How to Safely Tow a Travel Trailer

Towing A Travel Trailer

A camper trailer is convenient and provides a great outdoor experience. They give lots of convenience and flexibility that motorhomes lack. Besides, they allow more amenities and tons of living space. 

You have checked in to your favorite RV rentals and got yourself a great travel trailer. The big problem, however, is moving it around. In fact, it can be one of the most stressful things for a camper. For people who don’t tow too much, it gets troublesome, if not catastrophic. 

To feel confident and comfortable behind the wheel, tow your travel trailer properly. Here are some tips on how to safely hit the road while towing a trailer. It’s easier than you thought; 

Know Your Towing Limit

Ready to get out for an RV road trip? Well, just because there is a towing hitch on your vehicle does not mean it can tow any weight. Each vehicle has a specified towing capacity. For many vehicles, the actual maximum tow limit is way lower than indicated. 

Look for the vehicle’s original specifications on towing capacity. Compare the vehicle’s towing capacity with the trailer’s to ensure it doesn’t get overwhelmed. 

Check the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the maximum load weight that you can load the RV. Ensure that your vehicle’s tow capacity is above that number. 

Ensure the RV Has an Appropriate Hitch

The tow hitch is an essential part of an RV. Travel trailers come with installed hitches. However, it is important to ensure it has a sturdier one that can get the job done. 

Look for a trailer with a weight-distribution hitch. This type of hitch balances is ideal as it balances the trailer’s weight between both it and the tow vehicle. Therefore, it prevents sagging at the hitch tongue, maintaining stability on the road. With a weight-distribution hitch, it’s easier to control, brake, and steer your trailer. 

There are different hitches for each type of vehicle class. Ensure that whatever you are renting is appropriate and matches the one on your vehicle. 

Brake Progressively

Do you slam the brakes while driving your travel trailer? If yes, then you have been doing it wrong. A camper trailer is always heavy to brake on a dime. When braking, apply minimal pressure on the brakes progressively, rather one abrupt braking. Lots of weight makes it prone to jackknifing or even skidding. 

When driving on the road, maintain a safe distance between you, the next vehicle in front. It gives you plenty of time to stop in case anything happens on the road. 

Go Slow and Avoid Short Turns

When renting an RV, always think of the best way to take it back unscratched. Your driving style matters a lot in towing a travel trailer. It’s advisable to drive a considerable speed that will require minimal control. 

Travel trailers take time to speed up and slow down, so brake very slowly. No matter how fast you want to reach the campsite, going slowly is vital. With a lot of weight behind you, doing a tremendous speed can be detrimental. It makes it hard to brake, turn, and slow down. 

There is, however, no specific speed. It depends on the weight, type of road terrain, and the type of vehicle. Ideally, never exceed 60 mph. 

When turning your trailer, avoid short turns. Try to take the longest turn to allow some turning space on the inside. 

Check Tire Pressure for Good Handling

It’s highly likely to forget tire pressure when renting an RV. This goes for both the trailer and tow vehicle. Before setting on a road trip, ensure all tires have appropriate pressure. 

Underinflated tires create a handling problem and result in poor fuel consumption. 

Check speed ratings to ensure you do not exceed that speed while on the road. Besides, check the tire pressure on spare tires to ensure they can be reliable if you encounter punctures. 

The Bottom Line

If you want a great RV road trip, these tips will help you tow safely. As long as you maintain maximum safety, renting an RV will always provide mind-blowing experiences. 

Are you looking for the ultimate RV rentals? Get in touch with us for a wide range of RVs, from travel trailers to exquisite motorhomes.