Water Trailer for RVs - Simple Water Refill for Boondocking Trips

The Importance of Water When Boondocking in an RV

Having access to fresh water is critical when boondocking or dry camping in an RV. Since you aren't hooked up to external water sources, being able to store and access water efficiently is key to an enjoyable off-grid experience.

Using an Onboard Fresh Water Tank

Most RVs have a fresh water tank that can hold anywhere from 30 to 100+ gallons of water. This reservoir allows you to bring water with you and provides the pressure needed for using sinks, showers and toilets when camping without hookups. Filling the tank before leaving is easy if you're at a campground, but trickier when already off-grid.

Why Carry Water in a Trailer

Hauling water in a separate trailer tank offers a few advantages over relying solely on your RV's tank:

• Increases total storage capacity for longer dry camps
• Allows for easy refilling from potable sources
• Provides backup water if RV tank runs empty

Trailer tanks typically range from 100 to 400+ gallons. That extra water gives you the freedom to adventure further off the beaten path!

Selecting a Water Trailer for Boondocking

Specialized water trailers designed for RV use make transporting and accessing water simple. Look for these features when selecting a trailer:

Tank Size

Choose a tank size adequate for your typical trip length and number of people. Bigger is better for maximizing time off-grid.

Pump System

An integrated 12V pumping system allows you to easily transfer water between the trailer tank, RV tank, and other containers.

Hose Compatibility

Standard garden hoses connect to the pump system for filling tanks and buckets. Some trailers also include direct hookups for RVs.

Tough & Durable Build

Since the trailer will be hauled over rough terrain, a heavy-duty single axle and thick polyethylene tank provide durability.

Filling the Water Trailer Tank

The main benefit of having a water trailer is being able to quickly replenish your water supply from lakes, streams, wells and drinking water fill stations.

Fresh Water Sources

When boondocking out in nature, look for clear moving streams or bodies of fresh water for filling up. Always filter and purify water from outdoor sources before drinking or using in RVs.

Potable Water Stations

Many campgrounds without hookups, airports, marinas and gas stations have taps for accessing local potable water. When you come across one, take advantage by topping up your trailer tank at just 25 cents-or less-per gallon.

Safety First

Use secondary filtration and disinfection treatments before transferring outside water into RV fresh water tanks, especially if anyone in your group is immunocompromised. Better safe than sorry out in the boonies!

Boondocking with an auxiliary water trailer lets RVers stay out enjoying nature longer while making refilling fresh water tanks simple, whether from mountain streams or drinking water stations. Investing in extra onboard water capacity reduces the need to move camp just for water runs.

Follow basic safety precautions when pumping from non-potable sources to keep your refillable water trailer operating safely all season long. With the ability to resupply hundreds of gallons in just minutes, you'll return from every off-grid adventure refreshed, renewed and ready for more!

FAQs

How many gallons of water can a water trailer hold?

Water trailer tanks typically range in size from 100 to 400+ gallons. The larger the capacity, the longer you can boondock between refills.

What are the benefits of a water trailer?

Water trailers increase total fresh water capacity, make refilling simple from almost any water source, and provide backup water if your RV's tank runs out.

Where can I fill up my water trailer tank?

Fill from outdoor fresh water sources like lakes and streams after filtration. Many campgrounds without hookups, airports, marinas also have potable water stations open to RVers.

Is it safe to pump non-potable water?

Use secondary water filtration and purification treatments if transferring raw outdoor water. Check that all water equipment is food-grade and sanitized before each trip.