Best Collapsible RV Ladders in 2023
(Camp Addict does NOT accept payment from any company to review or endorse their products.)
Your RV (hopefully) provides you with endless hours of enjoyment.
But, like all things, your rig also requires not-so-fun stuff. The maintenance. Often, this includes getting up on top of your RV or reaching the awning, etc.
Because RVs are rolling houses on wheels, for crying out loud, yes, they are going to need some TLC.
Portable RV ladders (either folding ladders or telescoping ladders) are a necessity to help you gain access to all parts of your rig's exterior so you can maintain your rig.
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Portable RV Ladders Guide
Unfortunately, not all RVs come with a built-in ladder.
Regardless, you're going to need to climb up there while doing roof repair, to access your RV solar panels, or to maintain appliances that are up there.
If you don't have a built-in ladder, you need a portable and collapsible ladder to reach the roof.
And there are certainly times when you need to access the top sides or front of your RV, which you cannot do even if you have a built-in RV ladder.
RV Ladder Considerations
Of course, not all ladders are made the same.
In the RVing world, the weight and size of everything should be taken into consideration.
That said, conventional ladders are not known for being light or being small. However, there are some models out there that have the qualities that can benefit this situation.
Therefor, look for things such as being lightweight and collapsable.
Carefully choosing the right ladder for your RV lifestyle helps ensure this vital tool will meet your needs for a long time to come.
If you get the right high-quality portable RV ladder, it should last you for decades.
Now, let's look at some of the things you should be looking for in an RV ladder.
Folding / Telescoping RV Ladders: Height
Unquestionably, you must take a look at the height of your RV. Then, think about what you want to use the ladder for. Do you want to get on the roof with it? Wash the windows?
Also, are you able to lean it up against your RV or do you need it to be an A-frame style ladder? In order to pick well, consider these things before buying one.
This way you don't end up wasting money, having to purchase a second RV ladder in the correct style.
Certainly, most RVs are not very tall on the inside, and a step stool will do if needed.
Though an A class motorhome can be tall on the outside, many times they don't have a high ceiling inside. This is due to the storage space under the rig.
Whereas a RV 5th wheel can be tall both inside and out. Keep this in mind... do you need your ladder for indoor or outdoor use?
Surely you will need to get on the roof If you don't have a built-in ladder, make sure your ladder is tall enough to allow you roof access.
If this is the case, you must measure how tall your rig is. Before you buy, consider that for most ladders, the manufacturers don't recommend standing on the top one or two steps.
Notice How The Ladder Extends Above Roof?
Collapsible Ladder Safety
Consider looking for a few safety factors when buying a folding RV ladder.
That said, check out these important things for your collapsible ladder to have:
- Non-skid feet: Look for some sort of non-skid feature on the bottom of the legs so your ladder doesn't fly out from under you.
- The Locking mechanism on A-frame ladders: This is important to keep your ladder open while you are on it.
- Good construction: Do we need to explain this one? Yes, cheap materials or flimsy thin design is a recipe for disaster.
- Weight: You should only get a ladder that you can handle moving around fairly easily. Don't get one that takes more strength than you have to carry around. Even so, a compact folding ladder should have a weight capacity to hold both you and whatever you might be carrying up the ladder.
Compact Ladder Weight
Trust us... the more you RV, the more stuff you tend to have. The more stuff you have, the more your rig weighs.
Since every RV has a cargo carrying capacity, you must consider the weight of every item you add to it.
Indeed, having the lightest of everything is vital to keeping the weight under your rig's limits.
Keep this in mind when you are looking at ladders for your RV. The lighter the better.
Still, it's not the only consideration. Getting a cheap ladder that won't last you but a year or two is also not ideal.
Look for durable, reliable construction as well as a frame made of a lightweight material such as aluminum. Your RV won't regret it and neither will your back!
Summary
Ladders for RVs are pretty much a necessity for properly maintanence. Getting the right one for your particular RV is essential.
Even so, safety is even more important. Be aware that ladders send MANY people to the emergency room every year.
We have reviewed ladders for you so you can find the perfect fit. Here are the best overall, best heavy duty, and best telescoping ladders.
RV Ladder Reviews
There are two types of portable RV ladders you should consider
- Folding ladders
- Telescoping ladders
We found that the best RV ladders won't take up too much space or weigh you down. Additionally, they still provide the functionality and security you need.
Read on for our folding ladder reviews and our telescoping ladder reviews.
Airstream And Other 'Curvy' Rig Owners
You need to purchase a telescoping ladder as opposed to an A-frame ladder.
Because the top of your Airstream is curved, only the lower portion of an A-frame ladder is close to the rig. Near the top, your Airstream curves away from the ladder making it very difficult, if not impossible, for you to reach.
However, a telescoping ladder lays against the side of your RV, allowing you to access the roof easily.
GP Logistics Aluminum Folding Ladders
- Freestanding
- Extremely compact for easy storage
- Expands to be an A-frame ladder
- Light- only 13 to 25 lbs
- Comes either single- or double-sided
- ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds
- No heavy-duty (higher capacity) version
GP Logistics folding ladders are an ingenious design. They are light, strong, and have collapsible rungs for super compact storage. Available in multiple lengths, as well as single-sided and double-sided models, GP Logistics has an RV folding ladder for most situations.
Single-Sided RV Folding Ladder
Double-Sided RV Folding Ladder
Continue Reading GP Logistics Folding Ladder Review
Even if your RV has a built-in ladder, there are times when you need to get to other places around your rig's exterior.
In such cases, having a compact folding ladder will get the job done, and we FREAKING LOVE this one! Kelly's mom has had one for decades.
Are You Over 225 Lbs?
The GP Logistics line of aluminum folding ladders are ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds maximum.
If you need a heavier duty folding step ladder, then the Telesteps STIK is the folding ladder for you, with a 250 pound rating.
SLD-S5 Single-Sided 5 Foot RV Folding Ladder
SLD-D7 Double-Sided 7 Foot RV Folding Ladder
The GP Logistics RV folding ladder comes in two versions:
- Single-sided ladders that allow you to climb up just one side (Models SLD-S5 & SLD-S6)
- Double-sided ladders that let you climb up either side (Models SLD-D5, SLD-D6 & SLD-D7).
The single-sided versions are available in 5 and 6-foot lengths while the double-sided versions are available in 5, 6, and 7-foot lengths.
Folding Ladder Lock Mechanism
Folding Ladder Top Hinge
This folding step-ladder has a velcro strap that keeps it together for storing.
How To Use This Ladder
At the bottom of the collapsible ladder, on both sides, are locking mechanisms that you must engage before use.
This locks the ladder into an A-frame configuration and makes it safe for you to apply your full weight onto the rungs as you climb up.
To store this clever RV folding ladder you first fold it up like a normal A-frame ladder.
Next, unlock the rung locking mechanisms (at the bottom of each leg) allowing the rungs that you step on to bend in the middle.
The rungs fold up as you bring the two sides together.
When fully 'compacted', the ladder folds down to about the size of a 4x4 piece of lumber. (Which is amazing if you ask us!) Just look at it below- that's the ladder folded up! (Love, love, love, love)
The non-skid feet are removable and replaceable if ever needed.
This folding step-ladder can be stored in your basement, truck, or it could possibly be attached to the ladder at the back of your RV, taking up zero storage space.
However you decide to use the GP Logistics RV ladder, you won't be disappointed with it as it has it all- it's light, strong and compact.
You likely won't even notice it in your rig until you need it.
The aluminum construction will keep it from rusting. It does come with parts made of steel but they too are rust resistant.
Need a collapsible ladder? If it's tall enough for your needs, get this one. You're going to love it!
Model SLDD5 Double-Sided Folding Ladder
Model SLD-S5 Single-Sided Folding Ladder
GP Logistics Folding Ladder Features and Specs:
- Rubberized anti-skid feet
- Grooved anti-slip ladder rung surface
- Folds up to the size of a 4x4 piece of wood to allow for easy, compact storage
- Material: Aluminum
- Model SLD-S5 (single-sided): 5-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 13 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 61" Tall x 3.5" Deep x 3.5" Wide
- Model SLD-S6 (single-sided): 6-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 15 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 73" Tall x 3.5" Deep x 3.5" Wide.
- SLD-D5 (double-sided): 5-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 20 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 63" Tall x 3.5" Deep x 4.5" Wide.
- Model SLD-D6 (double-sided): 6-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 22 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 74" Tall x 3.5" Deep x 4.5" Wide.
- Model SLD-D7 (double-sided): 7-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 25 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 87" Tall x 3.5" Deep x 4.5" Wide.
- OSHA compliant and ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
Best Heavy Duty Folding Ladder
Telesteps STIK Aluminum Folding Ladders
- Freestanding
- Extremely compact for easy storage
- Expands to be an A-frame ladder
- Light- only 12 to 25 lbs
- Comes either single- or double-sided
- ANSI Type I rated for 250 pounds
The Telesteps STIK aluminum folding ladder is very close in design and amenities to our best RV ladder pick, the GP Logistics folding ladder.
It has the same cool feature of being able to fold up to the size of a 4x4 piece of wood for easy storage in your RV.
The major difference is that the Telesteps STIK is rated for 250 pounds, versus 225 for the GP Logistics.
Single-Sided RV Folding Ladder
Double-Sided RV Folding Ladder
Continue Reading Telesteps STIK Folding Ladder Review
Another AMAZING Invention- a ladder that can compact down into almost nothing! We absolutely can't get enough of this style of ladder.
The Telesteps STIK collapsible ladder comes in two versions - a single-sided and a double-sided ladder.
The single-sided version is available in 5 and 6-foot lengths, while the double-sided version is available in 6 and 7-foot lengths.
Are You Under 225 Lbs?
The Telesteps STIK line of aluminum folding ladders are ANSI Type I rated at 250 pounds.
If you do not need such a high weight rating, consider looking at our #1 ranked RV ladder, the GP Logistics line of folding aluminum ladders, which have a 225-pound rating.
There are more size options available and is a comparable folding ladder.
Telesteps STIK Folding Ladder
How To Use This Ladder
To use the Telesteps collapsible RV ladder, undo the velcro strap holding it in the collapsed position and simply fold it out into the typical A-frame ladder configuration.
You will need to secure the locking mechanism (one at the bottom of each leg that has rungs) before using the ladder, as this locks the rungs into the down position and makes the collapsible ladder safe to use.
To store the Telesteps STIK ladder, first unlock the rung lock mechanism (again, one at the bottom of each ladder leg that has rungs - so two locks for the single-sided version, and four locks for the double-sided version).
Then fold the ladder halves together as you would with a typical A-frame style ladder.
The rungs then fold upwards as you bring the sides of the collapsible ladder together, into the square stored position.
The velcro straps secure the ladder together while stored.
The Telesteps STIK RV ladder is made from a lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloy. It's easy to carry, easy to handle and easy to store.
Its compact size means it will easily fit inside the basement of a motorhome, the pass thru compartment of a travel trailer, or even in the back of a pickup or SUV.
Model 600FLD Double-Sided Folding Ladder
Model 600FLS Single-Sided Folding Ladder
Telesteps STIK Folding Ladder Features and Specs:
- Material: Aluminum
- Folds up to the size of a 4x4 piece of wood to allow for easy, compact storage
- Model 500FLS (single-sided): 5-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 12.3 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 59.1" Tall x 3.9" Deep x 3.1" Wide.
- Model 600FLS (single-sided): 6-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 14.3 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 71" Tall x 3.9" Deep x 3.1" Wide.
- 600FLD (double-sided): 6-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 20.7 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 71" Tall x 4.7" Deep x 3.1" Wide.
- Model 700FLD (double-sided): 7-foot tall collapsible ladder. Weighs 25.4 pounds. Collapsed dimensions: 82" Tall x 4.7" Deep x 3.1" Wide.
- OSHA compliant and ANSI Type I rated for 250 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year
Best Telescoping RV Ladder
Xtend and Climb Aluminum Telescoping Ladders
- Light and strong
- No-pinch design to collapse ladder
- 3 sizes - 8.5', 10.5' & 12.5' extension
- Home Series is ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds
- Pro Series is ANSI Type IA rated for 300 pounds
- You have to lean it up against your RV
These come in 3 different extension lengths - 8.5, 10.5 and 12.5 feet. It also extends in one-foot increments so you can use as little, or as much, ladder as you need.
There is a heavy-duty Pro Series that supports more weight if you need that capability and offers one model with a 15.5 foot extension.
Model 780P (12.5 feet) HEAVY DUTY
Model 785P (15.5 feet) HEAVY DUTY
Continue Reading Xtend and Climb Telescoping Ladder Review
The Home Series Xtend and Climb telescoping extension ladder has a size that fits most situations.
Model 770P Front (with instruction manual still attached)
Model 770P Back
Model 750P extends to 8.5 feet, model 760P extends to 10.5 feet, and model 770P extends to 12.5 feet.
The Pro Series has a 15.5 foot extension option (Model 785P).
Camp Addict Kelly has the Xtend and Climb Model 770P to access the top of her travel trailer.
Xtend and Climb 770P Against Camp Addict Kelly's Rig
Retracted sizes are 27 inches, 29 inches, 32 inches, and 36 inches respectively, so these telescoping ladders take up less space than a lawn chair when stored.
The Home Series from Xtend and Climb is ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds.
These are the models 750P, 760P and 770P.
If you need a higher weight rated aluminum telescoping ladder, then the Pro Series is for you.
Flexing Is Normal
You will feel a little flex of the 'joints' when climbing up it, but that's just the nature of this style of ladder.
Be mindful of the weight limitations and you'll be fine! It's something that you probably won't notice much after using the ladder a few times.
The Pro Series Xtend and Climb aluminum telescoping ladder comes in two different lengths:
- Model 780P = 12.5 foot extension
- Model 785P with a 15.5 foot extension
Model 780P is ANSI Type IA rated, with a 300-pound capacity.
Model 785P is ANSI Type I rated, with a 250-pound capacity.
The rungs of these telescoping ladders extend one at a time (in one-foot increments) in a simple, smooth manner.
This allows you to extend out only as much ladder as you need to use, making it either a compact extension ladder or a full-length one.
Thumb Actuated Collapse Lever
Anti-Pinch Mechanism In Action (Bottom Lever In 'Collapse' Position But Still Space Above It)
The thumb actuated levers used to collapse the rungs are designed to keep your fingers safe while retracting.
The anti-pinch design means that a section won't fully close (and possibly pinch your fingers) until the section below it has started to collapse.
Pretty clever! (And Kelly's fingers are all intact.)
The collapsible ladder is made from an aircraft grade aluminum alloy with a clean-touch anodized finish.
The legs have end caps that are non-slip construction.
Xtend & Climb Telescoping Ladders
Available Carry Bags
The Xtend and Climb line of telescoping ladders are easy to carry using the integrated carry handle, but you can also separately purchase a carry bag (offered in both a Home Series bag and a Pro Series bag).
- Download the Xtend + Climb telescoping ladder instructions here.
Xtend and Climb Telescoping Ladder Features and Specs:
- Extend only as much of the ladder (in one-foot increments) as you need to use
- Anti-pinch design lets you retract the ladder rungs without pinching your fingers
- Non-slip end caps on feet
- Material: Aluminum
- Home Series is ANSI Type II rated for 225 pounds (Model 750P, 760P, 770P)
- Pro Series is ANSI Type IA rated for 300 pounds (Model 780P) and ANSI Type I rated for 250 pounds (Model 785P)
- OSHA compliant
- Warranty: 6 month
- Model 750P (Home Series): 8.5 feet extended. Weighs 16.5 pounds. Retracted dimensions: 27" Tall x 3.75" Deep x 18" Wide. Rated for 225 pounds.
- Model 760P (Home Series): 10.5 feet extended. Weighs 20 pounds. Retracted dimensions: 29" Tall x 4" Deep x 19" Wide. Rated for 225 pounds.
- 770P (Home Series): 12.5 feet extended. Weighs 27 pounds. Retracted dimensions: 32" Tall x 5" Deep x 20" Wide. Rated for 225 pounds.
- Model 780P (Pro Series): 12.5 feet extended. Weighs 32 pounds. Retracted dimensions: 32" Tall x 4.5" Deep x 19.75" Wide. Rated for 300 pounds.
- Model 785P (Pro Series): 15.5 feet extended. Weighs 36 pounds. Retracted dimensions: 36" Tall x 4.5" Deep x 19.75" Wide. Rated for 250 pounds.
Xtend & Climb Home Series Telescoping Ladders
Conclusion
Do your homework before buying a portable RV ladder.
You should know what your needs will require it to be capable of doing.
The height of your rig comes into play as well- consider this on top of what you want to use the ladder for.
Sometimes it's not safe to get on the top step(s) so do the math of how tall you are compared to how tall the highest safe rung is to get onto.
Keep your collapsible ladder choice light and compact.
Oh, and don't fall off. It's fun for others to watch, but never fun for you. You're welcome.
If you have any questions, please read the comments below. If your question hasn't already been answered there, pop it in and we will do our best to answer it!. We answer all relevant, intelligent and sensible questions that we can.
Camp on, Addicts!
Kelly Beasley
He-llllo. I'm the co-founder of Camp Addict, which my biz partner and I launched in 2017. I frigging love the RVing lifestyle but in December of 2020, I converted to part-time RV life. Heck, I lived in my travel trailer for over 5.5 years, STRICTLY boondocking for pretty much all of it. Boondocking is a GREAT way to live, but it's not easy. Anyway, I'm passionate about animals, can't stand campgrounds, I hardly ever cook, and I love a good dance party. Currently, I can be found plotting and scheming whether or not to start collecting farm animals (or plotting my next RV trip!) at my beautiful new 'ranch' named 'Hotel Kellyfornia', in Southern Arizona.
Marshall Wendler
Camp Addict co-founder Marshall Wendler brings his technical expertise to help explain RV products in an easy to understand fashion. Full-time RVing from April 2014 - December 2020 (now RVing about 50% of the time), Marshall loves sharing his knowledge of the RV lifestyle. Marshall spends the majority of his RVing life boondocking. He is the part of Camp Addict that knows 'all the things'. He's good at sharing his technical knowledge so you can benefit.
Other Articles You Should Read
My RV bunk did not come with a ladder so I had to get an RV ladder separately – I am pleased to have found this Stromberg Carlson ladder that solved my dilemma. Thanks for your inforamtion you provided!
Hi Gary,
Great solution! And how crazy for a bunk not to come with a ladder? Seriously? How is anyone supposed to get to the top bunk? Huh. Anyway, glad you found a solution and very happy we did somehow help.
Cheers!
I took my time to read and visualize how it will really help me do some work around my MH, and I really like the A frame ladder it’s free standing and have no issues with storage in my Class A rig.
But It comes down to how often am I going to use it? Base of our camping last summer only once I use my old 6ft A frame from my house.
I decided I’m going to go with the telescopic ladder for seldom use.
Thanks
Jdc (Toronto, Canada 🇨🇦 🍁 )
Hi Jose,
Ladders are definitely one of those things that you don’t need – until you do. I rarely need one, but I still carry one. Of course I have a ladder on the back of my trailer that was installed at the factory, and I use this quite regularly to check out the roof.
But I do carry another ladder that I use when I lubricate my slide-out. And I’ve used it for a couple other projects. Good to have when I need it!
I think you did the smart thing to settle with a ladder that will take up the least amount of space, yet will do the job when necessary.
Thanks for the comment and for checking out Camp Addict!
Do you have any recommendations for permanently mounted ladders?
Hi Larry,
We do not as the type of permanent ladder one chooses has a lot to do with what the structure of the RV is that is going to ‘accept’ the ladder. There has to be the right internal structure to attach to, and that greatly depends on how the RV was made. This is beyond the scope of this page.
I can confirm after using the Xtend Ladder for over a year it’s the best one out there. I’ve seen and tried to use the copy cats, but the quality is suspect. I paid the extra money, and got a ladder that will last a long long time. Still need to be careful not to pinch when collapsing the ladder, but it’s awesome
I just bought a 2019 Pulse w/o a ladder but the storage compartments are too small to fit these foldable ladders. What do you suggest??
Hey Jackie,
Congrats on your new RV! I hope you find many great adventures with it.
Unfortunately one of the drawbacks to the smaller Class C’s is the lack of storage, especially on the exterior. If you don’t have any place on the inside you can store a collapsible ladder (under the bed, over the cab, etc), then I’m not sure what you can do. Sorry!
Happy travels in your new rig! Thanks for checking out Camp Addict.
Consider attaching a mount to your bumper or outside ladder. Be ingenious and think outside the box. A collapsible ladder such as a Telesteps 700FLD (STIK) ladder may just work for you. Good luck!
The Xtend+Climb telescoping ladders retract down to less than 3 feet. and are less than 4in in depth. The 770P+ is the ladder shown in the photo and works perfectly with RVs’
Which ladder do you recommend for a 2018 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 264BH? If not an A-frame, how do you keep ladder from damaging camper when it’s leaned up against the top side molding?
Hey Lisa,
In a quick search, I couldn’t get a great picture of the top edge (where the sidewall meets the roof) on that particular model, so I don’t know if there is need to be concerned about damage. Or if it could take having a ‘standard’ style ladder (non-A frame style) being leaned up against it. If I had to venture a guess, I’d say it could. Unless it has a rain gutter all around.
Why not go with an A-frame style ladder if there is concern about damage? Or, you could use some sort of round foam insulation (like what is used to protect water pipes from freezing) at the point where the ladder meets the edge of the RV, to offer some more protection.
But you do have to look carefully at what Jayco did with that ‘seam’ where the sidewall meets the roof and ponder how easily damaged it could be. An A-frame style ladder may be your best option.
Thanks for the question, and Camp On!
The Extend and Climb is awesome! I love that it doesn’t let you smoosh your fingers AND it collapses down all the way. Brilliant!
Thanks for the recommendation, Camp Addict!
Great to hear that you like the Extend and Climb! Something to be said for not smooshing your fingers, right? ????
Awesome to hear that Camp Addict came through for you. ☺️
Camp On and enjoy that ladder of yours!
I have a Coachmen Freelander 2010 Class C
RV. The rig did not come with a ladder to get in the roof. What do you recommend?
Thank you. Nancy Carroll
Hi Nancy! Well, since your rig is 11.17′ high, you will need the Xtend and Climb Aluminum Telescoping Ladder. Get the tallest one at 12.5′ so you can get on the roof. It’s super nice because it collapses way down and takes up very little space. If you are looking to get one installed, see your local dealer. They might be able to do a ladder after-market. Enjoy your travels and Camp On, Nancy!