Supplemental Braking Systems

Supplemental braking systems activate your towed vehicle’s brakes in sync with your RV, reducing stopping distance and meeting legal requirements in most states. At The Outdoor Warehouse, we stock portable and permanent systems from Blue Ox, Roadmaster, and Demco.

Choose portable brake systems if you tow multiple vehicles or proportional hardwired systems for smoother braking on frequent trips. For complete towing safety, pair your system with a tow bar, baseplates, and safety cables.

Expert Tips:

  • Most states require brakes when towing vehicles over 3,000 lbs.
  • Portable systems = flexibility. Hardwired = smoother, permanent solution.
  • Always use with safety cables and a tow bar for compliance.

Build Your Complete Flat Towing Setup

For safe and legal RV towing, you’ll need all four components:

Supplemental Braking Systems Buying Guide

Supplemental braking systems are required in most states when flat towing. They not only help you stop faster but also reduce stress on your RV’s brakes and improve overall safety. Here’s a quick comparison of the main types:

Type Best For Pros Cons Popular Models
Portable Systems RVers towing multiple vehicles ✅ Easy to move between vehicles
✅ No permanent install
❌ Must be set up each trip
❌ Takes interior space
Demco Stay-IN-Play
Blue Ox Patriot Best Seller
Permanent / Hardwired Frequent travelers, single towed vehicle ✅ Seamless operation
✅ No setup each trip
✅ Proportional braking
❌ Professional installation required
❌ Higher upfront cost
Roadmaster InvisiBrake
Demco Duo
Air / RV-Mounted Systems Diesel pushers with air brakes ✅ Uses RV’s onboard air system
✅ Consistent braking power
❌ RV must have air brakes
❌ Specialized setup
Roadmaster BrakeMaster
Demco Air Force One Heavy Duty

Quick Tips

  • Most states require supplemental brakes when towing vehicles over 3,000 lbs.
  • Portable = flexibility, Permanent = convenience, Air = for diesel pushers.
  • Check your vehicle and RV braking system compatibility before buying.
  • Always pair with matching tow bar, baseplates, and safety cables for full compliance.

Need help choosing the right system? Ask our towing experts — we’ll recommend the best solution for your RV and towed vehicle.

There are no products listed under this category.