Sway Control Tips for Travel Trailer

Mainline Truck Team • January 23, 2025

Traveling with a trailer can come with unique challenges, particularly trailer sway. Trailer sway happens when your camper starts to rock or swerve side to side, which is typically due to wind, poor weight distribution, or abrupt steering. That’s where sway control comes in to keep your travel safe and stable. 


Here, Mainline Truck outlines some of the best tips to prevent and control trailer sway.


Prevention Strategies


Preventing trailer sway starts with preparation. Regular pre-ride inspections and proper packing practices are key to reducing sway risks.


1. Inspect Tires and Air Pressure


Before each trip, check your tires for wear, and ensure they’re inflated to the recommended pressure. Uneven or underinflated tires can destabilize your trailer and make it more susceptible to sway.


2. Check Brakes and Hitch Connections


Ensuring your trailer and tow vehicle brakes are functioning well is essential for safe stopping. Additionally, inspect hitch connections and electrical hookups. Secure connections help stabilize your trailer and reduce unexpected movements during your journey. 


Balancing Tongue Weight for Stability


One of the leading causes of trailer sway is incorrect tongue weight, which is the amount of weight placed on the hitch of the tow vehicle. To achieve proper balance, aim to place around 10-12% of the trailer’s total weight on the tongue. Here’s how to ensure correct weight distribution:


  • Load Heavier Items Toward the Front


Positioning heavier cargo near the front of the trailer and as close to the center as possible helps to balance your load. A distributed load improves stability and reduces the chances of sway.


  • Secure Cargo


Tie down all items securely to prevent them from shifting during travel. Unsecured cargo can disrupt the balance of the trailer and lead to instability and sway.


How to Handle Windy Conditions on the Road


Windy conditions are one of the biggest causes of trailer sway. While avoiding travel on high-wind days is the safest approach, sometimes it’s unavoidable. Here are strategies to keep sway at bay when facing strong winds:


  • Lower Your Speed


Slowing down reduces the effect of wind on your trailer. Maintaining a controlled, moderate speed makes it easier to manage sway and stay safe.


  • Steady the Wheel


Avoid sudden movements or sharp turns, which can amplify sway. Keep your hands steady on the wheel and steer gently to maintain control of your vehicle and trailer.



  • Brake Gradually


If you need to reduce speed, apply your trailer brakes before your vehicle brakes to stabilize the trailer. Abrupt braking can intensify sway, so always decelerate gradually.


Contact Mainline Truck for Travel Trailer Sway Control Services Today!


Trailer sway can be intimidating, but by following these tips, you can prevent and manage it effectively. From careful weight distribution and routine inspections to investing in sway control devices, each measure will make a noticeable difference in stability.


If you need expert guidance or help with trailer sway control, Mainline Truck offers comprehensive sway control services, upgrades, and maintenance to make your travels smoother and safer. Contact us to schedule an appointment!

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By Mainline Truck Team • May 13, 2025
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