Menu
Menu
Discovering the open road with a camper trailer unlocks a world of possibilities. However, for beginners, towing a camper trailer might seem a daunting task. Here at Platinum Campers, we’re committed to making your camping experiences as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Let’s go through some key tips to help you tow your camper trailer like a pro.
1. Know Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Before setting off, it’s crucial to understand the towing capacity of your vehicle. Towing a weight beyond your vehicle’s limit can stress the engine, transmission, or brakes, leading to significant damage or unsafe driving conditions. You can find your vehicle’s towing capacity in the owner’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer. If you’re close to the limit, consider packing light or upgrading to a more powerful vehicle to ensure safety and peace of mind.
2. Master the Art of Using Trailer Brakes
Camper trailers, including all models from Platinum Campers, come equipped with electric brakes. These are designed to work in conjunction with your vehicle’s brakes, providing additional stopping power when you have a trailer in tow. It’s essential to have a properly configured brake controller in your vehicle, which regulates the power sent to the trailer brakes. This ensures smooth, safe stops and reduces the risk of jackknifing or trailer sway.
3. Balance Your Load for Optimal Weight Distribution
Correct weight distribution is a cornerstone of secure towing. Aim to distribute your load evenly from left to right across the trailer. Position heavier items towards the front (closest to the tow vehicle) but ensure they don’t exceed the trailer’s maximum nose weight. This approach aids stability, minimising trailer sway and making the towing experience more comfortable.
4. Practice Maneuvering and Handling
There’s truth in the saying, “practice makes perfect”. Before heading off on your maiden voyage, find a large, vacant space where you can practice basic maneuvers. Get comfortable with accelerating, stopping, and turning. Understand how the trailer moves in relation to the vehicle – it will behave differently to a regular car, particularly in terms of braking distance and turning radius.
5. Become a Pro at Reversing
Reversing with a trailer can be tricky for beginners, but with a few helpful tips and some practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Remember, the trailer will move in the opposite direction to your vehicle when reversing. A useful tip is to place your hands at the bottom of the steering wheel and move them in the direction you want the trailer to go.
Take it slow, use your mirrors, and don’t be afraid to stop, get out, and check your surroundings if you’re unsure. And if you have a spotter, use hand signals instead of verbal instructions – it’s easier to understand and you won’t need to worry about hearing them over the engine noise.
6. Always Plan Your Route
While spontaneity is part of the charm of a road trip, when towing a camper trailer, planning your route is advisable. Consider factors such as road width, gradient, and bridge heights. Also, be mindful that your vehicle’s handling and stopping distances will change when towing, so allow extra time to reach your destination and try to stick to roads you’re comfortable driving on.
7. Regular Equipment Checks are Essential
Before you embark on your journey and at regular intervals along the way, carry out equipment checks. Ensure your hitch is secure, lights and indicators are functioning correctly, tyres are properly inflated, and the electric brake connection is secure. These regular checks help keep your journey safe and stress-free.
8. Stay Calm and Focused
Lastly, while on the road, stay calm and remain focused. Towing a camper trailer requires more attention than regular driving, so be prepared. Keep your speed steady, allow extra space for braking, and take regular breaks to rest, check your trailer, and enjoy the scenery!
Learning to tow a camper trailer is like mastering any new skill; it takes time, patience, and practice. With these tips and the high-quality, user-friendly features of Platinum Campers, you’ll be well-equipped to take on your next adventure with confidence.
Remember, the team at Platinum Campers is always here to support you on your camping journey. Hitch up your trailer, embrace the open road, and let your adventure begin with Platinum Campers.