Whether you plan to travel in a car and tow a trailer or travel in an RV and tow a car, you need to have specific towing gear. Having the right towing gear allows for secure towing and prevents any accidents that may occur while driving and when parked. If you’re not sure which tools you need for the best and safest towing experience, look at our list of 5 essential towing accessories.
Anti-Sway Bar and Weight Distribution Hitch
Towing a vehicle, especially a trailer, can be a real challenge since it’s prone to swaying caused by wind turbulence and air pressure changes. To stabilize the connection between your main vehicle and the towed vehicle and prevent sways, you need to buy an anti-sway bar and weight distribution hitch. The anti-sway bar connects both vehicles and limits sway whereas the weight distribution hitch distributes the weight into the center of your tow vehicle.
Rear Camera and Backup Alarm System
Having a rear camera is essential for keeping an eye on the toad. It allows you to monitor the hitch ball and toad’s movements while driving. It also helps in reverse parking and allows you to keep an eye on thieves.
Apart from a rear camera, you should also have a backup alarm system installed on the toad. These systems warn you in case you’re about to hit something while reverse parking. Plus, they protect your vehicles from thieves.
Side Mirrors and Tow Lights
When driving two vehicles one in front of another, it’s hard to see them from all sides. Thankfully, side mirrors are there to help you with that. They not only allow you to see both of your vehicles but also help you in driving since they allow you to see the drivers you want to pass and who want to pass you.
Apart from being able to see others, it’s important for others to see you. The best way to do that is by installing tow lights on the vehicle towed. These lights not only show your and the toad’s position on the road but also notify the other drivers when you’re about to brake or turn.
Safety Chains
Safety chains are required by law and help secure the connection between the main vehicle and the toad. In case of hitch malfunction, they keep the toad connected to your vehicle. When using them, make sure they don’t drag on the ground as it will cause sparks that can lead to a fire.
Trailer Breaks
If you’re towing a trailer, you must add supplementary breaks installed on it. This helps distribute the stopping force evenly between the main vehicle and the trailer. In this way, it makes stopping much easier and the towing safer.
Final Words
These 5 towing accessories are the most essential towing tools. However, they aren’t the only ones you should have. There are many other accessories you should consider adding to your towing gear depending on the type of the main vehicle and the towed vehicle. So, before you hit the road, make sure you have the right towing equipment for safe traveling.