Do Camping Trailers Need to Be Inspected? (Read This First)

Do you want to go camping with your family with the new trailer you bought from the manufacturer or the trailer’s previous owner?

If so, there’s a need to know if you should get your trailer inspected or not. 

On the one hand, it’s new, so do you need to spend extra getting it inspected or use it since it has gone through inspection? 

Likewise, if it’s a used trailer, you should probably have an inspection to avoid issues.

Irrespective of whether your camping trailer is new or used, you should get it inspected to get the assurance that everything is okay. Also, things missed during the initial inspection will be sighted, then you can know what to fix before camping. That will save you stress and money, or for you to get a camping trailer that will stop working.

In this article, I will explain whether you need to get your camping trailer inspected or if you have an exemption from doing it. I’ll also explain how often and when you should do it.

By the end, you’ll know all about inspecting your camping trailer. If you must do it, how frequently you should, the cost implication, among other things.

Are Camping Trailers Exempted from Inspection?

The answer depends on your region or country. For instance, in the United States, vehicle regulations vary by state. 

As their law varies, you might get an exemption for your trailer inspection in one state, not another. Also, the weight of the trailer matter when determining if it will require inspection.

So it is important to check the specific regulations in your state to determine if your camping trailer falls under the exemption. 

Larger camping trailers are more likely to require inspection than smaller ones.

Even if your camping trailer is exempt from inspection, it is still a good idea to conduct regular checks to ensure it is in good working condition. You can hire a qualified inspector for this.

The inspection includes inspecting the trailer’s tires, brakes, lights, and overall structural integrity. 

By doing these checks, you can ensure the safety and reliability of your camping trailer for your outdoor adventures.

If your state vehicle regulation does not exempt your camping trailer from inspection, it is crucial to schedule regular inspections as your state requires. 

That will help identify potential issues or safety hazards before hitting the road. 

Inspectors will look for things like the proper functioning of lights, brake functionality, tire condition, and any signs of structural damage. 

If you’re buying a new camping trailer, and the manufacturer and dealership have inspected it, it’s best you still do another one. 

The dealer might have missed some things, so you should check before using your camping trailer.

For a used camping trailer, you also need an inspection to catch the issues before purchasing or to fix the issues.

The table below shows the pros and cons of inspecting your camping trailers:

Pros	Cons
It increases resale value.	It is an extra cost.
You are aware of the safety risks by doing an inspection.	You know of parts requiring repairs because of inspection and spending more to fix.
It makes your vehicle legal compliance.	Inspection may sometimes be inconvenient, as you have to disrupt your plans.
You know what needs fixing and can do it before the issue becomes more.	You might not want to repair some parts the inspector wants you to.

It is important to address any issues during the inspection to ensure your camping trailer meets safety standards.

Do Small Camping Trailers Need to Be Inspected?

Exemption of small camping trailers depends on the state you live in and its regulations. While larger camping trailers are more likely to require inspection, smaller ones may get an exemption. 

You need to check your state regulations to know if your camping trailer falls in that category and gets an exemption.

However, even if your small camping trailer is exempt from inspection, it’s good to conduct regular checks to ensure it is in good working condition.

That way, you can get an inspection to know the state of the tires, brakes, vents, lights, and overall structural integrity of the camping trailer.

Doing so will help you identify potential issues or safety hazards before hitting the road. So, take the time to inspect your small camping trailer, even if your state does not require it. 

By doing so, you can have peace of mind knowing that your trailer is safe and reliable for your camping trips. 

Remember, catching problems early on is better than encountering them while you’re on the road.

In addition, remember that even if your state does not require inspection for small camping trailers, other states may have different regulations. 

It’s always best to be prepared and inspect your trailer before embarking on a long-distance journey. 

That can help prevent potential issues or fines for non-compliance with state regulations. 

Remember that safety should always be a top priority for camping trailers, regardless of their size. 

Regular inspections and maintenance can ensure your camping trailer is always in top condition and ready for your next adventure.

How Frequently Are Camping Trailers Required to Be Inspected?

The frequency of inspections for camping trailers can vary depending on the state you live in.

Some states, like Texas, or countries like the UK, require annual inspections, while others may have different intervals, such as biennial or every three years. 

Your camping trailer size can also influence the state regulation and inspection rules.

Familiarizing yourself with the specific regulations in your state is important to ensure you comply with the requirements.

Regular inspections are necessary to meet legal standards and help identify potential issues or safety hazards before they escalate. 

By scheduling inspections as required by your state, you can catch any problems early on and address them promptly. 

That will ensure your camping trailer meets the necessary safety standards, help prolong its lifespan, and enhance your overall outdoor experience.

Remember, the frequency of inspections may vary, so check with the Department of Motor Vehicles to determine the specific requirements for your camping trailer.

For instance, in the United States, some states require annual inspections, some biennially, so knowing the regulations is important.

By staying on top of inspections, you can enjoy your camping adventures with peace of mind, knowing that your trailer is in top-notch condition.

What Do Inspectors Look Out for in a Camping Trailer?

When inspecting a camping trailer, there are several key areas that inspectors will look out for to ensure its safety and reliability. 

Here are a few things that inspectors look out for in a camping trailer:

#1. Structural Integrity

One of the main things inspectors will focus on is the overall structural integrity of the trailer.

They will check for any signs of damage or wear and tear that could compromise the trailer’s stability and safety on the road.

#2. Tires

Inspectors will also pay close attention to the tires of the camping trailer. They will check for proper inflation, tread depth, and damage or dry rot signs. 

Ensuring that the tires are in good condition is essential for safe towing and preventing blowouts while on the road.

#3. Brake

In addition to the tires, inspectors will inspect the trailer’s braking system. 

That includes checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure they function properly. Adequate braking is crucial for maintaining control of the trailer and preventing accidents.

#4. Lights

Inspectors will also examine the trailer’s lights, brake lights, turn signals, and headlights. 

All lights must be in working order to ensure visibility and alert other drivers on the road to your intentions.

#5. Safety Hazards

Finally, inspectors will look for safety hazards or potential issues inside the camping trailer. 

These may include checking the propane system, electrical connections, and plumbing to ensure everything functions properly and does not pose a risk to occupants.

Inspectors will thoroughly examine the camping trailer to ensure it meets safety standards. 

It is important to address any issues or repairs identified during the inspection to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

You should note that some states may have additional requirements or regulations for camping trailer inspections. 

For example, some states may require inspections to include a weight certification, while others may require inspections to be completed by a certified inspector.

So, research your state’s requirements to ensure your camping trailer complies and avoid potential legal issues.

By ensuring your camping trailer’s regular inspection and maintenance, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. 

Additionally, a well-maintained camping trailer can help extend its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of unexpected repairs or breakdowns while on a camping trip.

How Much Does It Cost to Inspect a Camping Trailer?

Inspecting your camping trailer can cost between $25 to $1000. That’s because the cost can vary depending on factors like the regulation, weight, type of camping trailer, etc. 

Also, the cost will depend on your state’s specific requirements and regulations. The cost will vary depending on the inspection level and depth. 

The cost may also depend on whether you choose to have the inspection done by a private mechanic or an authorized inspection station. 

Authorized inspection stations may have set fees for their services, while private mechanics may charge their rates. They also charge different prices based on location and experience. 

Some states may have set fees for trailer inspections, while others may have a range of fees depending on the size and type of trailer. 

It’s important to research the specific requirements in your state and contact the appropriate authorities or inspection stations to get an accurate cost estimate.

What If My Camping Trailer Fails the State Inspection?

If your camping trailer doesn’t pass its inspection, inspectors will provide you with a detailed report outlining the problems you should address. You sw

Depending on the severity of the issues, you may need to make repairs or adjustments to your camping trailer.

That could involve fixing a broken brake light, replacing worn-out tires, or repairing structural damage. 

Promptly addressing these issues ensures your trailer meets the necessary safety standards. Sometimes, you may have to undergo a re-inspection after making the necessary repairs. 

That ensures you’ve resolved the issues and your camping trailer complies with the state’s safety regulations. 

Once your trailer passes the re-inspection, you can use it again for outdoor adventures. 

If you are unsure about how to fix the issues listed after failing the inspection, consult a certified inspector to help fix the issues.