The Ultimate Guide to Toy Haulers
Nov 27, 2024Last Updated on November 27, 2024 by Jon Brigham
Last Updated on November 27, 2024 by allprotrailersuperstore
A toy hauler offers the comfort of a standard recreational vehicle (RV) with added storage space for recreational items. These versatile trailers adapt to any situation. RV enthusiasts appreciate toy haulers for their flexible interiors and amenities. Adventure, work, play or living — the toy hauler does it all.
This extensive guide to toy haulers covers features, benefits and answers to common questions.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Toy Hauler?
- Toy Hauler Features
- Types of Toy Haulers
- What Are the Benefits of Toy Haulers?
- How Much Does a Toy Hauler Cost?
- How to Choose a Toy Hauler Trailer
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Browse Toy Haulers for Sale Online
What Is a Toy Hauler?
A toy hauler is an RV with a living space at the front and a garage at the back. The rear cargo area fits “toys” like all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes, golf carts, utility task vehicles (UTVs) and more. The back wall converts into a ramp for easy loading. Like a standard RV, toy haulers have a kitchen, bedroom and bathroom.
Toy Hauler Features
Toy haulers typically share many of the same amenities as travel trailers:
- Auto-leveling
- Full bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Entertainment system
- External storage capacity
Some toy hauler models have extra features compared to other RV trailers, including the following:
- External kitchen
- Tent or loft beds
- In-built fueling station
- Weather-resistant interior
- Extended ground clearance
- Solar or solar-ready system
- Onboard gas tank and generator
- Clips and tie-downs for large items
- Higher ceilings for increased storage space
Types of Toy Haulers
You can choose from three variations of trailer:
- Motorhome: The toy hauler is for you if you want to adventure without towing a trailer. It combines a spacious trailer with a driving cab.
- Travel trailer: These are the most compact of the toy hauler options. A travel trailer suits buyers who want toy-transporting capabilities at a lower cost.
- Fifth-wheel: This is the biggest of the three offerings. Fifth-wheels have ample living and garage space, making them ideal for those who want to live in their RV. They are also the heaviest option.
What Are the Benefits of Toy Haulers?
Toy haulers are versatile RVs that suit adventurers who want extra space. Although the garage’s primary function is carrying toys, you can adapt it to various uses. Examples include additional sleeping space, a mobile gym or a home office. In addition to its versatility, a toy hauler offers the following advantages:
- Bring your toys: The ample garage fits kayaks, dune buggies, ATVs, motorbikes, golf carts and more. You won’t need to transport these in a separate trailer, saving you money.
- Ideal for boondocking: Toy haulers have comprehensive onboard amenities and features. They suit boondocking and dry camping.
- Comfortable living: The flexibility, space and facilities suit full-time RVers.
- Weather protection: Toy haulers are weatherproof to protect you and your possessions. The garage is ideal for storing your toys or any other items all year round. Features like heated tanks and insulated ducts keep you comfortable in any season.
- Built to last: Tough construction and high ground clearance handle rugged terrain.
How Much Does a Toy Hauler Cost?
Expect to pay more for a toy hauler than you would for its standard counterparts. Travel trailer toy haulers range between $20,000 and $120,000. Fifth-wheels and motorhomes can cost up to a few hundred thousand dollars. In addition to the type of toy hauler you choose, other factors impact the cost:
- Garage size
- Water tank size
- Number of generators
- Extra features such as washer and dryer hookups or drop-down beds
Some RV suppliers offer toy hauler financing, allowing you to pay for the trailer monthly. Financing is flexible and cost-effective.
How to Choose a Toy Hauler Trailer
When shopping for a toy hauler, certain factors should influence your decision:
- Garage size and capacity: The garage should be large enough to hold any equipment you plan to carry. The interior and ramp’s weight capacity must support whatever you’re hauling.
- Living arrangements: Basic toy haulers come with standard living quarters. Assess how many people will sleep in the space and if you can adjust the layout.
- Extra features: Consider additional features to get the most from your toy hauler. Some units offer fuelling stations, solar power, outdoor showers or tent beds. Make a shopping list of your desired features and speak to your local trailer dealer.
- Towing vehicle: Checking that your car can tow the toy hauler is essential. A mid-to-large truck or SUV can tow most travel trailer-type toy haulers. For fifth-wheel trailers, you may need a heavier-duty truck. The type of hitch required depends on the trailer type. Bumper-pull hitches work for travel trailer haulers, while fifth-wheels need a fifth-wheel hitch.
Put together a shopping list of features and speak to a reputable trailer dealer. They can recommend the right toy hauler type and accessories for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering buying a toy hauler, here are answers to some common questions:
How Much Does a Toy Hauler Weigh?
The weight of a toy hauler depends on its dimensions, construction and design. On average, unloaded trailers weigh around 7,600 pounds. Their weight influences which vehicles can safely tow them.
To determine if your vehicle is capable of towing a trailer, you need to know the following:
- Tow vehicle capacity: This is the maximum capacity your vehicle can haul.
- Toy hauler curb weight: Also known as dry weight, this is the trailer’s weight when unloaded.
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The toy hauler’s maximum allowed weight. You should not exceed this weight for safety reasons.
Keep the GWVR around 20% less than the total towing capacity to protect the vehicle.
What Can You Put in a Toy Hauler?
In addition to toys, these haulers can carry anything within the trailer’s GWVR and the tow vehicle’s capacity. Here are some of the items this RV trailer can haul:
- Boats
- Jet skis
- Furniture
- Snowmobiles
- Four-wheelers
- ATVs and UTVs
- Kayaks or paddleboards
- Motorcycles or scooters
Can a Toy Hauler Carry a Car?
Some models can fit compact cars, while the largest units can sometimes accommodate a midsize vehicle. However, it’s important to note the cargo weight limit and tow capacity. You need a heavy-duty towing vehicle for most cars.
How Does a Toy Hauler Work?
The toy hauler trailer’s back wall opens up and folds down, creating a loading ramp. Once inside, tie-downs and cables secure the equipment. Interior furniture often lifts for more space.
Can You Live in a Toy Hauler?
The spacious and flexible interior is ideal for RV living. Its versatility means you can adjust the interior to suit your needs. Convert the garage into a main bedroom, kids’ bedroom, workspace or classroom. Transform your toy hauler into a place to call home with the right features and accessories.
Purchase Toy Haulers From All Pro Trailer Superstore
At All Pro Trailer Superstore, we have a range of high-quality toy hauler trailers to suit every need. With over 36 years in the business, we’re one of the nation’s leading full-service trailer providers. We stock new and used trailers and accessories from top brands. Our competitive toy hauler financing options offer flexibility and on-the-spot approvals.
Visit our website to browse our extensive trailer inventory, or contact us to learn more about our services.