Towing a trailer—whether it’s for a boat, food van, or small cargo—can be daunting if you’re not used to it. From hitching up safely to mastering reversing, here’s everything you need to know to tow with confidence.
Before you hitch up, make sure you’re towing legally:
A secure connection between your vehicle and trailer is essential:
✔ Check the towball and hitch coupling – Make sure it’s locked in place.
✔ Attach the breakaway cable – This engages the trailer’s brakes if it detaches.
✔ Test the lights – Indicators, brake lights, and fog lights must all work.
✔ Balance the load – Heavier items should be over the axle to prevent trailer sway.
✔ Check tyre pressure – Underinflated tyres can cause instability.
Towing affects how your vehicle handles. Keep these points in mind:
🚗 Increase Your Stopping Distance – A trailer adds weight, so braking takes longer.
🚗 Avoid Sudden Movements – Slow, steady steering keeps the trailer stable.
🚗 Beware of Trailer Sway – If the trailer starts to snake, ease off the accelerator and keep the steering steady—don’t brake suddenly.
🚗 Speed Limits –
Reversing a trailer is tricky because it moves in the opposite direction to your steering. Here’s how to get it right:
1️⃣ Go Slow – Small movements make big differences.
2️⃣ Turn the Wheel the Opposite Way – If you want the trailer to go left, steer right (and vice versa).
3️⃣ Use Your Mirrors – Constantly check both sides.
4️⃣ Make Small Adjustments – If it starts to jackknife, pull forward and try again.
5️⃣ Get a Spotter if Possible – Someone guiding you makes it much easier.
🔹 Find a Level Spot – Prevents the trailer rolling.
🔹 Use Chocks – Essential if parking on a slope.
🔹 Disconnect the Electrics First – Before unhitching the trailer.
🔹 Lift the Jockey Wheel – Secure the trailer before driving off.
Towing a trailer takes practice, but with the right techniques, it becomes second nature. The key is patience—don’t rush, and always double-check your setup before hitting the road.
