A level trailer sleeps better, drains its sinks and shower properly, and keeps doors and drawers from swinging open. For trailers with an absorption refrigerator, the fridge also needs to be close to level to cool well. This guide walks through a simple routine that works for most single- and tandem-axle travel trailers.
What you need
- Levelers for side-to-side. Curved levelers such as the Beech Lane Camper Leveler 2-Pack let you stop at the exact height you need, with no stacking of blocks. The pack includes 2 levelers, 2 chocks, 2 grip mats and a carry bag.
- A level reading. Bubble levels on the trailer frame work. A wireless RV leveling system is easier: a small sensor mounts inside the RV and a free phone app shows how much to raise each side, so you can watch it from the tow vehicle.
- Wheel chocks and your trailer's tongue jack.
Step 1: Pick and check the site
Choose the flattest spot you can and clear rocks and sticks where the tires will sit. Back in and stop with the trailer roughly where you want it, still hitched.
Step 2: Read side to side
Check your level reading (or the phone app) for left-to-right tilt. Note which side is low and by roughly how much.
Step 3: Level side to side with the curved levelers
- Put a grip mat down in front of the low-side tire, then set the curved leveler on it, snug against the tread. On a tandem axle, place it under one tire of the low side.
- Have a helper (or the app) watch the reading while you drive slowly forward onto the curve.
- Stop when the trailer reads level side to side.
- Push the chock in behind the tire, into the leveler's curve, so the wheel can't roll back off.
This is the main advantage of a curved leveler over stacking blocks: you don't have to guess the height before you pull on, and you don't have to back off and restack if you guessed wrong.
Step 4: Chock the other side and unhitch
Chock the wheels on the high side too, front and back. Only then lower the tongue jack to take the weight off the hitch, and unhitch.
Step 5: Level front to back
Use the tongue jack to raise or lower the front until the trailer reads level front to back. Most people set it level, or just slightly nose-down so tanks and shower drains flow toward their outlets.
Step 6: Set the stabilizers
Lower the corner stabilizer jacks until they're firm. They stop the trailer from rocking, but they're not built to lift it, so don't use them to level.
Packing up
Raise the stabilizers, hitch up, then remove the high-side chocks. Pull forward slowly off the leveler and stow the levelers, chocks and mats in the bag.
Common questions
How level does a travel trailer need to be?
For comfort, as close as you can get. For an absorption fridge, check your refrigerator manual for its tolerance. If the fridge struggles in hot weather even when you're level, see our guide to RV fridge airflow fixes.
Curved levelers or stacking blocks?
Blocks are cheaper and very flexible. Curved levelers are faster and more precise for side-to-side leveling. Our curved leveler vs Lynx blocks comparison covers the trade-offs.
Can I use the wireless level with any trailer?
The sensor mounts inside the RV with the included hardware and runs on 2 AA batteries (included). It has no on/off switch. It's designed and made in the USA.
Shop the Beech Lane Camper Leveler 2-Pack, the Wireless RV Leveling System, or browse towing, hitches and leveling.