If you are new to towing, it is advisable to get a lot of practice towing your travel trailer before you go out onto the main roads. Find a vacant lot with plenty of space and take a fully loaded travel trailer to learn how to develop the skills needed to operate a vehicle properly with a travel trailer attached. When you feel more confident, take the vehicle out only when traffic is light and gradually ease into driving when the roads are congested. If needed, ask questions or get help from experienced drivers.
When you want to overtake a slower vehicle while driving with a travel trailer, or you simply want to change lanes, make sure you signal well in advance. Make sure there is a lot of room between you and the vehicle which you have just passed before you pull back into the lane. Also, when overtaking on a narrow stretch of road, be very observant so that you do not go onto a soft shoulder. This could lead to a situation where your trailer could jackknife or go out of control. When overtaking, make sure the road ahead is level with no steep downgrades or upgrades.
Only use the trailer hitch system recommended by the manufacturer to tow a trailer. Boat trailers, specialty trailers and travel trailers are all designed to have the correct hitch weight; however, it is still your responsibility to check them to make sure they are capable of handling the load. Ensure you stay within the stated capacity for the hitch by removing unnecessary add-ons such as strapping on a motorcycle instead of a bicycle to the trailer. Overloading a trailer can lead to unpleasant consequences, including failures in the hitch and a decrease in your ability to bring the tow vehicle to a safe stop in an emergency.
Slow down when you encounter bumpy roads or other obstacles such as railroad crossings. Do not go too fast, so you can maintain better control of the vehicle. Ease into driving the vehicle; sudden stops can cause sliding, jackknifing and skidding. Avoid jerky movements at the steering wheel to prevent undue side force being applied on the trailer and make wider turns when you try to negotiate a corner or a curve so the trailer wheels do not hit or ride up over curbs.
