Gas prices are at an all time high across our country, many people are looking for ways to
stretch their dollar per mile as much as they can. With regards to towing, there are a lot of
factors influencing your fuel economy – here are some tips to get you more miles for your
money.

1) Consider what your towing with.

First things first, check the specs of your vehicle and ensure it’s equipped to properly and safely haul your tow. Take into account the load weight of both your vehicle and the trailer. Choosing the correct vehicle to tow for the load, for example heavier trailers need vehicles with enough power and adaptability to take on the challenge. If you can lighten your load, do it. It’s basic science that the heavier an object is, the more power and drive it takes to accelerate it. By choosing a vehicle and your trailer wisely and keeping your weights down, you are sure to improve your gas mileage range.

2) Maintain a maintenance schedule.

When trying to save money at the pump, the last thing you want to hear is that you need
to spend more money on your vehicle. However, if you properly maintain both your trailer
and vehicle, your gas mileage should be directly influenced. Alongside regular
maintenance – keeping the correct PSI in the tires of the entire rig can have a large
impact on whether you’re getting the best mileage possible.

3) Manage your weight.

Pay close attention to your trailer’s GVWR (Gross vehicle weight rating) this can typically
be found on the tongue of your trailer, and paperwork when purchasing. Do not overload
your trailer, this can be both dangerous and will suck back the fuel during your trip. If
you’re unsure of what your weight is at, stop at a truck scale to ensure your load is at a
safe weight. You will also want to ensure that the weight is evenly distributed on your
trailer when loading up. Consider smaller loads, if you use your trailer for work ask
yourself “Do I need all of the equipment I’m towing?”

4) Allow yourself a little extra time.

Slow and steady does infact win the money saving race. Pay attention to the way you drive while towing, having a heavy foot can definitely impact your MPG. It will pay off to pay close attention to your terrain, for instance coasting down an incline can increase your MPG averages as well as utilizing your cruise control – but only when on a nice, flat road.

5) Consider what your towing with.

First things first, check the specs of your vehicle and ensure it’s equipped to properly
and safely haul your tow. Take into account the load weight of both your vehicle and the
trailer. Choosing the correct vehicle to tow for the load, heavier trailers need vehicles
with enough power and adaptability to take on the challenge. If you can lighten your load, do it. It’s basic science that the heavier an object is, the more power and drive it takes to accelerate it. By choosing a vehicle and your trailer wisely and keeping your weights down, you are sure to improve your gas mileage range.

6) Lighter Trailers

If you are able to and it is practical, consider an all-aluminum trailer. Aluminum is a very
lightweight material. It is easier to pull and move from location to location than a steel trailer.
Because of their lighter weight, you can tow an aluminum trailer with a vehicle that has a
lower tow capacity. Perhaps a vehicle that gets better gas mileage than a large truck.