Travel Trailer Sway Control Tips

Travel trailers are convenient, compact, affordable, and easy to tow, but they do present a few challenges. One issue you might encounter is trailer sway, which is where your trailer tries to drift left or right due to wind or high speeds. This can become dangerous very quickly, especially if the trailer crosses into the adjacent lane of traffic. Here are some tips to try that will help cut down on trailer sway so you can get to your destination safely.

Keep Everything Balanced

Unbalanced loads in your travel trailer can contribute to sway by weighing down one side or the other. Try to keep your cargo balanced from left to right in your trailer and place 60% of the weight towards the front (hitch) and 40% of the weight towards the rear.

Check Your Towing Setup

Before you head out, walk around your towing setup and ensure that everything is secured and ready to go. Check the pressure in all of your tires on both your trailer and towing vehicle and air up any low tires. Double-check your hitch to ensure it’s latched securely and make sure that your towing chains are in place. Push in any slide-outs, close windows, and lock any doors and exterior compartments so they don’t fly open in transit.

Exercise Caution on the Road

As you drive, it’s best to stay five to ten miles below the posted speed limit when towing your travel trailer. Also, try to avoid changing lanes as much as possible. If the winds pick up and you feel your trailer begin to sway, keep the steering wheel straight and slowly (slowly!) apply your brakes. If the weather is bad enough, it may be a good idea to pull over and wait for the winds to die down before you continue driving.

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