight distribution.
- Provides friction sway control.
- Used for heavy-duty purposes.
- Sturdy.
Cons
- Minor damages in some cases.
Verdict
Considered one of the best options for value for money.
# 5. Equal-i-zer Four-point Sway Control Hitch
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 1,600 – 16,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 400lbs – 4,000lbs
This is versatility. An Integrated 4-point sway control hitch provides exceptional sway resistance while driving. Furthermore, it is compatible with all types of bumper-pull trailers such as RV, cargo, boat, horse and more.
Pros
- Made from solid American Steel.
- Easy to set up and install.
- Low maintenance.
Cons
- There is no noise control.
Verdict
With Equal-i-zers’s outstanding reputation, its no coincidence that this hitch is known for controlling the sway of larger and longer trailers. If you own an extended trailer, look no further as this hitch will stand out from the crowd.
# 6. CURT 17063 MV Weight Distribution Hitch
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 10,000lbs – 14,000lbs
Tongue Weight: 1,000lbs – 1,400lbs
Lubricated continuously as you drive, this system provides a smooth and quiet cruising experience.
Pros
- Reliable power.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Convertible fit.
Cons
- The hitch is heavy.
Verdict
Although it has placed 6th on our list, do not underestimate the durability and sway control of this hitch. It stands shoulders above our other options when it comes to withstanding pressure.
# 7. Ultra-Fab 35-946403 Trailer Hitch Receiver
Description
This hitch receiver earns its place on our list for its suitability with heavy-duty use. This allows the user to carry bike racks, platforms and generators. Heavy rain and splash from puddles isn’t an issue either. Coated with “black powder” there is no chance of rust. Made in China and packaged in a 24kg box.
Pros
- Adjustable hitch system.
- Has safety chain to secure the accessories.
- Corrosion-resistant.
Cons
- Not welded.
Verdict
Considered to be the “guardian angel in times of crises” this hitch will carry your camper and other accessories with ease. Ensuring you can focus on the journey ahead.
# 8. Fastway 10K Round Bar e2 94-00-1061
Description
There is no turning or reversing restriction with this hitch top choice. It comes in trunnion and round bar models and combines weight distribution and sway controls in one compact system. Comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Sturdy.
- Great sway control.
- Easy to install.
- Adaptable to the weather conditions.
Cons
- Some parts may not be correctly welded.
Verdict
The Fastway products are all highly competitive and of good quality. This RV hitch works together as one unit, which makes the towing process easy, safe, and smooth. This is a highly recommended one to consider.
# 9. APS Class 3 Tow Trailer Hitch
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 3,500lbs
Tongue Weight: 525lbs
Weight Distribution: 4,000lbs
This hitch is safe and tested according to SAE J684. This is a class 3 trailer hitch, resistant to chipping, dust and rust thanks to its “black powder” coating.
Pros
- Easy to install.
- No noise issues.
- Safe and secure.
- Rigid and very functional.
Cons
Sometimes, the holes in the hitch are not correctly aligned.
Verdict
Despite its errors in some cases, this product is considered highly reliable. The weight distribution and sway control are also stable and very good.
# 10. CURT 13703 Camper Adjustable Trailer Hitch
Description
Gross Weight Capacity: 3,500lbs
Tongue Weight: 350lbs
Although being at the end of our list and limited to the lowest-rated towing components, don’t be fooled on this hitch. This product functions with safety in mind. It has been thoroughly tested alongside SAE J684 standards and achieves a high caliber of safety.
Pros
- Easy to install.
- Reliable strength.
- Useful for heavy-duty purposes.
- It can be used for various types of vehicles.
Cons
- The bolts are so long that they get exposed, which can lead to rusting.
Verdict
Despite its long bolts, this RV hitch is on this list because it provides stability, control, and safety. The manufacturing quality stands out as excellent.
Before purchasing an item from our “top picks” list, it is advised that you asses your buying needs. This may include considering the towing weight you will require, the items you will carry, this distance you plan to travel and the characteristics of each hitch available and what they can offer you. Doing so may increase your chances of finding the perfect product for you. We hope this information proves to be useful and allows all your trailer dreams to become a reality.