Are you required to carry a spare tire if your car is towing a trailer?

Towing a trailer turns your vehicle into a 'combination' or 'towing set', and this brings some obligations that you might not be accustomed to. One of the most common questions is about the spare tire: do I need to carry one for the trailer in addition to the one for the car? Regulations aren't always crystal clear, and failing to comply can lead to hefty fines or, worse, being stranded. Let’s get straight to the point.

The short answer: The car is the priority, but the trailer is common sense

When you hook up a trailer, the combination is usually subject to specific regulations regarding vehicle safety. Laws almost universally require the towing vehicle (the car) to be prepared for breakdowns. While there is often no specific legal requirement in many jurisdictions to carry a spare tire for the trailer itself, you are legally required to ensure the entire setup is roadworthy.

If your car carries its spare tire (or a homologated tire repair kit), you are generally complying with the law, even if the trailer doesn't have its own spare. However, be careful with modern cars: many manufacturers have removed the spare wheel in favor of a repair kit. If this is your case, double-check that the kit is actually in the car and that the sealant has not expired. If it’s expired, it is useless, and legally, it may be treated as if you have no repair equipment at all.

What if the trailer gets a flat?

Just because it might not be legally mandatory doesn't mean it won't happen. If a trailer tire blows out on the highway and you don’t have a spare, your only option is calling a tow truck. For long trips, bring a spare. It doesn’t take up much space and can save you an entire afternoon stranded on the shoulder.

There is an additional detail to keep in mind: trailer tires are not exactly the same as car tires. There are specific tires for trailers, called ST (Special Trailer) tires, designed to better withstand static loads and the heat generated by towing. If you are going to buy a spare for the trailer, make sure it is the correct size, and if you can, opt for an ST tire. Using a car tire as a spare for a trailer might work in a pinch, but it is not ideal.

What else must you carry?

The spare tire isn't the only thing that changes when you're towing. Here is the essential safety kit:

• Warning Triangles: Unlike standard cars, trailers can create obstacles. Keep warning triangles in your vehicle. If you break down, these are the standard international requirement to signal your position and prevent accidents. Always place them at a safe distance behind your vehicle.
• Reflective Vest: Mandatory in many regions. If you have to exit your car on the roadside, you must put it on before stepping out. Not after—before. It is a detail that many people overlook and can lead to fines if you are seen exiting the vehicle without it.
• Trailer Documentation: There is a common myth that "light trailers" don't need paperwork. This is false. In most countries, every trailer must have its own registration papers or title. This document proves the trailer is homologated and meets technical requirements. Without it, you are liable for fines. If your trailer exceeds certain weight limits, it may also require its own insurance and, depending on the weight of the combination, you may even need a specific towing license or endorsement on your driver's license.
• License Plate/Number Plate: Depending on your country (e.g., in the UK), you may need to display the towing vehicle’s number plate on the rear of the trailer. In other regions, the trailer must have its own independent registration and plate. Check your local laws to see if you need an additional plate attached to the rear of your trailer. It’s cheap, easy to install, and mandatory.
• Insurance: Even if your trailer seems like a "simple" piece of equipment, notify your insurer before using it. Many people skip this step, only to find out their coverage doesn't extend to towing. Some policies cover it automatically; others require an extension. A five-minute call can save you a serious headache if an accident occurs.
• Fire Extinguisher: While not strictly mandatory for private passenger vehicles, carrying a small fire extinguisher is a highly recommended safety measure. An electrical short in the trailer's lighting or an overheated wheel bearing can cause a fire. An extinguisher is cheap, compact, and provides immense peace of mind.

Five minutes of prevention

Before you hit the road, do a quick check: Ensure the car's spare tire is inflated (or the repair kit sealant is valid). Verify that you have the trailer's registration documents. Make sure your license plate is visible and securely fastened. Confirm with your insurer that you are covered. And if you're planning a long trip, bring a spare trailer tire.

It isn't much effort, and it can save you a fine, a long wait on the side of the road, or a nightmare with insurance claims.

If you are thinking about getting a trailer to transport your motorcycle, the foldable trailer from LittleWay Team comes with all the required documentation from day one: European homologation, technical specifications included, and manufactured with quality standards.

And if this is your first time towing, check out our blog for our Towing Guide for Beginners, where we explain step-by-step how to prepare your vehicle combination and how to adjust your driving from the very first mile.