Travel Trailer Pre-Departure Checklist — Before You Tow
BeginnerComplete safety and connection checklist for travel trailer owners before hitting the road. Covers hitch connection, weight distribution setup, brake controller testing, and the full exterior walkaround. Never forget a critical step again.
Checklist 23
Check tire pressure on trailer and tow vehicle
Include spare tire
Visual tire inspection
Look for cracks, bulges, uneven wear
Retract and secure awning
Verify awning strap or lock is engaged
Retract all stabilizer jacks
All four corners plus any center jacks
Retract entry steps
Manual or electric — verify fully up
Check all exterior compartment doors
Push each one to confirm latched
Clear roof of any items
Check for forgotten items, branches, debris
Verify coupler is seated on ball and locked
Tug test — trailer should not lift off ball
Cross safety chains under tongue
Hook to frame, never to bumper
Plug in 7-pin electrical connector
Verify Lights
Install and tension weight distribution bars
If equipped — follow torque specs
Raise tongue jack fully and secure pin
Jack should be completely retracted
Secure all cabinet doors and drawers
Check bathroom cabinet especially
Lock fridge door and switch to 12V or propane
Verify fridge is cold before departure
Stow loose items on counters and tables
Anything unsecured becomes a projectile
Close all windows and roof vents
Including bathroom vent fan
Verify smoke/CO/LP detectors are on
Test button if unsure
Secure TV and mounted electronics
Swivel mounts should be locked
Note fresh water tank level
Know how much you're carrying (adds weight)
Empty or note holding tank levels
Gray and black — don't travel with full tanks
Set water heater to OFF
Never travel with water heater on
Turn off water pump
Prevents pump cycling while driving
Close propane tanks
Unless running fridge on LP
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