What is Flat Towing?

Flat towing, also called dinghy towing, is one of the easiest and most convenient ways for RV owners to bring their vehicle along while on vacation. Unlike trailer or dolly towing, which requires a separate trailer or tow dolly, flat towing keeps all four wheels of your vehicle on the ground, allowing for a smoother, more efficient towing experience. Whether you’re planning a long cross-country adventure or simply exploring local destinations, flat towing lets you have your car, SUV, or truck ready to use whenever you reach your destination.

Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of RVers equip their vehicles with the right towing solutions, from tow bars and base plates to wiring kits and supplemental braking systems. We know that flat towing can seem intimidating at first, especially if you’re new to RV travel, but with the right guidance and equipment, it’s a safe and straightforward process. 

In this beginner’s guide, you’ll learn: 

• What flat towing is and how it differs from other towing methods 
• How to choose a towable vehicle that’s compatible with your RV 
• Essential equipment and setup tips to get you on the road safely 
• Safety guidelines and common mistakes to avoid so every trip goes smoothly 

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of flat towing and the confidence to hit the road with your vehicle safely in tow. 

Flat towing, also known as four-down towing or dinghy towing, is the practice of towing a vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. The vehicle is typically connected to an RV with a tow bar and other safety equipment. Unlike dolly towing, which lifts either the front or rear wheels, or trailer towing, which places the entire vehicle on a trailer, flat towing keeps the vehicle fully on the road. 

Why RVers love flat towing: 

• Convenience: Hooking up a vehicle with a tow bar is faster and easier than loading it onto a trailer. 
• Cost-effectiveness: There’s no need to purchase or maintain a separate trailer. 
• Fuel efficiency: Flat towing adds less drag than towing a trailer, helping save on fuel. 
• Accessibility: Your vehicle is ready to drive immediately upon reaching your destination. 

Not every vehicle is suitable for flat towing, and using the wrong equipment can damage your vehicle or make driving unsafe. Always confirm flat-towing capability with your vehicle’s manual or manufacturer guidelines. Need a quick guide to the most commonly flat-towed vehicles? Check out our guide on what vehicles can be flat towed.

While many vehicles can be flat-towed, not every vehicle is suitable. Choosing the right vehicle is critical for safety, reliability, and compliance with manufacturer guidelines. The most commonly flat-towed vehicles include: 

• Small Cars: Compact and lightweight vehicles are often easier to tow and put less strain on your RV. Examples include certain models of Ford Fiesta and Chevrolet Sonic (always check manufacturer guidelines). 
• SUVs: Mid-sized and larger SUVs are popular choices for flat towing because they provide more storage and passenger capacity, but weight must be carefully considered. Examples include Jeep Wranglers and Ford Explorers. 
• Pickup Trucks: Many light- and mid-sized trucks can be flat-towed when properly equipped, making them a strong choice for RV owners who need extra hauling power at their destination. Examples include Ford Rangers and Chevrolet Colorado. 

Before you flat tow any vehicle, it’s important to carefully evaluate a few critical factors. Not every car, SUV, or truck is designed to be flat towed, and overlooking key details like towing capacity, vehicle setup requirements, or necessary modifications can lead to costly damage and unsafe conditions on the road. Taking the time to review these considerations up front will help you choose the right vehicle, avoid common mistakes, and ensure a safe, stress-free towing experience. 

Automatic vs. Manual: Some automatic transmissions cannot be flat-towed without modifications such as lube pumps or transmission adapters. Manuals often allow flat towing more easily, but it’s essential to confirm your specific model’s requirements. 

Front-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, or All-Wheel Drive: Each drivetrain type has unique towing requirements. AWD vehicles may need special disconnects or modifications to avoid damaging the drivetrain. 

Ensure that your RV’s towing capacity exceeds the vehicle’s weight, including cargo. Overloading your RV can cause handling issues, excessive brake wear, and safety risks. 

Always consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm flat towing compatibility. Some vehicles require specific base plates, tow bars, or braking systems to tow legally and safely. 

Older vehicles or those with higher mileage may require additional maintenance before towing, such as checking fluids, brakes, and tire condition. 

Some vehicles may need aftermarket equipment like driveshaft disconnects, supplemental braking systems, or special wiring adapters. 

Consider how you’ll use the vehicle at your destination. Heavier SUVs or trucks may be more cumbersome in tight campgrounds but offer more utility for hauling gear or towing smaller trailers. 

Flat towing requires more than simply hooking up your car to an RV. Using the proper equipment is crucial for safety, compliance with state laws, and protecting both vehicles during transport. Each component plays a specific role in ensuring a smooth and secure towing experience. 

Tow bars are the primary connection between your RV and your vehicle. They come in various styles, and must be rated for the weight of the towed vehicle. For example, a Jeep Wrangler being flat-towed behind a Class A RV may require a heavier-duty tow bar than a smaller car due to its weight and size. When selecting a tow bar, look for one with easy attachment points and smooth pivoting, which allows for turns without placing undue stress on the base plate or vehicle frame. 

Base plates attach directly to the vehicle’s frame and serve as the anchor point for the tow bar. They are designed specifically for each vehicle model to ensure a secure fit and proper weight distribution. Many vehicles require a custom base plate kit, which often includes mounting hardware and safety labels for reference. Proper installation of the base plate is critical, as it provides the stability needed for safe flat towing. 

Depending on the vehicle’s weight and local regulations, supplemental brake systems, like RVibrake 4 and RVibrake Shadow 2,  may also be required. These systems help ensure controlled stopping and reduce wear on the RV’s brakes. Types of brake systems include electric brakes, which activate the towed vehicle’s brakes in sync with the RV, and portable braking systems, which can be used across multiple vehicles. Proper braking is essential for preventing accidents, particularly during emergency stops or steep descents.

In addition to these core components, there are several extra equipment considerations that can enhance the flat towing experience. Tow mirrors improve visibility when towing wider or longer vehicles, while some AWD or automatic vehicles may require driveshaft disconnects or transmission lubrication pumps to prevent drivetrain damage. Protective covers for tow bars and base plates help shield equipment from dirt, corrosion, and weather when not in use. 

Safety cables provide an essential backup connection in case the tow bar fails. These cables are usually made of durable, high-tensile steel and are crossed under the tow bar to create a cradle that can catch the vehicle if it becomes detached. Even with a high-quality tow bar, safety cables are legally required in most states and provide peace of mind during long trips. 

Lighting and wiring kits ensure that the towed vehicle’s brake lights, turn signals, and taillights function correctly while on the road. Options include magnetic lights for temporary setups or hard-wired wiring kits for permanent installation. Proper lighting is not only critical for road safety but also for compliance with state laws. Lippert offers vehicle-specific wiring kits that simplify installation and protect the electrical system from potential damage. 

Properly setting up your vehicle for flat towing is crucial for both safety and peace of mind on the road. A secure connection between your RV and your towed vehicle not only prevents damage to either vehicle but also ensures smooth handling and reliable braking while driving. For beginners, the setup process may seem intimidating, but breaking it down into clear, manageable steps makes it straightforward and stress-free. Just follow the steps below, and your vehicle should be ready for towing. Always consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm flat towing compatibility.  

Step 1: Park on a Level Surface 
Begin by parking your RV on a flat, level area with plenty of space behind it for your towed vehicle. Engage the RV’s parking brake and put it in park to prevent any movement while you work on connecting the vehicle. This stable starting point helps prevent misalignment and makes the setup process much easier.

Step 2: Check Hitch and Base Plate Heights 
Next, measure the height of your RV’s hitch receiver and the attachment tabs on your vehicle’s base plate. The difference should not exceed three inches to ensure a safe connection. Use a tape measure to measure from the ground to the center of the RV hitch, and then from the ground to the base plate tabs on your vehicle. If the difference is greater than three inches, you’ll need a hitch adapter to properly align the tow bar.

Step 3: Mount the Tow Bar on the RV 
Insert the tow bar’s shank into your RV’s hitch receiver and secure it using the provided pin and clip. Many tow bars have multiple pin holes to adjust for different heights; it’s best to use the shortest setting possible for a more stable towing connection. Fold the tow bar arms up or outward to keep them out of the way while positioning your vehicle behind the RV.

Step 4: Position Your Vehicle Behind the RV 

Carefully drive your vehicle into position behind the RV, keeping the vehicles as parallel as possible. Once aligned, stop, shift the vehicle into park, and set the emergency brake. Having a friend assist as a spotter can help prevent accidentally driving into the tow bar and makes positioning much easier.

Step 5: Attach the Tow Bar Arms 

Connect the tow bar arms to the base plate receivers on your vehicle by inserting the attachment tabs. Many tow bars include extendable arms that make this step easier. Extend the arms into place, release the latch handles, and secure the connections with lynch pins. This ensures a solid and reliable attachment for the tow. 

Step 6: Prepare the Vehicle for Towing 

Set the vehicle’s transmission to the correct towing mode and unlock the steering wheel. Most vehicles require neutral, but some models may have specific procedures or additional requirements. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage to the transmission or steering system during towing.

Step 7: Engage the Tow Bar Latches

With the tow bar in place, make sure the latches are fully engaged. Slowly move the RV forward, releasing the parking brake and easing off the foot brake. As the RV creeps forward, the tow bar latches should click into place. Confirm that both arms are securely latched before beginning your journey.

Step 8: Connect the Safety Cables

Attach the safety cables from the RV’s hitch loops to the vehicle’s base plate convenience links. Cross the cables underneath the tow bar to form a cradle, which provides backup security if the tow bar fails. Ensure the cables have enough slack for turns but do not drag on the ground, which could cause wear or interfere with towing. 

Step 9: Plug in the Wiring Harness

Finally, connect the vehicle’s wiring harness to the RV’s electrical socket, typically a standard 4-way flat connector. Include the emergency breakaway system if your setup requires one. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with towing lights or a dinghy tow wiring harness to synchronize brake lights, turn signals, and taillights with the RV. Test all lighting functions before starting your trip to ensure everything is operating correctly. 

Even experienced RVers can make mistakes when flat towing. One of the most common errors is attempting to tow a vehicle that is not rated for flat towing. Doing so can cause severe damage to the transmission, drivetrain, or steering system. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or manufacturer guidelines before hooking it up.

Failing to secure tow connections properly is another frequent mistake. Loose or improperly attached tow bars, base plates, or safety cables can lead to dangerous situations on the road. Take the time to double-check every connection before departure.

Ignoring brake system requirements is another risk. If your vehicle or state requires a supplemental braking system, skipping this step can result in unsafe stopping distances, brake damage, or legal issues.

Overloading the RV or towed vehicle is also a common problem. Exceeding the recommended weight limits can impair handling, increase tire wear, and strain suspension components. Ensure both vehicles are loaded within manufacturer-specified limits.

Finally, many beginners skip test drives before a long journey. Even a short, low-speed test helps confirm that all connections are secure, brakes respond correctly, and the towed vehicle tracks properly behind the RV. A few minutes of preparation before hitting the road can prevent major problems and give you confidence for longer trips.  

One last final tip. Make a final pre-trip checklist that includes every connection, brake system, cable, and light. Taking this extra step ensures you leave nothing to chance and sets the stage for a safe, smooth flat towing experience.\ 

Flat towing is a convenient and cost-effective way to bring a vehicle along on your RV adventures. By understanding vehicle compatibility, using the right equipment, and following safety guidelines, you can enjoy a smooth, worry-free towing experience.  Start your flat towing journey with Lippert today and explore our full range of tow bars, base plates, and towing kits for every type of RV and vehicle. 

 No, it's not possible to flat tow every vehicle on the market today. Always check your vehicle’s manual to confirm it’s flat-tow capable.

Depending on the vehicle’s weight, supplemental brakes may be required. Braking systems, like the RVibrake 4 and Shadow 2, are required by law in 49 out of 50 states and most of Canada.

Flat towing keeps all four wheels on the ground, while dolly towing lifts the front or rear wheels onto a separate trailer.

Disclaimer: All content provided on this blog, including but not limited to photographs, illustrations, recommendations, and technical approximations, is intended for general informational and demonstration purposes only. It does not reflect the specifications, capabilities, or requirements of any particular vehicle, vessel, equipment, or component. Always consult the appropriate manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual and follow all applicable safety, legal, and technical guidelines.