Tips to Avoid Travel Trailer Sway
Vacationing with your travel trailer is a wonderful experience until your camper starts unexpectedly swaying while you’re driving! Even the most seasoned RV drivers dread this, let alone beginners. The sudden rocking of the trailer back and forth can make you lose control, leading to damage, and in some cases even serious accidents. While there’s no way to predict the time and location of trailer sway (which is caused by crosswinds, drafts from passing trucks, or even the way your trailer is hooked up to your tow vehicle), you can take some steps to prevent it and handle your trailer better.
Browse this handy guide to help prevent trailer sway before you hit the road. We at RV Outfitters of Texas care for your safety and want you to enjoy your trip thoroughly. For new and used travel trailers for sale, visit our shop at Nacogdoches, Texas. We also serve our friends in nearby Lufkin.
Proactive Inspection of Your Trailer
Check if the air pressure and tire tread are good to go as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. Examine the braking system as well. If you don’t find it up to snuff or you want an expert’s opinion, don’t hesitate to contact our service department.
Installing a Friction Sway Control Device
Friction sway control devices are popular among RVers. If you are comfortable with a small investment prior to your trip, you could consider installing one of these on your camper. These accessories help to lower the impact of crosswinds and turns.
Staying Within the Weight Limits
Refer to the owner’s manual to find out the weight limit of the trailer and tow vehicle. Follow the guidelines and prevent unwarranted sways during your travel.
Even Distribution of In-Trailer Items
Pack and properly secure all items in the trailer. Loose cargo can move around the space causing the rig to sway. Next, distribute the weight evenly on both sides to prevent excess weight on one side and less on the other. This will keep the weight balanced and prevent sway. It’s recommended that you place the heavier items at the front of the trailer and the lighter ones towards the rear.
Checking the Weather Update
The simplest prevention hack is to check the weather forecast to see if there are windy conditions ahead. You may want to delay your trip by a few hours to avoid the risks.
Handling Sway On-The-Way
Even after taking all precautionary measures, you may experience a sudden sway. The idea is to avoid panicking and hitting the brakes which can lead to disastrous results. Rather:
- Apply the trailer brakes first and gradually lower the speed
- Keep your two vehicle’s wheel straight and try to drive in a straight line
- Avoid taking a turn
If this helped, you could move on. However, if you’re still swaying, pull over to the side and let the windy conditions abate. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
To get your trailer examined prior to a trip, install a sway control device, or upgrade to a new camper, visit RV Outfitters of Texas in Nacogdoches, TX. We’re happy to assist our customers from Lufkin, too.