Towing with SUV: Essential Tips for Safe and Effective Hauling

Towing with your SUV can open up a world of adventure, whether you're pulling a camper for a weekend getaway, a boat for a lake trip, or a trailer full of gear for your next big project.

But towing also comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to trailer sway. You know the feeling—you're cruising down the highway, and suddenly the trailer behind you starts to sway, making you grip the steering wheel tighter.

It’s not only uncomfortable, but it can be downright dangerous.

So, how do you ensure a safer and smoother towing experience?

The answer lies in understanding the importance of stability, the right equipment, and proper towing techniques. Many SUV owners believe that a bigger tow vehicle or just adding more weight will solve the sway issue, but that’s simply not true.

Here’s where advanced towing technology, like the ProPride 3P® Hitch, comes into play. Using Jim Hensley’s innovative Pivot Point Projection™ system, the ProPride Hitch eliminates sway rather than just resisting it after it starts.

The result?

Fifth-wheel-like control and stability, no matter what the weather or road conditions throw at you.

Now, let’s dive into some essential tips and information about towing with your SUV. From choosing the right SUV to understanding hitch terminology and ensuring your load is distributed correctly, we’ve got you covered.

In this blog, we will cover:

• What makes SUVs suitable for towing and the types of loads commonly towed
• Choosing the right SUV for towing and what to look for
• Key towing equipment and accessories for SUVs

Ready to tow with confidence?

Let’s get started!

Understanding Towing With SUVs

Towing with an SUV requires understanding your vehicle’s engineering, the types of loads you haul, and key hitch-related terms. Focusing on capability and technology leads to safer, more stable towing.

What Makes SUVs Suitable For Towing

SUVs have sturdy frames and strong engines for pulling heavy loads.

Many offer rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, improving traction and control. Some SUVs include an integrated towing package with upgraded cooling systems, transmission, and brakes for extra weight.

Towing stability is a key advantage. Factory-installed trailer sway control uses sensors to reduce side-to-side sway. Modern SUVs offer smoother driving even when hauling large trailers.

The right anti-sway hitch further improves stability.

Types of Loads Commonly Towed

You can tow many items with an SUV, but always match the load to your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.

Common loads include travel trailers, small boats, utility trailers, campers, and car haulers. Many families use their SUVs for RV towing safety, especially with larger campers.

Heavier loads, such as mid-size travel trailers, need advanced equipment, especially in windy or hilly conditions. Lightweight loads, like jet skis or utility trailers, put less strain on the hitch and vehicle.

If your trailer's weight approaches or exceeds half that of your SUV, use a weight distribution hitch to maintain control and balance.

Key Terminology in SUV Towing

Understanding towing terms helps you choose and use equipment safely.

• Trailer sway is side-to-side trailer movement, often caused by wind or passing vehicles.
• Advanced hitches like ProPride’s use Pivot Point Projection™ technology to create a virtual pivot point, improving control.
• The hitch head connects your vehicle to the trailer, while the hitch box secures it to your SUV.
• Spring bars, control links, and a one-piece yoke distribute weight and stop sway before it starts. 

Knowing these terms helps you choose the best hitch for Airstream or RV towing safety.

Choosing the Right SUV for Towing

Not every SUV is built for towing. An SUV's size, strength, and towing technology directly affect what you can tow safely.

Factors to Consider in SUV Selection

When selecting an SUV for towing, check the manufacturer's rated towing capacity. This number tells you the maximum safe weight your SUV can pull, including the trailer and any cargo.

Engine size and type matter. Larger V6 and V8 engines handle heavy loads better and perform well on long grades. Four-cylinders may struggle with RVs or boat trailers.

Drivetrain—rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)—affects towing power and stability. RWD supports heavy loads best. Ensure your SUV has a dedicated tow package, including a stronger radiator, improved suspension, hitch receivers, and brake controllers.

SUVs with trailer sway control systems or advanced hitches increase safety by reducing sway and improving stability. When possible, opt for SUVs with built-in hitch mounting points and advanced driver assistance systems for towing.

Towing Capacities by SUV Class

SUVs fall into different classes, and their towing abilities vary:

Compact and mid-size SUVs handle jet skis or small camper, but not larger RVs. Full-size SUVs tow heavier loads, like large travel trailers or boats.

If you plan to tow a larger trailer—like an Airstream or big camper—choose full-size models with solid weight distribution. Use a premium anti-sway hitch such as ProPride to manage trailer sway and ensure stability, especially on highways or in windy conditions.

Matching the right class and hitch reduces sway risk and makes trips safer.

SUV Towing Equipment and Accessories

Towing safely with an SUV starts with equipment built for stability. The right hitch, mounting system, and braking setup make a big difference in control, especially with larger campers or trailers.

Trailer Hitches and Mounting Systems

The right hitch is critical for towing stability.

Standard receiver hitches come in several classes, with Class III and IV popular for SUVs towing medium to heavy loads. Weight distribution hitches transfer tongue weight more evenly to all axles, reducing rear sag and improving steering.

Anti-sway hitches add safety. Unlike friction-based hitches that only dampen side-to-side motion, a true anti-sway hitch like the ProPride 3P® uses Pivot Point Projection™ to create a virtual pivot point near your SUV’s rear axle. This technology nearly eliminates trailer sway, keeping your trailer steady in crosswinds or when passing trucks.

Key hitch components:

Ensure the hitch system matches your vehicle's tow rating and trailer specs. Our direct-to-consumer service ensures correct fitment without dealer markups.

Brake Controllers and Wiring

SUVs towing over 2,000 lbs should always use trailer brakes.

A brake controller manages trailer brakes from inside the SUV, syncing them with the vehicle’s pedal to prevent pushing or jackknifing. Electronic brake controllers are preferred because they allow adjustable load sensitivity.

Proper wiring matters. Most modern SUVs have a factory tow package with wiring harnesses for brake lights, turn signals, and a 7-pin connector. Install an aftermarket kit for systems without built-in wiring to run power from the vehicle battery to the trailer brakes.

Before every trip, check brake controller calibration, test all trailer lights, and inspect connections. A reliable brake control system prevents common towing accidents and shortens braking distances, even on wet or uneven roads.

Safe Towing Practices for SUV Drivers

Towing with an SUV requires careful attention to load balance, proper equipment, and thorough inspections. Safe towing means matching your vehicle's capabilities with the trailer and doing more than just attaching a hitch.

Weight Distribution and Limits

Proper weight distribution is essential for stability.

If too much weight sits at the back or front, your SUV may experience trailer sway, poor handling, or longer stopping distances. Check your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and gross combined weight rating (GCWR). Never exceed these numbers.

Distribute cargo evenly in the trailer. Place heavier items low and close to the trailer’s axle. Aim for about 10-15% of the total trailer weight on the hitch. Advanced weight distribution hitches use Pivot Point Projection™ technology to virtually eliminate trailer sway.

A weight distribution hitch helps level your SUV and trailer, spreading the load between all axles. Compare an anti-sway hitch's performance and safety benefits against friction-based hitches, especially when towing longer or heavier loads.

Pre-Tow Inspection Checklist

Before every trip, follow a checklist to reduce risk.

Check tire pressure on both your SUV and trailer. Underinflated tires overheat and blow out more easily. Test all trailer lights—brake, turn, and running lights.

Inspect the hitch head, hitch box, spring bars, and control links for cracks or wear. If using a system like the ProPride 3P®, ensure tight and locked connections to the frame bracket and one-piece yoke. Secure safety chains in a crisscross pattern under the coupler.

Check that the trailer coupler is fully latched onto the hitch ball or virtual pivot point. Review your brake controller settings. Do a quick tug test—slowly accelerate to verify the trailer stays connected and stable.

Double-check mirrors for visibility around the trailer. Keep your towing capacity specs and this checklist handy before every trip. Careful inspection each time helps prevent issues on the road.

Driving Techniques When Towing with an SUV

When you tow with an SUV, adjust your driving habits for the extra length, weight, and shifting forces. Paying attention to how you accelerate, brake, and steer keeps your journey safer and helps prevent trailer sway.

Acceleration and Braking Tips

Start off smoothly with gradual acceleration.

Towing adds significant weight, so you need more distance to reach speed and more power from your engine. Sudden acceleration strains your transmission and makes it harder to keep the trailer stable. Use steady pressure on the gas pedal to maintain control.

Stopping distances increase when towing. Begin braking earlier than usual—give yourself double the usual space between your vehicle and anything ahead. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can cause the trailer to push your SUV and create sway.

A trailer with electric brakes or a weight distribution hitch gives you more stability and control by helping each axle share the load.

Turning and Maneuvering with a Trailer

Wide, careful turns are critical when towing.

Your trailer tracks differently, cutting corners more tightly than your SUV. Always take turns slowly and turn later than usual so the trailer wheels don’t hit curbs or obstacles.

Plan lane changes early. Use mirrors often and signal well in advance. When backing up, turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction you want the trailer to go. Move at a crawl—the slower you go, the easier it is to control the trailer.

Engineering-driven sway control hitches improve maneuvering. The Pivot Point Projection™ technology creates a virtual pivot point similar to a fifth wheel, so the trailer follows your SUV more closely.

Proper setup of your frame bracket and spring bars is essential for the best towing stability.

Legal Considerations and Regulations

When towing your SUV, you need to follow specific licensing and towing rules. Laws and requirements often differ depending on your state or country, affecting how you set up and drive your trailer.

Licensing and Permits

You may need a special license to tow certain weights with your SUV.

Many states set a maximum weight you can tow with a regular driver’s license. For example, towing over 10,000 pounds may require a commercial or Class A license in some places.

Some areas require permits if your combined vehicle and trailer exceed specific dimensions, such as width, height, or length. You must display these permits when traveling. Laws can change, so check current rules before your trip.

Specific insurance policies are required for towing large trailers. These policies protect you and others on the road. Driving without the correct license or permit can lead to fines or legal trouble.

Towing Laws and Regional Differences

Towing laws change depending on where you are.

States set their own speed limits for vehicles towing trailers—some allow 65 mph, while others mandate under 55 mph. Nighttime and adverse weather rules may also apply.

Many states require safety equipment, such as weight distribution hitches, sway control systems, and brake controllers. Advanced sway control technology, like a ProPride 3P® anti-sway hitch, helps you meet safety standards and avoid trailer sway.

Regulations may limit the number of trailers you can pull, your turning radius, and where you can park or camp while attached. Crossing into Canada or Mexico means facing stricter requirements.

Review both local and interstate regulations for towing with your SUV to avoid trouble and stay safe on long trips.

Maintenance for Towing SUVs

Proper care of your SUV’s mechanical systems and running gear is essential for safe and reliable towing. Targeted maintenance helps your towing setup handle tough loads, maintain stability, and avoid expensive breakdowns.

Transmission and Engine Care

Towing puts a heavy strain on your SUV’s transmission and engine.

If you haul frequently or over long distances, you may notice higher engine temperatures and increased wear.

Check your fluid levels often, and use the manufacturer-recommended transmission fluid or engine oil. Overheating is a real risk, so consider adding a transmission cooler if your SUV does not already have one. Most modern SUVs use tow/haul modes to reduce stress on internal parts.

If you tow near your maximum rating, change engine and transmission fluids sooner than standard intervals. Inspect belts and hoses for wear, as towing loads increase the risk of failure. Maintain your engine cooling system—flush coolant and check for leaks, as even minor issues can cause major problems when towing.

Smooth power delivery and drivetrain stability help control trailer sway.

Tire Pressure and Suspension Checks

Tires and suspension support the vehicle and play a key role in stability under load.

Always check your tire pressures before towing. Under- or over-inflated tires increase sway risk, lower grip, and shorten tread life.

Use a reliable tire gauge and fill all tires—including the trailer’s—to the recommended psi for towing, not just normal driving. Inspect tires for uneven wear, cuts, or bulges.

Excess weight can overload your suspension. Look for sagging at the rear when hitched up. If your SUV squats too much, consider airbags or helper springs. Well-maintained shocks and struts are crucial for smooth movement and better sway control.

A properly matched weight distribution system helps maintain a level ride height and balances the load across all wheels. This also prevents premature suspension wear and keeps the steering responsive.

Benefits and Challenges of Towing with SUVs

Towing with an SUV offers comfort and capability, making it a practical option for many families and outdoor enthusiasts. Important features and limitations must be considered for both safety and performance.

Advantages of Using an SUV for Towing

SUVs combine passenger space and towing power in one vehicle.

Many models have four-wheel drive, ideal for rough roads and campsites. Strong engines, advanced suspension systems, and high towing capacities allow the vehicle to tow most RVs, campers, and utility trailers.

SUVs often provide better towing comfort than trucks. Features like advanced driver assist, blind spot monitoring, and trailer backup assist help you stay safe and confident. Technology like a quality anti-sway hitch, such as the ProPride 3P® with its Pivot Point Projection™ system, keeps your setup steady.

SUVs offer easy access, lower step-in heights, and enough cargo room for family trips. Many have up-to-date electronics, making towing more convenient and connected. Premium towing solutions can also provide smoother handling and better control.

Common Towing Challenges

You must be aware of weight limits.

• Exceeding your SUV’s towing rating can lead to dangerous sway, poor braking, and worn-out components. Even with modern features, not all SUVs are built for heavy loads or steep grades.
• Towing stability is a significant concern. A friction-based hitch might not control sway as well as an advanced system with a virtual pivot point or top-mounted jacks. Sway can start quickly in the wind or when larger vehicles pass, leading to safety risks.
• Backing up with a trailer and shorter wheelbase can be tricky, especially for new drivers. Not all SUVs include extended mirrors or robust cooling systems, essential for long uphill pulls or hot climates.
• Proper weight distribution is critical. Using the wrong hitch can lead to uneven loads, straining your suspension, and tires. Always check tongue weight, frame bracket placement, and spring bar setup before hitting the road.

SUV Towing Myths and Misconceptions

Many people think any SUV can safely tow a trailer as long as the trailer fits.

In reality, weight ratings, axle types, and SUV frame strength all matter. Exceeding your rated towing capacity puts your vehicle and your safety at risk.

It's a common myth that factory sway control is always enough. Some SUVs include basic sway control, but these systems do not remove the risk of dangerous trailer sway, especially in wind or during quick maneuvers.

Myth: Friction-based hitches give you the same trailer sway control as modern anti-sway hitches.

Not every hitch works the same.

A virtual pivot point prevents sway instead of fighting it after it starts. This gives you more control, smoother handling, and better weight distribution.

Another misconception is that all anti-sway hitches need drilling or complicated installs. ProPride designs hitches with one-piece yokes, adjustable offset hitch bars, and top-mounted jacks for an easier process without drilling into your frame.

Many believe you only need to focus on the hitch head or hitch box. Real towing stability depends on the whole hitch system, including frame brackets, spring bars, and control links. 

Each part plays a role in safe, stable towing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Towing with your SUV opens up a world of possibilities for travel, but it also raises many questions. From ensuring your vehicle is fit for towing to choosing the right equipment, it’s essential to have all the information. Here are the most frequently asked questions that can help clear up any doubts and guide you towards safe and efficient towing.

What factors influence towing capacity in an SUV?

Your SUV's towing capacity depends on several things, including engine size, frame strength, transmission type, and factory tow package options. Suspension improvements, advanced braking systems, and a dedicated towing mode can also increase safe towing limits.

How do you determine the maximum weight your SUV can tow?

To find the maximum weight your SUV can tow, check your owner's manual for the listed towing capacity. This number includes all cargo, passengers, and fuel. To avoid overloading your vehicle, subtract the total weight of people and gear from the gross combined weight rating (GCWR).

What are the best practices for towing safely with an SUV?

Use a weight distribution hitch for heavier loads to spread weight evenly. Ensure your hitch components—like the hitch head, hitch box, and one-piece yoke—are properly rated. A trailer sway control system, such as the ProPride 3P® Hitch with Pivot Point Projection™, creates a virtual pivot point, eliminating sway and giving you fifth-wheel-like control. Check tire pressures, trailer connections, and brake lights before every trip.

Which midsize SUVs offer the highest towing capacity?

Some midsize SUVs can tow up to 6,000 pounds or more when properly equipped. These models often require factory tow packages. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for exact numbers. Towing limits can change based on trim level and included options.

How does SUV towing compare to truck towing for trailers and campers?

Trucks usually have heavier frames and stronger drivetrains, allowing for greater towing capacity. Many modern SUVs offer competitive towing figures for medium-sized trailers and campers. SUVs may provide a smoother ride and more seating flexibility, but you need advanced hitch technology and trailer sway control to match a truck’s towing stability.

What are the implications of towing beyond an SUV's rated capacity?

Overloading your SUV can create dangerous situations. You may lose braking effectiveness and steering control, and face increased tire wear or frame stress. Severe trailer sway becomes far more likely, which can lead to loss of control or rollovers. An anti-sway hitch helps maintain towing stability, but cannot compensate for being over capacity.