Planning a trailer road trip is exciting—but it also comes with responsibility.
Skipping trailer prep can turn even the best-planned vacation into a roadside nightmare. A little effort now can save hours of trouble later.
Whether you're heading into the mountains, across state lines, or just down the coast, getting your trailer ready ensures smoother towing, fewer surprises, and a safer experience for everyone. From brake checks to weight balance and emergency gear, every step you take before departure adds confidence on the road.
If you want an even smoother ride, many experienced travelers rely on the ProPride 3P® Hitch, which uses sway-eliminating technology for unmatched towing control—even on long trips and rough terrain.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
No matter how new or old your trailer is, a full inspection is non-negotiable. It’s the first step toward avoiding unexpected breakdowns, dangerous handling, or costly delays.
Start with the most overlooked part—your tires. Inspect the tread depth, sidewalls, and make sure they're inflated to the recommended PSI. Don’t forget to check the spare tire, too.
Next, test all exterior lights:
Any malfunction here compromises road safety. Replace burned-out bulbs and clean dirty lenses.
Inspect your brakes, especially if your trailer is heavy. Confirm that:
Check the hitch and coupler:
These steps take minutes, but prevent miles of regret.
Weight distribution isn’t just about loading everything and hitting the road. It's about keeping the trailer balanced, centered, and stable to protect your equipment and ensure driver control.
The ideal layout looks like this:
Tongue weight should equal 10–15% of the total trailer weight.
Too light? The trailer might sway.
Too heavy? Your vehicle's rear end can sag, lifting the front tires off the ground and reducing steering control.
Use a tongue weight scale or even a bathroom scale with a makeshift setup to measure. Adjust load placement until you're within range.
Unsecured cargo can:
Use ratchet straps, nets, or cargo bars to keep everything tightly in place.
If you run into trouble on the road, being prepared can make the difference between a quick fix and a call for help. Here’s what every trailer owner should carry.
Pack tools specific to trailer maintenance:
You should never tow without:
Keep these stored where they’re easily accessible—not buried under luggage or equipment.
Long trip ahead? Carry:
Being equipped for emergencies not only provides peace of mind but also helps you avoid being stranded in remote areas.
Towing safely also means preparing beyond the trailer itself. The more you know about your route, your stops, and your potential obstacles, the more confidently you’ll drive.
Use both GPS and traditional maps to:
Consider calling ahead at RV parks or fuel stations to confirm space for your setup.
Rain, snow, wind, or extreme heat can affect:
Use weather apps, DOT websites, or CB radio updates. Always have a Plan B route in case road conditions change.
In addition to personal items, bring:
Pro tip: Make a pre-trip checklist and physically mark off each item before departure.
Even if you’ve done everything right—balanced the load, secured the gear, inspected all systems—trailer sway can still happen due to wind, large passing vehicles, or uneven roads.
That’s where a sway-eliminating hitch comes in.
The ProPride 3P® Hitch is designed to eliminate sway before it starts. Its Pivot Point Projection™ technology moves the pivot point from the hitch ball to the rear axle of the tow vehicle, making your setup feel as stable as a fifth-wheel.
For long-haul trips, unpredictable weather, or first-time towers, this upgrade makes a huge difference in safety, confidence, and peace of mind.
Preparing your trailer for a road trip is about more than checking boxes—it’s about setting yourself up for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable journey. From inspecting brakes and lights to balancing your load and packing emergency gear, every step plays a role in keeping your trailer secure and your trip stress-free.
Confident towing begins with smart preparation. And if you want an extra layer of stability on the road, the ProPride Hitch offers unmatched sway control—perfect for long-distance travelers or anyone towing with caution.
The more prepared you are, the more you can focus on what matters: enjoying the road ahead.
Even well-prepped travelers often overlook a few key things. These FAQs can help ensure you’re fully ready before your trailer hits the road.
Ideally, start your inspection and load balancing at least 2–3 days before your departure. This gives you time to fix any issues, get parts if needed, and test your setup with a short local drive.
Hook up your trailer and perform a low-speed brake test in an empty parking lot. Activate the trailer brake controller manually to see if the trailer responds evenly. Adjust the gain setting as needed.
After loading, check that the trailer rides level and that the tongue weight is within 10–15% of the total loaded weight. Uneven trailer handling, swaying, or nose-diving can signal poor weight distribution.
Yes. Apply a thin layer of hitch grease before every trip. It prevents metal-on-metal wear and helps the coupler rotate smoothly while turning. Wipe clean and reapply as needed.
Not always. Many standard policies don’t cover trailers. Check with your provider or opt for specialized trailer or RV roadside coverage that includes towing, tire repair, and emergency support for your specific rig.