New to towing

I have a 2022 Tacoma SR5 with tow capacity of 6600 lbs. My question is at what weight threshold, do I need a weight distribution hitch? I am looking at getting a travel trailer with a weight somewhere between 3500 and 5000 pounds.

 

You’ll want a WDH for anything in that range. Not knowing how experienced you are in the travel trailer world I’d caution you not to expect any manufacturer numbers to be accurate. A factory advertised 3500lb trailer is in reality a 4000lb trailer before you fill your tanks and put anything inside it. Anything over the 4000lb mark and the Tacoma really starts to shows its limitations especially in winds and hilly terrain.

 

Do not pull 6600lbs with your Tacoma unless it is from one side of the hay field to the other. Don't try 6000lbs. Get a full size truck if you plan to do that regularly.

 

I am not planning to pull any more than 4500 lbs

 

Is the 4500 lbs dry weight or loaded? If you want your towing experience to be a pleasant one I suggest you tow no more than 4000 lbs loaded. The more you exceed 4000 lbs or so the more stressful and unpleasant your tow trips will be. Yes your truck is rated for 6600 lbs but I can tell you from experience you want to stay far below that weight.
Before you spend the $$$ for a trailer, rent one for a couple days that is close to the weight of the trailer you want to buy. Tow it on a trip that includes different terrain, hills, long grades both up and down, highways, city driving etc. Then you’ll know if you will be comfortable with the weight. Also if it’s windy you’ll see what it’s like being blown all over the road. Anyway rent a trailer before you buy and see what you think.

 

I have been pulling a dual-axel utility trailer locally and with a 3000 lbs load it does fine and with 4000 lbs it is heavy. I wouldn’t want to pull that for long - not my idea of a fun trip.

 

Electric brake control would be a nice option to toss on.