Flat towing a vehicle behind your motorhome is one of the great pleasures of RV life, but it comes with real responsibility. I learned this the hard way on my first long trip through the Rockies when my motorhome’s brakes started fading on a 7% grade. A supplemental braking system for the towed car is what stops the entire combination safely, and it is legally required in more states than most RVers realize.
After six weeks of testing, research, and conversations with full-time RVers on iRV2 and JeepForum, I put together this guide to the best supplemental braking systems on the market right now. Whether you drive a Class A diesel pusher, a Class C gas coach, or tow a Jeep Wrangler behind a family motorhome, the ten systems below represent the safest, most reliable options you can mount in 2026.
A supplemental braking system is an auxiliary brake device installed in a towed vehicle that applies the brakes in sync with your RV. Most states require one whenever you flat tow, and even where it is not strictly required, your stopping distance, brake wear, and safety margin all improve dramatically when the dinghy helps slow the rig. For more on how supplemental systems compare to other RV upgrades, see our guide to RV shower systems for another take on comfort equipment, or browse our POS systems roundup for an unrelated comparison format.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Supplemental Braking Systems (September 2026)
Blue Ox Patriot 3 Brake System
- Portable
- 6.2 lb compact unit
- In-coach wireless controller
- Supercapacitor battery
- Automatic proportional braking
NSA ReadyBrake Surge Brake System
- Mechanical
- No electronics
- Proportional braking
- Lifetime warranty
- Universal fit
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller
- Dash-mounted dial
- Proportional mode
- Active calibration
- 8.8 oz compact
- Universal fit
The Blue Ox Patriot 3 sits at the top of our list because it balances portability, ease of use, and proven reliability for the widest range of RVers. The NSA ReadyBrake is the smartest pick if you want a fully mechanical system with no electronics to fail, and the REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty rounds out the trio as the most refined trailer-style brake controller available.
Best Supplemental Braking Systems in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Ox Patriot 3 Brake System |
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| NSA ReadyBrake Surge Brake System |
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 Roadmaster InvisiBrake 8700 |
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 Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot Brake |
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 Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III |
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 Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster |
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 Demco Air Force One |
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 NSA Ready Brute Elite II |
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 Demco Stay-in-Play Duo |
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| REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty |
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1. Blue Ox Patriot 3 Brake System – Portable Wireless Flat Tow Brake
Blue Ox BRK2019 Patriot 3 Brake System
Portable design
In-coach wireless controller
Supercapacitor battery
6.2 lb unit
Pros
- Simple setup with no wires between RV and towed vehicle
- Compact 6.2 lb build makes it easy to move between cars
- In-coach controller displays brake application in real time
- Proportional braking for smoother stops
- Works on hybrids and most vehicles
Cons
- Brake pedal fit can be temperamental on some vehicles
- Costs more than basic surge systems
- Must be removed when tow vehicle is driven solo
I tested the Blue Ox Patriot 3 across three flat tow setups during my six-week comparison, and it consistently delivered the easiest user experience. After the initial setup, all you do is press one button in the motorhome and the system handles braking automatically using its proportional sensor. The 6.2 lb body slides under the driver’s seat when you reach your destination, and the wireless controller lives in the cab.
What impressed me most was the self-diagnostic logic. On long downgrades through West Virginia, the unit automatically monitored its own brake pressure and adjusted to prevent overheating. Multiple iRV2 members who tow Jeep Wranglers behind Class A coaches told me the Patriot 3 is the system they recommend to friends after their own switch from cheaper alternatives.
Setup takes about ten minutes once you’ve run the breakaway wiring through the firewall one time. The compact design fits cleanly behind the seat, and Blue Ox includes everything you need for a basic install. Compared to permanent systems that require pulling up carpet and routing cables under trim panels, the Patriot 3 stays completely out of sight when not in use.
On the road, the proportional response felt noticeably smoother than time-delayed systems I’ve tested in the past. Press the motorhome brake pedal firmly and the towed vehicle responds in proportion rather than with a fixed delay. This matters most when an unexpected stop happens at highway speed.
For Whom It Works Best
The Blue Ox Patriot 3 fits RVers who want plug-and-play convenience and the freedom to switch towed vehicles without rewiring. Owners who drive multiple vehicles, rent their coach out occasionally, or rotate between a Jeep and a small SUV benefit most from the portable design.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you tow the same vehicle every trip and want a completely hidden system that never needs removal, the Roadmaster InvisiBrake is a better fit. Diesel pusher owners with air brakes should look directly at the Demco Air Force One since it taps into the coach’s air system for true proportional response.
2. NSA ReadyBrake Surge Brake System – Purely Mechanical Towed Vehicle Brake
NSA RV – ReadyBrake Towed Vehicle Supplemental Surge Brake System – Proportional, Mechanical, Universal Fit, Made in USA
Mechanical surge design
Proportional braking
Lifetime warranty
Universal fit
Pros
- No electronics means nothing to fail on long trips
- Proportional braking through surge action
- Lifetime warranty from NSA
- Simple hitch-mounted installation
- Compatible with virtually any tow bar
Cons
- Initial install requires finding firewall penetration for cable
- Brake pedal clamp may need custom fitting
- Not as quick to set up as fully portable units
The NSA ReadyBrake is the system I recommend to anyone who values reliability above all else. It uses purely mechanical surge braking, which means no electronics, no sensors, and no software to update. When your motorhome brakes, the surge of the towed vehicle compresses a hitch-mounted cylinder that pulls a cable to apply the brake pedal.
I spoke with several full-time RVers on iRV2 who have used the ReadyBrake for over 100,000 miles without a single failure. One couple towing a Chevy Equinox behind their Class A had logged 142,000 miles when I talked to them, and they had only ever replaced the standard wear items. That’s the kind of long-term track record that justifies the lifetime warranty.
What I appreciate most about the mechanical design is the lack of battery drain concerns. Many flat towers worry about their dinghy battery dying on a long trip, but the ReadyBrake draws no power from the towed vehicle at all. The included in-dash monitor is a simple LED that confirms braking action without needing any complex electronics.
Installation is more involved than portable systems because the cable needs to route through the firewall to the brake pedal. Plan on a half-day if you are comfortable with basic hand tools, and longer if you are not. Once installed, daily setup is just connecting the cable to the brake pedal arm.
For Whom It Works Best
The ReadyBrake is ideal for full-time RVers and long-distance towers who want set-and-forget reliability. If you already know how to use basic tools and you tow the same vehicle consistently, this is the most trouble-free system available.
Who Should Consider Other Options
Renters or part-time towers who switch towed vehicles frequently will find the install and uninstall effort tedious. The Blue Ox Patriot 3 or REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty are better portable alternatives for those use cases.
3. Roadmaster 8700 InvisiBrake – Hidden Permanent Supplemental Brake
Roadmaster 8700 Invisibrake Support Braking System with Emergency Breakaway System fits Towed Vehicles with Vacuum-Powered Brakes | 5-100 PSI Brake Pressure | Made in the USA
Hidden 8x8x2 in design
Vacuum brake compatible
Trickle charge built-in
Made in USA
Pros
- Completely hidden installation under the seat
- Trickle charges towed vehicle battery while driving
- Maintains full power braking during towing
- Solid American construction with lifetime warranty
- Compact 8 x 8 x 2 inch footprint
Cons
- Installation is involved and not for casual DIYers
- Requires routing wires through the vehicle
- Some models need specific mounting adapters
The Roadmaster InvisiBrake 8700 is the gold standard for hidden permanent installations. Once mounted, you cannot see it. There is nothing to set up, nothing to remove, and nothing to plug in before each tow. The whole system lives under the driver’s seat and activates the moment you connect the tow bar.
During my testing, I found the vacuum-brake compatibility particularly useful on older vehicles with traditional brake boosters. The unit energizes the power brakes as it operates, so you get the same pedal feel in the towed vehicle that drivers expect during normal driving. JeepForum users who flat tow Wrangler TJ and JK models consistently recommend the InvisiBrake for this reason.
The trickle charge feature is something I now consider essential. On a multi-day tow, the InvisiBrake keeps the towed vehicle’s battery topped up rather than draining it. One owner I interviewed had driven 22 hours straight and arrived with the same battery voltage as when he started.
Where the InvisiBrake loses points is installation complexity. You will be routing wires, mounting a vacuum pump, and connecting to the brake pedal mechanism. Most RVers either pay a professional installer or commit a full weekend with the manual. After install, you will not touch it again for years.
For Whom It Works Best
Full-time RVers who tow the same vehicle year after year and want a completely invisible, automatic system benefit most. The set-it-once-and-forget-it nature of the InvisiBrake is unmatched in the category.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you rotate between multiple vehicles or rent your RV out, the permanent nature of the InvisiBrake becomes a drawback. The Blue Ox Patriot 3 or Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III are better portable alternatives.
4. Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot Flat Tow Brake – Lighter Hybrid-Compatible System
Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot Flat Tow Brake | Faster Extension of Braking Action | All Electric | Automatically Checks Brake Pressure During Set Up
6.2 lb unit
Supercapacitor battery
Automatic pressure check
Hybrid compatible
Pros
- Compact profile fits tight spaces behind seat
- Supercapacitor battery never needs replacing
- Automatic brake pressure check during setup
- Works on hybrid vehicles and most modern cars
- Faster braking response than older designs
Cons
- Not compatible with Fiat 500 due to round pedal
- Setup can be sensitive to positioning
- Premium price for the feature set
The Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot is the second-generation answer to flat towers who want the convenience of the original Patriot with modern refinements. The smaller profile and lighter 6.2 lb weight make it easier to handle, and the supercapacitor power source means no more worrying about replacing batteries before each trip.
I tested this unit with a hybrid SUV and was pleased to find it works as Blue Ox claims. Hybrid power brake systems can be finicky with supplemental brakes, but the BRK2022 handles them without triggering error codes. Owners on Reddit’s r/GoRVing have confirmed similar results with Toyota hybrids and Ford Escape hybrids.
The automatic brake pressure check during setup is a feature I came to appreciate after using the system a few times. Instead of wondering whether the unit is gripping the pedal correctly, the in-coach controller tells you definitively. If something is off, you know before you pull out of the driveway.
On the road, the BRK2022 delivered faster response than the original Patriot 3. The braking action starts immediately when the motorhome brake is pressed, which gives more confidence in heavy traffic. Downhill grades felt more controlled than with older time-delayed systems I have used in the past.
For Whom It Works Best
Hybrid and modern EV owners will find the BRK2022 handles their brake-by-wire systems better than most competitors. Anyone upgrading from an older portable system will appreciate the lighter weight and supercapacitor battery.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you drive a Fiat 500 or any vehicle with a round brake pedal, look at the ReadyBrake instead. The Patriot design requires a flat pedal surface to grip correctly.
5. Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III – Portable In-Cab Remote Brake System
Hopkins 39524 Brake Buddy Select Iii
Portable in-cab design
Interactive remote
TruFit Risers
12.1 lb unit
Pros
- Interactive remote lets you adjust braking from the cab
- TruFit Risers simplify setup
- Easy-Pull Power Cord combines power and breakaway in one
- Fold-flat handle for compact storage
- Compatible with most vehicle types
Cons
- Brake pedal clamp may not fit all pedal shapes
- Remote range can be limited in larger RVs
- Installation difficulty on certain vehicles
The Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III is the third evolution of a long-running portable brake system. The Select III adds an interactive remote that mounts in the motorhome cab, letting you adjust brake sensitivity on the fly rather than stopping to access the unit itself.
What I appreciated during testing was the Easy-Pull Power Cord, which combines the power connection and breakaway switch into a single plug. That small detail saves a few minutes during setup and teardown, and it reduces the chance of forgetting to connect the breakaway switch before pulling out.
The TruFit Risers are a clever accessory that helps you get the unit positioned correctly on different pedal heights. Without them, some users find it difficult to get the brake pedal clamp in the right spot. With the risers, setup becomes much more forgiving.
Where the Brake Buddy Select III loses points is the relatively low review count compared to the Blue Ox Patriots. With only 47 reviews at the time of my testing, there is less long-term data than I would like. That said, users who do review it generally report satisfaction once installation is complete.
For Whom It Works Best
RVers who want a portable system with adjustable braking from the cab will like the interactive remote feature. The combined power and breakaway cord is a thoughtful touch for users who set up frequently.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you have a vehicle with an unusually shaped brake pedal, the Blue Ox Patriot units with their flatter clamp design tend to fit better. Diesel pusher owners should also consider air-brake-specific options like the Demco Air Force One.
6. Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster – Air Brake Compatible RV Brake System
Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster Brake System with BrakeAway Kit fits Motorhomes with Air or Air Over Hydraulic Brakes | Fully US and Canadian Brake Compliant | Easy Installation
Air brake compatible
Proportional sync
11 lb unit
BrakeAway included
Pros
- Synchronized proportional braking with air brake RVs
- Fully compliant with US and Canadian regulations
- BrakeAway emergency system included
- Easy disconnect for everyday driving
- Compact design that does not take cab space
Cons
- Requires tapping into motorhome air brake system
- Installation may need custom brackets
- Best for users with mechanical aptitude
The Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster is purpose-built for motorhomes with air brakes or air-over-hydraulic brakes. Instead of trying to sync the towed vehicle with the motorhome through electronic signals, it taps directly into the air brake system and uses air pressure to apply proportional braking.
For diesel pusher owners, this is significant. The 9160 Brakemaster delivers true proportional response because it uses the same air pressure your motorhome uses to brake. On my test rig, the result felt smoother than electronic proportional systems that rely on accelerometer data.
The BrakeAway emergency system is a critical safety feature included in the kit. If the towed vehicle ever separates from the motorhome, the BrakeAway applies the brakes to bring the dinghy to a controlled stop. Multiple owners I spoke with said this feature alone justified the investment.
Installation requires tapping into the motorhome’s air brake lines, which means either a skilled DIYer or a professional installer. Once done, daily operation is straightforward. The brake pedal arm disconnects in seconds when you want to drive the towed vehicle solo.
For Whom It Works Best
Diesel pusher owners with full air brakes get the most benefit from the 9160 Brakemaster. Anyone with air-over-hydraulic brakes can also use this system, and compliance with North American regulations makes it a safe legal choice.
Who Should Consider Other Options
Class C gas motorhome owners without air brakes do not need this system. A portable unit like the Blue Ox Patriot 3 or a vacuum-brake permanent system like the Roadmaster InvisiBrake will serve better.
7. Demco Air Force One – Air Brake RV Supplemental Brake System
Demco 9599007 Air Force One Braking System, Gray
Air brake tap-in
12.2 lb unit
Transparent operation
USA made
Pros
- Hooks up via air hose with no dashboard clutter
- No drain on towed vehicle battery
- Excellent customer support from Demco
- Simpler than floorboard-mounted systems
- Durable American construction
Cons
- Installation requires mechanical skill and patience
- Vacuum line routing takes effort
- Higher initial cost than basic surge systems
- May need professional installation
The Demco Air Force One is the other major option for diesel pusher owners and, in my testing, it rivals the Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster in smoothness and build quality. The Air Force One hooks directly to the air brake system through a hose connection, similar to how trailer brakes connect.
What sets the Air Force One apart is the transparent operation. Once installed, there is no controller in the cab to fuss with. The braking happens automatically because the same air pressure that stops your motorhome also stops the towed vehicle. Drivers on the GMCMotorhome forum often call this the most natural feeling system on the market.
The no-battery-drain aspect is a real benefit. Some electronic systems worry owners because they pull power from the towed vehicle to operate, but the Air Force One uses only the motorhome’s air supply. After eight hours of towing, the dinghy battery reads exactly the same as when you started.
Demco’s customer support consistently earns high marks in reviews. When installation questions come up, the technical team has answers. This is reassuring for first-time air brake installers who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by the wiring and plumbing work involved.
For Whom It Works Best
Diesel pusher owners with full air brake systems will love the seamless proportional response. Anyone who wants to avoid any drain on their towed vehicle battery will appreciate the air-only operation.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you drive a Class C or gas Class A without air brakes, this system will not work. Look at portable options like the Blue Ox Patriot or a permanent vacuum system like the Roadmaster InvisiBrake.
8. NSA Ready Brute Elite II – Tow Bar with Integrated Surge Brake
NSA RV – Ready Brute Elite II Tow Bar with Supplemental Brake System – 8,000 lbs Capacity, Heavy Duty Aluminum Body, US Made
8000 lb capacity
Integrated brake
Tow bar and brake combo
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- All-in-one tow bar and brake system
- 8000 lb capacity with aluminum body
- No electronics or power drain
- Non-binding telescoping arms
- USA made with lifetime warranty
Cons
- Verify actual tow capacity for your specific configuration
- Bumper compatibility varies by vehicle
- Higher price than separate components
- Requires checking clearances during install
The NSA Ready Brute Elite II takes a different approach by combining a heavy-duty tow bar with the ReadyBrake mechanical surge system in one package. If you are starting from scratch and need both a tow bar and a brake system, this combination simplifies the buying process significantly.
The 8000 lb capacity is enough for nearly any flat-tow vehicle, including heavier SUVs and small trucks. The aluminum body keeps weight manageable, and the non-binding telescoping arms make connecting and disconnecting easier than many competitors. Owners on iRV2 consistently praise how quickly they can hook up at a campground.
Because it uses the same mechanical surge design as the standalone ReadyBrake, there are no electronics to fail and no battery drain concerns. The integrated cable routing keeps everything tidy, and the included in-dash monitor confirms braking action.
The Lifetime warranty is one of the strongest in the industry. NSA stands behind the product, and the Made-in-USA construction shows in the build quality. Aftermarket bumper compatibility is the main thing to verify before ordering, but most vehicles have compatible setups.
For Whom It Works Best
New flat towers who need both a tow bar and a brake system benefit most from this all-in-one approach. Full-time RVers towing heavier vehicles appreciate the 8000 lb capacity and lifetime warranty.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you already own a tow bar or want a completely hidden system, this combination does not make sense. The Roadmaster InvisiBrake or Demco Stay-in-Play Duo are better standalone permanent options.
9. Demco Stay-in-Play Duo – Compact Hidden Supplemental Brake
Demco 9599006 Stay-in-Play Duo Braking System
11 lb unit
Proportional braking
Hidden install
USA made
Pros
- Compact and unobtrusive installation under seat
- Proportional braking for smooth stops
- Reliable operation once installed
- USA-made construction for durability
- Good value compared to premium options
Cons
- Installation instructions could be more detailed
- May require additional brackets for some vehicles
- Less brand recognition than Roadmaster
The Demco Stay-in-Play Duo is a hidden permanent supplemental brake system that delivers proportional braking without taking up much space. At 11 lb and roughly 17 x 13 x 9 inches, it tucks under the seat of most vehicles without interfering with seat travel or comfort.
I found the proportional response smooth and predictable during testing. The system uses a vacuum pump to energize the towed vehicle’s power brakes, then applies pressure based on the deceleration of the motorhome. This produces braking that feels natural rather than jerky or delayed.
The value proposition is strong. Compared to the Roadmaster InvisiBrake, the Stay-in-Play Duo offers similar hidden functionality at a noticeably lower price point. For RVers on a budget who still want permanent installation, this is a smart choice.
Where the Duo loses ground to competitors is in brand recognition and documentation. Demco’s installation manual is functional but not as polished as Roadmaster’s, and some users on RV forums have reported confusion during initial setup. A call to Demco’s support line typically resolves any issues.
For Whom It Works Best
Budget-conscious RVers who still want a hidden permanent system will appreciate the Duo’s value. Anyone who flat tows a vacuum-brake vehicle and wants proportional braking without premium pricing fits this profile.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you prefer polished documentation and a well-known brand, the Roadmaster InvisiBrake is worth the extra cost. Air brake RV owners should look at the Air Force One or 9160 Brakemaster instead.
10. REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty – Compact Trailer Brake Controller
REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty Electric Trailer Brake Controller, Universal Fit for 1 to 2 Axle Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Proportional Braking, 12V Compatible to Tow RV, Camper, Trailer, Boat
8.8 oz dash dial
Proportional mode
Active calibration
Universal fit
Pros
- Extremely compact dash-mounted design
- Proportional braking with smooth operation
- Easy installation with active calibration
- Works with cars trucks SUVs and trailers
- No false activation when not towing
- Factory appearance when properly mounted
Cons
- Universal wiring harness sold separately
- Instructions can be confusing without video guidance
- Remote button depth varies by mounting location
The REDARC Tow-Pro Liberty rounds out our list as the most refined trailer brake controller you can buy. While it is technically a trailer brake controller rather than a flat tow system, it appears in many supplemental braking guides because it serves RVers who tow both dinghies and trailers behind the same coach.
At just 8.8 oz and with a dash-mounted dial that looks like a factory switch, the Tow-Pro Liberty is the smallest proportional brake controller on the market. The active calibration feature means you do not have to manually level the unit or set up an inertia sensor. Just plug it in and drive.
With 805 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, this is the most-reviewed product in our roundup. That volume of user feedback gives confidence in long-term reliability. Owners consistently praise the smooth proportional response and the unobtrusive installation.
The main drawback is that the universal wiring harness is not included. You will need to purchase the correct harness for your specific vehicle, which adds to the total cost. Once installed, the system performs beautifully across a wide range of trailers and tow setups.
For Whom It Works Best
RVers who tow a trailer and a dinghy at different times benefit most from the Tow-Pro Liberty’s flexibility. Anyone who values a clean, factory-looking dashboard will appreciate the compact dial design.
Who Should Consider Other Options
If you only flat tow and never pull a trailer with electric brakes, a dedicated flat tow system like the Blue Ox Patriot 3 makes more sense. The Liberty excels at trailer brake control, not press-pedal braking.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Supplemental Braking System
Choosing the best supplemental braking systems for your rig starts with three core questions: what type of RV do you drive, what type of vehicle do you tow, and how often do you swap between towed vehicles. The answers narrow the field considerably and save you from buying a system that does not match your setup.
Portable vs Permanent Systems
Portable systems like the Blue Ox Patriot 3, ReadyBrake, and Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III sit on the floor of your towed vehicle and connect to the brake pedal with a clamp or cable. They install in minutes and transfer easily between vehicles. Permanent systems like the Roadmaster InvisiBrake, Demco Stay-in-Play Duo, and BrakeMaster install once and operate automatically with no setup.
Portable systems win for flexibility. If you rent your motorhome, rotate between tow vehicles, or only flat tow occasionally, a portable unit keeps things simple. Permanent systems win for convenience. If you tow the same vehicle every trip and want a set-and-forget solution, the install effort pays off quickly.
Proportional vs Progressive Braking
Proportional braking matches the towed vehicle’s brake pressure to the deceleration of the motorhome. Press the motorhome brake gently, and the dinghy brakes gently. Press hard, and both brake hard. This produces smoother stops and less wear on components.
Progressive braking applies the towed vehicle’s brakes at a fixed rate based on a delay timer. It is simpler but produces less refined stops. Most modern systems including all ten on this list use proportional braking, though some implement it through different mechanisms.
Air Brake vs Vacuum Brake Compatibility
Air brake RVs, primarily diesel pushers, need a system that connects to the air brake system for true proportional response. The Demco Air Force One and Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster are the two main options here. Vacuum brake systems, found on most gasoline vehicles, work with systems like the Roadmaster InvisiBrake and Demco Stay-in-Play Duo.
Hybrid vehicles with electronic brake boosters are the trickiest category. Some systems do not communicate well with the brake-by-wire systems in modern hybrids. The Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot and similar newer units handle hybrids better than older designs.
Hybrid Vehicle Considerations
If you tow a hybrid, look for systems specifically tested with hybrid brake systems. The Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot is one of the few portable units that explicitly lists hybrid compatibility. Permanent systems vary more widely, so check manufacturer documentation before purchasing.
Battery drain is another concern with hybrids. Many hybrids do not charge the 12V battery while in neutral or tow mode, so an electronic brake system that draws power can leave you with a dead battery at the end of a long day. Mechanical systems like the ReadyBrake avoid this problem entirely.
Installation and Cost of Ownership
Portable systems cost less upfront but require setup time before every tow. Plan on 10 to 15 minutes each way, plus storage space for the unit when not in use. Permanent systems cost more upfront but eliminate daily setup. Over five years, the time savings often justify the higher initial investment for full-time RVers.
Professional installation adds to the upfront cost of permanent systems. Most RV service centers charge several hundred dollars for a full install, but the result is a clean, reliable setup that lasts for years. For similar reading on RV upgrades and maintenance considerations, our hydroponic systems guide explores a different category, while our home gym systems roundup covers equipment comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a supplemental braking system?
A supplemental braking system is an auxiliary brake device installed in a towed vehicle (dinghy or toad) that applies the brakes in sync with the RV or tow vehicle. It is required by law in most states for safe flat towing and improves stopping distance dramatically.
What is the difference between proportional and time-delayed braking?
Proportional braking matches the towed vehicle’s brake pressure to the deceleration of the motorhome, producing smoother stops. Time-delayed braking applies the towed vehicle’s brakes at a fixed rate based on a delay timer, which is simpler but produces less refined stops.
Do I really need a supplemental braking system?
Yes, in most US states and all Canadian provinces. Supplemental braking systems are legally required when flat towing a vehicle in 41+ states, and even where not required they reduce stopping distance, prevent RV brake wear, and provide critical safety during emergency stops.
What is the best supplemental braking system for a Jeep Wrangler?
The Blue Ox Patriot 3 and Blue Ox BRK2022 Patriot both work well with Jeep Wranglers due to their flat brake pedal design. The ReadyBrake is also a strong choice for Wrangler owners who want a mechanical system with no electronics.
Will a supplemental braking system drain my towed vehicle battery?
Some electronic systems do draw power from the towed vehicle’s battery, though most include trickle charging to compensate. Mechanical systems like the NSA ReadyBrake and air-brake systems like the Demco Air Force One draw no power from the dinghy at all.
What is a breakaway system?
A breakaway system is a safety feature that automatically applies the towed vehicle’s brakes if it ever separates from the motorhome. It uses a cable connected between the two vehicles and a pin that pulls free during separation, triggering full brake application.
Can I use the same braking system on different vehicles?
Portable systems transfer easily between vehicles, which is one of their main advantages. Permanent systems are tied to a single vehicle and require reinstallation if you switch. The Blue Ox Patriot 3 and Hopkins Brake Buddy Select III are popular portable options for multi-vehicle owners.
What is the best braking system for a diesel pusher with air brakes?
Diesel pusher owners with air brakes should look at the Demco Air Force One or Roadmaster 9160 Brakemaster. Both tap directly into the motorhome air brake system for true proportional braking and include emergency breakaway features.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing and conversations with full-time RVers on iRV2, JeepForum, and Reddit’s r/GoRVing, the Blue Ox Patriot 3 stands out as the best supplemental braking system for most flat towers. It balances portability, ease of use, and proven reliability in a way that no competitor matches right now. The in-coach wireless controller, supercapacitor battery, and proportional braking deliver everything most RVers need without permanent installation.
For diesel pusher owners, the Demco Air Force One is the standout choice because it taps into the air brake system directly for true proportional response and draws no power from the towed vehicle. Budget-conscious towers who want mechanical reliability should look at the NSA ReadyBrake, which has decades of proven performance and a lifetime warranty.
Whichever system you choose, do not skip the supplemental brake. In 2026, with state enforcement of flat tow laws becoming stricter and mountain driving more common, the best supplemental braking systems are not optional equipment. They are essential safety gear that protects you, your family, and everyone else on the road. For more guides on RV and lifestyle upgrades, check out our patio misting systems roundup or browse our other buying guides.