We’ve learned a lot over the years about how to safely and confidently tow a camper trailer. While it definitely takes some getting used to, with the right preparation and techniques, you’ll be driving like a pro in no time. Here are our top tips for newbies learning to drive while towing a camper:
Familiarize Yourself with Your Setup – Before hitting the road, spend time getting comfortable with the size and feel of driving your tow vehicle with the trailer hitched up. Practice turning, backing up, accelerating and braking in an empty parking lot to get a feel for how the added length impacts your driving.
Adjust Your Mirrors – Properly adjusted mirrors are essential for optimal visibility. You’ll need to angle your side mirrors outward more so you can see your blind spots. Use a spotter when adjusting so you can get them dialed in perfectly.
Take it Slow – When towing, you’ll need more time and distance for braking, accelerating, turning, and passing. Leave ample room between you and other vehicles and avoid quick maneuvers. Speed limits for vehicles with trailers are lower for a reason.
Use Your Tow Vehicle’s Tow Mode – Many modern vehicles have a tow mode or tow/haul setting that adjusts transmission shifting and other factors to optimize performance when towing. Be sure to activate it for smoother driving.
Watch Your Weight Distribution – For safe, stable handling, make sure your trailer tongue weight and total weight are within your tow vehicle’s limits. Improper weight distribution can cause fishtailing or loss of control.
Mind the Wind – Strong crosswinds can push your trailer around, so maintain a firm grip on the wheel and be prepared to make small steering corrections. If winds are severe, pull over and wait it out.
Allow Extra Room for Braking – Increase your following distance to allow significantly more room for braking when towing a trailer. Avoid situations where you need to brake hard or abruptly.
Take Regular Breaks – Driving while towing a trailer is more mentally fatiguing. Stop every few hours to stretch your legs, have a snack, and let your mind rest. Don’t overdo it in one day.
Use Your Electric Brakes – If your trailer has electric brakes, use the manual brake controller to apply them periodically. This helps ensure they’re always properly adjusted and ready when you need them.
Watch Out on Downgrades – Use lower gears, not just your brakes, when descending steep or long downhill grades. Too much trailer braking can cause brake fade or loss of control.
Secure Your Load – Make sure everything inside and outside your trailer is properly secured so items don’t shift and affect weight distribution or aerodynamics while driving.
Avoid Distractions – Focus 100% of your attention on the road at all times. No phone calls, texting, eating, or other distracting activities while behind the wheel.
Be Patient with Yourself – Mastering driving with a trailer takes practice and experience. Don’t get flustered. Take your time, and focus on smooth acceleration, braking and steering.
We hope these tips give you a great head start on driving safely and confidently with your camper trailer. We’ve learned a lot from our years on the road towing RVs. Take it slow, trust your instincts, and enjoy the journey. Safe travels!
