Towing a Trailer or Camper

Towing a boat, camper or utility trailer changes how your vehicle stops, turns and handles. Overloading, a bad hitch setup and too much speed lead to trailer sway, jackknifes and trailers breaking loose.

• Drivers
• Homeowners
• Small contractors

Know your limits

• Tow rating: the owner’s manual lists the most your vehicle can tow. Stay well under it.
• Gross weights: don’t exceed the vehicle’s GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) or GCWR (combined rating), including passengers and cargo.
• Tongue weight: for most trailers, about 10% to 15% of the loaded trailer weight should press down on the hitch. Too little causes sway; too much overloads the rear axle.
• Hitch: use a hitch and ball rated for the load, matched to the coupler size.

Hook-up checklist

• Coupler fully seated on the ball and latched with a pin
• Safety chains crossed under the tongue and attached, with enough slack to turn
• Breakaway brake cable attached (on trailers with brakes)
• Lights connected and working: brake, turn and running lights
• Trailer brakes and controller set (many states require trailer brakes above certain weights)
• Tires inflated to the trailer’s rating; lug nuts tight
• Load balanced, heavier items low and slightly forward of the axle, and tied down
• Mirrors adjusted or tow mirrors installed

On the road

• Drive slower; many states have lower speed limits for vehicles towing.
• Leave much more following distance; stopping takes longer.
• Make wider turns; the trailer cuts inside the corner.
• Change lanes gradually and allow extra room.
• If the trailer sways, ease off the gas, hold the wheel steady, and apply the trailer brakes gently with the controller. Don’t slam on the vehicle’s brakes or jerk the wheel.

Last updated: October 2, 2026