Towing a car, 4WD, or trailer behind you might sound like a big job, but with a bit of know-how, it’s much easier than it looks. If you're using an auto trailer rental, the right driving habits make a huge difference. You don’t need to be a pro, just some common sense, a little planning, and a steady hand on the wheel.
Whether you're heading out from Townsville, driving across Cairns, or working around Mt Isa, these tips will help you drive safely while towing. And of course, we’ll tell you why 1300 Meteor’s auto trailer rental makes it all simpler.
Towing with auto trailer rental
Start with the right auto trailer rental
Before we even talk about driving, you need the right trailer. Not all auto trailers are the same. Some are made for small cars, others for 4WDs or heavy vehicles. Using the wrong size can make driving harder (and less safe).
When you hire from 1300 Meteor, we’ll help you choose the right auto trailer rental for the job. Our trailers are strong, well-maintained, and come with the extras you need, like ramps and straps.
We’ve helped heaps of people in Townsville, Cairns, and Mt Isa tow everything from small sedans to work utes. If you're not sure what trailer fits your car, just ask, we’re happy to help.
Take it slow, seriously
One of the most important things to remember when using auto trailer rental is: slow down.
Towing adds extra weight behind your car. That means it takes longer to speed up, and longer to slow down. Going too fast can cause swaying, make it harder to stop, and stress your brakes.
Stick to a lower speed than usual. On the highway, 90 km/h is a good upper limit for most towing. Around town, take corners and roundabouts slowly.
Driving slower might take a bit more time, but it’s a lot safer, and that’s the goal.
Watch your turns
Turns are another place where towing feels different. Your car is longer now: way longer if you’re using a full-sized auto trailer rental.
Here’s what to do:
Take wide turns so the trailer doesn’t hit the kerb.
Go slow and check your mirrors.
Avoid sharp turns in small spaces. Plan your route if you're driving through tight streets.
If you’ve never towed before, practice a few turns in a quiet area first. It’ll help you get a feel for the trailer and build your confidence before hitting busier roads.
And remember: at 1300 Meteor, we’re happy to show you how your auto trailer rental works before you head off.
Braking takes longer
When you're towing with an auto trailer rental, your car is carrying a lot more weight. That means your brakes need more time to slow you down.
Here are some smart braking tips:
Leave extra space between you and the car ahead.
Brake early, gently, and steadily.
Avoid sudden stops, it can cause the trailer to jackknife or sway.
If you’re driving downhill, shift to a lower gear to help slow you down without overusing the brakes. It’s an old-school trick that really works.
Watch out for wind and swaying
Even a small breeze can feel big when you're towing. If your auto trailer rental starts to sway, stay calm and follow these steps:
Don’t slam the brakes, that can make it worse.
Take your foot off the accelerator gently.
Keep both hands on the wheel and steer straight.
If you slow down and the swaying stops, great. If it keeps swaying, pull over somewhere safe and check your load. Sometimes it's just a matter of readjusting a strap or shifting the weight.
At 1300 Meteor, our team will help you tie down your car or gear properly so things stay steady while you drive.
Practice reversing
Reversing with a trailer is a bit of an art. It’s the one part of towing that takes a little brain twist. When you turn the steering wheel, the trailer moves the opposite way. It’s tricky at first, but not too hard with a bit of practice.
Here are some reversing tips:
Go slow - seriously, slower than slow.
Use your mirrors, not just your rear view camera.
If in doubt, stop and realign.
Find an empty car park or wide driveway and have a go before you head off with your auto trailer rental. The more relaxed you feel about reversing, the easier your move or trip will be.
Plan your route
Some roads are just not made for towing. Avoid tight alleyways, sharp corners, steep hills, or roads with heavy traffic if you can. Plan ahead using Google Maps or ask locals (we’ve got plenty of advice if you're around Townsville, Cairns, or Mt Isa).
1300 Meteor makes it easier
We know that towing can feel like a big deal, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we keep things simple with our auto trailer rental service.
Here’s what you get when you hire with us:
Top quality trailers: strong, clean, and ready to go.
Helpful staff: we’ll show you how to use the trailer and load safely.
Local knowledge: we know the roads in Townsville, Cairns, and Mt Isa.
Plus, our auto trailer rental rates are affordable, with no weird hidden fees. You get what you pay for, a proper trailer that gets the job done.
Towing doesn’t have to be hard. With a good trailer, some smart driving, and a bit of planning, you’ll be fine. Whether you’re moving a car, taking a 4WD out bush, or shifting gear across town, auto trailer rental is the way to go.
Just remember: slow down, give yourself room, and don’t rush. Safety first.
And when you’re ready to hire, give 1300 Meteor a call. We’ve got the right auto trailer rental for the job, and the advice to go with it.
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 "Towing with auto trailer rental")
