Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t see the trailer I’ve been researching. Can you add it?
Yes. We continue to add more brands and models frequently. Please use the “Submit a Brand” form and we’ll get started on it!
How do I know if the specs are accurate?
We continually review the specification data on every model and make changes frequently. The models which have a “verified specs” badge have been verified by the manufacturer.
Once I find the adventure rig that I like, how do I purchase?
Once you save your rig to your profile, you can submit a request for pricing to the nearest dealer.
I want to be able to do more aggressive off-road trails, what should I be looking at?
Some of the key factors you’ll want to consider are the size and weight of the trailer, ground clearance, departure angle, suspension type, and hitch type. While many larger trailers are very capable, generally speaking, the larger the trailer, the more limited you may become on trails.
I usually only go to campgrounds and maybe some dispersed camping down forest service roads. Do I need an off-road trailer for that?
Many people look at off-road and overlanding trailers because they like the build quality and want their investment to last a long time.
Trailers designed for off-road usually have a better chassis and components that allow them to handle the rigors of off-pavement travel. Even if you don’t go down aggressive trails, forest service roads that are rutted or have washboards can wreak havoc on traditionally built trailers that maybe only have lighter tires and look like they are off-road capable.
What is the advantage of Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries?
When it comes to off-grid adventuring, Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are the preferred battery for most adventurers. Lithium batteries provide much deeper discharge capability.
Whereas typical lead-acid or AGM batteries need to stay above 50% discharge, lithium batteries are typically tested and rated to discharge up to 90-95% of their capacity without damaging the battery. They typically allow for 3,000–5,000 or more cycles, which means they will often last 7–10 years, or longer. So you get more use out of every charge cycle and you get many more years from a set—both of which are ideal for off-grid camping.
I typically use our rig for 2–3 days at a time. What power do I need?
This is really dependent on how you are using your rig and if you have high-demand components such as an air conditioner or 120V appliances like a coffee maker or microwave, which require an inverter.
Generally speaking, most devices with a 200Ah LiFePO4 battery bank will allow you to camp in a trailer 2–4 days without solar, although this could be less or more depending on your trailer and the components being powered.
I see many trailers either have Victron or RedArc as their power management. Which is better and what is the difference?
Victron and RedArc are both leaders in the industry for off-grid power management. There are advantages to both depending on the vehicle they are being installed in, expandability, configuration, and monitoring capabilities desired.
How much solar should I have for my batteries?
A good rule of thumb is to double your solar capacity wattage vs. your lithium battery bank. So if you have 200Ah of lithium, 400W of solar is ideal.
The reason is: in average conditions, 400W of solar will typically produce enough power to recharge your battery bank in one full day of sun. However, there are many variables with this and in many cases with off-road and overlanding trailers, the roof size and dimensions may not allow for that much mounted solar. That is where portable panels and DC to DC charging are great options.
What is DC to DC charging?
This allows you to charge your trailer or ancillary battery bank from your tow vehicle (12V DC charges another ancillary 12V DC battery).
Most power management systems, including Victron and RedArc, have DC to DC charging solutions. Typically, you will wire to the tow vehicle with a dedicated heavy-gauge wire and attach an Anderson plug to the rear of the vehicle and connect it to the trailer or ancillary power system. A DC to DC charger must be used to protect both the vehicle and the ancillary system.
What are the different types of suspensions for off-road and overlanding trailers?
There are three main types of suspensions most commonly used on trailers. A torsion axle is used typically on traditional trailers and some light off-road trailers. It is more affordable but may not provide some of the off-road capability of independent axle-less suspensions.
For heavier rigs with suspensions, Timbren is a common brand. There are also coil-spring kits with independent outboard arms that can be fitted relatively easily on short frames and DIY builds. The most popular suspension options in the off-road trailer industry is A-Arm or Trailing Arm suspensions, which typically provide for a single or dual shock on either side of the axle.
Cruisemaster is well-known for both of these suspension styles. These are more expensive and manufacturers are building similar suspension setups in-house.