How To Level A Camping Trailer: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

What is the best way to level a camping trailer? The best way to level a camping trailer involves using a combination of tools like bubble levels, trailer leveling blocks, and RV leveling jacks, along with a systematic approach to ensure your trailer is perfectly level both side-to-side and front-to-back. This guide breaks down the entire process into easy-to-follow steps.

Leveling your camping trailer is one of the most crucial steps in setting up camp. An unlevel trailer can lead to discomfort, malfunctioning appliances (especially refrigerators!), and doors that swing open or closed on their own. Fortunately, leveling your trailer is a straightforward process that anyone can master with the right tools and a bit of know-how. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to achieving a perfectly level camping experience.

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Preparing for Leveling

Before you even think about maneuvering your trailer into its spot, preparation is key. This involves surveying the campsite and gathering your tools.

Assessing the Campsite

Take a walk around your assigned campsite. Look for obvious slopes or dips in the ground. If possible, position your trailer so that the least amount of leveling is required. This often means positioning the trailer with the higher side facing the lower ground. Note any obstacles, such as rocks or tree roots, that might interfere with leveling.

Gathering Essential Tools

Having the right tools makes the leveling process much easier and more efficient. Here’s a list of essential items:

• Bubble Level (or Spirit Level for RV): This is your primary tool for determining levelness.
• Trailer Leveling Blocks: These blocks are placed under the tires to raise one side of the trailer. Brands like Lynx Levelers are popular and stackable.
• RV Leveling Jacks: These jacks provide stability and can also be used for minor leveling adjustments.
• Wheel Chocks for Leveling: Essential for safety, wheel chocks prevent the trailer from rolling during the leveling process.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• A Small Shovel: Useful for minor ground adjustments.
• Measuring Tape: Can be helpful for precise adjustments, though often not necessary.

Step-by-Step Leveling Process

Now that you’ve assessed the campsite and gathered your tools, it’s time to get to work. Follow these steps for a perfectly level camping trailer.

Step 1: Position the Trailer

Carefully back your trailer into the campsite, aiming for your desired location. Leave enough room to maneuver and make adjustments. Don’t disconnect from your tow vehicle yet; this gives you more control during the initial leveling stages.

Step 2: Leveling Side-to-Side

This is usually the first and most significant adjustment.

1. Bubble Level Placement: Place your bubble level inside the trailer on the floor, preferably in the center. Alternatively, place it on the refrigerator floor or a countertop. Make sure the trailer is unhitched for the most accurate reading.
2. Determine the Low Side: Observe the bubble level. The direction the bubble is leaning indicates the low side of the trailer.
3. Position Leveling Blocks: Estimate how much you need to raise the low side. Stack your trailer leveling blocks appropriately. It’s better to overestimate than underestimate.
4. Drive onto the Blocks: Slowly and carefully drive the low side tires onto the leveling blocks. Have a spotter outside to guide you.
5. Recheck the Level: Place the bubble level back in the same spot and check the level again. If it’s still not level, adjust the blocks as needed, driving forward or backward slightly to add or remove blocks.
6. Repeat: Keep adjusting the blocks and rechecking the level until the trailer is level side-to-side.

Here’s a table illustrating how to address common side-to-side leveling issues:

Scenario	Action
Bubble significantly off-center	Add more leveling blocks to the low side.
Bubble slightly off-center	Adjust the positioning of the tires on the leveling blocks.
Bubble centered	Proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Chock the Wheels

Safety first! Once the trailer is level side-to-side, immediately place wheel chocks behind and in front of the tires on both sides of the trailer. This prevents any accidental rolling while you continue leveling.

Step 4: Disconnect from the Tow Vehicle

Now that the trailer is level side-to-side and securely chocked, you can disconnect it from your tow vehicle. Remember to lower the tongue jack onto a leveling block to prevent it from sinking into the ground.

Step 5: Leveling Front-to-Back

Use the tongue jack to adjust the front-to-back level of the trailer.

1. Recheck Bubble Level Placement: Place the bubble level in the same location you used for side-to-side leveling.
2. Adjust the Tongue Jack: Use the tongue jack to raise or lower the front of the trailer until the bubble level indicates it is level front-to-back.
3. Fine-Tune: Make small adjustments to the tongue jack to achieve perfect levelness.

Step 6: Stabilize the Trailer

Now that your trailer is level, it’s time to stabilize it. This prevents rocking and swaying, making your camping experience much more comfortable.

1. RV Leveling Jacks: Extend your RV leveling jacks until they make firm contact with the ground. Don’t extend them so much that they lift the trailer off the ground; their primary purpose is stabilization, not leveling.
2. Stabilizer Pads: Place pads under the jacks to prevent them from sinking into soft ground.
3. Tighten: Tighten the jacks securely, but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the trailer frame.

Step 7: Double-Check Everything

Once you’ve completed all the steps, take a final walk around the trailer to ensure everything is secure and level. Recheck the bubble level, make sure the wheel chocks are firmly in place, and confirm that the stabilizer jacks are properly extended.

Tips for Leveling on Uneven Ground

Leveling on uneven ground presents unique challenges, but with a few extra considerations, you can still achieve a perfectly level trailer.

• Use More Leveling Blocks: Don’t be afraid to stack multiple leveling blocks to achieve the necessary height.
• Consider a Shovel: Use a small shovel to remove high spots or fill in low spots in the ground before positioning your leveling blocks.
• Invest in Adjustable RV Leveling Jacks: These jacks offer greater flexibility for leveling on uneven terrain.
• Work Slowly and Methodically: Take your time and make small adjustments to ensure accuracy.

Choosing the Right Leveling Blocks

Selecting the right trailer leveling blocks is crucial for safety and ease of use. Here’s a comparison of popular options:

Type of Leveling Block	Pros	Cons
Lynx Levelers	Lightweight, durable, stackable, easy to store	Can be slippery in wet conditions
Solid Plastic Blocks	Strong, stable, easy to clean	Can be bulky and take up more storage space
Wooden Blocks	Inexpensive, readily available	Can rot, split, or warp over time; not as stable as plastic options
Interlocking Blocks	Provides a secure and stable platform, easy to customize the height	Can be more expensive than other options

Alternatives to Traditional Leveling Blocks

While leveling blocks are the most common solution, there are alternative methods you might consider:

• Automatic Leveling Systems: These systems use hydraulic jacks to automatically level the trailer at the touch of a button. They are expensive but offer unparalleled convenience.
• Airbag Leveling Systems: Similar to automatic leveling systems, airbag systems use airbags to adjust the height of the trailer.
• DIY Leveling Solutions: Some campers create their own leveling solutions using wood or other materials. While this can be cost-effective, it’s essential to ensure the solution is safe and stable.

The Importance of Stabilizing Camping Trailer

Stabilizing your camping trailer is just as important as leveling it. A stable trailer provides a comfortable and safe camping experience, preventing rocking and swaying that can be disruptive and even dangerous. RV leveling techniques include using stabilizer jacks and chocks. A stabilizing camping trailer enhances living comfort and helps prevent accidents.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about leveling a camping trailer:

• Can I use regular wood blocks instead of leveling blocks?
  While you can use wood blocks, they are not as durable or stable as plastic leveling blocks. Wood can rot, split, or warp over time, making it a less reliable option.
  
• How accurate does the leveling need to be?
  Ideally, you want your trailer to be as level as possible. However, a slight degree of unlevelness is usually acceptable. Aim for the bubble in your level to be within the center circle.
  
• What happens if my trailer isn’t level?
  An unlevel trailer can cause discomfort, make doors swing open or closed, and, most importantly, can cause issues with your RV refrigerator and other appliances, affecting their performance and longevity.
• Do I need to level my trailer every time I set it up?
  Yes, it’s essential to level your trailer every time you set it up, even if the campsite appears relatively level. Small slopes or dips in the ground can still cause problems.

• What if my RV leveling jacks are not reaching the ground?

  If your RV leveling jacks aren’t reaching the ground, carry extra blocks of wood or leveling pads. Place these under the jacks to extend their reach and provide a stable base. Make sure the ground is solid and won’t cause the blocks to sink.
  * Who is responsible for ensuring the campsite is level?

  You are. Campsite conditions vary, and it’s your responsibility to level your trailer properly.

By following these steps and tips, you can ensure that your camping trailer is perfectly level, providing a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time to do the job right. Happy camping!