How to Tow a Casita

Towing a Casita is like taking your home with you.

Texas-based Casita has been building travel trailers since 1983. Its trailers are lightweight and aerodynamic which results in better fuel economy when towing. Towing a trailer is a big responsibility because an accident with a trailer amplifies the consequences. Working within the limitations of the tow vehicle, driving more slowly and having working trailer lights are all ways you can mitigate these risks. The most important step in towing a Casita trailer is connecting it properly to the tow vehicle.

Instructions

1. Determine the towing capacity of your vehicle. Check the owner's manual for this information. Find the weight of your model of Casita by looking on its data plate under "gross trailer weight" (GTW). Add in the weight of items being carried in the trailer.

2. Lower the trailer's coupler onto the vehicle's hitch. Lock it in place by lowering the latch. Secure the latch in the locked position with a cotter pin through the handle.

3. Push the trailer's electrical plug into the vehicle's receiver. Test that the trailer's lights respond to the driver's controls as expected.

4. Connect the trailer's right chain to the left side of the hitch and the left chain to the right side. The crossed chains are intended to catch the trailer's tongue in the event it becomes detached.

5. Double-check all connections to ensure a safe trip. Drive more slowly than normal to compensate for reduced handling.

References

• Casita Travel Trailers
• Sherline: Trailer Loading and Towing Guide

Resources

• Towing World: Towing Laws Listed by State