Why you Need a Telescoping Ladder for Your RV
A telescoping ladder is a lightweight, portable, and compact ladder that can be stored easily. Telescoping ladders are perfect for RV owners since they are easy to install and don’t take up much space. Having a telescoping ladder will give you the necessary height you need to access the roof of your RV. It will also allow you to clean your RV without having to crawl on top of it or use a different type of device. Choosing the right telescoping ladder for your RV or camper can make a world of difference in how you and your family enjoy the outdoors.
The best way to find the right telescoping ladder is to know what type of camping or RVing you are doing. Different ladders are designed for different purposes.
Below are some things to keep in mind when looking for a telescoping ladder:
– It needs to fit within the camper or RV you have chosen – Some campers may not have room for a traditional size ladder, so be sure that you know this ahead of time
– What kind of camping are you doing? If it is mostly boating, then an aluminum ladder will be more appropriate than if it is mostly hiking, where a fiberglass ladder may use.
The Best Telescopic Ladder For Standard Height RVs and Campers
The best telescopic ladder for standard height RVs and campers is the Werner MT-22 Multi-Use Ladder. This ladder is designed to handle different types of heights. It can be used for an RV or camper that has a standard height. For the average camper, this will be about 13 feet high.
Best Telescoping Ladders For Super High RVs or Travel Trailers
Telescoping ladders are used for people to climb up to the tops of their RVs or trailers. These ladders are generally flexible and extendable, which means that they can be adjusted to meet the height of a person, no matter how tall they are.
The tallest telescopic ladder on the market is the ST122HD from OTC Tools. The ladder has a maximum height of 20 ft and can extend up to 17 ft when fully extended. According to OTC Tools, this telescoping ladder will stand up in any conditions and in any angle. The ST122HD also has a load capacity of 600 lbs and comes with an adjustable safety bar for added safety.
Why You Need to Consider the Height of Your RV Before Purchasing a Ladder
This article will discuss the height of your RV in feet and how to convert it to meters. One reason that you might want to convert the height of your RV into meters is that when you are at a place that sells ladders, they usually sell them in meters not feet. For example, an 8-foot ladder would be 2.44 meters tall, but it would be too short if you are more than 7 feet off of the ground.
An RV is a type of motor vehicle that has a living space on top and can be driven on roads. The term comes from “recreational vehicle”. It’s a type of motor home or bus with a roof and wheels that are used for recreation or vacations.
Types of Folding Ladders
In our extensive research, we discovered there are at least five different types of foldable ladders: extensible, telescoping, folding step ladder, folding wade pole, and combination. We break down the two main types below.
Extended
A standard extended ladder collapses similar to a stroller; this eliminates the need for both your hands or arms while using it as an extension (that is if you don’t want your safety compromised.) To extend the height of the extension simply tie a string around its top lip to lengthen it horizontally and then pull up on that string with one hand to move the ladder into an extended state.
Keep in mind while using your extension ladder, you still need to make sure there is enough clearance from a ground-level object (such as electricity cables) so that it will not hit anything during the operation.
Telescoping
The telescoping type of folding step/wade pole generally takes more effort to work out of its compact position but then also offers additional heights and flexibility for users looking for top-notch mobility. When you first use it, they may feel unsteady and “unbalanced” when stowed away in its shorter position, but after using them enough times the wobble will be reduced over time (compared to others) and users are able to gain more confidence placing their feet on the ladder’s bottom rungs for a secure footing while standing upright or bending down low by stretching out one hand.
The telescoping method generally works best for extended use but is a bit more expensive due to being made of aluminum instead of stainless steel (which is cheaper) and then ultimately needing regular oiling with lubricant. For example; the Fiskars extendable ladder, which costs $47 comes 6 feet in length – all wooden, wade pole style steps that can be thought to be 4 inches wide on each rung when closed. Their tops are curved so their reach is greater than their cold steel (or wooden) counterparts, but not as great as extended ladders like the Oben MT644 Pro Telescoping/Extension Ladder that comes with a 35-foot extension. These must be lubricated regularly to maintain safe operation and extend smoother in height over time because they come equipped with an internal gear system between each rung so it can only rise up or down not side-to-side.
Folding Step Ladder
These are made of aluminum instead of stainless steel so should probably be lubricated more but don’t stress over them being avoided.
The other popular folding ladder is the non-telescoping design. These are nearly identical in every way to a stationary telescoping ladder; they collapse during usage, and then can use their own mechanism/wheels to permanently extend once again as you stand them upright!
These ladders can be found at many of the same RV stores as the telescopes, but will often be significantly less expensive than some of those products. Because these come with no need for permanent storage or transportation features in mind, this allows for simple pricing on all models –something that’s well worth considering if you live in a transitory area where you may have to pack your ladder away and then pick it up again when you move.
Folding ladders are better than stationary ones as they will fold up flat in the cabin of your car so you can take them with you when needed but I have yet to hear from anyone who really likes this style of the ladder. In my experience, except for those old sayings like ‘The worst sight is standing on a moving rope’ or ‘A lifetime’s labor stands no taller than a day. You only get one shot at the ladder in an emergency situation and if it’s still at ground level, you’d better be quick as fat old blokes like me can climb with surprising alacrity.
Ladder Safety
The top section should always be removed from the ladder when not in use, so it cannot fall and injure someone. Non-structural ladders should also have the legs staked out of harm’s way if you don’t want them falling back down into your boat.
I’ve been told that there’s a kind of tension on an extended chain system which gives it greater capacity in the event of one or both sections dropping out. I don’t know if this is true, but thinking about it reminds you that a ten o’clock at night ladder (never mind the regular chains) could be pretty useful as leverage to get what’s been going on perhaps off your car roof when moving into a new home [in an emergency!].
What to Consider in a Foldable Ladder
Your vehicle’s storage space isn’t the only thing to consider when choosing a foldable ladder, as you need one that is easy to store too. That compact size will also be essential, which means it should be light and of high quality. You don’t want someone to lose their favorite ladder because they were carrying something too heavy for them!
How far are you willing to go? Do you need a folding ladder that extends over 5 feet or more? Make sure the “Commercial Grade” label on the front of your ladder proves it has been tested for travel over an extended distance. However, you’ll need to be prepared that most models only extend up to 5 feet at the moment.
How sturdy is your ladder? The load-bearing capacity will undoubtedly affect how heavy your foldable ladder can handle safely, but there are lightweight ones available should you want a more portable model although these might not offer as much support for those extra-heavy packages too often carried by consumers nowadays – indeed just look at many of the heavy-duty steps and portable ladders currently available. The material used will also affect how long the ladder itself lasts, but many of today’s models are made from a combination of aluminum and plastic, making them lighter in weight even though they might be more bent or creased from frequent use. Some newer models use less durable materials like titanium for their construction as well although these can last longer than some other heavier types too don’t get me wrong, this still doesn’t mean that lightweight models can’t take the weight of your heavier trips.
Whether you are looking for a slide-to-pull model or one that is built into your car there are so many different ladder options it’s hard to tell where exactly you should go within under the $100 range and into the next hundreds on up. With so few makers in such an incredibly small space market,
Weight
The weight of the ladder is important. When it’s on your RV, it should be light and strong enough to withstand pressure from above. You may also want a lightweight version to pack when you aren’t traveling!
Sturdiness Support or Footrests?
You can get some ladders with both support feet or ones that fold flat when not in use, allowing for an easy carry over long distances; however, they must support their own weight on each side of the ladder as well (even if they don’t have footrests). A sturdy model will hold a heavy load without sagging or drooping, promoting a safe practice when you need to work by hand.
Folded Size
The folded size is another important factor when it comes to purchasing a foldable ladder. You want something that will fit in your truck, but you don’t want something that takes up too much space either!
Price Point
If price is a big concern for you, even if you’re thinking of adding somewhere on the back of your trailer later on down the road, then keep these things in mind before making your purchase! Foldable ladders can be pretty expensive (especially some premium brand ones), so do some research and make sure it fits within your budget.
Height of Your Rig
If you are working with a smaller rig, this may not be a huge factor. However, if your rig is high enough to have storage that can only accommodate ladders of slightly lower heights, the folded ladder may end up too short! That leads us to our next point….
Lower Storage Levels
If you’re storing your RV outdoors, secured within some form of the storage unit, and unable to use low levels or compact vehicles for transporting it, then the weight is even more important when describing these foldable ladders. You will want something lightweight enough to function as needed while being able to provide you with enough feet to get it up and down.
Storage/Weight Ratio The most important aspect, when discussing how much a foldable ladder can be folded, is the ratio of folds compared with weight. Normally around 2-3 times less than capacity size! This comes into play especially if your RV needs to fit in some sort of smaller storage unit for easy transportation (and accessibility). With this low length that matches shorter heights on usual cheap foldable ladders, you may actually find yourself in a position where your width can fit within the storage space another manufacturer may declare. No matter how big or small it is, this too comes along with its own considerations. Size of Board Width & Weight Capacity.
This part obviously depends purely on exactly what you are working with! Whether these foldable ladders hold up to carry lights and other additional weight items, as well as boards larger than the ladder itself, will depend greatly on the strength of your material and design. Due to this being a general design style for cheap foldable ladders, there is not much quality or consideration paid into it here as needs vary by buyers.
Length & Board Size You told us what you need from your board ladder! Length, rough weight capacity, etc. However, all these features do come at costs and end up injuring some aspect (or several) with no real concern towards restoring the integrity of a ladder here and there. The cost/deniability conflicts start to really take place when your board ladder ends up weighing more than one story! (Or even worse, perhaps being too heavy for professional usage). While this may work well for simplicity’s sake, you could also face any issue with creaking boards which are much heavier as a result likely coming from a movement that escapes the actual folding process altogether.
Safety Features
When you purchase a foldable ladder, make sure that it has safety features that will keep your hands free while you are working! This can include ladders with grips, straps, and handles for convenience and comfort. It’s also important to consider how comfortable the ladder is when using it – some of them may be tricky if they don’t feel safe for your hands.
This unique collapsible design includes one flip-up hand grip. This helps users to more securely grasp and hold the ladder while they need it, so they don’t slip off or lose their footing.
Prevent Slipping And Slide Clamping Railings
Anti-slide railings help keep your feet planted on a surface at all times when using the board ladders – by doing this, you ensure better stability, safety, and protection. Not being able to plant both feet on the surface is a big hazard for many unwary users; especially when or if stairs have uneven floors.
Platforms/Handles for Convenient Use
Your board ladder should also come with hand grips or handles that make it convenient to sit down and stand up while using them – preventing slips during use may help keep your joints healthier too! Essentials For Your Board ~ Safety First.
The 5 Best Folding Ladders for Your RV
After all of that, here are the folding ladders I would recommend for your RV. They include an overall weight, folded size, and height on its top-level:
When looking at these charts, keep in mind they are meant to show you what the average adult male can lift. Maybe most people aren’t female or young men! So if you tend to be a bit heavier than average please note this. If there is only a certain height listed that fits you don’t settle for second best! Go online & try others as well! It’s not your fault but you may have to pay a bit extra but why not?
To be honest – if you’re looking for an RV with enough length & rungs to get around and even climb up on roofs, these certainly won’t work. If you need something really long (say 41 Ft), spring and aluminum are going to cost a fortune! That said, let’s look at the folding ladder alternatives available:
The metal 3-5 steps ladder is not ideal for an RV, as it requires a lot of room to store or carry and will cause damage in transit or at the campsite. Your best bet if space is limited, would be the aluminum two steps folding ladder:
Of all improvised tools, ladders are certainly among something that you should never leave home without having access to one – especially if your campsite has low clearance (hills – mountains … etc.). So, if you don’t have just ‘vertical freedom’ or the time to build a homemade alternative out of wood, consider this folding ladder which will enable easy access. This compact portable unit can be set up in minutes and folds away when not in use saving valuable storage space on your RV or camper trailer/hitch (up to 16ft long). Due to light pressure pads on each step it actually makes good use of the floor space-saving all unused spaces for other essential items. And, if one step folds out or collapses because of excessive load weight you can use a spare which designs to take up that extra toe room!
1. Ohuhu 12.5 FT Aluminum Telescoping Ladder
About this item:
Brand: Ohuhu
Color: Silver
Material: Aluminum
Item Weight: 11.5 Kilograms
Load Capacity: 330 Pounds
Main Features:
Retraction with a Single Button: The importance of convenience cannot be overstated. That’s why we built this ladder with a simple one-button retraction system. Simply depress the thumb buttons and the ladder (in its fully extended state) will glide down smoothly.
High-Quality Aluminum Alloy: The Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder is made of premium aluminum alloy. It’s light and simple to transport without compromising strength.
Rock-Solid Stability: With a weight capability of up to 330lbs, this ladder is built to last. The base is held firmly in place by non-slip end caps, and the extra-wide steps assure safe climbing. To provide you piece of mind, we’ve ensured that this ladder complies with EN131 and SGS European safety requirements.
Use with confidence: No more pinched fingers! The excellent quality design of the telescoping ladder guarantees that each segment expands and retracts safely. The ladder will retract gently and slowly, thanks to intelligent locking pins that keep the pieces in place and prevent slipping.
Extreme Versatility is a term used to describe a person’s ability to The homeowner’s best buddy is this telescopic ladder. The Ohuhu Telescope Extension Ladder is ideal for all of your specialized demands, with a maximum height of 12.5 ft (3.8m). Use it to assist with the painting of walls, the replacement of light bulbs, the cleaning of windows, and everything in between.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Collapses with ease and is simple to use
Cons:
- Bigger RVs may not be tall enough.
Small, simple to use, and low weight? Our finest telescoping ladder is the Ohuhu Telescoping Ladder, which can do it all while collapsing and storing with ease. This ladder weighs only 25 pounds and has a convenient carrying handle.
This ladder is made of superior aluminum alloy and is both durable and portable, with rungs that can handle up to 330 pounds. It’s the ideal tool for keeping your RV’s roof in good shape, but make sure it’s tall enough for your trailer since it stands at 12 and a half feet tall. Although this manufacturer may provide a larger ladder, this size ladder should fit a wide range of setups!
The Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder will get the job done whether you need a tiny boost or a lot of height. The high-quality extension mechanism allows you to swiftly and easily modify the height while locking pins keep it in place. Are you done for the day? The ladder will retract if you press the two thumb buttons together.
2. Comie 330lb 12.5ft Multi Purpose Aluminum Folding Step Ladder
About this item:
Brand: Comie
Material: Aluminum
Item Weight: 330 Pounds
Load Capacity: 330 Pounds
Maximum Height: 150 Inches
Main Features:
Heavy-duty aircraft-grade aluminum construction; square rungs and supporting tubes make this folding ladder robust and durable; EN131 standard; maximum weight capacity of 330 lbs.
Anti-slip Design – By using zigzag anti-slip foot straps, the ladder can be kept from sliding during usage to a certain amount; with the undulating ridges of the square rungs, the soles may be kept from slipping as much as possible.
Big Joints and Security Locks – Using large joints, which have three times the load capacity and durability of smaller joints; joined by six security locks, which can be opened and closed to quickly change the design of the ladder while ensuring its security.
Great Step Stool – Ideal for use in the attic, library, above-ground pool, bunk bed, apartment fire ladder escape, and trampoline. It may be used to get access to your roof or balcony, clean your windows, and paint and decorate your inside and exterior.
Multi-purpose – This aluminum ladder may be used as a scaffold, a leaning ladder, or a stepladder, and it can also be bent into a variety of forms to fit a variety of height requirements and working demands. It may be used in a variety of ways, such as a temporary bridge or during building. It may be used as a single ladder, a double-sided ladder, a trestle, a work platform, a stair ladder, a telescoping ladder, a twin stepladder, a stairway stepladder, or two scaffold bases, among other applications.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Anti-corrosion and anti-rust
- Uses that are multipurpose
Cons:
- It might not be tall enough when stored.
- Not tall enough
Check out this Comie foldable ladder if you’re less concerned with storage space and more concerned with an all-purpose ladder. It folds to around 40′′ X 15′′ X 11′′, which may be too big for some of you. This ladder, on the other hand, has a lot to offer for both RV and house use!
This Comie ladder, which weighs around 25 pounds and has two panels, allows you to stand on the ladder with additional stability and safety. It’s easy to use and transport because of its strong aluminum structure and collapsible shape. The bottom of the ladder has black anti-slip rubber sleeves that keep you in close contact with the ground.
3. LUISLADDERS 15.5FT Folding Ladder Multi-Purpose
About this item:
Brand: LUISLADDERS
Material: Aluminum
Item Weight: 670.21 Ounces
Load Capacity: 330.7 Pounds
Main Features:
You can open it when you need it and fold it up when you’re done with it, making it easy to transport. It necessitated that the work is sufficiently sturdy. And it is becoming increasingly common in all types of civil engineering and fitting-out engineering. It is made of high-quality aluminum that is both robust and solid, allowing you to use it for a long period. It is easily used due to its portable and functional design. Come in and place your purchase right now!
Multi-purpose: This aluminum ladder may be used as a scaffold, a leaning ladder, a stepladder, and it can also be bent into a variety of forms to satisfy a variety of height requirements and working demands. It may be used in a variety of ways, such as a temporary bridge or during building. It may be used as a single ladder, a double-sided ladder, a trestle, a work platform, a stair ladder, a telescoping ladder, a twin stepladder, a stairway stepladder, or two scaffold bases, among other applications.
Free scaffolding plates: The ladder comes with two anti-slip scaffolding plates that may be used to keep you safe when standing and stable while using it as a scaffold.
Safe and Trustworthy: Heavy-duty aircraft-grade aluminum construction; square rungs and supporting tubes keep this folding ladder sturdy and durable; EN131 standard with TÜV Rheinland GS certificate; maximum load capacity of 330 lbs.
Security Locks and Large Joints: Large joints with three times the weight capacity and durability of smaller joints; joined by six security locks that may be unlocked and closed to change the configuration of the ladder quickly while maintaining security.
Excellent Step Stool: Attic, library, above-ground pool, bunk bed, apartment fire ladder escape, trampoline, etc. It may be used to get access to your roof or balcony, clean your windows, and paint and decorate your inside and exterior.
Pros:
- Multi-purpose
- Free Scaffolding Plates
- Larger Joints
Cons:
- Can be tricky to fold it
4. Little Giant Ladders, Velocity, M13, 13 Ft, Multi-Position Ladder
About this item:
Brand: Little Giant Ladder Systems
Color: Gray
Material: Aluminum
Item Weight: 25 Pounds
Item Dimensions: L x W x H 43 x 23 x 9 inches
Main Features:
- Maximum A-frame height: 5’1″ | Maximum Extension Height: 11′ | Maximum Scaffolding Height: 3′ | Maximum Workbench Height: 3′ | Minimum A-frame Height: 3’1″ | Minimum Extension Height: 7′ | Storage Depth: 8″ | Storage Height: 3’7″ | Width at Base: 24″ | Weight: 25 lbs
- The Velocity also has a dual-pin hinge and easy-to-use rocker locks for rapid adjustment.
- As an a-frame, extension, staircase, and 90-Degree ladder, the Velocity may be used with Velocity trestle brackets (available separately) to create a trestle-and-plank scaffolding system.
- Wide-flared legs and aerospace-grade aluminum construction give the Velocity an unrivaled sense of safety and stability.
- 300-pound weight capacity.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Can be transformed into a variety of ladders
- A sturdy two-person ladder
Cons:
- It can be difficult to fold.
Can you believe there’s a two-person foldable ladder? Little Giant Ladders, on the other hand, creates the Velocity, which even has wheels! This strong little fellow is available in a variety of heights and weighs around 25 pounds. It has a storage height of just about 4 feet and a depth of around 8 inches.
This ladder is made out of a unique alloy that makes it 20% lighter than any other industrial-rated ladder. The Velocity also has some unique new features, such as a dual-pin hinge and quick-adjust Rock Locks. As an A-frame, extension, staircase, and 90-degree ladder, the Velocity may be utilized in a variety of creative ways!
Wide-flared legs and aerospace-grade aluminum construction give the Velocity an unrivaled sense of safety and stability. The Little Giant Velocity is a real two-person ladder that can support 300 pounds on both sides. While it’s significantly more durable than the ordinary ladder, some of you campers might be seeking it!
5. Xtend & Climb 770P telescoping ladders, 12.5 ft, Yellow/Gray
About this item:
Brand: Xtend & Climb
Color: Yellow/Gray
Material: Aluminum
Item Weight: 27 Pounds
Item Dimensions: L x W x H 5 x 20 x 150 inches
Main Features:
- The ladder folds up smoothly.
- With an effortless, no-pinch closing technique, it extends and locks by the foot.
- Heavy-duty closing strap and integrated carrying handle
- End caps on the feet are non-slip.
- ANSI/OSHA Certified
A one-of-a-kind ladder that extends from 32 inches to 12-1/2 feet by locking by the foot. Because of the 32-inch closed height, it’s ideal for tiny storage places. Engineered and produced to meet or exceed stringent industrial specifications. Aluminum alloy of aviation quality was used in its construction. Angled thumb release mechanism to maintain appropriate hand posture and No-pinch closing system with yellow cushioned side sections, nonslip end caps, integrated carry handle, and heavy-duty closure strap are among the safety features. Traction is ensured by the double-over-molded feet.
Dimensions of storage: 20 in. W. x 32 in. H. x 5 in. D. ANSI Type II duty rating with a load capacity of 225 lbs.
Safe and simple to use
Each of these telescoping ladders is equipped with a No-Pinch Closure System and red/green tab indicators that indicate when the rungs have been locked into place and the ladder is safe to climb. The ergonomic design enables smooth operation and quick adjustments, especially for people with smaller hands, thanks to an angled thumb release that assures optimal hand alignment. In addition, each Home Edition ladder incorporates non-slip end caps to assist it to stay put. Take it with you and store it anywhere you like.
Climb & Xtend Home Edition Telescoping Ladders are ideal for reaching those hard-to-reach places where a regular extension ladder would be tough to operate. Each Home Edition ladder can be carried to the most limited spaces in and around your home using the integrated carrying handle, and then extended to the necessary length once you’re there. These ladders may be utilized with robust carry cases (available separately) for added convenience, and they fit compactly in your garage or trunk.
Durable Materials were used in the construction of this product.
Each heavy-duty Xtend & Climb Home Edition ladder includes rungs that are designed robust to provide firm footing and are made of Aerospace Engineered 6061 alloy with a Clean-Touch anodized finish. Each ladder also has a 225-pound ANSI load rating, making it ideal for around-the-house tasks.
Pros:
- A wide range of colors, choices, and levels of stability.
- Lightweight and compact.
Cons:
- Simple to use.
- Weight restriction is lower than usual (225 pounds).
- A little pricey
The Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladder series is one I had to mention, even though it is a bit pricey. These ladders all fold and store easily, but they come in a variety of grades, colors, and materials, giving you a lot more customizing possibilities than a regular telescopic ladder. You may use it at home, as a contractor, or as a professional. For the sake of simplicity, I went with the home use version of this ladder!
Conclusion
Whether you’re full-time or simply taking the rig out for the weekend, having a ladder with your RV is a no-brainer. You never know when it will come in useful, and your RV’s roof will appreciate it. Make sure you accurately measure the height of your rig and have a friend on hand to act as a safety spotter. Have fun climbing!