Once you've decided between electric and manual RV steps, one question remains: how many steps do you actually need? It's not a matter of taste — it comes down to one measurement, and getting it wrong means either an awkward first stride or money spent on a step you didn't need.
The measurement that decides it
Park your RV at normal ride height on level ground and measure from the entry-door threshold straight down to the ground. Then think in comfortable stair strides: most people step down about 8–10 inches at a time without thinking about it.
- Threshold around 16–20 inches: a single step splits the climb into two easy strides. This is typical for camper vans and lower travel trailers.
- Threshold around 20–30 inches: you need two steps. One step would leave a knee-jarring drop at the top or bottom.
- Over 30 inches: look at three-step units or a porch-style platform — common on tall fifth wheels.
When in doubt, err toward more steps: an extra-short stride is comfortable, an extra-long one is how ankles get rolled at 6 a.m.
Why choose a single step
- Lower cost — our manual single step starts at $99.99, and the electric version with auto door sensor and LED lighting is $159.99
- Less weight and bulk — a single unit weighs roughly 13–18 lbs and needs less clearance under the door
- Simpler mechanism — fewer moving joints means less to wear, loosen, or lubricate
Why choose two steps
- Comfortable stride on taller doors — the whole point; two 8–10 inch strides beat one 20-inch drop
- Higher capacity designs — our 2-step units are rated to 440 lbs, enough for two adults on the stairs at once (manual, $143.90 or electric, $273.90)
- Easier for kids, pets, and older knees — shorter strides are safer in the dark and in wet weather
Quick decision guide
- Camper van or low trailer, budget-first: manual 1-step
- Camper van, hands-free convenience: electric 1-step — it deploys automatically when the door opens and lights the ground with built-in LEDs
- Standard travel trailer, simple and solid: manual 2-step
- Standard trailer or motorhome, full convenience: electric 2-step
Whichever count you land on, check the specs that matter — load rating, tread material, and frame construction — covered in our entry step buyer's guide, or browse the full steps collection. Every unit ships free.