Owning a boat opens up a whole new world of adventure, but getting it safely from the driveway to the water can feel pretty daunting the first time around.
Whether you’re gearing up for fishing trips, family weekends, or spontaneous outings, transporting your vessel is a skill every boat owner needs.
If you’re a first-timer, these tips will help you haul with confidence and keep your boat in top condition from start to finish.
Prepping for the Journey
Check Your Trailer and Equipment
Before you even think about hitting the road, do a thorough inspection of your boat trailer. Check the tires (including the spare) for wear and proper inflation.
Examine the trailer lights to ensure they work and plug into your vehicle correctly. All straps, winches, and safety chains should be in good shape and able to keep your boat secure throughout the trip.
Know Your Weight Limits
Your vehicle and trailer both have towing and payload capacities. Always check your owner’s manual for the maximum towing weight and ensure your loaded boat doesn’t exceed these limits. Overloading stresses your engine, brakes, and axles, making for a risky trip.
Hitching Up
Secure the Connection
Attach the trailer to your vehicle’s hitch and double-check that the coupler is snug and locked in place. Use a safety pin or lock for extra security.
Cross the safety chains beneath the hitch so they’ll catch the trailer tongue if it comes loose. Don’t forget to attach the breakaway cable that activates your trailer brakes in an emergency.
Check Visibility
Test your mirrors after hitching the boat. If your boat is wider than your vehicle, you might need mirror extenders to see behind you while driving.
Upgrade Your Ride With a Lift Kit
One of the most overlooked upgrades for first-time boat haulers is getting a lifting and leveling kit for your truck. These kits raise your truck’s suspension, providing extra ground clearance when hauling heavy loads like boats.
If you often tow in off-road or rural areas, a lift kit can make a noticeable difference in safety and ease of transport—not to mention, it looks pretty cool!
On the Road
Take It Slow
Driving with a boat is a whole different game than cruising in an empty truck. Keep your speed moderate and leave extra stopping distance between you and other vehicles. Take turns wide and slow to avoid clipping curbs.
Plan Your Route
Stick to main roads where possible and steer clear of sharp turns, low bridges, or tight parking lots. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you avoid construction and heavy traffic.
Do a Final Walkaround
Once you arrive, give your rig one last check. Tug on all straps, check that the boat is centered and level on the trailer, and do a quick circle to spot anything out of place.
Hauling your boat for the first time doesn’t have to be a nerve-racking experience. With the right prep and a few key upgrades, your boat will reach the water ready for adventure.
Take your time, check your gear, and pretty soon, towing your boat will feel like second nature.
