Published | 20 October 2026
With increased traffic expected on Tasmanian roads this weekend, RACT is reminding drivers to prioritise safety, particularly when towing caravans and trailers.
According to Service Tasmania data, there are more than 143,000 registered caravans and trailers across the state.
With many families expected to head away over the Hobart Show Day public holiday, upcoming long weekends in Tasmania's north and into the summer months, RACT is encouraging drivers to take a few extra minutes to ensure their vehicle and trailer are safe and roadworthy before setting off.
RACT Head of Roadside Service Delivery Josh Dobie said drivers should take a few extra minutes before setting off to ensure their vehicle and trailer are safe and roadworthy.
"Towing requires extra care and preparation, particularly when roads are busy," Mr Dobie said.
“Getting out and about is a great Tasmanian tradition, whether you’re heading out on the water, to the shack or out camping, particularly as the weather improves, but it’s important to make sure your vehicle and trailer are ready before you set off.
“Towing changes the way your vehicle handles, takes longer to stop and can be more challenging on winding roads or in changing conditions.
“We all want to reach our destination, but safety should never be compromised for the sake of getting there a little quicker.”
Mr Dobie encouraged anyone towing a caravan, trailer or boat to complete a simple safety check before leaving.
Before you tow, RACT recommends checking:
· The combined weight of your vehicle and load is within legal and manufacturer limits.
· The load is evenly distributed, properly balanced and all items are securely fastened.
· Tyres, wheel bearings, brakes and lights are in good working order.
· The tow ball, coupling and safety chains are correctly connected and secured.
· Your trailer number plate is visible.
· Fuel, batteries and other loose equipment are secured
· You allow extra stopping distance and take additional care on winding roads, in strong winds and in changing weather conditions.
“When connecting any trailer, use the appropriate hitch for your tow vehicle and make sure safety chains are crossed under the trailer tongue and attached using approved shackles,” Mr Dobie said.
“Mountain climbing carabiners are not an acceptable substitute for approved safety chain shackles.
“Taking a few minutes to check your trailer before leaving can help prevent a breakdown and keep you and other road users safe.”
Mr Dobie also reminded all drivers to take extra care during long weekend travel.
“Plan your journey, allow plenty of time and take regular breaks,” he said.
“Before setting off, check your vehicle is roadworthy, including oil, coolant, battery, lights and tyre pressures.
“Take extra care on winding roads and in changing weather conditions, particularly when towing, and always follow speed limits and drive courteously around other road users.
“Allow plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front and remember that arriving safely is far more important than arriving quickly.”
See more preparation tips here