Our Summer Road Trip (Hitch) Checklist

Family at their car with a map and camper in the background

With summer quickly approaching, those summer road trips are not far off. Whether you and your family take regular trips to your favorite campsite or seaside home or if you choose to take an epic cross-country trip to somewhere new, road trips are beloved for a reason. They bring you and your loved ones close together for a one-of-a-kind trip and memories that will last a lifetime.

Before you embark on your next roadside adventure, it's crucial to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with the right hitch, especially if you're towing a trailer, camper or boat. Hitches also come into play when you bring along your favorite summer activities, such as kayaks and canoes, bikes and surfboards.

Without a proper hitch, you can risk the safety of all of those within the vehicle and those who share the road with you. We've put together a helpful guide on why your hitch matters and what you should look for in a hitch so you can enjoy your summer trip to the fullest.

Summer Hitch Checklist

As you pack your bags and prep your supplies, make sure you run through our hitch safety checklist:

Hitch selection- Choosing the appropriate hitch for your vehicle ensures that your trailer or camper is securely attached, reducing the risk of accidents or mishaps on the road. There are a variety of hitch products for a reason. Some hitches are made for smaller, compact cars to bring their bikes and outdoor equipment with them. Other hitches are made for more heavy-duty towing capabilities, such as towing a large boat, camper or trailer. It's important to identify which type of hitch will work for your car and the weight of whatever you're attaching.
Compatibility - Not all hitches are created equal, and compatibility with your vehicle is crucial. Before selecting a hitch, it is essential to consider factors such as your vehicle's towing capacity, hitch class and attachment points. A class 1 bumper mount hitch may be ideal for attaching your bikes to your SUV, whereas a class 4 rear mount hitch may be needed for a pickup truck hauling a large trailer. Choosing a hitch that is compatible with your car or truck ensures a seamless fit, minimizing the risk of structural damage or mechanical issues during your journey. If you aren't sure what kind of hitches are compatible with your vehicle, reach out to us, and we'd be happy to help.
Proper installation - A properly installed hitch provides stability and control, allowing you to maneuver your vehicle safely, even when towing heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain. On the flip side, improper installation can result in technical issues, such as your turn signals and brake lights not working effectively or dangerous sway problems due to weight imbalance. These problems put you and others on the road at severe risk. Instead of attempting to install it on your own, we recommend having a professional install and test the hitch, like those at Southside Hitch.
Legal compliance - Towing regulations vary from state to state and country to country. While your hitch may follow the towing regulations for your home state, it's possible it could no longer be up to code once you hit the road and cross state lines. Ensuring that your vehicle is equipped with the appropriate hitch not only enhances safety but also helps you stay compliant with local laws and regulations. From weight limits to trailer brake requirements, having the right hitch ensures that you're operating within legal parameters, avoiding potential fines or penalties during your travels.

Stay Safe this Summer with Southside Hitch

Don't let your summer road trip sway by planning ahead and scheduling a routine check-up or installation with Southside Hitch. Our team of experts is always happy to help you review the state of your current hitch, find the right kind of hitch and accessories, and test out the safety and compliance of the hitch.

Enjoy your road trip to the fullest with a quick pit stop at our shop! Give us a call today.