Camp Trailer Towing Tips For Beginners
There is a lot of work and skill that goes into towing a trailer. With learning how to properly and safely hitch a trailer, unhitch a trailer, and use a trailer brake, there is quite a bit that goes into safely towing.
Not fully understanding one of these steps, or worse, not understanding how to tow a trailer properly could quickly lead to problems or accidents along your journey.
Before you hit the road with your camp trailer for the first time, here are some things to keep in mind that will ensure your trip goes a lot more smoothly and safely.
Tow Vehicle
Before you hitch up to your camp trailer, be sure that your tow vehicle is properly rated for the trailer you are planning to pull. Most likely this is something that would have been checked when you purchased your camp trailer, but double checking that your tow vehicle can in fact safely tow the weight of your camp trailer is an important step that should not be overlooked.
Vehicle Maintenance
Take a moment to perform some preventative maintenance on your tow vehicle. Since towing puts a great deal of stress on your tow vehicle, you want to make sure that it is in perfect working condition. This includes steps such as making sure the oil is changed, you have a new oil filter, your tire tread is a good level, your windshield wipers work, your various vehicle fluids are topped off, and your brakes do not have any issues. If there are any warning lights on your dashboard related to your engine or transmission, it is highly advisable that you address those prior to towing your trailer.
Trailer Tires
One of the most overlooked pre-trip steps is checking the tires on your trailer. Because trailers sit for long periods of time without moving, the tires are susceptible to cracking and rotting. Not only is it important to check the tire pressure on your trailer tires but also to check the overall tire health. It is also worth checking your spare trailer tire is full of air and ready to go just in case you have to change a trailer tire while traveling.
Trailer Lights
Ensure that all of your trailer lights work. This can be done by turning on your tow vehicle’s lights while connected to your trailer. While connected, test both turn signals, brakes, energy lights, and reverse lights. If your trailer has marker lights, check that they are all illuminated as well. The last thing you want while towing your camp trailer is to have no way of indicating to other drivers that you are slowing down or turning. This could quickly lead to an accident.
Safety Chains
It is incredibly smart to use your safety chains while towing. In the event that your trailer comes off the hitch, these safety chains will save your trailer. Experts recommend crossing your safety chains under the tongue of your trailer in an X pattern, so that in the event your trailer comes off the hitch, these chains create a cradle of sorts that will prevent the trailer tongue from digging into the ground.
With these towing tips in mind, it’s time to get on the road and start your camping adventure. Above all, be safe, go slow, give yourself plenty of room to stop, turn wide, and enjoy the ride. Happy camping!