Three types of RV towable steps. Different mounting, storage, and terrain behavior. One decision that depends on how you camp.
RV steps can look simple until you are trying to use them on uneven ground, in the dark, with a full cooler in one hand and a dog pulling ahead of you. The factory steps that came with your travel trailer or fifth wheel may have been adequate on a level concrete pad. But the moment the campsite is gravel, the ground is sloped, or the entry is higher than expected, those steps start to show their limits: they bounce, they wobble, they hang in the air, and they do not inspire confidence.
This article compares the three main types of RV towable steps: step-well mounted, doorway-mounted, and portable. It explains how each one works, where each one stores, and which Torklift product fits each approach.
Three Types of RV Towable Steps
Not every RV step mounts the same way or stores the same way. Understanding the differences prevents buying a system that does not fit your RV or your camping style.
Step-Well Mounted Steps
Step-well mounted steps install in the step well (the recessed area below the RV doorway). They typically fold up into the step well for travel and extend downward for use. Many factory RV steps are step-well mounted. The advantage of step-well mounting is that the steps are always with the RV and do not need to be carried or stored separately. The limitation of many factory step-well steps is that they hang in the air without touching the ground, which causes bouncing and instability.
Doorway-Mounted Steps
Doorway-mounted steps attach to the RV doorway frame itself, not the step well. They typically remove for travel (tool-free in many cases) and attach when the RV is parked. The advantage of doorway mounting is that the steps can be removed entirely when traveling or parking in tight spaces. The limitation is that removed steps must be stored somewhere during travel: inside the RV, in a storage bay, or in the tow vehicle.
Portable Steps
Portable steps are free-standing step units that sit on the ground near the RV entry. They are not attached to the RV. They can be placed at any entry and moved to different positions. The advantage is flexibility. The limitation is that portable steps must be carried, stored, set up each time, and may shift on soft or uneven ground unless stabilized.
Comparison Table
| Step Type | Where It Stores | Best Fit For | Torklift Recommendation | What to Verify |
| Step-well mounted | Folds into the step well. Travels with the RV. | Travel trailers and fifth wheels with step-well openings. Owners who want steps always attached. | GlowStep Revolution | Step-well opening width. Entry height. Step count needed. |
| Doorway-mounted | Folded into the doorway. | Trailers where there is no step-well, tight parking is common, or removal is preferred. | GlowStep Revolution Uprising | Doorway frame measurements. Entry height. |
| Portable | Carried separately. Set on the ground. | Supplemental entry. Situations where attached steps are not practical. | Not a primary Torklift recommendation for travel trailer main entry. | Ground stability. Step height vs. entry height. |
Recommended Torklift Step System
For travel trailer and fifth wheel owners with step-well openings who want steps that fold into the step well, travel with the RV, and reach the ground on uneven terrain, GlowStep Revolution is the primary recommendation. It is a step-well mounted system designed to adapt to terrain and provide ground contact.
For owners who prefer doorway-mounted steps with tool-free removal, GlowStep Revolution Uprising is the primary recommendation. It attaches to the doorway frame and removes for travel or tight-space parking.
Both systems are available direct from Torklift. Measure your step-well opening or doorway frame before ordering. Contact Torklift support if you are unsure which system fits your RV.
Key Takeaways
- Step-well mounted steps fold into the step well and travel with the RV. GlowStep Revolution is Torklift's recommendation.
- Doorway-mounted steps attach to the doorway frame and remove for travel. GlowStep Revolution Uprising is Torklift's recommendation.
- Portable steps are free-standing and flexible but must be carried and stabilized separately.
- The right choice depends on RV type, mounting location, entry height, storage preference, and terrain.
- Measure before ordering. Contact Torklift support if unsure.
Find your Torklift step fitment here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of RV towable steps?
Step-well mounted (fold into the step well), doorway-mounted (attach to the doorway frame and remove), and portable (free-standing, carried separately).
What is a step-well mounted RV step?
Steps that install in the recessed step well below the RV doorway. They fold up for travel and extend for use.
What is a doorway-mounted RV step?
Steps that attach to the RV doorway frame. They typically remove tool-free for travel or tight-space parking.
What is GlowStep Revolution?
Torklift's step-well mounted step system for travel trailers and fifth wheels. Designed to reach the ground and adapt to terrain.
What is GlowStep Revolution Uprising?
Torklift's doorway-mounted step system for towable RVs. Tool-free removal for travel and tight spaces.
Which should I choose?
It depends on your RV type, mounting location, entry height, and storage preference. Measure before ordering.