travel trailer towing mirrors

Do I Need Towing Mirrors for a Travel Trailer?

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Updated April 15, 2024

Purchasing a travel trailer is a big decision to make. It requires a significant financial commitment and a lot of research to ensure that you get the right trailer. However, purchasing the travel trailer is only the start of your adventure.

After you make your purchase, you may need to make several other purchases including towing mirrors to make sure everything is functional and to make sure that you are fully abiding by the law.

One question many new travel trailer owners have is, do I need towing mirrors for a travel trailer? It is the law in most places that you do need to have towing mirrors installed if you are towing a travel trailer.

It is the law because regular mirrors just do not cut it. They do not give you enough vision because they are obstructed by a trailer. As a result, you need special towing mirrors so that you have the vision behind you that you need.

Permanent Mirrors

6. chevy and gmc towing mirrors with turn signal lights, how do travel trailer towing mirrors work.

Mirrors vary in use depending on size in shape. In certain situations, you may need a large full-body mirror, and in others, you may only need a small mirror. However, when you are towing a travel trailer there are certain laws in place that you need to follow.

Although the exact laws and regulations may vary from state to state, there is one thing that is generally the same in the entire country. You need to be able to see the entire length of your travel trailer and beyond the traffic behind it. Unfortunately, it is not possible to see this much with regular rear-view mirrors, so you need towing mirrors.

There are several types of towing mirrors that we will discuss later, but they all do the same thing. They extend the vision you have behind your car. This gives you added safety as you drive. There is nothing more dangerous than having no vision behind you while you drive. So, you need to have towing mirrors so that you are as safe as possible.

Why Do Tow Mirrors Have Two Mirrors?

Tow mirrors extend your rear vision to include the side of your RV, the back, and just a hint of visual aid behind the rig. They also improve the widened blind spot limitations that standard mirrors on the towing vehicle lack. 

After all, standard mirrors already have difficulty covering the blind spot directly next to your vehicle, much less the blind spot running alongside your rig. When you change lanes on the highway and you’re hauling a 30’+ rig, you had better be absolutely certain no one is in the lane for you to sideswipe with your RV.

Towing mirrors help with that, along with a general observation of your RV itself. For instance, maybe one of your hatches swung open, much like leaving the gas door open on the side of your truck, except a lot bigger. These mirrors also help when you’re backing your RV into a tight spot—you can better observe the clearance along your sides. 

Are Travel Trailer Towing Mirrors Mandatory in Some States?

Although the exact rules and regulations may vary from state to state, you do need to have towing mirrors when you are towing a travel trailer. They are mandatory in the United States.

Although it might be annoying to purchase them and get them installed, they are necessary to have. It is better to have them installed and go through the hassle of installing them than to not be safe because you do not have them. So, do not risk it, abide by the law, and get your towing mirrors installed.

Tips for Using Mirrors While Towing

You will be used to using regular rearview mirrors while driving. Unfortunately, you do not use towing mirrors in the same way. So, we have a few tips on how to use towing mirrors while you are towing your travel trailer.

The first thing you should do before you head out onto the road with your travel trailer is make sure that your towing mirrors are clean. Towing mirrors can collect dust and dirt very quickly because you will typically be taking your trailer to more rural environments and on dirt roads. So, before you take a trip, make sure everything is clean so that you have good visibility.

Additionally, when you purchase your towing mirrors, you need to take the size of your travel trailer into account. As a rule of thumb, you can assume that for every 10 feet of your vehicle’s length, you need one inch of mirror. That means that if you have a 50-foot trailer, you need a 5-inch mirror.

If you have a large travel trailer, having longer mirrors may be a worry for you. There are some situations where you might be worried about scraping your mirrors along a wall when you are in a tight squeeze.

To avoid these situations, you should purchase mirrors that fold back to the side of your vehicle. This way you can get through tight squeezes if you need to. Otherwise, there may be places you cannot go when you have large mirrors.

To adjust your mirrors, you should make sure that you can see 200 feet or more behind your vehicle. You should test both mirrors before you start driving. This way you have as much knowledge and vision as you need while driving.

What Types of Towing Mirrors Are Available?

Before you can purchase new towing mirrors, you need to learn about all the different types of towing mirrors available to you. The first thing you need to know is that there are both portable and permanent options for you to choose from.

Portable mirrors are quick and easy to install. They attach to the side of your vehicle in addition to your regular rear-view mirrors. These are good options for people who will not be towing their trailers that frequently because you can remove them when they are not needed.

Permanent mirrors are a better option for people who have towing jobs, or for people who take their travel trailer out frequently. These mirrors replace the standard mirrors on your vehicle. They are more difficult to install, and it takes a longer process. They are also generally more expensive.

Portable Mirrors

There are three major types of portable mirrors, convex mirrors, custom slip-ons, and universal fits.

Convex mirrors are small mirrors that have an adhesive on the back that sticks to your side mirrors directly.

Custom slip-ons are towing mirrors that are made custom for car makes and models. You attach them by sliding them over the existing mirror and locking them in place.

Universal-fit towing mirrors can fit on any vehicle. They can clip onto the mirror or be mounted on the window. However, with these mirrors, there may be an increase in your drag. This can cause wear and tear to the body of your vehicle if you do not mount them properly.

There are also three major types of permanent mirrors, telescopic trailer tow, LED mirrors, and heated mirrors.

The telescopic mirrors enlarge the view of the end of the trailer. LED mirrors can be useful because they are wired to light up with your braking and turning signals. This gives you and the drivers around you some added safety. Finally, there are heated mirrors. These mirrors often include LED features, and they warm up melt frost, ice, and snow.

Are Aftermarket Towing Mirrors Universal?

No, aftermarket towing mirrors are not universal. You’re dealing with a wide variety of trims, models, shapes, sizes, etc. Not to mention the mirrors themselves, which come in different configurations, such as snap-on, slide-on, shape, size, and weight. 

The thing is, there are aftermarket towing mirrors out there that carry the label, “universal.” The problem lies in the fact that they are anything but. It’s hard to be universal with so many differences in mirror styles, reach, shapes, and sizes. 

The best thing you can do, when ordering an aftermarket towing mirror, is measure the dimensions precisely, along with the place you want the mirror to be. Some aftermarket mirrors attach using an extension arm, so you’ll have to carefully review the attaching mechanism and be sure it will fit onto your existing mirror or mirror arm. 

How to Choose Towing Mirrors

When you purchase your travel trailer, you will need to decide what towing mirrors you want to go with the purchase. However, this decision is not easy. There is a lot to consider.

The first thing you should consider before you purchase your mirrors is how often you are going to be towing the trailer. If you are going to be towing it all the time, you should consider purchasing permanent mirrors. Otherwise, you should purchase portable mirrors.

You then need to measure your trailer so that you know the length of the trailer. The length of your travel trailer will affect the size of the towing mirrors you purchase. The larger the trailer, the larger the mirrors you will need.

Once you figure out those factors, the decision is up to you. Everything else is up to personal preference. Do you want bendable mirrors? Do you want mirrors with LED lights? These things are not a necessity and are entirely up to you. So, do your research and you will be able to figure out what the best fit is for you.

Best Towing Mirrors

Here we will be looking at some of the best towing mirrors for each type of mirror. You should note that although this is a numbered list, we did not rank the products. They are listed in no particular order.

1. Fit System Driver Side Lower Towing Mirror

The first towing mirror we will be looking at is a portable convex towing mirror. Not only is it a great mirror for people who need a towing mirror, but it is also a great replacement mirror if you crack your mirror glass. The glass measures 3 1/8” tall by 6 ¾” wide and 7” diagonally.

The mirror does not have heating capabilities, but it can fit on mirrors that have manual and heated power functions. It comes with mounting tape so that you can install it with ease. There are also instructions so that you do not have any issues with the installation process.

2. Longview Towing Mirror

The mirror from Longview Towing Mirror is a slip-on mirror . It extends the towing vision without obstructing the existing mirror. The mirror fits the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 from 2019 to the present. It should slip right on without needing any tools.

3. Fit System Deluxe Clip-on Trailer Towing Mirror

The Fit System travel trailer towing mirror should fit all mirrors up to 11.5” tall. It has secure mounting hardware, so you do not need to worry about it falling off. Unless something drastic happens, the mirror should be secure. The mirror will provide you with the extra vision you need to tow a large travel trailer without obstructing the original mirror.

4. Telescopic Arm Towing Side Mirror

This mirror from Auto Dynasty is a telescopic towing mirror . It has reinforcement brackets to prevent vibration while driving. Additionally, it makes it incredibly easy to see what is going on behind you while driving. The mirror is a non-powdered mirror that extends by telescoping. Finally, it is also foldable, so if you are in a tight space you can fold it back and get through the area.

5. Ford Towing Mirrors with Turn Signal Lights

This towing mirror from Autodayplus is built for 2007 to 2014 Ford F150 trucks. The main mirror has power adjustment and the spotter mirror has manual adjustment.

Furthermore, the mirror has a heat function so that you can melt any ice that is stuck to the mirror. This should also help prevent fogging.

Additionally, there is an amber turn signal with a high-intensity lamp under the face of the mirror. This way other drivers can see your turn signal and brake lights from a long distance away.

Finally, the mirror can be extended with its telescoping function. This way you can see around your trailer with ease and see other cars coming.

This towing mirror with turn signals is from Aftermarket is for a variety of cars from Chevy and GMG. The towing mirror has an amber turn signal that is attached to the underside of the mirror. It also has a power mirror adjustment that lets you change the face position of the mirror. This can be done from inside your vehicle.

Additionally, the mirror can be heated. This is very helpful in the winter when you may have a build-up of snow or ice. However, it can be helpful in other months as it can reduce fog build-up on your mirror as well.

Can I Use A Rear View Camera In Place Of Tow Mirrors?

Your rearview camera is a separate tool with a similar purpose. However, you should use it in combination with your tow mirrors. The reason for this is that no system will present you with the perfect visual aid, capturing everything around you at once. 

Plus, though rear-view cameras are great, there’s always the possibility that the view you are seeing is ever-so-slightly lagging. Besides, while traveling, the tow mirrors are always going to be your fastest, go-to reference points when you need to maneuver

Get on the Road After Purchasing the Perfect Towing Mirrors for You

After reading, we hope you have all the information you need about towing mirrors. We know there is a lot of information to absorb, but it should all be useful to you. As we mentioned above, it is against the law to tow a trailer without towing mirrors.

However, the exact rules and regulations regarding the type of towing mirrors you need vary from state to state. As a result, you need to do your research so that you have all the information about the laws in your home state. Otherwise, you could end up breaking the law without knowing it, and you do not want that.

Once you purchase your trailer and figure out what types of mirrors are legal in your state, you can start your search for towing mirrors. The most important thing to consider in this situation is how often you are going to be towing your trailer.

This will help you determine whether you will want permanent or portable towing mirrors. You also need to know the length of your trailer so that you can purchase mirrors that are the right size.

We wish we could tell you what the best towing mirrors for you are. Unfortunately, everyone has different needs, and for us to assume that we knew yours would be irresponsible. However, we can say with confidence that all the mirrors listed above received positive reviews. So, if they fit your vehicle, you cannot go wrong with them.

Are you a new or experienced travel trailer owner? Are you going to purchase permanent or portable towing mirrors? Interested in any of the products listed above? Let us know in the comments!

Related Reading:

– 10 Best Travel Trailers Under 5000 lbs – Should I Grease My Trailer Hitch Ball or Not? – 5 Best Generator Mounts for a Travel Trailer – 10 Most Googled Travel Trailer Camping Questions

Mike Scarpignato – Bio

Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.

Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.

We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.

We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.

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The 10 Best Towing Mirrors

Safely towing a trailer or camper isn’t as simple as hooking it up to your vehicle and going on your way. If you regularly have a trailer attached to your vehicle, there’s a good chance you’ll need to invest into a set of towing mirrors. In fact, some state laws mandate the use of trailer or towing mirrors on your vehicle to make sure you can safely see your surroundings while driving.

Generally, factory mirrors have blind spots and those become worse when you’re towing a trailer or camper. Standard side mirrors likely don’t offer an adequate view, so a good rule is to make sure you can see the entire length of your trailer and the traffic behind it when you’re towing. For example, some states such as Georgia and Illinois require mirrors that give a view of at least 200 feet to the rear if you have a trailer attached.

To learn more about towing or trailer mirrors, refer to our table of contents.

Table of contents

• 1. Editor's Pick: Auto Dynasty

3. Fit System

8. trail ridge, 9. autoandart, 10. spec-d tuning, what are towing mirrors, why do i need towing mirrors, what to look for when shopping for towing mirrors, 1. editor's pick: auto dynasty.

Auto Dynasty is another company with a comprehensive, affordable lineup of mirrors ranging from powered with heated glass to manual telescopic options. The company also has fordable mirrors with integrated turn signals, and offers certain applications with just a single mirror instead of selling as a pair. These mirrors feature reinforcement brackets to prevent vibration during driving.

It’s worth noting that certain mirrors with integrated turn signals may require a reflash in order for the turn signals to work.

You can find Auto Dynasty mirrors for several different vehicles including Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon, Toyota Tacoma, and more.

Along with offering a universal clip-on towing mirror, CIPA has a wide assortment of vehicle-specific towing mirrors. Some models are available in manual, power, and heated power, along with being extendable so they’re the ideal replacement no matter how frequently you’re towing. The company also offers mirrors that fit over the existing factory side mirrors, extending towing vision without having to use any tools. This is a great option if you want an add-on type mirror that doesn’t ruin the aesthetics of your vehicle like some of the clip-on mirrors do.

CIPA has products for various makes and models, including Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, Ford Expedition, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon, and Jeep Cherokee.

Fit System doesn’t offer as many applications as CIPA, but it does have one of the most popular universal clip-on mirrors on Amazon. The company also has snap-on mirrors that work with your factory mirrors, extending your view without needing any tools. For some applications, Fit System offers manual and power towing mirrors, as well as extendable units that are heated and have built-in turn signals. These do get expensive however, similar to CIPA’s top-of-the-line mirrors.

Applications from Fit System include Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford Excursion, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra.

More affordable mirror options come from DEDC, which specializes in vehicle-specific applications. The company also sells mirrors separately, so it’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for just a driver side or passenger side mirror. Some of its more premium options are power and heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, offered at a lower price than some of DEDC’s competitors. If DEDC has a towing mirror for your specific vehicle, they’re a great option at a cheaper price.

Applications from DEDC include Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra.

ECCPP has a wide range of mirrors available for a variety of vehicles at an affordable price. Its lineup consists of manual, power, heated, turn signal-equipped, and extendable mirrors, some of which can even fold. It’s worth noting, however, that the more affordable price comes with some compromises, with users complaining about possible clarity issues with the mirrors’ glass, as well as vibration issues on certain fitments. In addition, some of the mirrors that have blinker and puddle lights may require a reflash from the dealership, depending on the vehicle.

Make sure to do proper research to see if any users ran into a certain issue before purchasing one of ECCPP’s mirrors. Most buyers are satisfied with their purchase, but some vehicle applications appear to have issues.

Some of the vehicles ECCPP offers mirrors for include Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, GMC Sierra, GMC Yukon, and more.

SCITOO’s lineup of mirrors is similar to ECCPP’s offerings, with a wide range of applications and mirror types. Pricing is more affordable than some of the competitors in the market, making it an attractive option if you’re shopping on a budget. Some users on certain applications do complain about vibration and mirror distortion issues, while others say fitment is poor for their specific vehicle. Again, take a look at user reviews before making a purchase to ensure your specific vehicle doesn’t have any issues with the replacement mirrors.

Many of the mirrors SCITOO offers are power and heated with signal lights. There are more affordable manual extending options as well for certain trucks, like the Toyota Tundra.

Some of the vehicles SCITOO’s towing mirrors cover include Chevrolet Blazer, Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, Ford Ranger, GMC Jimmy, GMC Sierra, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota Tundra, and more.

A smaller company with less offerings, APS mirrors are ideal if you’re looking for an affordable option, so long as they have a product for your vehicle. Some of its mirrors are heated and telescoping, while others are power adjustable with LED turn signals. This company has some of the cheapest offerings available on Amazon, but these aren’t perfect products. Some users complain about limited adjustability on the power mirrors, while others mention vibration and distortion issues.

If you do limited towing and want to purchase a set of replacement mirrors without having to spend a lot of money, APS’s products may be sufficient for your needs. Again, check user reviews for your specific application before adding them to your cart and checking out.

Some of the applications from APS include Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, and GMC Sierra.

More premium offerings are available from Trail Ridge, which offers mostly power and heated mirrors for various makes and models. Some applications do offer integrated turn signals, as well as manual mirrors. Trail Ridge’s mirrors aren’t cheap, but they are some of the highest-rated offerings on Amazon with little complaints about mirror distortion or vibration issues. They also come with a lifetime warranty, which isn’t very common in the segment.

Applications from Trail Ridge include Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford Expedition, Ford F-Series, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, Toyota Tacoma, and Toyota Tundra.

Another company that offers single mirrors is AUTOANDART. The lineup of affordable products include telescopic, power, manual, heated, and turn signal-equipped options with fitments for various makes and models. These mirrors are designed to match your vehicle’s original mirror and come with a one-year warranty.

Unfortunately some of the company’s products aren’t vehicle specific for year, make, and model, so make sure to contact the vendor before making a purchase. The mirrors are instead listed as fitting a broad application, such as Dodge pickup truck. They do however, specify the part number for the mirrors you’re replacing, so if you can get that information you can choose the right mirror for your specific vehicle.

Some users do complain about vibration issues with the glass, but that may be a result of the product not being an exact fit.

Spec-D Tuning’s lineup of mirrors are very affordable, with manual and power folding options available, along with heated and integrated signal lights. These mirrors offer great performance for the price, although some users do note there is some minor vibration on certain applications. Similar to APS, you can take a closer look at Spec-D Tuning’s mirrors if you only tow from time to time and want a cheaper set of towing mirrors.

Available applications include Chevrolet C10, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, Ford F-Series, GMC Sierra, Nissan NV Cargo, Toyota Tacoma, and Toyota Tundra.

Towing mirrors are designed to give you a better view of what’s behind your vehicle if you have a trailer or another accessory hitched. Typically, towing mirrors extend further outward than a standard side mirror, increasing your rearward vision to help provide a safer towing experience. There are several types of towing mirrors available in today’s market, from manual mirrors to power mirrors, as well as telescopic mirrors that you can manually extend when you’re towing. You can also look at universal clip-on mirrors, which are normally inexpensive and work with every vehicle.

As we mentioned before, factory side mirrors on your vehicles likely have blind spots, making it difficult to see what’s behind and to the side of your vehicle. Those blind spots are further accentuated when you’re towing a trailer, so a set of towing mirrors are a necessity. More importantly, however, most states have laws that require certain visibility or the use of towing or trailer mirrors when you’re attaching something to your vehicle.

These mirrors not only make it safer for you and the cargo you have on your trailer, but also the drivers sharing the road around you. In other words, towing mirrors aren’t necessarily optional depending on the state you live in. And if you want the safest towing experience possible, invest into a set of towing mirrors for your vehicle.

Before you start shopping for towing mirrors, you will want to see what your specific state’s laws require. A good resource for this is available at AAA’s website , which lists what’s mandated by state. Most states in the U.S. will require visibility of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle, regardless of how big your trailer is.

You do, however, want to take into consideration the size of your trailer when shopping for towing mirrors. What you’re planning to hitch and how large it is will help determine the type of towing mirror you need to purchase.

You will also want to determine how often you will be towing a trailer or similar accessory with your vehicle. If you’re only planning to tow periodically, you may not want to replace your entire mirror assembly. Instead, look for a more temporary solution like universal clip-on mirrors.

There are a few options when shopping for towing mirrors: manual, power, telescopic (extendable), and universal clip-on mirrors.

Like their name suggests, manual towing mirrors do not offer any sort of power adjustment and are simple OE replacements. You unbolt your factory side mirror and install the new towing mirror in its place. These mirrors require manual adjustment and are typically more affordable than power mirrors.

Power mirrors add the ability to use your power mirror switch to adjust the mirror. These mirrors will be a bit more expensive than manual mirrors and will be trickier to install since you will have to route either some wires or a plug back to your factory switch.

Telescopic or extendable mirrors are a popular choice among vehicle owners, since it allows them to adjust the mirrors when necessary. These mirrors can extend to offer a better view when you’re towing, or go back to a standard position when you have nothing hitched. Telescopic mirrors are also available in manual or power forms, which means you can either extend them on your own, or simply push a button for a better view.

Lastly, universal clip-on mirrors are the ideal option if you’re only towing every now and then. These are a relatively inexpensive option and can be added to your vehicle’s factory side mirrors with little effort. Just keep in mind they don’t look the greatest when it comes to blending in with the styling of your vehicle, and they may vibrate excessively depending on how well they clip on.

Other features you may see when shopping for towing mirrors are units that are heated or have incorporated turn signals. These options are entirely up to you on whether you need those added benefits.

If you’re purchasing replacement mirrors made specifically for your vehicle, it’s a good idea to make sure they feature some sort of reinforcement bracket to minimize vibration.

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works .

Photo credit: Cass Tippit / Shutterstock.com

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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Do We Need Towing Mirrors?

Do we need towing mirrors to tow an RV or our travel trailer?  Depending on the vehicle, towing mirrors may be a necessity, they certainly are on our little Toyota 4 Runner!  Without them there’s no visibility around our 20’9″ Lance 1685 travel trailer.  Our dealer recommended them and we bought them on the spot … one less decision since we knew nothing about towing a travel trailer when we bought our 2014 Lance 1685.

Here are the mirrors our dealer recommended, available at Amazon.

“Design mounts on all existing mirrors. Easy grip clamp attachment, no tools required.  Balanced design stops vibration. Wide view including top to bottom of your towed unit.  Stainless steel screws with brass inserts. Innovative patented design.  Spare parts available.  Works with curved mirrors. Comes with Storage Bag”

• We don’t notice them and don’t think about them. They stay on and keep on doing their job.
• A frequent complaint is vibration at “high speeds”, we’ve had no vibration, but remember that we tow between 55-60 mph due to the size of our tow vehicle
• They’re sturdy enough to have survived over 11,000 miles to date.
• They’re universal and fit our Toyota 4 Runner perfectly.
• We can remove them and store them inside when not in use or just when we don’t want to leave them out.

Cottonwood Canyon Road – our towing mirrors can stay in place even when we’re exploring!

• At somewhere around $100/pair, they may not be the least expensive towing mirror addition on the market, but we think we got what we paid for … value for a well made product.

The Mississippi River Bridge in our towing mirrors.

Since we have no experience other than these mirrors, are there other towing mirrors you like?  Please leave a comment and share!  Cheers!  Jan

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Do I Need Tow Mirrors For A Travel Trailer

There are lots of extras, such as brake controllers, that you'll need to purchase to make sure you're towing your trailer legally and safely. Another required purchase is towing mirrors, which we're covering today.

With the added length of your tow truck, your existing mirrors won't offer adequate coverage, creating large blind spots. There are laws in place that make tow mirrors a necessity when you're towing a trailer because the trailer obscures what your existing side mirrors are able to see, while towing mirrors show you the entire length of your carriage.

Today we're going to cover the different kinds of towing mirrors that are on the market so you can decide which is best for you, as well as suggest a few of our favorite options.

What is a Towing Mirror?

Towing mirrors are purpose-built extendable mirrors that provide a greater range of vision from your cab. Some trucks or SUVs designed for towing come with built-in towing mirrors designed for this task, but in most cases, you'll need to upgrade your factory mirrors.

Towing mirrors come in a variety of formats allowing you the freedom to pick the one which best suits your needs.

The size of the towing mirror you're legally required to have will vary depending on the trailer you're towing. Some smaller trailers need a smaller towing mirror, while larger trailers will require a larger, full-body mirror.

Exact laws can vary from state to state, but your mirror needs to show you the full length of your load as well as the traffic behind it. Driving with no clear vision behind you can be extremely dangerous.

Is it Illegal to Tow Without Using Towing Mirrors?

We've briefly covered that laws can vary, but there are places where they tend to line up. All necessitate the use of towing mirrors, but the degree of vision they require offers a slight variation.

Generally, state laws say that your rear-view mirrors need to be able to see up to 200-300ft behind your trailer.

Typically trucks come installed with mirrors that offer this amount of towing vision, and some SUVs and large RVs also come fitted with adequate mirrors, but the longer your trailer gets, the more attention you should pay to how it impacts your visibility to ensure you're following the law of the state you're in or traveling to.

Another important thing to consider is that any incident that may occur while you're using insufficient towing mirrors will also invalidate any insurance you've got.

Types Of Towing Mirrors

So, you know you require towing mirrors, but _which _towing mirrors should you choose?

There's a variety of towing mirror options that break down into two main categories, with a few more sub-categories within those. The two main distinctions are portable and permanent mirrors.

The difference between these two is fairly self-explanatory but let's break down the differences between them.

Portable Mirrors

Portable mirrors are incredibly easy to install and are a great option for someone who isn't going to be towing a trailer all the time, as you can take them off when you don't need them.

Portable towing mirrors are easy to install and remove and come in three main forms.

Convex mirrors

These are universal fit mirrors that use adhesive to fix to the offside of your primary mirrors, extending your vision further.

Custom slip-ons

These mirrors are designed for specific models and makes, so you'll need to make sure you purchase the correct ones for your vehicle. They slide onto your current mirror and click into place.

Universal fits

Universal fit towing mirrors clip onto your existing mirrors or are mounted directly on your window and will fit any wing mirror. They can cause wear and tear if improperly fitted.

Permanent Mirrors

Permanent mirrors have a more involved installation process and are typically more expensive as they replace your current wing mirrors.

These trailer towing mirrors are the best choice for someone who is a regular RVer or who has a towing job. They also come in three main formats.

Telescopic mirrors

Sometimes known as telescoping or extendable mirrors, these are similar to standard mirrors but are generally larger and have a mounting bracket that extends to provide a greater range of vision.

Manual telescopic trailer tow mirrors need to be extended by hand, but there are powered options that can be adjusted via the touch of a button.

Powered options require being wired into the electrics of your car and often come with other features like turn signals and puddle lights. The wiring process is generally uncomplicated but, of course, much more involved than attaching portable mirrors.

LED mirrors

LED towing mirrors come with wiring as standard, so they will often telescope electronically as well as include light signals for braking and turning, providing you and other drivers a greater degree of safety.

Heated mirrors

If you really like your toys, you can get a heated towing mirror, which will come with all the light features of previous permanent mirrors but with an inbuilt heater to melt frost and snow build-up if you're driving in or to colder locations.

Folding Mirrors

These deserve an honorable mention as they come in both permanent and temporary forms and can provide greater maneuverability, especially if you're driving a larger vehicle.

They can come with all the features of a high-end permanent trailer mirror, such as heating or LED features, or as cheaper, basic temporary fixtures, but the option for folding them forwards or backward can make parking and navigating tighter spots easier than fixed position tow mirrors.

How Do I Decide Which Towing Mirror Is Best For Me?

Towing mirrors aren't a one size fits all solution, and there's plenty you need to consider when you're selecting one to fit your needs.

The key consideration is the size of your trailer. Whether you want permanent or temporary tow mirrors doesn't matter if they don't provide adequate vision around your trailer. Measure the trailer first and make sure that any mirrors you add to your shortlist let you see the entire length of your trailer. The bigger and longer your trailer is, the larger your mirror will need to be and the longer the mount.

The rule of thumb is that 1 inch of mirror generally equates to 10ft of visibility; by this logic, a combined vehicle and trailer length of 30ft will require a three-inch mirror.

You also need to take into account how often you plan on towing your trailer. If you're only going away seasonally, taking the time to remove your standard mirror to fit a tow mirror isn't necessary, though if you don't mind having larger mirrors or would even prefer the aesthetic of them as many truck and SUV drivers do, then you can, it's all a matter of personal preference.

Towing Mirror Options

Now we're going to take a look at some of the best examples of towing mirrors we've covered.

__Dometic DM-2912 Milenco Grand Aero3 Towing Mirror

These are a universal design option with a handy, straightforward clamping that accommodates all rearview mirrors. The mirror can be adjusted with a full 360 degrees allowing for a spectrum of vision, and it comes in one piece, so there's no need to fuss with assembling it, as you can attach them out of the box.

An issue with many tow mirrors is that their larger size and distance from your car can create drag and lead to them vibrating annoyingly when driving at higher speeds. The Dometic mirror has been calibrated to function effectively at high speeds and in high winds, also reducing the drag caused by larger passing vehicles.

__AERDM Telescoping Towing Mirrors

The reinforced plastic on these sturdy mirrors reduces drag and prevents vibration while driving while giving your truck a powerful, robust look.

They can telescope up to 3.75 inches out from the already generous extension they offer on your existing mirrors and also include a convex spotter glass in the bottom left corner for greater visibility.

They are, however, specifically designed for specific trucks, so be sure to check your vehicle is one that caters to this model.

__ECCPP Towing Mirrors

ECCPP provide excellent electric rearview mirror upgrades to your existing mirrors with quick, easy installation, so swapping them in is a simple process.

They come with all the trimmings we mentioned of high-end electric rearview mirrors, such as LED signal features for your brake lights and for when you're indicating an upcoming turn to fellow drivers. They also have a built-in width light that shows other cars the increased size of your vehicle, keeping you both safe.

They are power-adjustable, too, so there's no need to wind the window down to fuss with finding the best position. Heaters behind the mirrors remove rain and mist, making them safe during driving in poor weather conditions.

They are much more expensive than temporary options but considering they are a much more comprehensive, permanent solution; it's a small price to pay.

How do I know if a tow mirror will fit my vehicle?

Almost every variety of clip-on or adhesive towing mirror will be a universal solution that will clip onto any rearview mirrors, though there are some exceptions they will always state if they don't work effectively on smoother wing mirrors.

Custom slip-on mirrors will be designed for specific models ranging between various years and will always state clearly which models they are suited to so you can make the right choice. The wiring of electronic options will also always be model specific with clear information on which model and year of vehicle they are suited to.

How far behind my trailer should I be able to see with towing mirrors?

A decent towing mirror should enable you to see a minimum of 200ft behind your trailer. As trailers tend to be higher than most cars on the road, you'll need to ensure that they are an adequate height as well as width.

Begin by setting your towing mirrors perpendicular to your vehicle and gradually adjusting them inwards as this affords you a greater distance. Do this on the left side and then move to the passenger side and repeat the process to ensure you're getting rid of any blind spots. This also allows you to comfortably check the safety of kids and passengers in the back.

Are snap-on towing mirrors reliable?

Don't be put off by the cheaper pricing on temporary snap-on towing mirror fixtures. Lots of this variety receive glowing reviews from users who only require temporary solutions for when they're towing.

If you're not technically minded and don't want to fuss with removing your current mirrors and rewiring a new set, clip-on mirrors are a great alternative. Then when you're not using them, you can remove them and keep them clean until the next time you need them.

After reading this article, you should understand a little more that there is plenty to consider when you're deciding what towing mirrors are right for your needs and vehicle. The market is deep, and the variety can be intimidating.

If anything, though, the takeaway from this should be that regardless of your specific needs, there will be an exact sort of tow mirror out there to suit your needs, whether you want a basic temporary option or a deluxe permanent fixture to beef up the appearance of your truck.

It's also important to ensure that whichever option you settle on that it abides by the laws in your state or the state you're taking a trip to. If you've got a big trailer, you need to make sure that rearview mirrors provide adequate vision not just to the end of it but the required amount of distance beyond.

Whichever towing mirrors you settle on, you can look forward to enjoying a more comfortable and relaxing safe experience the next time you rig up your trailer and get on the road!

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