can i leave my travel trailer hooked to truck overnight

"OutdoorBarren is supported by its readers. Please assume all links are affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of our links we make a small commission from Amazon."

How Long Can You Leave a Camper Hooked to a Truck?

So, you are planning a trip away with your family in your camper. You decide to hook up your camper to your truck, but how long can you leave it hooked to your truck? Only leave your camper hooked to your truck when it is necessary. This means while you are driving, or even during overnight on a campground.

There are several things to consider when leaving your camper hooked up to the truck such as battery life, stability, safety, weight and how much time you have. For example, leaving your camper attached for one day will differ significantly from the effects of leaving it hooked to your truck for a week.

You will also need to consider where are you parking and if the ground is stable and level. Any unevenness in the ground will cause different effects on the load on your truck. Even if the ground is slightly unlevel then you may be in for a bumpy night!

Is It Ok to Leave the Camper Hooked to the Truck?

The short answer is yes. Yes, you can leave your camper hooked to your truck but ideally only for a short amount of time. For example, if you are staying overnight in a camping ground and need to leave early in the morning then it may not be worth your time and effort to unhook and re-hook the camper from your truck. 

For long trips, for example, where you are on the road for several hours at a time then as long as your truck is within rated road limits you will be fine. But, again, the shorter the time you leave the two connected the better. This is because the weight on the tow from the trailer’s tongue can cause problems over time. These problems can include:

• Wear and tear on the rubber
• Change in the springs
• Suspension problems
• Draining the battery

Do You Un-Hitch on an Overnight?

It is perfectly fine to not un-hitch the camper from your truck on an overnight stay. This is because normally the hassle is not worth your time or energy. The best thing that you can do is to make sure that you park somewhere where there is level ground so that there is no extra strain on the connection between your camper and your truck.

One reason that you might need to unhitch, even if you are only parking for a few hours, is if your parking space in your chosen camping ground is too small in terms of length. In this case, you will need to back the camper into the space, un-hitch and then park your truck separately.

Of course, this can be incredibly annoying and so it may be best to check online or to phone ahead and ask the campsite if your camper will fit inside the designated space. If it does not, and you have no need to unhook your camper, you may be better off looking elsewhere for parking. 

Use Stabilizers

If you want a more comfortable overnight sleep and you want to leave your camper attached to your truck then you may want to consider stabilizers. If the weather is particularly windy then these can really help to stabilize your camper. Additionally, the chains on the connection will rattle and although this is not a problem it can be rather noisy and annoying when you are trying to sleep!

Instead of unhitching completely, you can just put the front jacks down so that some of the weight is taken off of the truck. Doing this is a sort of compromise between leaving your camper hitched and unhitching it.

If you are not staying overnight at a camping ground and are resting somewhere else, for example in a car park, then it may be best to leave your camper attached to your truck. This is because some car parks do not let you park overnight and so you may be moved on by a security guard, police officer, or member of staff at short notice.

In this case, the quicker you can leave the better and the easiest way to do this is by saving yourself time and not having to re-hitch your camper.

Will My Camper Drain My Truck Battery?

Your camper will not drain your truck battery while you are on the move. But when you stop it can. You can choose to leave your camper connected to your truck battery but you run the risk of draining it completely.

Instead, online enthusiasts recommend a battery charger, such as NOCO Genius battery charger which connects to power supplies, such as those found in campgrounds. 

However, the battery in your trailer is often charged by your truck when are driving, but they will only partially charge your battery. This is because your truck’s charging system is made to only regulate itself and so although it will charge your camper battery it will not know if it needs a significant amount of energy to be fully charged.

So, if you have used the battery all night, either for heating, electronics etc., then it may be best to boost the battery yourself rather than relying on your truck. 

Fortunately, if you do find yourself stuck with a dead battery, for example, due to your truck draining it overnight, then do not worry! Luckily it is an easy fix and you will not need to purchase another new battery, that is as long as your battery is still in working order and by “dead” you simply mean that it is completely discharged.

 Perhaps the most commonly known way to revive your dead battery is by using a jump start. Additionally, simply driving around in your truck will recharge the battery. If this is what you need to do then make sure you have the time to do so before safely and correctly reconnecting your camper.

Final Thoughts

So, to sum up there is no right or wrong way to use your camper. You can either leave it permanently hitched up to your truck, or you can choose to unhitch it each and every time you stop. Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages to both methods, but at the end of the day, it is your truck and your time! Do as you wish!

Of course, if you do not have a particular preference for either leaving your camper connected or disconnecting it then you may want to take what we have said above into consideration. It is best to consider the ease with which you can reconnect your camper, the time it will take to do so and if you actually need to!

If you choose your parking spots carefully then you will be able to leave your camper connected all the time. This is provided that you have chosen a good place to park such as a secure campsite with mains electricity for your camper, level ground and a large parking space! If you are still unsure about how long you can leave your camper hooked to your truck then it may be best to consult online forums to ask other enthusiasts for their opinions. Similarly, anyone knowledgeable about your truck and/or camper may be able to help.

Outdoor Barren

All of us at Outdoor Barren love the outdoors. We all specialize in different areas to give you the best possible information on each topic. Land, sea, or air, we've got it handled.

Recent Posts

Can a Car Drive Though a Chain Link Fence? (Answered)    

To the surprise of maybe no one, it’s certainly possible for a car to drive straight through a chain link fence – even when it’s travelling at a lower rate of speed. There are some factors...

Can You Use Sidewalk Chalk on a Wood Fence? (Answered)

Sidewalk chalk is an excellent way for kids (and adults) to vent all that creative energy while sparing your walls. It’s also easy to clean up to prepare for the next day’s adventure. Since...

Do You Have to Unhook at an RV Campground (for overnight stays)

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on May 22, 2022

If you’ve had a stressful or exhausting travel day, the last thing you might want to do is unhook your RV. This can be especially true if arriving at your campsite after dark and only staying for a single night. You may wonder, “Do we have to unhook the RV?” if you want to save time and energy.

Today, we’re going to look at this question so you’ll know the answer for your next overnight stay. Let’s get started.

Can I Leave My Camper Hitched Overnight?

Leaving your camper hitched overnight likely won’t cause any issues. Many RVers hitting the road early in the morning will hitch up their camper the day before. This allows them to take advantage of the sunlight and avoid making costly mistakes.

If you plan to stay inside your RV, consider dropping your landing gear or jacks to take some weight off your tow vehicle. This will reduce the movement you feel inside your rig as you move around.

Can I Leave My Fifth Wheel Hooked Up to My Truck Overnight? 

As long as you have stayed within the tow limits of your vehicle, leaving your fifth wheel hooked up to your truck overnight shouldn’t be an issue. Many RVers who travel full-time in their RVs will often stay hooked up during overnight stays.

When you plan to stay in your fifth wheel, you’ll want to park it on a level spot. This helps ensure that you can sleep comfortably and protects your propane appliances and the mechanics of your slides.

Pro Tip: Use these tips on the Right Way to Set Up an RV Campsite to make your site a success!

Will My Camper Drain My Truck Battery? 

When you connect your camper to your trailer, it will rely on the truck’s battery to power the lights and various indicators. This is not an issue with the vehicle running as it doesn’t deplete the battery. However, some older vehicles send a constant charge through the charge pin on the seven-way connector anytime you connect something to it. Manufacturers have changed this in newer cars, so it’s important to know which type you have.

If you tow with an older vehicle and your battery may not be in good condition, you could wake up to a dead battery. So, it’s a good idea to unplug your camper from your tow vehicle at the end of the day. 

Be sure you plug your camper back into the tow vehicle before hitting the road. You don’t want to travel without brake lights, turn signals, or trailer brakes. Other drivers on the road will also appreciate you having and using all of them.

Do You Have to Unhook at an RV Campground? 

You don’t always have to unhook at an RV campground. As long as you fit within your campsite and are level, you can keep your trailer connected to your tow vehicle. However, if you need to raise or lower the front of your rig, you’ll need to unhook your RV.

You can’t lower the front of your RV when connected to your tow vehicle, but you can raise it. To safely lift your rig, you’ll need to stop before the point that it starts pulling your tow vehicle before you have to unhitch. You can damage your hitch and trailer if you lift your truck by raising your RV too much when connected.

What Are the Benefits of Staying Hooked Up Overnight?

Staying hooked up overnight is hugely beneficial, especially if you’re only stopping for the night. You don’t have to go through setting up your RV every time you park for the night. This can allow you to arrive late or leave early, whichever best fits your travel schedule.

Staying hooked up during overnight stays can also increase your safety. If an emergency happens and you need to leave quickly, you don’t have to stress when hitching up your RV. You can simply pull in any slides, raise any jacks, and hop in your tow vehicle to be on your way. Hooking up an RV is stressful enough, but trying to do it during an emergency or chaotic situation isn’t going to make it any easier.

Pro Tip: New to RV life? Find out Should You Leave Your RV Tanks Open at a Campground with Full Hook-Ups?

What Are the Disadvantages of Staying Hooked Up Overnight?

The benefits of staying hooked up during overnight stays may outweigh the disadvantages. If you plan to stay in your RV, you’ll need to find a level spot to park. Doing so while hooked up to your truck can cause some problems. Your RV’s propane system requires levelness to work efficiently. Additionally, your propane refrigerator and other appliances may struggle if not on flat ground. You may also have difficulty getting comfortable in your RV.

Is It Worth Unhooking at an RV Campground for a One-Night Stay?

If you’re only staying for one night, it’s likely not worth the hassle to completely unhook your RV, especially after a stressful or exhausting travel day. As long as your RV is secure, your time is likely better spent getting some rest for your next travel day. 

You can always drop your leveling jacks or tongue jack to give your tow vehicle some help and stabilize your rig for the night. Ensure you bring up your jacks and connect your seven-way pin in the morning.

Do you prefer to stay hooked up for overnight stays in your RV? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you,  we hate paying for camping . There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours.  Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state).  Access the list by submitting your email below:

• Remember me Not recommended on shared computers

Forgot your password?

• General RV Information

leaving 5th wheel connected over night

By Charles Skinner May 1, 2015 in General RV Information

• Start new topic

Recommended Posts

Charles skinner.

I am trying to make our RV trips less "taxing" on my "old body," and have made up my mind to have shorter days, perhaps no more that 150 miles, at the most. Then I realized that "setting up" the 5th wheel ---- and doing all that has to be done ---- and "taking down," takes a lot of time and energy which can really be a problem in hot weather. So, I am thinking about just leaving the 5th wheel connected to the truck and doing whatever has to be done to level the trailer, and just leaving it that way until the next morning. I guess I need to say that my trailer sits on an air ride hitch with four air bags. What are your thoughgts.

Thanks, C. Skinner

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

I very seldom disconnect my 5er on overnight stops. I just try to get it as level as possible then enjoy the evening.

I never travel more than 325 miles in a day.

Just my $0.02 worth

Ranger Smith

I have never disconnected any fifth wheel I had when just staying overnight. I just disconnect the cord from the truck to the trailer so no battery drain to truck.

Steve and Joy

Amateur Radio Operator WZ1T . . .  Flex 6600 M,  Flex PGXL, Flex TGXL, 

2014 Itasca Suncruiser 38Q . . . Lincoln MKX Toad

The Kids . . . Yogi the Yorkie  passed 10/20/2018. . . Cookie the Chihuahua passed 11/30/2017 . . . Cooper the Aussie Doodle passed 3/10/2020

Abbie  and Abel  the Doodles . . . Brother and Sister Born 02/02/2020   . . . Lucy the Yorkie . . .  and Axel  . . .The Bernie Doodle

Where We Are Now

Same here. I won't even hook up sewer for overnights.

2003 Teton Grand Freedom towed with 2006 Freightliner Century 120 across the beautiful USA welding pipe. https://photos.app.goo.gl/O32ZjgzSzgK7LAyt1

Do it all the time..

Helen and I are long timers ..08 F-350 Ford,LB,CC,6.4L,4X4, Dually,4:10 diff dragging around a 2013 Montana 3402 Big Sky

SKP 100137. North Ridgeville, Ohio in the summer, sort of and where ever it is warm in the winter.

I have airbags and air hitch so the air would probably leak out. Does it cause a problem if the pin sits on deflated air hitch overnight?

Mark and Dale Bruss

  I have airbags and air hitch so the air would probably leak out. Does it cause a problem if the pin sits on deflated air hitch overnight?

If you put the jacks down on the trailer, then you could wind up hanging the truck from the pin when the air springs deflate.

We level the trailer on the Big Foot Leveling system so we always unhook. We unhook the trailer and move a couple of feet forward. We leave the trailer umbilical cable attached

Please click for Emails instead of PM Mark & Dale Joey - 2016 Bounder 33C Tige - 2006 40' Travel Supreme Sparky III - 2021 Mustang Mach-e, off the the Road since 2019 Useful HDT Truck, Trailer, and Full-timing Info at www.dmbruss.com

If you put the jacks down on the trailer, then you could wind up hanging the truck from the pin when the air springs deflate.   We level the trailer on the Big Foot Leveling system so we always unhook. We unhook the trailer and move a couple of feet forward. We leave the trailer umbilical cable attached

To clarify,

I was more concerned whether 5-6k pin wt on a deflated Trailsaver or suspension would be a problem. This being done without lowering landing gear.

If the truck suspension or the hitch deflates, then you will wake up at a tilt.

I agree. Disconnect the cord when staying the night.

2015 Ram 3500 RC DRW CTD AISIN 410 rear

2016 Mobile Suites 38RSB3

My hitch won't leak down. Has it's own compressor and level switch.

I never disconnected overnight when I had my HDT..

Dropped the rear air, and leveled other ways. As long as the fifth wheel is not holding up the air hitch...no problem...

1989 Safari Serengeti 34' Towing a 1952 M38A1 Military Willys

Past HDT owner

We always stay connected in travel mode. Drop the air from the hitch, Do a reasonable level, plug in the electricity and that is it. I really don't understand why people feel they need to unhook and hook up water, sewer and electricity every night. This is why RVs have tanks.

We drop the trailer so we can level it with the Big Foot system. We can't level with the Big Foot with the truck hanging on. We level so there is no skew in the trailer for the slides to go out or in without possibly binding.

We only use water and electricity for most overnights.

When I travel on longer trips where it will take several days to get to my destination I usually stop for the night at a truck stop. I just stop leaving the trailer hitched and get in the trailer for the night. I never unhitch, hookup anything or even unplug the cord to the truck. I never lower the jacks. I just park next to the semi's and get some sleep. My rig is ready to go when I get up in the morning. Sometimes I may put my slides out to make dinner but I always move them back in for the night.

2015 Itasca Ellipse 42QD

2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Hard Rock Edition

2021 Harley Street Glide Special 

We can leave the truck hooked up to the trailer up to three days before the air bags lose air and drop. Unless we have dumped the air to get the trailer level. Have dropped the air in the hitch sometimes too get the trailer level. So far haven't had any problems.

Sometimes I remember to unhook the cord from the truck, other times not. Haven't had any problem when I haven't either.

    Sometimes I remember to unhook the cord from the truck, other times not. Haven't had any problem when I haven't either.

Actually, if you're on shore power, the trailer will keep the truck's battery charged.

Everybody wanna hear the truth, but everybody tell a lie.  Everybody wanna go to Heaven, but nobody want to die.  Albert King

Bags shouldn't leak down. We're in the:"Set the parking brake and don't touch anything" camp. Try to find a place with enough room for the slides (need them out to use the galley) but can nap if they are in. Most rest areas/truck stops are level enough. And, for one night a little tilt won't hurt me. (Or the fridge).

Previously a 2017 Forest River, Berkshire 38A, "The Dragonship". https://dragonship.blog/

Bob Cochran

2019 Thor Chateau 28E on a Ford E450 chassis. Maybe awhile but will get a new picture forgive one up there it is my old rig.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Steve voracek · Started November 12, 2023

Frogman · Started September 9

jenandjon · Started March 17, 2021

ShawnC · Started Yesterday at 01:15 AM

RV_ · Started August 6

• Existing user? Sign In
• Online Users
• All Activity
• Create New...