As much fun as it is to take the boat out, there are some logistical complications that should be considered. Namely, backing up. Boat trailers can be pretty bulky and hard to maneuver, so it’s important to make sure that you back up safely. However, you can be sure that you’ll be able to back up like a pro using these tips.
Boat Trailer
Get a Lookout
One of the best ways to make sure you don’t hit anything when pulling out of the driveway is to get a lookout. Have someone stand off to the side of the vehicle and trailer, and direct you out of the driveway using left and right hand signals where you can see. If you have a longer driveway or spot to back into, get a couple of people to help out with this. Just make sure that you know where everyone is and can see them clearly to avoid any accidents.
Slow and Steady
No matter how experienced you are with backing up, it is important to take your time and be extremely careful to avoid any accidents. Make sure your foot is hovering over the brake, and that you are aware of your surroundings by accurately adjusting your side mirrors to see around the trailer. Patience is also important; it can take several tries to accurately back your trailer up, regardless of your experience.
Know Your Trailer
Knowing how large your trailer is, how far it swings when you turn, and other important information like this can be essential when backing up. Of course, you will learn this information over time, but it is highly recommended that you take the trailer out for a test drive after you first purchase it. This will help you understand how it feels to drive with the trailer, which is especially important if you are brand-new to driving with trailers. You can also practice pulling into spots before you take the trailer on your trip.
Whether you are experienced with trailer driving or new to it, test drives are essential to help you understand how driving with a trailer feels. Knowing this information will help you back out of your driveway or into your spot in a way that makes sense for your trailer.
Know Your Route
Just as it is important to know your trailer and how it moves, it is also important to know the route you are going to take. Before attempting to back up your boat trailer, scout out the places you want to back into. Make a plan; know exactly how you will need to turn to fit the trailer into the spot perfectly. Having a plan or strategy before you attempt to back in is always a great idea so that you know what to expect when backing up, and you are conscious of the surrounding area.
If possible, try to position yourself so that you are backing up towards the driver’s side of your vehicle. This will put you in a better position since you can see the spot and your trailer more clearly.
Conclusion
Boat trailers are a lot of fun, but it is important to know how to back up safely and effectively before you plan your boating trip. Though trailers can be bulky and difficult to drive with, driving them won’t be a problem once you are accustomed to backing up. Using these tips, you will be backing up like a pro in no time. At Gateway Storage, we have 50′ aisles for many of our storage spaces. Call today to check pricing and availability!