Tips to Reduce Travel Trailer SwayTips to Reduce Travel Trailer Sway
Travel trailer sway can be scary and frustrating, but it shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying your vacations!
Usually, wind gusts, uneven surfaces, and high speeds can cause trailer sway. But, if you take a few extra measures, you can control your RV, reduce sway, and make your trips safer, smoother, and more enjoyable. Here are a few ways to travel safely in a travel trailer—so keep reading to learn more.
Check Tire Pressure
One of the most effective ways to reduce trailer sway is to ensure your tires are inflated appropriately. Low tire pressure can cause your trailer to lean and sway, especially on uneven roads and during high wind conditions. On the other hand, overinflated tires can create a bouncy and unstable ride. To skip the hassle, adjust the tire pressure to your manufacturer’s recommendations and travel safely.
Invest in a Weight Distribution Hitch
If you own a large travel trailer, you’ll benefit from investing in a weight distribution hitch. This device can help distribute the weight of your RV across all the axles, including your towing vehicle. This can reduce sway, improve stability, and level your towing set-up.
When exploring weight distribution hitches, choose a model that matches your travel trailer’s weight and size.
Load Your Trailer Evenly
Next, you want to be more strategic about loading your travel trailer. Uneven weight distribution inside your camper can cause it to sway dangerously and tip to one side.
Ideally, follow the 60-40 rule, wherein you place 60% of your cargo near the hitch and the remaining 40% toward the rear end of your camper. You also want to distribute the weight evenly from the left to the right side and keep any heavy items on the floor and lighter ones in your overhead cabinets. You also want to secure each article with straps or bungee cords to prevent them from shifting during transit.
Drive Slow and Steady
Maintaining a steady speed when hauling your travel trailer can also help reduce sway. Stay within the posted speed limit and avoid sudden brakes or abrupt turns.
We hope these strategies help you travel safely. If you need more advice or are still searching for a reliable recreational vehicle, visit Cedar City RV. We have an excellent collection of travel trailers for sale, and we can help you pick the perfect model for your family. Our dealership is in Lebanon, TN, but we proudly serve our patrons from Smithville and Murfreesboro.