When I initially purchased my 25′ Rockwood Travel Trailer, I invested in a Champion 3100-watt generator for $1,000, and it has performed exceptionally well!
However, the generator doesn’t fit into any of the trailer’s compartments, and because I tow with an SUV rather than a truck, I lack dedicated storage space for the generator. Storing it inside the trailer necessitates hauling it out (weighs 75 pounds!) and leaves a lingering gasoline scent.
If you find yourself in a similar predicament, you might seek alternative solutions. There are three effective methods for this, and I’ll guide you through important considerations.
Option #1: A-Frame Carrier
Consider an A-Frame cargo carrier designed to sit above your trailer’s front-mounted propane tanks. Initially, I found this product appealing due to its placement upfront for a smoother ride and its secure frame mounting.
However, the product’s reviews are less than stellar, currently rated at 3/5 stars, making me hesitant to try it. Additionally, it’s uncertain from the listing whether it accommodates larger propane tanks similar to those on my rig. The product images only display it above trailers with smaller tanks.
Another drawback dissuading my purchase is its interference with propane access, requiring the removal of the shelf using a wrench to change the propane. While almost a suitable solution, this inconvenience doesn’t align with my preferences.
Option #2: Hitch-Mounting Your Generator at the Rear Bumper
It essentially involves a large platform that attaches to the square-shaped rear bumper of your trailer.
However, there are inherent risks with this approach. The rear bumper isn’t structurally designed to support heavy loads, and I’ve come across reports of people experiencing bumper damage or detachment when overloading it. In fact, I strongly recommend reading reviews of hitches that mount to RV bumpers to understand the instances where people had their bumpers damaged, especially when carrying bikes!
The potential danger here is significant. If a generator were to dislodge while you’re traveling at high speeds, such as 80mph on a freeway, it poses a severe risk to the driver behind you. Exercise extreme caution!
If you’re determined to proceed with this method, I urge you to, at the very least, invest in a set of safety struts to reinforce the bumper. While this might not guarantee complete safety, it’s the minimum precautionary step to consider if you opt for this approach.
Option #3: Rear-Frame Connected Hitch Mount
I’ve settled on this option for securely mounting my generator on the exterior of my travel trailer.
The concern with option #2 mentioned earlier is the perpetual unease about the bumper bearing the generator’s weight while navigating bumpy freeways. It’s a risky proposition, and numerous RV enthusiasts have experienced firsthand the potential hazards associated with it.
To address this issue you can use a Camper RV Bumper Hitch, which can handle much more weight.
Once the frame is mounted under the bumper, you can utilize a standard hitch carrier similar to those commonly used behind SUVs during travel.
However, it’s advisable to search for a carrier with an angled shank. A carrier with a straight mount might lead to bottoming out when traversing uneven terrain while boondocking in wooded areas due to the frame-mounted hitch sitting lower than the bumper.
Remember to secure the generator firmly to prevent bouncing or potential dislodging. I’m employing a chain for theft prevention as an additional security measure.