By Kirill Maksymiak July 21, 2025

Top 5 Must-Have Accessories for Safer Trailer Towing

Why Towing Safety Starts with the Right Gear

Towing — it’s Not Just About “Hook It Up and Go”. Safety on the road starts before you even start — with the proper towing trailer accessories that ensure stability, visibility, and control. A reliable connection, control on turns, cargo protection — all of this is provided by quality trailer safety equipment, which should be a standard for every trip. Therefore, before you hit the road, check your gear and make sure you have all the best towing accessories — this is the foundation of a calm and controlled journey.

Top 5 Must-Have Trailer Towing Accessories

When you add accessories for trailer hitch, install control systems, or enhance traction — you improve stability on turns, make braking easier, and keep the situation under control even on challenging routes. In this list, we have five categories of accessories that are truly worth your attention. And not just because they are “must-haves,” but because they really work.

Trailer Hitch Accessories

A reliable connection is the basis of towing. Hitch accessories are responsible for how securely the trailer is connected to your vehicle. Some of the most common include fixed tow bars, removable balls, and adjustable systems with varying mounting heights. For those who value not only functionality but also convenience, there are cool trailer hitch accessories — magnetic fasteners, anti-theft locks, adapters for different types of trailers, and even organizers for storing hitch equipment.

Trailer Sway Control Kits

If you still don’t know what is trailer sway control, it’s time to figure it out. This system prevents trailer sway at high speeds or during gusts of wind, especially if the cargo is loaded unevenly. In simpler models, this function can be performed by a mechanical limit on the tow ball, while modern trailer sway control kits connect to the car’s electronics and work on sensors. They automatically brake one or more wheels to align the position and prevent skidding.

Brake Controller for Trailer

The question “what is a brake controller for trailer” is often asked by beginners, and it’s good — understanding this system really affects safety. It’s a device that synchronizes the brakes of the car and the trailer, and on inclines, declines, or during sudden braking, you avoid sudden jolts and skidding. For effective operation and safe driving, it’s important to know what is the best setting for trailer brake controller — this depends on the weight of the trailer, brake characteristics, and external factors like weather or road conditions.

Safety Chains and Breakaway Kits

Towing safety is not just about the right tow bar and brakes, but also additional systems that prevent the worst. Safety chains are the last line of defense in case the main connection fails. They are attached crosswise under the hitch to prevent it from dropping and must be strong enough to hold the trailer. Breakaway devices automatically activate the trailer’s brakes in case of disconnection from the towing vehicle. These trailer towing accessories are legally required and absolutely necessary for legal and safe driving with a trailer.

Trailer Lights and Reflectors

Any trailer on the road must be highly visible, regardless of lighting conditions. All trailers are equipped with rear turn signals, marker lights, and brake lights. Reflectors are also required, which will show the size of the trailer even in darkness. If the trailer is wider than 2.1 meters, two marker lights must be installed at the front. If the trailer length exceeds 9.1 meters, two marker lights must be installed on each side.

How to Tow a Trailer Safely — Checklist

If you’re renting a trailer for the first time, or it’s larger than the one you’re used to, or even a more complex model, you need to concentrate fully and carefully check all elements that affect road safety. A basic trailer towing checklist helps reduce anxiety and ensures all critical points are covered before departure:
Action What to Check Why It’s Important
Check the hitch Reliability of the connection, absence of defects Prevent detachment on the road
Check the lights Functionality of brake lights, turn signals, and marker lights Ensure visibility and signaling
Check the tires Pressure, tread condition, absence of damage Road safety and stability
Check the braking system Brake controller settings, condition of the trailer brakes Efficient braking and control
Secure the load Reliable fastening, proper weight distribution Prevent movement and swaying of the trailer
Check the safety chains Reliability of chain connections, absence of wear Backup protection in case of an accident
Check external mirrors Proper adjustment for maximum visibility Minimize blind spots
Practice driving Test braking, maneuvering Get accustomed to the trailer’s length and weight
If you rent a trailer from a truly responsible company, no safety point will be overlooked. Our specialists will check everything with you, connect the trailer properly, and ensure you are ready for the road.

Best Way to Load a Trailer

To ensure the trailer is stable and doesn’t cause problems on the road, follow these loading rules:
  • Place heavy items as low as possible and closer to the trailer’s axle.
  • Try to balance the weight evenly on both sides, don’t load all the heavy items on one side.
  • Weight matters — don’t exceed the limits specified for your vehicle and trailer.
  • Secure everything properly — with straps or a net. Use trailer storage solutions and make sure nothing shifts inside the trailer.
  • Cargo that exceeds the height of the sides or extends beyond its edges should be properly secured and marked according to safety requirements.
A properly loaded trailer is not only about safety but also about the longevity of your equipment and lower fuel costs.

Invest in Safety Before You Hit the Road

Hetman Rental offers a full rental service that will help you feel confident on the road. All of our trailers are regularly inspected and maintained, and we’re always here to help with the correct connection to your vehicle — because we are also interested in ensuring our trailer reaches its destination safely. For those looking for trailer rental for moving, we offer a whole range of popular accessories to help you tackle any task.
  • Follow the 60/40 rule — more weight at the front to reduce swaying.
  • Secure the load properly — straps, sectional fastening to the trailer body.
  • Pre-trip and on-the-road checks — lights, brakes, hitch, fastenings — always inspect everything thoroughly.
If in doubt, ask for help — in our trailer rental service, we know exactly how to make your trip comfortable and safe.
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