Tips for your first trip with a trailer

If it’s your first time driving with a trailer, you may feel a bit nervous during the first trips until you gain some confidence and ease. Therefore, we will provide you with a series of tips so you can drive with a trailer much more calmly and safely.

Perform Safety Checks

Before starting any trip, it is important to check that all components of your car are working properly. If you are towing a trailer, you should also perform the necessary checks on the trailer itself to avoid any problems.

The main components you should always check when traveling with a trailer are:

Towing System

The tow ball must be installed correctly to prevent it from coming loose during the trip. Also, make sure before starting any journey that the trailer is well hitched to reduce the chances of it uncoupling on a curve or hill.

Connections

Check that the pin connections have been made properly, as failure to do so may cause the trailer lighting system to malfunction, and you will not be able to drive with the minimum safety measures for this type of coupled vehicle.

Tires

Both the car tires and those of the trailer must be in optimal condition, as if they do not have the right pressure, their grip will be reduced. Furthermore, this will increase the likelihood of a flat tire or blowout.

Load Position

The position of the load is one of the aspects that can cause the most problems on the first trip with a trailer, as many drivers do not know how to place it. The load should always be positioned 10 to 20 centimeters ahead of the axle of the trailer.

Speed

One of the most important aspects to consider on your first trip with a trailer is the speed limits of different roads. When driving with a trailer, these limits are lower. On highways, the maximum speed is 90 km/h for light trailers and 80 km/h for heavier trailers. On conventional roads with a shoulder of more than 1.5 meters or more than one lane, the maximum speed is set at 80 km/h. For other roads that do not meet these conditions, the speed limit is 70 km/h.

How to Drive with a Trailer

When you travel for the first time with a trailer, you will notice that there are several factors that will impact your driving, so you should try to adapt your driving to these factors.

The aspects to pay the most attention to during your car trip are:

Adverse Weather Conditions

The impact of weather conditions is much greater when driving with a trailer, whether it be rain, wind, or snow. Therefore, it is advisable to reduce your speed to have greater control over the vehicle.

Manoeuvres

Most manoeuvres become more complicated when performed with a trailer, as the extra load reduces maneuverability and makes executing them much more difficult. Try to practice whenever you can to make the movement as mechanical as possible.

Potholes or Obstacles

The trailer is greatly affected by obstacles in the road, so even the smallest element can alter its trajectory. Whenever you see a pothole or another type of obstacle, try to reduce your speed to minimize the effect.

We hope all these tips help you make your first trip with a trailer with much more confidence and safety.