How fast can you drive with a truck camper?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: How fast can you drive with a truck camper? We will discuss the speed limit for rural and urban interstates in the US. We will also give you a few simple but essential tips to drive safely. 

How fast can you drive with a truck camper?

You should never drive too fast with a truck camper, as it can tip over, especially if not properly attached or if there are high winds. The speed limit for a truck camper differs by state, as you will see in the table below. 

As a general rule, you should aim for an estimate of 45 mph/trip, just to be on the safe side!

The speed limit for truck campers in the US

Driving with a truck camper: Tips and warnings to circulate well

Although in recent years an increasing effort has been made to reduce the number of accidents on the road, a responsible and calm circulation is in our hands to avoid possible driving problems.

If we already do it when we circulate with our truck, at the moment in which we have a hooked camper we must take extreme precautions, especially if the conditions are not favourable.

The wind is one of the great enemies of camper routes and you have to know very well what to do to be able to complete your journey safely;

1. If the wind comes from the side, we must try to hold the steering wheel firmly and reduce speed to avoid possible overturning. 

2.  Faced with a headwind, we must not forget that the resistance presented by our car added to that of the camper is great, so you have to drive slowly and firmly.

3.  If the wind comes from behind, we must reduce the speed as much as possible to prevent the camper from swaying and overturning.

The experts in driving with camper point out that in general in a windy situation it is necessary to follow certain guidelines;

4. Although it is a necessary recommendation before embarking on any journey, it is important to check the condition of the wheels, their pressure and the condition of the brakes in order to drive as safely as possible.

5.  In the camper, you have to check the condition of the anchors, as well as the closures of the windows and doors.

6. You have to slow down until you notice the steady camper on the steering wheel. The rocking is noticeable and as soon as we perceive a little movement, it is essential to slow down.

7. We can modify our route to avoid strong gusts, so we must leave freeways and clear roads or near the sea to look for other more sheltered paths.

8. Better to avoid overtaking, especially other large vehicles. The wind can play a very trick on us.

Apart from all these tips, if necessary, it is better to stop and wait for the wind to subside or, in any case, to change direction or its strength to be able to drive better.

What to do for safe driving with your truck camper?

When we carry a truck camper, it is important to be very careful, especially if the weather conditions are not optimal.  The resistance that our vehicle has plus that added by the camper is considerable. This is why driving slowly and holding the steering wheel firmly is very important.

Avoiding overturning is the most essential. By reducing the speed we will go much calmer and we will have greater control of the vehicle. Remember that the longer the camper and car set, the more the force of the wind will be noticeable. We must avoid swaying, reduce the speed as much as possible until we feel safer.

Can a truck camper tip over at high speed?

It happens rarely, but yes, a truck camper can tip over at high speed. This obviously happens for several reasons:

• you did not secure the camper properly;
• you overloaded the camper or do not distribute the weight correctly;
• you drove in high winds and severe weather aversions. 

If the hitch is not connected properly, your truck camper could collapse. That fishtail motion, or rocking, can create a counterweight that is difficult to control while driving and can lead to accidents!

Make sure the hitch is secure before starting a road trip. If your hitch is not secure, your truck camper could come loose and start rolling on its own.  Drive slow in high winds. I would recommend not taking breaks quickly in high winds. Don’t force the brake pedal. You risk losing control of your vehicle. 

Final thoughts

Before leaving on a trip with your truck camper, check the conditions of the anchors, window and door closures. Check wheels, pressure and brakes. Always make sure you are driving in a cautious manner, especially when towing such weight.

If you have any tips, comments or suggestions you’d like to add to this article, please let us know.

FAQ on How fast can you drive with a truck camper?

Are truck campers hard on trucks?

Yes, truck campers can be hard to load and unload. You must make sure you respect the towing capacity of your truck and to properly load the weight of the camper. 

Can a truck camper tip over?

Yes, a truck camper can tip over because it wasn’t secured properly! Since recreational vehicles do not require a special license to drive, you will need to learn proper driving techniques to avoid swaying or tipping, especially on the road.

How to drive with an RV?

To drive with an RV, you have to know the following tips:

1. Know its dimensions. It is as basic as it is fundamental.
2. Spread the load evenly. 
3. Avoid overtaking.
4. Drive at a steady speed. 
5. If there is a strong wind, slow down. 
6. Use the side mirrors. 
7. Do not leave loose items inside.

How difficult is it to drive a motorhome?

Driving a motorhome is not too difficult as long as you take some basic precautions..The motorhome is bound by the same rules as all other vehicles under 3.5 tonnes

Other FAQs about Truck campers that you may be interested in.

What is considered high mileage for a truck?

What is good mileage for a used box truck? 

What is the best truck for a camper?

References

• Truck Campers: How fast do you travel … – RV.Net Open Roads Forum
• Cruise Control For Truck Camping
• Truck Camper Driving Safety 101