10 Things You Must Check Before Towing a Trailer on the Highway

Towing a trailer down a bustling highway isn't just about hitching it up and hitting the gas. Trust me, I learned this the hard way one summer trip with a pop-up camper that decided to pop open mid-drive (yeah, not fun). If you're planning to tow anythingbe it a boat, RV, utility trailer, or a mobile BBQ stationyou need to do some serious checks first. Here are the 10 things I always inspect before towing a trailer on the highway.

1. Check Your Tow Vehicles Towing Capacity

Why It Matters:

Your vehicle isnt Superman. It has a limit to how much it can safely tow.

My Experience:

When I first started towing a trailer, I underestimated how much weight I was pulling. My SUV groaned like it had eaten too much at Thanksgiving. Bad move. Turns out, I was 800 lbs over the tow limit.

How to Check:

• Look in your owners manual or the manufacturers website.

• Verify the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and Gross Trailer Weight (GTW).

Pro Tip: Never max it out. Give yourself a safety cushion of at least 10% under the limit.

2. Inspect the Hitch & Coupler

Why It Matters:

This is the handshake between your vehicle and trailer. If its not secure, youre in for a wild ride (and not the fun kind).

What to Look For:

• Is the hitch ball properly seated in the coupler?

• Is the latch locked and secured with a safety pin or lock?

• Is the hitch rated for the weight of your trailer?

When I Tried This: I once used the wrong size ball mount and the trailer popped off at a red light. Not my proudest moment.

3. Examine the Trailer Brakes

Why It Matters:

Brakes save livessimple as that. Especially when youre hauling a heavy load.

How to Check:

• Manually test the trailer brake controller.

• Listen for any grinding or squeaking.

• Inspect the brake pads and rotors if accessible.

Helpful Tip:

If your trailer weighs over 3,000 lbs, trailer brakes are often required by law in many states.

4. Ensure the Lights Work Properly

Why It Matters:

Blinkers, brake lights, and running lights keep you and others safe on the road.

My Routine:

I always get someone to stand behind the trailer and confirm all signals work when I hit the brakes or turn signals.

Common Fix:

If a lights out, check the bulbs first, then the wiring or connectors. A little dielectric grease on connectors can help prevent corrosion.

5. Check Tire Pressure (and Tire Age!)

Why It Matters:

Underinflated or old tires are ticking time bombsespecially at high speeds.

What I Do:

• Use a digital tire pressure gauge to match the PSI listed on the sidewall.

• Inspect for dry rot, cracks, or bulges.

• Dont forget the spare!

Pro Tip: Replace trailer tires every 5-7 years even if they look fine. They age out even sitting idle.

6. Balance Your Load

Why It Matters:

Unbalanced loads can cause sway, fishtailing, or even tip-overs.

My Rule of Thumb:

• Put about 60% of the weight in the front half of the trailer.

• Keep heavy items low and centered.

• Secure everything with ratchet straps or cargo nets.

Mini Buyers Guide: Best Load Balancing Tools

• Weight distribution hitches (Andersen or Equal-i-zer)

• Tongue weight scale (like Weigh Safe)

• Wheel chocks (for stability while loading)

7. Cross the Safety Chains

Why It Matters:

If your trailer disconnects, safety chains are your last line of defense.

Best Practice:

• Cross the chains in an X under the hitch.

• Leave just enough slack for turning, but not so much that they drag.

When I Tried This:

One time I forgot to cross them. Trailer popped off, chains dragged and sparked like a firework show. Lesson learned.

8. Double-Check the Trailer Jack

Why It Matters:

Leaving the jack down will ruin your trailer tongueand possibly your bumper.

Checklist:

• Fully retracted and locked.

• If its a swivel jack, ensure its locked in the upright position.

Quick Tip: Give it a final glance just before you drive away.

9. Secure All Doors, Hatches, and Contents

Why It Matters:

You dont want your camping chairs or toolbox flying out on the freeway.

My Process:

• Walk around the trailer.

• Tug on every door, hatch, and compartment.

• Secure interior items with bungee cords or nets.

Bonus Tip:

Use padlocks or latch locks to prevent theft or accidental opening.

10. Test Drive Before Hitting the Highway

Why It Matters:

You need to feel the tow dynamics before committing to high speeds.

How I Do It:

• Drive a loop around the neighborhood.

• Test braking, cornering, and acceleration.

• Listen for weird noises or scraping.

Personal Anecdote:

I once ignored this step and discovered brake issues halfway into a 5-hour trip. Had to turn back and lose a day.

Helpful Tips for First-Time Towers

• Know Your State Laws Trailer brake requirements and speed limits vary.

• Use Tow Mirrors Especially if your trailer is wider than your vehicle.

• Avoid Sudden Movements Gentle turns and braking keep everything stable.

• Plan Fuel Stops Not every gas station is trailer-friendly.

Mini Buyers Guide: Essential Gear for Towing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need a special license to tow a trailer?

A: In most U.S. states, a regular drivers license is fine unless you're towing over 10,000 lbs. Check your DMVs website to be sure.

Q: Whats the best speed for towing a trailer on the highway?

A: 5565 mph is safest. Some states even cap trailer speeds at 55 mph.

Q: How often should I check the trailer during a trip?

A: Every 100150 miles. Pull over, check lights, tires, hitch, and load.

Q: Can any car tow a trailer?

A: Only if it has the proper towing capacity and hitch setup. Always check the vehicles specs first.

Q: Is trailer sway dangerous?

A: Absolutely. It can lead to loss of control. Use a sway control hitch and balance your load to prevent it.

Final Thoughts (and a Little Nudge to Share!)

Towing a trailer isn't rocket science, but it does require attention to detail and a little prep. Every time I do my 10-point checklist, I drive more confidently knowing Ive done my part to stay safeand keep others safe too.

Got your own trailer towing tips or horror stories? Id love to hear them. Drop a comment below and lets swap some highway wisdom!

Happy (and safe) towing!