Towing a trailer might seem straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to major problems on the road. Whether you're towing a camper for a weekend getaway or hauling gear across state lines, one misstep could affect your safety, your trailer, or your vehicle.

From overlooked maintenance to poor load placement, even experienced drivers can fall into common towing traps. Fortunately, with a bit of planning and awareness, you can avoid the most frequent errors and enjoy smoother, safer travel. The right hitch system can also go a long way, especially one designed to eliminate sway and boost stability from the start.

That’s where the ProPride 3P® Hitch shines, offering unmatched control and confidence behind the wheel.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• The most common towing mistakes—and how to avoid them
• Pro tips for load balance, maintenance, and sway control
• How to protect your setup from costly, avoidable risks

Let’s dive in and drive smarter.

Mistake #1: Improper Weight Distribution

If your trailer feels like it’s dragging your vehicle instead of following it, weight distribution might be the issue. This is one of the most common—and dangerous—mistakes new and seasoned towers alike make.

Why Weight Placement Matters

Placing too much weight in the rear creates a “whipping” effect—your trailer sways unpredictably. Too much weight up front? You overload your hitch and reduce steering control.

A properly loaded trailer distributes about 60% of the total cargo weight toward the front half and 40% in the back, with the tongue weight making up 10–15% of the trailer’s full weight.

Tips for Proper Weight Distribution

• Place heavy items low and centered over the axle
• Distribute weight evenly side to side
• Don’t overload the front or rear extremities
• Use a weight distribution hitch for longer or heavier trailers

Bonus: The ProPride 3P® Hitch improves handling by virtually eliminating sway—perfect when your load shifts slightly during transit.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Trailer Sway

Trailer sway is not just a minor annoyance—it’s one of the leading causes of trailer-related accidents. And the worst part? It often starts small and escalates quickly.

Causes of Trailer Sway

• Unbalanced loads
• High winds or sudden gusts from passing trucks
• Speeding or abrupt steering
• Underinflated tires
• A poorly matched hitch

Once sway starts, it’s difficult to regain control unless you’ve equipped your setup properly.

How to Reduce or Eliminate Sway

• Slow down gradually—don’t slam the brakes.
• Check your tires—even a slight pressure drop can trigger instability.
• Install sway control systems—these help minimize side-to-side motion.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Regular Maintenance

Neglecting routine checks is like towing on borrowed time. One loose bolt, one frayed wire, or one underinflated tire can turn a smooth ride into a roadside disaster.

Areas That Need Routine Attention

• Tires: Check pressure and tread depth. Don’t forget the spare!
• Hitch and coupler: Ensure everything’s tight and rust-free
• Lights and wiring: Confirm all brake, signal, and tail lights work
• Brakes and fluid levels: Towing increases wear—check these more often

Make a habit of walking around your trailer before every trip. A 2-minute inspection could save hours on the roadside.

Mistake #4: Failing to Secure the Load

No matter how short the trip, failing to properly secure your cargo can cause serious issues. Shifting weight mid-drive not only affects trailer balance but also increases the risk of swaying or tipping, especially in tight turns or sudden stops.

What Happens When Loads Shift?

• Instability: The trailer becomes harder to control.
• Imbalanced weight: Throws off tongue weight and center of gravity.
• Safety hazards: Loose items can break free, causing road dangers.

How to Secure Cargo Like a Pro

1. Use heavy-duty ratchet straps or chains—don’t rely on rope or bungees.
2. Anchor from multiple angles to distribute tension and prevent shifting.
3. Place heavy items low and near the axle to reduce sway.
4. Check load tightness after the first 10 miles and at every fuel stop.

Even if it “feels secure,” double-checking your load can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a roadside mess.

Mistake #5: Forgetting the Role of the Right Hitch

Many drivers make the mistake of assuming any hitch will do, as long as it connects. But hitch choice directly impacts safety, control, and performance.

Why Hitch Matters More Than You Think

A basic hitch may attach your trailer, but it doesn’t account for sway control, weight distribution, or terrain challenges. That’s why choosing a premium system is a smart move for serious towers.

It eliminates sway at the source by projecting the trailer’s pivot point closer to the tow vehicle’s axle. This keeps the trailer locked in line with your vehicle—even in high winds, sharp turns, or emergency maneuvers.

Think of it like upgrading from “just good enough” to “built for every mile ahead.”

Towing Mistakes by Experience Level

Here’s a quick breakdown of which towing mistakes most commonly affect different types of drivers. Use it to anticipate potential blind spots based on your own experience level.

Wrapping It Up

Towing a trailer safely is all about preparation, attention to detail, and the right equipment. By avoiding these common mistakes—improper weight distribution, ignoring sway, skipping maintenance, failing to secure your load, and overlooking the importance of a quality hitch—you dramatically reduce your risk on the road.

Taking these extra steps isn’t just about safety—it’s about driving with peace of mind. And when you're equipped with a premium sway-eliminating system like the ProPride, you elevate your towing game entirely. Confidence, control, and comfort come standard.

Before your next trip, revisit this checklist, make the right upgrades, and tow smarter every mile of the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Towing often raises questions, especially for drivers looking to refine their setup. Here are answers to a few key questions that aren’t always covered in standard guides.

How do I calculate tongue weight properly?

Use a tongue weight scale or a bathroom scale with a lever setup. Your tongue weight should be 10–15% of the total loaded trailer weight to ensure stable towing and proper vehicle handling.

Can bad weather make towing mistakes worse?

Absolutely. Wind, rain, or icy roads amplify common mistakes like poor weight distribution or loose cargo. Always slow down, increase following distance, and double-check your load before heading into unpredictable conditions.

What should I do if my trailer starts swaying?

Ease off the accelerator—don’t slam the brakes. Hold the wheel steady and let your vehicle slow naturally. If sway continues, consider investing in a premium anti-sway system like the ProPride 3P® Hitch.

Is it safe to use cruise control while towing?

Generally, it's best to avoid cruise control on hilly or winding roads while towing. Sudden acceleration or braking from the cruise system can reduce control and worsen sway or load shifts during climbs and descents.

Should I adjust tire pressure when towing?

Yes. Both your vehicle and trailer tires should be inflated to their towing-rated PSI, not just their everyday driving levels. Proper tire pressure reduces blowout risks, improves traction, and supports even weight distribution.