Toy haulers are the latest innovation in recreational vehicle technology. Thousands can be saved by purchasing them in the fall when new model years are introduced. But where can you use them in the winter?

First of all a definition is in order for the term toy hauler. They’re traditional travel trailers with a cargo bay and cargo doors in the back. This is a very versatile cargo area which is sold in rather bare condition and can be tailored to numerous purposes.

For the traditional snow bird a long toy hauler can almost be like a house with an attached garage. The truck that hauls it may not fit inside but all of the things normally squeezing the car out of the garage will fit in.

So that’s the first place to take the toy hauler in winter: a warm climate! Arizona has nine Kampground of America (KOA) locations and all but one is open year around. But for a lot of snow birds, Florida is the winter destination. Come spring pull up stakes and move back north in order to avoid the extreme tropical heat.

When looking for a winter destination remember that the toy hauler is itself being hauled. Much of the nation’s more scenic destinations are not navigable with a trailer in tow. Some of the mountain roads of Northern California, Tennessee, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina are never suitable for travel trailers. Many roads in Colorado are closed completely in winter. Winter driving can be treacherous even in flat country. Keep a close eye on traffic and weather anywhere.

But toy haulers have a special attraction for those with a lot of athletic gear or animals to take along when traveling. Showing dogs? Plenty of area for cages, grooming tables or using for training during down time. Some of them are Keystone toy hauler, Fleetwood toy hauler, Dutchmen toy hauler.