How to Control Travel Trailer Sway

Your travel trailer makes your camping trips and other road trip-travels exciting and comfortable. However, if you’re new to the experience of driving while towing a trailer, it can seem a bit daunting. 

One issue that many new travel trailer owners face is the potential for trailer sway, which is when the trailer drifts back and forth behind the towing vehicle. This can make it harder to control the towing set-up while also presenting a danger to the drivers around you. Here are some tips on how to prevent sway and what to do if it happens.

Prevention

There are several things you can do as a driver to minimize the chances of trailer sway happening while you’re on the road. First, make sure that you evenly balance the weight of your travel trailer’s cargo from left to right and from front to back. Unbalanced cargo can cause the trailer to tip or lean to one side, which increases the risk of sway. Try to place about 10% of the cargo weight towards the hitch as well.

Another thing you can do is to make sure that all your tires on both your towing vehicle and your trailer are aired up and in good condition. Having a tire that has low pressure can cause your towing set-up to become unbalanced, which again leads to sway.

Finally, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before you head out. High winds and storms can increase the risk of trailer sway occurring, and it’s best to avoid driving into these conditions when you can.

Handling Sway on the Road

Sometimes, no matter what you do, you may end up experiencing trailer sway anyway. If you notice this happening as you drive, don’t panic. Avoid hitting the brakes because this can make it even harder to control the towing set-up. Instead, slow down your speed gradually with gentle pressure on your brakes. Avoid turning your steering wheel too much and aim to keep driving in a straight line. Look for a place to pull over if you find that your trailer won’t stop swaying, especially if it’s due to wind. You may just have to wait until conditions calm down a bit.

Come see us inSalt Lake City, UT, to check out our great variety of new and used travel trailers for sale. We also offer financing options to help you with your purchase. Airstream® of Utah is proud to be your Deseret family-owned and operated travel trailer dealership, serving Provo and Park City, UT.