Do you have to have a toad?

[Stevepkam]

We recently traded in our TT for a class A. It is so nice not to be towing anything to local area like Rinconn on 101 in Ca. My DW is pushing for a Honda CRV purchase. We have VW Jetta TDI that can't be towed and the Nissan Titan that towed the travel trailer but can't be itself towed.
We plan to travel to East coast this summer. Do we have to buy a new car or is there some way to obtain rental cars when we want to sight see. Or, is there something else that I haven't considered.
Does everyone tow a toad?
Thanks for comments.
SteveK

[BobGed]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stevepkam We recently traded in our TT for a class A. It is so nice not to be towing anything to local area like Rinconn on 101 in Ca. My DW is pushing for a Honda CRV purchase. We have VW Jetta TDI that can't be towed and the Nissan Titan that towed the travel trailer but can't be itself towed. We plan to travel to East coast this summer. Do we have to buy a new car or is there some way to obtain rental cars when we want to sight see. Or, is there something else that I haven't considered. Does everyone tow a toad? Thanks for comments. SteveK

I just met a couple at our last RV park that were pulling a toad for the first time in five years. Previously they would just call Enterprise who would come right to their RV park.

[wildtoad]

Rental cars work just fine. In fact some campgrounds have rental car companies on site. Enterprise and others will deliver. It's a good option if you don't want to tow.

[kjburns]

It really depends on your travel needs. If you're going from place to place, and swing by a shopping center for enough supplies, you don't need a toad. If your stays are longer and you plan to rent at each stop, it does get inconvenient. It's worse if you're in an area with no rentals nearby. You have to disconnect everything, head out in a bus and setup again.

We did our first two trips without a toad. On the first one, we needed one to visit family around town so we rented. It was inconvenient at best. Even if the rental company will pick you up, it takes time, plus they might not be willing to drop you off when you return the rental. Do that multiple times over a longer trip and it's a real pain.

Our second trip was in an area with no rentals within a wide radius. We had to run into town to pick up things with all the breakdown and setup time. That was it for us.

We tow now. You can buy something cheap as a dedicated toad. The toad doesn't necessarily have to be a daily driver too. If you have the space and budget, an older used toad is well worth it.

[azloafer]

No toad in 1-1/2 years.

[Ron & Dee]

No toad for 17 years of vacations and weekend camping trips.

No rentals either.

Full timing would probably be a different story though

Ron

[heyaim]

We bought a tow dolly since my car can't be towed 4 down. We rarely use the car on weekend trips. I feel better having it available, just in case something were to happen...

[George Z]

No toad for 22 years till this month. Purchased 2011 Chevy Equinox and tow equipment to begin the experience.

[Steve N Sal]

Our first four years of travel we did not tow anything. Of course then I was still working and trips were of the three to four week variety and with the limited time we didn't spend a lot of time in one place. SOOOO we usually always rented a car from Enterprise when a day trip or two were in order. Worked for us at that time. They normally will pick you up at your location and return you there when you return the vehicle. Now though that retirement has moved into the equation a toad is in order. Spend a lot more time in one place as for this summer for instance we'll be in Traverse City the entire time so the vehicle is essential on a daily basis. Personally you'll have to figure out if it is really necessary for the trip your taking and how much side travel and exploring you may want to do. Good Luck with your decision and hope you have a great trip.

[AL]

Hi all,

Hey Steve only you can realy answer this question, since you know what you are willing to put up with, or how important or the need for a car will be on this trip! Now with that said. I have a toad and don't always bring it, but that is because I am going somewhere that I will be with others that have toads. I also went cross country in a 30' Class-C with out a toad in 1995 with no problem! Also not sure if you can do this but maybe you could rent a tow dolly from U-Hall or Ridder and tow what you have for your trip and see what you think! I my self am a tow 4-down guy! Best of luck !

Remember All: LIVE, LAUGH & ENJOY !!!!!

[hooverbill]

No, you don't "need" one. But many CGs are no where near any kind of car rental business. And, if you are going to stay in one place for a while, sure would be inconvenient without one.

[azloafer]

Several car rental companies will deliver the car to the campground. One that comes to mind that we have seen in a campground is Enterprise Car Rental. It might be a better option than dragging one for hundreds of miles. Happy Trails, Joe

[RVRoadTrip]

We carry a scooter with us, that is our only toad.


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[azloafer]

Is the scooter on a hitch rack in back of the MH? Do you cover it with something? We took our electric bike with us on the back of the MH and couldn't believe how loaded with dirt it was in only 50 miles. We thought that a cover might restrict air flow from the coach radiator...maybe not?
Joe