Table of Contents Show
Long travel days can be exhausting, even for a passenger. It can be annoying to know you have a cozy fifth wheel behind you, but you’re uncomfortable up front.
You might wonder if you could just ride in your comfortable RV, maybe even nap in your bed as you travel down the road.
Today, we will look at the legality of riding in your fifth wheel while in motion and discuss if it’s something you should do!
Is It Legal to Ride in the Back of a Fifth Wheel?
Is it even legal to ride in your fifth wheel while in motion? The answer changes based on your location.
Some states allow you to ride in a moving trailer, though we don’t encourage it. States where it is legal usually have restrictions, such as an age limit or the requirement of a line of communication with the driver (like a cell phone or walkie-talkie). Also, be aware of different laws as you cross state lines.
States That Allow You to Ride in a Camper Trailer
These 23 states legally allow you to ride in a fifth wheel in motion: Arizona, California, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
If you allow an occupant in your fifth wheel while in motion, obey each state’s laws. Many states require the riders to communicate with the driver, and some states allow riders in fifth wheels but not in travel trailers.
Is It Safe to Ride in a Fifth Wheel?
While some people do it, riding in a fifth wheel can be dangerous. The safety standards for occupant safety in a vehicle do not apply to trailers.
You may not enjoy travel trailers when in motion. Fifth wheels don’t have occupant safety precautions because their intended purpose is not riding. Meaning there are no seatbelts, airbags, or other safety features.
Can Pets Ride in the Fifth Wheel?
Your pet can ride in the fifth wheel during transport. However, we don’t recommend it. The same safety concerns apply to them, which can cause many pets to be anxious or injured.
Plus, you typically will not have your fifth-wheel air conditioners on while towing, which means your RV can heat up quickly in hot weather. Personally, we do not think the risk to your pet’s safety and life is worth putting them in your rig while towing.
The Dangers of a Moving Camper Trailer
Let’s examine why riding in a moving trailer is not only uncomfortable but sometimes even dangerous.
Contents Shift During Travel
Considering how much movement happens in an RV as it travels down the road, it isn’t surprising that many belongings shift during travel.
Cabinets sometimes open, and items can become projectiles. Even a lightweight object thrown at you during a rough bump in the road isn’t going to feel good.
It’s an Uncomfortable Ride
Towable RVs experience earthquake-like movement while traveling. It isn’t going to be smooth sailing back there. You may think you will be cozy lying in bed, but every bump in the road amplifies.
Pets Can Become Traumatized
Placing your pet in a moving fifth wheel can traumatize them. The movement and noise during the trip may cause separation anxiety or fear of being in the RV even when parked.
It’s Not as Safe as a Vehicle in an Accident
RVs simply aren’t built like passenger vehicles. While it can withstand the typical bumps and travel movement, it will likely not fare well in an accident.
If you’ve never had the unfortunate experience of seeing the aftermath of an RV accident, you may not realize how they typically implode and completely break apart on impact.
Our Opinion: You Should Never Allow Humans or Pets to Ride in a Moving RV Trailer
We understand why riding in your RV while in motion is incredibly tempting. At first thought, it seems convenient and comfortable as opposed to the seat of a truck.
Unfortunately, the benefits do not outweigh the risks in this situation.
Have you ever been tempted to ride in a moving RV trailer?
