Get ready for a smooth ride with these 7 tips to avoid trailer sway on the road! From the new driver to the most experienced, trailer sway can cause problems for everyone. But don't worry, with a little knowledge and preparation, you can keep your trailer steady and your journey enjoyable. Check out our top tips to keep your trailer sway-free and your road trip memorable for all the right reasons!

1) Load your trailer with care

Are you tired of feeling like you're driving a ship in a storm every time you tow a trailer? If you're looking for a smooth, stable ride, proper loading is key. But, let's face it, loading a trailer can be a bit of a headache. It's easy to get carried away and overload the darn thing, or have your cargo shifting all over the place during your trip. But don't fret, with these simple tips, you'll be loading like a pro in no time.

1. First things first, never exceed the maximum weight limit for your trailer. Not only is it dangerous, but it's illegal.
2. Next, make sure your cargo is properly secured. Nothing is more frustrating than watching your belongings fly around in the back of your trailer.
3. A balanced load is key for preventing trailer sway. Aim for 60 percent of the cargo weight in the front half of your trailer.
4. Lastly, don't let your cargo stick out the back of your trailer. Not only is it a safety hazard, but it's also illegal in many states.

By following these simple tips, you'll be able to load your trailer with care and hit the road with confidence, knowing that your cargo is safe and secure, and your trailer won't be swaying all over the place.

2) Make sure your trailer is ready to hit the road

"You can help to reduce the possibility of trailer sway by carefully connecting the trailer to your tow vehicle...Also, always make sure that the latch on the hitch itself is closed. An improperly hitched load can cause sway as well as lead to loss of control should sway become a significant issue."
- James Hills, ManTripping

Your trailer is packed and your hitch is secured. Now it's time to make sure your trailer is ready for the journey ahead. From checking your brakes to making sure your signal lights are working, these simple steps can help keep you and your trailer safe on the road.

1. Test your trailer brakes for proper functioning
2. Verify that your signal lights are working correctly
3. Check your tire pressure and tread for optimal performance
4. Make sure your hitch is properly lubricated to prevent rusting and seizing
5. Inspect your hitch ball and coupler for any damage or wear

By taking these extra steps, you'll be able to hit the road with confidence, knowing that your trailer is ready for any adventure that lies ahead. Whether you're a new driver or an experienced pro, these simple tips can help keep you and your trailer sway-free on the road.

3) Keep a watchful eye on the weather

Keep a watchful eye on the weather, before you hit the road, in order to plan your journey and make sure you are prepared for any weather conditions that might come your way. Remember, strong winds and wet or icy roads are the perfect ingredients for a recipe of trailer sway disaster. Stay informed and stay safe by checking the forecast, and planning accordingly before you set off on your adventure. Don't let a surprise storm ruin your trip, be proactive and make sure you're ready for anything mother nature throws your way.

4) Keep a steady speed, especially when driving downhill

"Excessive downhill speed causes unstable trailer and tow vehicle combinations. As a tow vehicle speeds up, the heavy trailer tracking behind it will move even faster. Any braking action could cause the trailer to put excessive force on the tow vehicle and promptly start a fishtailing action."
- Rene Agredano, RV Life

Speeding may seem like a good idea, but it can be the cause of trailer sway and even accidents. While on the road, it's crucial to keep a steady speed, especially when driving downhill. Keep these tips in mind to make sure you are driving safely and preventing trailer sway:

1. Slow down on descents to maintain a safe speed
2. Avoid overusing your brakes
3. Downshift into a lower gear to maintain control
4. If you notice trailer sway, use your manual trailer brake to slow down and regain control.

5) Consider investing in a trailer with a fifth wheel

"5th wheel trailers are more stable due to the 5th wheel hitch being positioned over and close to the tow vehicle's rear axle. In the case of a 5th wheel, lateral forces do not affect it like a trailer that is hitched at the rear of the tow vehicle."
- Mark Polk, RV 101

The road to a safer, more stable towing experience could start with upgrading to a fifth-wheel trailer. These types of trailers offer added traction, making them less prone to swaying while on the road. Not only that, but they tend to be easier to maneuver and considered safer overall to tow. Plus, with a fifth-wheel hitch, you'll enjoy a superior turning radius for even more stability and control. So, if you're in the market for a new trailer, considering a fifth-wheel option could be a smart move for your next adventure.

6) Always keep your trailer tires properly inflated

Keeping your trailer tires properly inflated is an easy and important step to prevent trailer sway. Imagine hitting the road with your family and friends, surrounded by nature's beauty, and suddenly facing the challenge of fishtailing because of underinflated tires. Not only it's dangerous but it also ruins the fun. To ensure a smooth and safe journey, make sure to regularly check your tire pressure before setting off on your road trip. Not only will it prevent trailer sway, but it will also prolong the life of your tires and improve your fuel efficiency. So, take the time to check your tire pressure before you hit the road, it'll be worth the peace of mind.

7) Do not overreact if you experience trailer sway

When trailer sway happens, it can be a scary experience. Your instincts may tell you to react swiftly, but that's not always the best course of action. Instead of panicking and overcorrecting, or hitting the brakes, take a moment to stay calm and think things through. Remember, safety is key. Downshift into a lower gear, slow down and pull off the road if necessary. And don't forget to check your trailer hitch, load, and tire pressure before continuing on your journey. In fact, taking a moment to assess the situation can give you peace of mind and avoid potential issues in the future. Keep in mind that it is better to take the time to be sure everything is good to go, rather than rush back on the road and put yourself in a dangerous situation.

What is the surest path to avoiding trailer sway?

The thrill of hitting the open road with your RV or trailer can quickly turn into a nightmare when you experience trailer sway. But don't worry, it doesn't have to be that way! With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure that your journey is smooth and safe for everyone.

From carefully loading your trailer, to making sure your hitch is properly connected and checking the weather forecast, the key to avoiding trailer sway is to be proactive. And when in doubt, it's always best to consult with an expert in the trailer hitch industry.

ProPride, the nation's leading trailer hitch specialists, are here to help. With over 20 years of experience, we offer cutting-edge solutions to eliminate trailer sway and ensure safe travels for you and your load. Our ProPride 3P Trailer Sway Control Hitch is easy to install, durable and designed with safety in mind. Don't let trailer sway ruin your road trip, contact ProPride today and make sure your next journey is smooth and safe.