TOWING PACKAGE vs TRAILER PACKAGE

[G Giroux]

When buying a new tow vehicle be mindful of the diffence between
"Towing Package vs. Trailer Package".
Some sales/dealers do not know.

Excerpts taken from vehicleanswers.com by Zack Reed, great read especially for the novice RV'er.

TOWING PACKAGE
Some of the vehicle upgrades may include:
upgraded engine
improved cooling and electrical systems
rear-end gear
improved shocks and brakes
a sturdier frame
an upgraded alternator
improved circuitry

TRAILER PACKAGE
When thinking of a Trailer Package, it is best to think of this in terms of what you will be towing with this package. As the name suggests, this is specifically designed for those who want to tow a trailer.
These packages are often small and include things like a trailer hitch and a wiring package for the taillights. This simple package can be bought aftermarket, but the trailer hitch and wiring that comes with the truck when you first buy it will take away the guesswork for you.
This package is often made for towing only a trailer and doesn’t account for other items like boats, other vehicles, or heavy-duty loads. This is typically thought of as a low-tow package for recreational use like family camping trips.


Final Thoughts
When you are buying a truck or SUV, adding on a towing or trailer package can be a big decision that you should take seriously. Adding extra money onto your car loan, or raising your payments to cover the cost of the package can be a lot for some people to deal with.

So, knowing the difference between a Towing Package and Trailer Package can allow you to choose which option is the right choice for your vehicle and the towing that you will be doing with the upgrades.

If you don’t need anything but a basic setup, then a trailer package is likely the best choice for you. And, if you need a higher towing capability that enables you to haul a heavier load more often, then opting for the bigger Towing Package will be the better option for your needs.

Just remember to find out everything that the Towing Package comes with so you know if the total cost is worth it.

[sourdough]

Good info as some will confuse the two or think they are the same. The other big thing is for the prospective buyer to know what kinds of weights they are planning on carrying/pulling. A tow/trailer package does not make a truck trailer ready.

[NH_Bulldog]

Not to muddy the waters, but the verbiage is also manufacturer dependent.

For example; GM has a towing package and a trailering package like you stated, but Ford and Ram does not separate the two and calls theirs a trailer towing package. Ford does have a camper package which is meant for a slide-in over the cab truck camper).

Regardless, all this is meant to illustrate is the importance of doing your homework while vehicle shopping. Buyer beware!