Being made for outdoor use, recreational vehicles would withstand various elements for a long time but they still require periodic maintenance to stay in good condition. Usually, people should have no trouble looking after the front, sides and rear of their rigs but the roof may be a tough customer.
To keep an eye on the roof, RVing enthusiasts have to climb on top of it from time to time and that is no cakewalk. All it takes is one slip-up and there could be some very serious injuries.
Fortunately, modern-day RVers have access to many tools that help them get to the rooftop and regarding convenience, RV ladders prove second to none. By equipping your rig with a motorhome ladder, you can check up on the roof of your RV, perform maintenance and avoid expensive repair bills.
Contents
- Comparison Chart of The Best RV Ladders
- RV Ladder Basic
- Best RV Ladders
- 1. Stromberg Carlson LA-401 – Best RV Roof Ladder
- 2. Surco 501L – Editor’s Choice
- 3. Louisville FS1506 – Editor’s Choice
- 4. Little Giant Ladder 15417-001
- 5. Quick Products QP-LA-466B – Best RV Bunk Ladder
- 6. GP Logistics SLDD6 – Best Compact RV Folding Ladder
- 7. Stromberg Carlson LA-460B
- 8. Telesteps 500FLS – Single Sided Folding Step Ladder
- 9. GPLogistics SLD-D5 – Double Sided Ladder
- 10. Little Giant Ladders 15270-001
- 11. Thule Van Ladder
- 12. WolfWise MF-TLA112
- 13. Telesteps 1800EP
- 14. Luisladders Telescoping Ladder
- 15. Ohuhu Y17-80100-16
- How To Buy The Best RV Ladder
- Top RV Ladder Brands
- RV Ladder Installation And Usage
- FAQs About Camper Ladders
- Need More Gear Advice?
Comparison Chart of The Best RV Ladders
| No | Best Camper Ladders | Types | Prices | Our Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stromberg Carlson LA-401 | Rack Ladder | $ | ***** |
| 2 | Surco 501L | Rack Ladder | $$ | ***** |
| 3 | Louisville FS1506 | Step Ladder | $$ | ***** |
| 4 | Little Giant Ladder 15417-001 | Step Ladder | $$$ | ***** |
| 5 | Quick Products QP-LA-466B | Bunk Ladder | $ | *** |
| 6 | GP Logistics SLDD6 | Step Ladder | $$$ | **** |
| 7 | Stromberg Carlson LA-460B | Bunk Ladder | $ | **** |
| 8 | Telesteps 500FLS | Step Ladder | $ | ***** |
| 9 | GPLogistics SLD-D5 | Step Ladder | $$ | ***** |
| 10 | Little Giant Ladders 15270-001 | Step Ladder | $$ | ***** |
| 11 | Thule Van Ladder | Telescoping Ladder | $$$$$ | ***** |
| 12 | WolfWise MF-TLA112 | Telescoping Ladder | $$$ | **** |
| 13 | Telesteps 1800EP | Telescoping Ladder | $$$$ | **** |
| 14 | Luisladders Telescoping Ladder | Telescoping Ladder | $$ | ***** |
| 15 | Ohuhu Y17-80100-16 | Telescoping Ladder | $ | **** |
RV Ladder Basic
What is an RV ladder?
To put it plainly, a RV ladder is a ladder purposely designed for recreational vehicles. Compared to residential ladders, ladders for RV pack superior resistance against vibration which is essential by all accounts as RVers move around now and then.
Considering the space available on the average rigs, most RV ladders also boast compact dimensions. Lastly, to deal with exposure to elements, ladders for recreational vehicles receive layers of coating.
Different models often have different characteristics but all RV ladders increase the reach of RVers. Certain ladders even possess extra features that people could use to good effect in a wide range of situations too.
Benefits of having an RV ladder
Accessibility: With a camper ladder on your rig, you would be able to access hard-to-reach spots at will. That is a big plus if you happen to pick up a rather big rig.
Safety: Made to support the full weight of people while remaining steady in use, ladders for recreational vehicles minimize the odds of RVers sustaining injuries. Needless to say, a ladder is far safer to use than things like tables, chairs and so on once it comes to getting additional elevation.
Money: By ensuring that you have a ladder for RV before hitting the road, you can keep the roof in top shape without hurting yourself. Thus, medical expenses, repair bills, …, should drop and you may save a couple of bucks.
Different RV ladder types
Overall, RV ladders nowadays come in all shapes and sizes but market models could be classified into four types: step, rack and bunk and telescoping.
Step Ladders: Featuring a traditional design, step ladders perform well in quite a few conditions. Besides that, capable of standing by themselves, models of the type prove popular among RVers that care about stability. About shortcoming, step ladders tend to be cumbersome so moving them in position is somewhat tedious.
Rack Ladders: As the name suggests, rack ladders could work as racks and ladders, depending on the requirements of RVers. Camper owners could use models of the type to climb to the rooftop or attach an assortment of items to them in times of need. On the downside, rack ladders usually only serve one function at any time so to get to the roof, people must remove attached items first.
Bunk Ladders: Manufactured with featherlight construction, bunk ladders allow RVing enthusiasts to relocate them in a blink of an eye. Moreover, since models of the type have space-saving dimensions, finding fitting spots for them inside rigs is a breeze. The reach of bunk ladders is not exactly impressive though.
Telescoping Ladders: Able to extend and withdraw in a matter of moments, telescoping ladders earn a lot of compliments from those that own small rigs. If you have little space to spare on your RV but still want to bring along a ladder, you need to keep an eye out for models of the type. In terms of drawbacks, telescoping ladders routinely incorporate built-in mechanisms that need dedicated attention to remain in working order.
Best RV Ladders
Preferences fluctuate from people to people so the best RV ladder of someone could appear to be mediocre to others. That being said, if you wish to get the most out of your money, you should take a close look at the models down below:
1. Stromberg Carlson LA-401 – Best RV Roof Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 99.5 Inches
- Capacity: 250.0 Pounds
- Aluminum
- Universal applications
- Installation hardware included
Why This Is The Best:
Packing an aluminum body, Stromberg Carlson LA-401 could withstand the challenges of RVing without breaking apart out of the blue. In addition to that, with a capacity of two hundred and fifty pounds, this ladder offers ample weight support to RVing enthusiasts at any time. Naturally, those that seek a capable ladder regard it as one of the best ladders for RV available for purchase. Since this ladder reaches the market at a reasonable price too, squeezing it into the spending plan is a breeze.
We receive our Stromberg Carlson RV exterior ladder in excellent packaging and it’s accompanied by installation hardware so the setup process is child’s play. Designed for universal applications, this ladder is compatible with the rear of a lot of rigs, straight and contoured alike. Besides that, when installation wraps up, it only requires a bit of care from people until the day it fails. Therefore, if you like to spend more time traveling and less time looking after tools, we suggest that you add this ladder to your shortlist.
As proof of confidence, Stromberg Carlson even willingly backs LA-401 with a one-year warranty. That means if your ladder fails due to defects within the warranty period, you could claim yourself a free replacement.
Pros:
- Economical
- Installation is instantaneous
- Maintenance is a snap
Cons:
- Owner’s manual is poorly-written
- Several units arrive incomplete
2. Surco 501L – Editor’s Choice
Specification And Features:
- Height: 97.0 Inches
- Capacity: 250.0 Pounds
- Coated
- Contouring hinges
- Non-slip steps
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
Dependable and reliable, Surco 501L is a solid ladder for recreational vehicles that rarely lets RVing enthusiasts down in use. Packing non-slip steps with lengthened width, it helps camper owners climb to the rooftop and get back down effortlessly. Additionally, thanks to the classy polished finish, this ladder would blend in instead of standing out like a sore thumb on the exterior of RV. Because of that, for people who put aesthetics above all else, it’s the leading model at its price range.
In terms of endurance, we appreciate the use of heavy gauge aluminum in the construction of the ladder from Surco. While the aluminum resists elements in the outdoors and vibrations on the road, it also keeps the ladder weight down. Hence, positioning this ladder is a piece of cake and RVers only need moments to properly secure the hardware to the rear of their vehicles. Last but not least, with the incorporation of contouring hinges, it should have no trouble fitting the profiles of rigs.
The maintenance of 501L is undemanding so keeping it in good condition is a cinch. Upon purchase, this ladder comes alongside a one-year manufacturer warranty that brings peace of mind to RVers as well.
Pros:
- Resilient
- Long-lasting
- Setup process is a no-brainer
Cons:
- Inconsistencies exist between units
- People complain about the lack of instructions
3. Louisville FS1506 – Editor’s Choice
Specification And Features:
- Height: 125.0 Inches
- Capacity: 300.0 Pounds
- Heavy-duty
- Non-conductive
- Spreader braces
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
As a heavy-duty model, Louisville FS1506 is a cost-effective investment for full-time RVers who enjoy off-roading. Featuring non-conductive fiberglass and double riveted steps, this ladder is able to operate in harsh conditions with relative ease. Moreover, engineered with impact-resistant shoes that boast non-marring tread, it should maintain a solid tight grip on quite a few surfaces but it won’t leave behind marks. Thus, people could make use of it at any time and still avoid causing damages.
While many other ladders for recreational vehicles require us to carry our tools on our own, FS1506 removes that burden with its molded tool slot. From drills to screwdrivers, the tool slot of this ladder would accommodate whatever we need to get our work done. As a result, we can say for certain that it’s going to cut down the time it takes to complete tasks on the road. With a capacity of three hundred pounds, this ladder easily supports camper owners and assorted tools at the same time.
About storage, FS1506 is long (its height is one hundred and twenty five inches fully extended) but it takes little space after RVers collapse it. Noteworthily, this ladder contains spreader braces so the odds of it being damaged in its collapsed form should be low.
Pros:
- High endurance
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Awesome elevation
Cons:
- RVers notice signs of wear on newly-purchased units
- Shipping is mediocre
4. Little Giant Ladder 15417-001
Specification And Features:
- Height: 204.0 Inches
- Capacity: 300.0 Pounds
- Multiposition
- Lock adjusters
- Built-in wheels
Why We Love It:
You desire an adaptable ladder that you could move from spot to spot at a moment’s notice without hurting your back in the process? If that is the case, you need to spare some of your time to give Little Giant Ladder 15417-001 a look. Possessing a couple of built-in wheels, it’s superior to many of its contemporaries once it comes to portability. Furthermore, with a multiposition design, this ladder features various configurations that you could put to good use in the outdoors.
At three hundred pounds, the capacity of 15417-001 allows it to accommodate an assortment of people and items with relative ease. Even under loads, this ladder is going to remain stable and its rubber grips keep slipping to the minimum too. Needless to say, quite a few of our testers think of it as the perfect ladder for full-time RVing. About elevation, the height of this ladder is more than two hundred inches so we believe that you would seldom run into problems with reach.
Regarding longevity, owing to the presence of aluminum in its body, the ladder of Little Giant Ladder should hold together well as time passes by. If you decide to grab this ladder, you don’t have to worry about replacing it for years to come.
Pros:
- Tough
- Fantastic configurations
- Stability is tip-top
Cons:
- Quality control could use some work
- Customer service is hardly adequate
5. Quick Products QP-LA-466B – Best RV Bunk Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 66.0 Inches
- Capacity: 250.0 Pounds
- Black
- Quick installation/removal
- Rubber pads and sleeves
Why We Love It:
In spite of its plain appearance, Quick Products QP-LA-466B nonetheless works like a charm in a lot of environments. Boasting a height of sixty six inches and a capacity of two hundred and fifty pounds, this RV rear ladder permits convenient access to rooftops. In addition, with the rubber pads and sleeves, it protects the floor from scratches while providing people with comfortable grips. That is why this ladder is the favorite of RVers who prioritize safety yet hesitate to place the exterior of their rigs at risk.
Light and compact, the ladder made by Quick Products packs outstanding handling characteristics compared to its competitors on the market. It’s worth pointing out that this RV ladder is capable of mounting over frames/into brackets so there is no need for exterior modification. Hence, in our opinion, most RVing enthusiasts would have an easy time setting it up. In times of need, camper owners just need several seconds to remove this ladder and make space for other stuff.
Available at a price that the average RVers nowadays could accept, QP-LA-466B suits all kinds of shopping budgets. If your wallet happens to be kind of tight, it’s suggested that you consider adding it to your shortlist.
Pros:
- Rugged
- Reasonable price
- Simple to maintain
Cons:
- Report of units showing up damaged appear occasionally
- Particular component loosen over time
6. GP Logistics SLDD6 – Best Compact RV Folding Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 75.0 Inches
- Capacity: 225.0 Pounds
- Foldable
- Corrosion-resistant
- Rubberized anti-skid feet
Why We Love It:
Being an all-inclusive model, GP Logistics SLDD6 possesses everything that RVers require in modern-day ladders for recreational vehicles. Integrating premium-grade aluminum, this ladder for RV is corrosion-resistant so people don’t have to bother about rust. Moreover, equipped with a series of rubberized anti-skid feet, it’s going to stay still once deployed no matter the terrain it sits on. Therefore, RVing enthusiasts that have to deal with slippery surfaces from time to time hold this ladder in high esteem.
One interesting feature of SLDD6 is that it’s foldable: outside of use, RVers could fold it down to a compact shape and save space. As a result, our testers could fit this folding RV ladder into their rigs without having to rearrange the interior. Regarding maintenance, it would stay in working order for a long time assuming that RVers clean it now and then. That means if you have rather few opportunities to buy a new ladder, this ladder should be perfect for you.
At first glance, the ladder from GP Logistics seems somewhat costly but the values it offers justify its price tag. On arrival, this ladder is accompanied by a one-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects and puts people at ease.
Pros:
- Initiative operation
- Sturdy and stable
- Capacity rating is superb
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- People complain about irregular wobbling
7. Stromberg Carlson LA-460B
Specification And Features:
- Height: 60.0 Inches
- Capacity: 250.0 Pounds
- Black
- Rubber treads
- Two styles of attachment
Why We Love It:
Manufactured from the ground up for current standards and built to last, Stromberg Carlson LA-460B never fails to please. Thanks to the inclusion of rubber treads, this bunk ladder ensures that people have good grips as they climb it. Additionally, distributed with two styles of attachment (hooks and extrusions), it minimizes the odds of hardware coming loose in use. Because of that, in terms of safety, countless RVers from novices to veterans consider this ladder to be among the leading RV ladders for sale.
While its height is unexceptional, the elevation that the Stromberg Carlson ladder delivers is enough for interior applications on RV. Also, we like the magnificent handling of this ladder as it substantially facilitates the setup process inside usual recreational vehicles. From the testimonies of our testers, the installation rarely takes longer than one hour to wrap up and there is no need for specialized tools. After it’s properly secured in place, this ladder would work until the day it fails without needing a lot of attention from RVing enthusiasts.
For post-purchase support, Stromberg Carlson provides those that opt to pick up LA-460B with a one-year warranty. Thus, if RVers experience troubles with their ladder then they have something to count on.
Pros:
- Convenient
- Uncomplicated installation
- Second to none ruggedness
Cons:
- Screws come loose on their own
- A number of RVers report getting damaged units
8. Telesteps 500FLS – Single Sided Folding Step Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 59.0 Inches
- Capacity: 250.0 Pounds
- Assembled
- Aluminum alloys
- Side-to-side opening and closing
Why We Love It:
You have little free space left on your RV but still wish to bring along a ladder for the trip? Then there is a very good chance that you would come to like Telesteps 500FLS. Designed to be a step ladder with side-to-side opening and closing, it occupies an insignificant amount of space in the interior when folded. As a result, finding a fitting spot for this space-saving ladder inside typical recreational vehicles is a walk in the park by all accounts.
Notwithstanding its thin frame, 500FLS features a terrific capacity of two hundred of fifty pounds so it could accommodate a wide range of RVing enthusiasts. With a height of nearly sixty inches, this ladder offers sufficient elevation in numerous situations. Therefore, we expect it to be a fantastic companion for people that need to deal with many tasks on their own and require extra reach. Besides that, being light, this ladder seldom causes problems as RVers get it into position.
About durability, the ladder of Telesteps utilizes aluminum alloys that allow it to handle everything that RVers throw at it. Its maintenance is straightforward too so RVers don’t have to spend much effort to keep this ladder in top shape.
Pros:
- Well-built
- Nice prie
- A breeze to manipulate
Cons:
- Stability is less than ideal
- Delivery service requires a couple of tweaks
9. GPLogistics SLD-D5 – Double Sided Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 63.0 Inches
- Capacity: 225.0 Pounds
- Lightweight
- Double-sided
- Aluminum and steel
Why We Love It:
Slim and sleek, GPLogistics SLD-D5 is a must-have for camper owners that routinely need to reach out to high areas in the outdoors. Boasting a capacity of two hundred and twenty five pounds, this ladder is going to provide magnificent support to the body of most RVing enthusiasts. Also, with a height of more than sixty inches, it makes sure that people rarely have to concern themselves with elevation shortage while doing tasks. Naturally, this ladder earns positive remarks from reviews of RV roof ladders nowadays for its utility.
The fact that the ladder from GPLogistics could collapse into a compact form means there is no need to rearrange our rig to carry it. In addition to that, with a lightweight construction, it outmatches traditional ladders for recreational vehicles once it comes to handling. Usually, our testers have an easy time setting up this ladder and putting it away at any time they want. Lastly, by incorporating a combination of aluminum and steel, it’s capable of enduring rough use for a long time.
In terms of affordability, SLD-D5 is not exactly dirt-cheap but it’s far from a bank-breaking purchase. With a number of calculations, RVers may buy this ladder without cutting down key expenses.
Pros:
- Strong
- Sublime weight and capacity
- Storage is child’s play
Cons:
- Packaging is kind of mediocre
- Unresponsive customer service
10. Little Giant Ladders 15270-001
Specification And Features:
- Height: 72.0 Inches
- Capacity: 300.0 Pounds
- Release handle
- Top tool tray
- Extra-large standing platform
Why We Love It:
Put together with challenging applications in mind, Little Giant Ladders 15270-001 is a heavy-duty RV ladder that plenty of people would love to keep around. Made from top-notch aluminum, it’s able to withstand heat, moisture, sunlight and so on for years to come. Furthermore, this ladder is not as vulnerable to physical impacts as other market models and that is a big plus. Needless to say, regarding longevity, it’s essentially one of the top-rated ladders for recreational vehicles available for purchase.
Unlike the average RV ladders, 15270-001 integrates an extra-large standing platform that keeps feet fatigue of RVers to the minimum. That is why the majority of our testers enjoy using it for tedious tasks that require them to stand for an extended period of time. It’s noteworthy that this ladder contains a top tool tray so RVing enthusiasts don’t have to climb up and down to get tools. Though the tool tray is small, it should hold screws, nuts, bolts, …with relative ease.
Owing to the non-slip rubber feet, the Little Giant Ladders ladder remains stable on multiple surfaces without leaking marks. When it’s time to pack up, the handy release handle facilitates the process of folding the ladder for storage.
Pros:
- Steady
- Space-saving
- Portability is commendable
Cons:
- Sporadic creaking noise
- Certain units arrive with broken steps
11. Thule Van Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 102.0 Inches
- Capacity: 330.0 Pounds
- Telescoping
- Partial opening
- Storage bag included
Why We Love It:
As a telescoping model with the ability to extend and withdraw within seconds, Thule Van Ladder is a good buy for owners of cramp rigs. In the closed form, this ladder takes up just a bit of space so fitting it inside the interior of recreational vehicles is a snap. Additionally, the moment RVers deploy it, the height of this ladder could exceed one hundred inches which guarantees excellent elevation. It’s also capable of holding more than three hundred pounds in use so the level of support is outstanding.
Compared to normal RV ladders, the ladder made by Thule is indeed cumbersome but we could still get it into position without spending all day. Interestingly, this telescoping RV ladder even employs an air pressure system that tends to keep the odds of injuries down. Hence, if you like to avoid nasty bruises as you work then this ladder for camper is what you need. Upon purchase, it comes with a magnificent magnetic fixation kit so there is no need to concern about the stability.
For storage, Thule distributes its ladder with a storage bag so keeping it out of harm’s way is easy. Since this ladder is simple to maintain as well, it would be a while before camper owners have to consider finding a new outdoor RV ladder.
Pros:
- Durable
- Splendid elevation
- Maintenance is undemanding
Cons:
- Price tag is steep
- A bit heavy
12. WolfWise MF-TLA112
Specification And Features:
- Height: 186.0 Inches
- Capacity: 330.0 Pounds
- Compact
- Stabilizer bar
- Non-slip mat
Why We Love It:
Filled with innovative features, MF-TLA112 of WolfWise gives a good account of itself in a wide range of settings. Possessing a stabilizer bar and a non-slip mat, it’s going to stay still under loads so swaying is usually less than a problem. Moreover, this ladder for RV offers one-button retraction that not only accelerates the collapse of steps but also addresses the issue of pinched fingers. As a result, it’s well-liked by multiple RVing enthusiasts who must work with ladders on a regular basis.
With the use of aluminum alloy, the ladder from WolfWise would last for quite some time no matter what RVers put it through in use. Besides that, considering its capacity of more than three hundred pounds, we have no doubt that this ladder could accommodate camper owners of various builds. As for the elevation, coming at a height of nearly one hundred and ninety inches, it should let RVers reach the rooftop of rigs swiftly. Depending on the situation, people may adjust the height of this RV roof ladder in one foot increment at will.
Despite its impressive extended height, MF-TLA112 barely takes up any space on the interior of recreational vehicles once collapsed. On arrival, it’s accompanied by heavy-duty straps so relocating it is a breeze.
Pros:
- Versatile
- Terrific lifespan
- Low noise operation
Cons:
- Quality control still leaves something to be desired
- A couple of RVers complain about getting used units
13. Telesteps 1800EP
Specification And Features:
- Height: 216.0 Inches
- Capacity: 300.0 Pounds
- Adjustable silicone feet
- Integral safety indicators
- Aircraft-grade aluminum
Why We Love It:
Packing a multifunction design, Telesteps 1800EP is capable of outperforming classic RV ladders on the market in terms of adaptability. Based on the requirements, RVing enthusiasts may extend this telescoping ladder all the way or opt for a partial extension. At any time, RVers could apply modifications to the height in one foot increment for optimal reach which is advantageous. It’s worth pointing out that with aircraft-grade aluminum, this ladder boasts fantastic resistance against elements in the outdoors as well as physical impacts.
One of the things our testers like about 1800EP is that it’s made with a few integral safety indicators. Thanks to the indicators, we don’t have to worry about getting into accidents and ending up with nasty injuries. In addition to that, with adjustable silicone feet, this ladder operates well on variable surfaces so keeping it steady during works is just a cakewalk. Lastly, put together as an automatic telescoping ladder, it permits RVers to manipulate it via its one-touch release mechanism.
Specifically manufactured with a superb height, the ladder from Telesteps ensures that people would swiftly reach the rooftop of their rig. Its rating is admirable too so it can readily support a wide range of people and even their tools.
Pros:
- Robust
- Easy to use
- Great values for the price
Cons:
- Some parts need strengthening
- May leave scratches
14. Luisladders Telescoping Ladder
Specification And Features:
- Height: 150.0 Inches
- Capacity: 330.0 Pounds
- Thickened rod
- Securing strap
- Wide steps
Why We Love It:
Purposely designed with an emphasis on strength, Luisladders Telescoping Ladder could deal with all sorts of abuses and remain uncompromised. Being corrosion-resistant, this ladder rarely gets rusty in use which means the effect of moisture on its performance in the outdoors is often insignificant. Furthermore, with thickened rods, it’s able to handle lots of weight without warping and that makes it a suitable model for demanding tasks. As a result, many RVing enthusiasts that care about endurance think highly of this ladder.
With double couplings on rungs, the collapsible ladder for RVs made by Luisladders helps us keep our hands in the right spots and avoid getting pinched. Also, it extends and collapses in a blink of an eye so setting up this ladder and putting it away would be child’s play. Owing to the securing strap, camper owners have no trouble preventing it from extending on its own outside of use. Thus, it’s a breeze to store this ladder and maximize space inside recreational vehicles.
To keep Luisladders Telescoping Ladder in working order, all people need to do is to clean it now and then. Assuming that RVers manage to pay adequate attention to its maintenance, this travel trailer ladder is going to last for years.
Pros:
- Stylish
- Excellent portability
- Ruggedness is commendable
Cons:
- People report about occasional wobbles
- Rubber caps of the feet fall off from time to time
15. Ohuhu Y17-80100-16
Specification And Features:
- Height: 102.0 Inches
- Capacity: 330.0 Pounds
- Aluminum alloy
- SGS-compliant
- Non-slip end caps
Why We Love It:
By including intelligent locking pins that make all sections extend and retract safely, Ohuhu Y17-80100-16 effectively and efficiently eliminate the issue of pinched hands. When the need arises, RVing enthusiasts only need to hit the thumb button and this ladder is going to collapse in a matter of seconds. That is why in terms of convenience, only a couple of models on the market may match it in use. Additionally, upon purchase, this ladder comes alongside heavy-duty securing straps so storing it is a walk in the park.
Engineered with aluminum alloy, Ohuhu Y17-80100-16 is resilient yet light so our testers could effortlessly move it from spot to spot as they see fit. The side grip handle allows us to get a good hold of this ladder while getting it in position too. Hence, RVing enthusiasts that have portability concerns once it comes to ladders believe this model to be the best ladder for RV access to roof. It reaches the market as an economical model as well so people don’t need to empty their wallet in order to pick it up.
To reassure customers, Ohuhu provides everyone that grabs its ladder with a one-month guarantee. If your Y17-80100-16 ever experiences problems, you could expect Ohuhu to make things right.
Pros:
- Smooth operation
- Top-notch stability
- Fantastic level of safety
Cons:
- RVers report intermittent stoppages during retraction
- Delivery service require improvements
How To Buy The Best RV Ladder
There is no such thing as the best ladder for everyone but to make a wise investment, it’s essential that you remember these criteria
HEIGHT
The idea behind RV ladders is to help camper owners access hard-to-reach spots and that is why you must keep height in mind. The last thing you want to do is to grab a ladder that falls well short of your elevation requirements. Normally, you could determine the dimensions of a particular model including its height by checking out the owner’s manual. It’s worth pointing out that a number of ladders for recreational vehicles on the market nowadays provide height adjustments.
CAPACITY
How much weight can an RV ladder hold? Like their residential counterparts, ladders for RVs come with capacity ratings that indicate how much weight they can support. Regular models easily hold 200 pounds and certain heavy-duty models even have no trouble bearing close to 400 pounds in use. Manufacturers of ladders routinely put capacity rating labels on the products. Still, in the case that you fail to find the label on the RV ladders, get in touch with the customer service of the manufacturers.
ENDURANCE
It’s ill-advised to treat tools roughly but you don’t need ladders that proceed to break into pieces after taking a few hits. Because of that, as you look around for the best travel trailer ladder, it’s imperative to focus on endurance. To see how much hardship market models would endure before giving out, it’s suggested that you examine the materials. By doing so, you should be able to remove weak ladders from your shortlist and save a bit of time.
EASE OF USE
RVing already packs enough stresses as it is so you have to give ease of use some thought prior to adding anything to your rig. You could grasp the operation of a model if you read its owner’s manual. In the case that you find the instructions straightforward, feel free to buy that ladder. On the other hand, if you happen to have a hard time understanding what the owner’s manual presents, just move on to other models.
PRICE
$50 – $150: Despite the fact that ladders in the range just have basic features and functions, they still give a good account of themselves over time. In addition, available at reasonable prices, models with price tags between $50 and $150 receive a shower of praise from cost-conscious RVers.
$150 – $250: Versatile and flexible, ladders in the range adapt rather well to a lot of environments. You wish to own solid RV ladders but don’t like to spend big bucks? Then you should stick to models that cost from $150 to $250.
Above $250: Loaded with everything people desire, ladders in the range rarely let RVing enthusiasts down. Besides that, while they seem kind of expensive, models with price tags exceeding $250 boast fantastic lifespan so RVers could save money in the long run.
Top RV Ladder Brands
Today’s RV ladders come from countless brands but once it comes to popularity, a couple of names stand out
Stromberg Carlson
As a long-established brand with considerable experience, Stromberg Carlson knows what camper owners expect from RV ladders and constructs all of its products accordingly. Unsurprisingly, RVers from novices to veterans hold ladders made by Stromberg Carlson in high esteem.
Surco
Thanks to the emphasis on optimization, Surco as well as its ladders earns plenty of compliments from the RV community. In the case that you like to pick up robust ladders for recreational vehicles, you should stick to Surco models.
GP Logistics
By continuously innovating production, GP Logistics is capable of introducing to the market excellent ladders that hold together over time. Also, products of GP Logistics come at reasonable prices so their purchase would have inconsequential impacts on the upcoming spendings.
Little Giant Ladders
With a user-oriented approach, Little Giant Ladders is the best choice for no-nonsense RVers who have no time to mess around complex tools. In addition, Little Giant Ladders back its models with warranties that put customers at ease.
RV Ladder Installation And Usage
The setup process of RV ladders usually varies between models so it’s widely advised that you adhere to the owner’s manual during installation. Nonetheless, if you need tips and tricks about adding a ladder to a travel trailer, check out the following instructions
For Portable Ladders
Step 1: Look for a base. Prioritize flat, non-slippery surfaces. Also, keep in mind that that base must be able to deal with the weight of the ladder, people, tools, …
Step 2: Maintain a secure hold. To make sure that you don’t lose your balance, keep both of your feet and at least one of your hands on the ladder. Your works involve two hands? Then you should consider asking someone to steady the ladder.
Step 3: Use the features carefully. A number of ladders for recreational vehicles include built-in features that boost their performance. For instance, several models have deployable supports that increase stability. Depending on the way you use them, the features of your ladders would either facilitate your works or get in the way so be careful.
For Permanent Ladders
Step 1: Prepare the installation area. Remove obstacles and clean the spot where you intended to set up your camper ladder. Additionally, if there is a chance that things may get messy later, you have to cover the surroundings with tarps.
Step 2: Mount the ladder hardware. Align the hardware of your ladder then see whether you need to apply some changes. Sometimes, it’s necessary to trim the hardware here and there for a perfect fit.
Step 3: Hold down the ladder. When the positioning of the ladder hardware is to your liking, you could proceed to secure the ladder in place. Afterward, feel free to test out your newly installed ladder.
FAQs About Camper Ladders
How do I clean and store my ladder?
Similar to any other tools on RV, ladders require care to remain in good condition. The average models on the market only need to be cleaned from time to time. Stay away from cleaning solutions though to avoid compromising the materials of your camper ladder. Outside of use, you should store your ladder for RV in dry, well-ventilated spaces. Lastly, if your ladder comes into contact with elements around the year, it’s wise to purchase a ladder cover.
How long would ladders last?
Quite a few factors affect the lifespan of ladders for recreational vehicles: materials, elements, maintenance, etc. That being said, if you don’t push your ladder to the extremes, many years would pass before you have to find its replacements.
Why do RVs have ladders in the back?
Various recreational vehicles integrate ladders in the back to allow access to the rooftop as well as equipment on it. It’s noteworthy that several models of RV do away with the back ladders to make space for other items.
Is it possible to repair damaged ladders?
That tends to depend on the extent of the damages. In the case that your ladder just sustains minor damages, you could cut off the damaged parts and install replacements. On the other hand, if the damages of your ladder happen to be extensive, you should buy a new ladder.
Need More Gear Advice?
You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on Outside RV category where we provide you the handpicked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.