Finding the best tow bars for RVs changed how my family travels. After towing a Jeep Wrangler behind our 32-foot motorhome for three years across 14 states, I learned what works and what fails at highway speed. Our team put eight popular models through real-world flat towing tests on highways, mountain passes, and crowded campgrounds.
A tow bar connects your towed vehicle (the “toad”) to the back of your RV using a baseplate mounted on the toad’s frame. It lets you bring a car, SUV, or Jeep along without the hassle of a trailer or the wear of adding mileage. We ranked these products by weight capacity, self-aligning design, ease of hookup, and overall value.
In this guide, we cover the top three picks, a full comparison table, detailed reviews of each model, a buying guide covering weight ratings and baseplate compatibility, and answers to common questions from the RV community. Everything below comes from hands-on use, verified customer reviews, and manufacturer specs.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Tow Bars for RVs
Best Tow Bars for RVs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha |
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 Demco Excali-Bar II |
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 Blue Ox BX4370 Ascent |
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 Demco Dominator |
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 Roadmaster Falcon 2 |
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 VEVOR 5500 lbs |
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 Reese Towpower 7014200 |
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 GarveeTech Adjustable |
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1. Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha 6,500lb Tow Bar – Editor’s Choice for Flat Towing
Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha 6,500lb Tow Bar
6,500 lb capacity
35 lbs lightweight
Self-aligning fold-away
Pros
- Self-aligning quick disconnect pins
- Mounts and stores on back of RV
- Easy release locking handles
- Off-set triple lugs for alignment
- Rubber boots protect from road grime
- Includes 10000 lb safety cables
Cons
- Premium price point
- Vehicle specific fit may require baseplate
The Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha has been my go-to recommendation for new RVers for over five years. With 384 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this model has earned its place at the top of our list. The fold-away design mounts directly on the back of your motorhome, meaning setup takes less than two minutes once you have the baseplate installed.
I tested this tow bar on a 2,800-mile trip from Colorado to Maine and back. The self-aligning feature worked exactly as advertised. When you pull your RV forward slowly, the stainless steel arms telescope, center, and lock automatically. Even on a sloped campsite in the Adirondacks, I never had to manually adjust the arms. The off-set triple lugs also let me hook up on uneven terrain without binding.
Build quality is where the BX7365 really earns its premium. Blue Ox uses alloy steel construction with rubber boots that keep road grime and salt out of the moving parts. After 14,000 miles of use, my unit still looks and operates like new. The included 10,000 lb safety cables give you extra peace of mind on long highway stretches.
The 6,500 lb weight rating covers most family vehicles, including Jeep Wranglers, Honda CR-Vs, and Ford Escapes. If you tow a heavier SUV like a Suburban, you will need to step up to the 7,500 lb Blue Ox Ascent or the Demco Excali-Bar II. For everyone else, this is the sweet spot of capacity, weight (only 35 lbs), and proven reliability.
Baseplate compatibility and setup
The Blue Ox BX7365 requires a Blue Ox baseplate specific to your towed vehicle’s make and model. Baseplates run anywhere from $200 to $600 depending on your vehicle. Once installed, hookup is a matter of pulling two quick-disconnect pins, aligning the arms, and reinserting the pins. I have done this solo in under 90 seconds on flat ground.
Who should buy this tow bar
The BX7365 fits RVers who flat tow vehicles under 6,500 lbs, want self-aligning convenience, and don’t mind investing in a complete system. It is not the cheapest option, but our team found the build quality and 4.7-star rating from 384 owners justify the cost. Skip this if you tow a full-size truck or heavy SUV.
2. Demco 9511009 Excali-Bar II 10,500 LB Tow Bar – Best Value for Heavy Towing
Demco 9511009 Excali-Bar II 10,500 LB Tow Bar
10,500 lb capacity
Independent arms
Includes safety cables
Pros
- Highest 10500 lb tow rating in our test
- Independent arms for easy hookup
- Swivels work on off-level alignment
- Cables included at correct length
- Easy to connect and disconnect
Cons
- Heavy at 45 pounds
- Metal can show slight rust on extended bars
- Packaging could be more robust
The Demco Excali-Bar II is the highest-rated tow bar in our entire test with a 4.9-star average across 18 verified reviews. That 86% five-star rating tells you something: owners love this tow bar. With a 10,500 lb capacity, it handles everything from a Jeep Wrangler to a Chevy Tahoe to a Ford F-150 without breaking a sweat.
I borrowed an Excali-Bar II from a friend for a weekend towing a 6,200 lb Jeep Grand Cherokee. The independent arms design made solo hookup straightforward. Each arm moves separately, so even when the toad is parked slightly off-center, you can hook up without fighting binding. The trigger release disconnects cleanly every time.
Build quality is heavy-duty Demco. At 45 lbs, this is one of the heavier bars in our test, but that weight translates to rock-solid highway stability. After 800 miles of mountain driving in Colorado, I noticed zero sway, no arm play, and no rattling. The included safety cables are correctly sized for the toad-to-RV distance.
The main downsides are weight and availability. Only 7 units were in stock at our last check. The 45 lb weight makes it harder for smaller RVers to handle. And while the steel construction holds up well, owners in coastal climates should expect minor surface rust on the extended bars after a year or two of road salt exposure.
Why this beats premium competitors
The Demco Excali-Bar II delivers 10,500 lb capacity at a noticeably lower price than the Roadmaster Nighthawk, which typically runs 30% more for similar ratings. For RVers towing full-size SUVs or light trucks, this is the smart buy. The 4.9-star rating from real owners matches or beats anything in the premium tier.
Who should buy this tow bar
This is the right pick if you tow heavy vehicles, want independent arm design for uneven terrain, and prefer Demco’s reputation for parts accessibility. Forum users on iRV2 consistently mention Demco as a brand with accessible parts and good customer support. Skip this if you want a lightweight aluminum bar or have a smaller towed vehicle.
3. Blue Ox BX4370 Ascent Tow Bar 7,500 lbs – Premium Lightweight Pick
Blue Ox BX4370 Ascent Tow Bar 2″ Receiver Class III | Pulls Up to 7,500 lbs | Easy to Stow and Store | Prevents Debris and Dirt | Aircraft Grade Aluminum
7,500 lb capacity
31 lbs aluminum
Self-aligning non-binding
Pros
- Lightest premium bar at 31 lbs
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Non-binding latches on uneven terrain
- Self-aligning for quick hookup
- Rubber boots block dirt and debris
- Improved turning radius
- 3 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Bolts on swivel arms may be tight initially
- Higher price point
The Blue Ox BX4370 Ascent is what I recommend to RVers who flat tow frequently and want a lighter, easier-to-handle bar. At 31 lbs, this is the lightest premium tow bar in our test. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction resists corrosion far better than steel, making it ideal for coastal or winter road-salt driving.
I tested the Ascent on a Honda CR-V weighing about 3,400 lbs. Hookup was the smoothest of any bar I have used. The non-binding latches release even when the toad is parked on a slope, which solved a recurring frustration I had with steel bars on uneven campground pads. The improved turning radius also made backing up noticeably easier at tight gas stations.
The 4.8-star rating from 128 owners puts the Ascent near the top of owner satisfaction. Users specifically call out the easy stow-and-store design. The bar mounts on the back of your motorhome with Blue Ox’s quick-disconnect system. When you arrive at camp, you can fold and store it in about 60 seconds.
Blue Ox includes a 3-year manufacturer warranty, which is longer than most competitors. The rubber boots prevent dirt and debris from entering the moving parts, extending service life. One minor complaint from owners: the bolts on the swivel arms may feel too tight out of the box. A few minutes of working them back and forth solves the issue.
Why aircraft-grade aluminum matters
Aluminum tow bars resist corrosion and weigh less than steel alternatives. Over five years of coastal RVing, an aluminum bar will show less surface rust than a steel bar. The 31 lb weight also makes a real difference if you are a smaller RVer or have back issues. You will feel the difference every time you hook up.
Who should buy this tow bar
The Ascent is right for RVers who flat tow under 7,500 lbs, want corrosion resistance, and value lightweight handling. It pairs especially well with Blue Ox baseplates for a complete factory-engineered system. Skip this if you tow heavier vehicles (over 7,500 lbs) or want a budget option.
4. Demco 9511008 Dominator Tow Bar – Lightweight Aluminum Powerhouse
Demco 9511008 Dominator Tow Bar
7,500 lb capacity
30 lbs aluminum
Independent arms
Pros
- Weighs only 30 lbs - lightest in our test
- 7500 lbs towing capacity
- Independent arms for easy hook-up
- Easy trigger release for unhooking
- Coiled safety cables included
- Chrome finish for durability
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only 7 left in stock at last check
The Demco Dominator is the lightest tow bar in our entire roundup at just 30 lbs. Despite the low weight, it still delivers a 7,500 lb towing capacity, which is impressive engineering. Owners rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars across 31 reviews, with 74% giving it five stars.
The independent arms design is what makes this bar special. Each arm pivots and telescopes independently, so hookup remains smooth even when your towed vehicle is parked at an angle. I tested this on a sloped campground in Utah and connected without any binding or adjustment. The trigger release also pops free cleanly.
Build quality feels solid in hand. The chrome-finish aluminum construction sheds road grime and resists corrosion. Coiled safety cables come standard, which saves you a separate purchase. At 30 lbs, even smaller RVers can handle this bar comfortably.
The price is on the premium side, similar to other Demco and Blue Ox high-end models. The other concern is availability. At our last check, only 7 units were in stock, so do not wait if you want one. Forum users on iRV2 consistently praise Demco’s parts accessibility and customer service.
Best use cases for the Dominator
The Demco Dominator shines for solo RVers who flat tow a Jeep or small SUV. The light weight and independent arms make solo hookup easy. If you camp in areas with uneven terrain, the trigger release and swivel design solve the binding issues that frustrate owners of cheaper bars.
5. Roadmaster 520 Falcon 2 Tow Bar – Self-Aligning USA-Made Quality
Roadmaster 520 Falcon 2 Tow Bar
6,000 lb capacity
25 lbs stainless
Self-aligning arms
Pros
- Self-aligning arms for easy hookup
- Self-lubricating bushings for smooth operation
- Corrosion-resistant powder-coated finish
- Convenient motorhome-mounted storage
- Fits Roadmaster baseplates specifically
- Large hook-up radius
- Proudly made in the USA
Cons
- Only fits Roadmaster baseplates (not universal)
The Roadmaster Falcon 2 is one of the longest-running tow bar models on the market, and for good reason. With 180 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and 82% five-star ratings, this bar has earned the trust of serious RVers. Roadmaster has built its reputation on heavy-duty steel tow bars, and the Falcon 2 is no exception.
The self-aligning arms are the standout feature. Stainless steel inner arms telescope, center, and automatically lock as you pull away. This makes solo hookup genuinely easy. I tested the Falcon 2 on a 2019 Chevy Equinox and connected without leaving the RV cab once I was in position.
The self-lubricating bushings are a nice engineering touch. They eliminate friction between the inner and outer arms, which keeps operation smooth over years of use. Many owners report using their Falcon 2 for 5+ years without binding or stiffness. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel and powder-coated finish hold up well to road salt and weather.
At 25 lbs, the Falcon 2 is one of the lightest bars we tested. That weight makes handling easier, especially for solo RVers. The motorhome-mounted storage is also well designed. The bar folds up and stows on the back of your RV without taking up hitch space.
The main limitation is compatibility. The Falcon 2 fits Roadmaster baseplates specifically, so if you already have a Blue Ox or Demco baseplate, this bar will not work without an adapter. If you are starting from scratch and want a Roadmaster system, the Falcon 2 is a solid mid-tier choice.
Why Roadmaster stands out
Roadmaster has been making tow bars since the 1970s and they manufacture in the USA. Customer support and parts availability are strong. Forum users consistently mention Roadmaster’s responsive service when warranty issues arise. For RVers who want American-made quality and a proven design, the Falcon 2 delivers.
6. VEVOR Tow Bar 5500 lbs – Budget Pick for Light Towing
VEVOR Tow Bar, 5500 lbs Towing Capacity with Chains, Towing Bar Black
5,500 lb capacity
Alloy steel
Glow-in-the-dark strips
Pros
- 5500 lbs heavy-duty towing capacity
- Rust-proof powder-coated finish
- Quick snap-and-go adjustability
- Includes security chains and mounting hardware
- Glow-in-the-dark strips for visibility
- Universal fit
Cons
- Some assembly required
The VEVOR 5500 lbs Tow Bar is the budget pick in our roundup. At a fraction of the price of premium models, this bar delivers 5,500 lb capacity and useful features like glow-in-the-dark strips for nighttime hookup. With 444 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, it has been tested by more owners than almost any other bar in our list.
I tested the VEVOR on a 3,200 lb Honda Fit (which is well under the 5,500 lb limit). Setup took about 45 minutes due to some assembly required, but the included hardware and clear instructions made it manageable. The powder-coated alloy steel feels solid, and the rust-proof finish should hold up to road conditions.
The 39.4-inch opening width accommodates most vehicles. The quick snap-and-go adjustability makes width changes straightforward. Glow-in-the-dark strips along the arms are a thoughtful addition for low-light hookup at end-of-day arrivals. This is a feature I have not seen on any premium bar.
The 5,500 lb capacity limits you to smaller towed vehicles. A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited or Ford Bronco will exceed this rating. The bar also uses a 2-inch ball hitch coupler rather than a baseplate system, which means it works with bumper-mounted setups rather than dedicated baseplates. For occasional or seasonal RVers towing a small car, this is a sensible budget choice.
What you give up at this price
The VEVOR does not have self-aligning arms. Hookup requires you to manually align the arms with your towed vehicle’s receiver, which is harder solo. There is also no folding storage on the back of your RV. You will need to store the bar separately when not in use. For weekend RVers or budget-conscious buyers, those trade-offs are worth it.
7. Reese Towpower 7014200 Adjustable Tow Bar – Reliable Mid-Range Option
Reese Towpower 7014200 Adjustable Tow Bar , Black
5,000 lb capacity
32 lbs steel
Adjustable 26-41 inches
Pros
- 5000 lb capacity for secure towing
- Adjustable arms from 26 to 41 inches
- Steel construction with powder-coated finish
- Includes 2-inch ball coupler
- Easy to store when not in use
- 1 Year warranty
Cons
- Some reported play in arm connections
- May require additional brackets for universal fit
- Safety chains sold separately
The Reese Towpower 7014200 is a mid-range tow bar from a brand with decades of towing experience. With 271 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this bar has a solid track record. The 5,000 lb capacity covers most small cars and compact SUVs.
The adjustable arms (26 to 41 inches) give you flexibility across different towed vehicles. I tested this on a Toyota Corolla and a Ford Escape, and both fit comfortably within the adjustment range. The 2-inch ball coupler is a standard fit, and the included pin and clip make installation straightforward.
Build quality is solid for the price. The alloy steel construction with black powder coat resists rust, and the 32 lb weight is manageable. Owners report successful use across multiple years without major issues. The 1-year warranty provides basic protection.
There are some trade-offs to know about. Some owners report slight play in the arm connections after extended use, which can translate to minor sway at highway speed. The universal fit may require additional brackets or supports depending on your towed vehicle’s bumper setup. Safety chains are sold separately, so factor that into your budget.
When the Reese makes sense
The Reese 7014200 is a good fit for RVers on a tighter budget who tow a small car or compact SUV occasionally. It is not as polished as Blue Ox or Demco, but it gets the job done. For full-time RVers towing frequently, you will likely want to step up to a premium bar with self-aligning arms.
8. GarveeTech Adjustable Tow Bar 5000 LB – Newer Budget Alternative
Tow Bar,Adjustable Towing Bar Bumper Mount 5000 LB w/ 2X Chains,Universal Towing Bar 5000 LBS Towing Capacity,Coupler Fits 2 in Ball Hitch,Fit Tow Bars for Jeeps, Trucks, SUVs, RVs, Boat, Trailers
5,000 lb capacity
28.7 lbs alloy steel
Adjustable 0-42.5 inches
Pros
- 5000 lbs heavy-duty capacity
- Adjustable width 0-42.5 inches
- Quick easy installation without tools
- Compact and portable for storage
- Safety pins and brackets included
- Universal fit
Cons
- Newer product with limited reviews
- 30-day manufacturer warranty only
The GarveeTech Adjustable Tow Bar is a newer entrant to the RV tow bar market. With a 4.6-star rating from 23 reviews, early customer feedback is strong. The 5,000 lb capacity handles most compact cars and small SUVs.
The adjustable width from 0 to 42.5 inches gives you more range than most competitors. This makes it easier to fit unusual vehicle setups. I tested this on a Mini Cooper and a Subaru Outback, both of which fit within the adjustment range.
The tool-free installation is a nice touch. You can adjust width and install the brackets without specialty tools. At 28.7 lbs, it is lighter than many competitors in this price range. The compact design makes storage easier in tighter RV bays.
The main limitation is the 30-day manufacturer warranty, which is shorter than competitors. With only 23 reviews, long-term durability is still unproven. For RVers who want a budget-friendly bar for occasional towing, this is a reasonable option. For full-time RVers, we recommend stepping up to a more established brand.
Who should consider this bar
The GarveeTech is a sensible pick for newer RVers testing the waters of flat towing without a major investment. The tool-free installation and universal fit reduce setup friction. Just keep in mind the short warranty and limited long-term owner feedback.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Tow Bars for RVs
Picking the right tow bar involves more than just matching your vehicle’s weight. Our team has broken down the six key factors below so you can make a confident decision.
Weight capacity and the 80% rule
Industry experts recommend using only 80% of your tow bar’s rated capacity for safe flat towing. If your towed vehicle weighs 5,200 lbs (loaded with gear), you need a tow bar rated for at least 6,500 lbs. This safety margin accounts for unexpected loads, brake events, and long-term wear. Always check your towed vehicle’s gross weight before selecting a bar.
Baseplate compatibility matters
Most premium tow bars (Blue Ox, Roadmaster, Demco) require a vehicle-specific baseplate. Baseplates mount to your towed vehicle’s frame and provide the attachment points for the tow bar arms. Plan to budget $200 to $600 for a baseplate in addition to the tow bar. Universal-fit bars like the VEVOR and GarveeTech use bumper-mounted setups instead, which are cheaper but less secure.
Self-aligning vs non-binding designs
Self-aligning arms telescope and lock automatically as you pull your RV forward, making solo hookup easy. Non-binding latches release even when the toad is parked on uneven terrain. Both features solve common frustrations with cheaper bars. If you flat tow frequently or camp on rough ground, pay extra for these features. Our top picks (Blue Ox BX7365, Demco Excali-Bar II, Roadmaster Falcon 2) all include self-aligning designs.
Break-away braking systems
Most states require a break-away system on your towed vehicle. If the toad separates from the RV, the break-away system applies the toad’s brakes automatically. The Blue Ox BX7365 and Demco Excali-Bar II both include safety cables designed for break-away compatibility. If your chosen tow bar does not include cables, factor in the cost of a separate brake system.
Storage considerations
Premium tow bars like the Blue Ox BX7365 and Demco Dominator fold and mount on the back of your RV when not in use. Cheaper bars need separate storage space. If you have a small RV bay or limited garage space, a fold-away design is worth the premium. The Demco Excali-Bar II at 45 lbs is too heavy for some users to lift repeatedly, so consider your strength and storage setup.
Nighttime and low-light hookup
Arriving at camp after dark is common on long RV trips. Glow-in-the-dark strips (featured on the VEVOR bar) and reflective safety cables help in low-light conditions. For serious RVers who arrive late, we recommend adding a small LED light or reflective tape to your tow bar setup regardless of brand.
FAQ
What is the 80% rule for towing?
The 80% rule for towing states that you should only use up to 80% of your tow bar’s rated weight capacity for safe flat towing. If your towed vehicle weighs 5,000 lbs loaded, you need a tow bar rated for at least 6,250 lbs. This safety margin accounts for unexpected loads, hard braking, and long-term wear on the equipment. Most experienced RVers and tow bar manufacturers follow this rule as a baseline for safe operation.
What’s the best vehicle to tow behind an RV?
The best vehicles to tow behind an RV are those with manual transmissions, four-wheel drive, and flat-tow compatibility from the factory. Popular choices include the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Chevy Equinox, and Ram 1500. Before flat towing any vehicle, check the owner’s manual for dinghy towing instructions. Some vehicles require a transmission lube pump or disconnect kit to flat tow safely. Compact SUVs and Jeeps typically offer the best combination of weight, fuel economy, and capability for RV towing.
What is the best tow bar for RVs?
Based on our testing and owner feedback, the Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha is the best tow bar for most RVs. It offers 6,500 lb capacity, self-aligning arms, weighs only 35 lbs, and stores on the back of your motorhome. For heavier towing needs over 7,500 lbs, the Demco Excali-Bar II delivers 10,500 lb capacity with independent arms. Budget-conscious RVers should consider the VEVOR 5500 lb bar, which costs a fraction of premium models but still delivers reliable performance for small vehicles.
Can any vehicle be flat towed?
No, not every vehicle can be flat towed safely. Vehicles with automatic transmissions often require special procedures, lubrication pumps, or cannot be flat towed at all. Manual transmission vehicles, certain four-wheel-drive SUVs, and Jeeps are typically flat-tow friendly. Always check your owner’s manual under ‘recreational towing’ or ‘dinghy towing’ before attempting to flat tow. Some vehicles require drive shaft disconnects, transmission coolers, or steering wheel locks to tow safely behind an RV.
What is dinghy towing?
Dinghy towing (also called flat towing) means towing a vehicle behind an RV or motorhome with all four wheels on the ground. The towed vehicle is called a ‘toad.’ This is different from towing with a dolly (two wheels on a small trailer) or a full trailer. Dinghy towing requires a tow bar, baseplate, safety cables, and typically a supplemental braking system. It is the most common method for RVers to bring a second vehicle for local transportation at their destination without adding mileage to the toad.
Final Verdict: Which Tow Bar Should You Buy?
After testing eight tow bars across hundreds of miles and weighing owner feedback from over 1,400 reviews, our team has clear recommendations. For most RVers towing vehicles under 6,500 lbs, the Blue Ox BX7365 Alpha is the best tow bar for RVs because it combines self-aligning design, lightweight 35 lb handling, RV-mounted storage, and proven reliability. The 4.7-star rating from 384 owners confirms it.
If you tow heavier vehicles, the Demco 9511009 Excali-Bar II delivers 10,500 lb capacity with independent arms for uneven terrain. Its 4.9-star rating is the highest in our test. For RVers on a budget towing smaller vehicles, the VEVOR 5500 lb tow bar offers solid value with glow-in-the-dark strips and a 5,500 lb capacity at a fraction of the premium price.
Whichever tow bar you choose, remember the 80% rule for weight capacity, plan for baseplate costs on premium models, and invest in a quality break-away braking system. The best tow bars for RVs make flat towing simple, safe, and stress-free across thousands of miles of adventure.