Practical guide to driving a travel trailer

Adjust your driving for towing

Driving with a trailer can feel overwhelming at first. It requires sharper reflexes and constant attention. But with a few practical RV towing tips, your camping trip can become a safe and enjoyable adventure.

CAA-Quebec trailer courses, offered in Driving Schools, combine hands-on and theory-based training. A four-hour session is usually enough to help you learn the basics of towing safety and build your confidence before hitting the highway.

Tip: Get to know your towing setup—your tow vehicle, trailer, and accessories. Understanding your equipment helps you anticipate issues and respond appropriately on the road.

Check your trailer hitch before you leave

Your trailer hitch is the link between your vehicle and your travel trailer. It needs to be properly installed and adjusted for a secure connection. Before driving off, it’s a good idea to carry out a trailer hitch inspection. Verify the following: 

• Safety chains are properly attached
• Electric brake cables are connected
• Brake lights and turn signals are working
• Tire pressure is within the recommended range
• The load is balanced and securely tied down

Safe driving tips when towing a travel trailer

Driving with a travel trailer is different from regular driving due to added size and weight. Adjust your driving habits to stay safe.

Take wide turns

At intersections or roundabouts, take wider turns and begin turning earlier than usual. Watch how the trailer moves and adjust your steering to avoid curb strikes or collisions.

Plan your braking

A towing vehicle is heavier and takes longer to stop. Modify your driving style accordingly:

• Maintain extra stopping distance from the vehicle ahead
• Anticipate slowdowns early to avoid hard braking
• Use engine braking if your vehicle has that feature

Keep your speed in check

Smooth, steady driving makes towing a trailer safer and more comfortable.

• Drive at a moderate speed, within speed limits, especially in poor weather
• Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, which can cause trailer sway
• Slow down before curves to stay in control

Stay aware of surroundings

Towing a trailer creates larger blind spots. Watch for smaller vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles that may be harder to see.

Use tow mirrors to increase visibility and stay aware of your trailer’s height and width in these situations: 

• Under viaducts and bridges
• At toll booths
• At gas stations and service areas
• Near overhanging trees and electrical wires

Keep your eyes on road signs and stay focused at all times.

Trailer backing up tips

Backing up with a travel trailer takes practice but isn’t as hard as it looks. The trailer moves opposite to your steering input—turn the wheel left to go right, and right to go left.

Move slowly, use your side mirrors, and keep your hands at the bottom of the steering wheel for better control. Make small adjustments, and don’t hesitate to restart. If possible, ask someone to guide you from behind.

Practice before your first road trip

Familiarize yourself with your trailer by starting with short drives. Practice key manoeuvres like:

• Reversing
• Braking
• Turning
• Parking

This is especially helpful if you’re new to towing or using a trailer for the first time. Consider practicing in an empty parking lot.

Towing with an electric vehicle (EV)?

If you own or are considering an electric vehicle (EV), make sure it has the sufficient trailer towing capacity. Even if the engine is powerful, manufacturers may place limits on towing or cargo weight. Extra weight also reduces your EV’s battery range significantly.

Consult your owner’s manual to avoid surprises and protect your electric drivetrain.