What is your wind tolerance or limit when towing?

mx4789

Recently the forecast called for 20 mph winds with gusts of 30-40 mph so I decided not to go camping since that'd be during the return trip portion of the weekend. But, that did get me to thinking, am I being too cautious? I'd like to know what your personal experience has been, and when do you throw in the towel on trying to tow on windy days?

qhumberd

When on extended trips it is often not possible to predict conditions. Our rule of thumb has always been to SLOW DOWN when conditions are challenging. If your tow vehicle and trailer are matched and balanced for each other, you should have no concerns unless wind conditions are extreme.

swiftwave

It depends…
If wind gusts are capable of significantly rocking the trailer when it is stationary and with stabilizers raised, then I will make assessments on whether or not to tow.
Teardrop trailers appear to have much better aerodynamics than many other shapes. Teardrops would seem to have reduced headwind drag, combined with reduced crosswind effects.
The power of wind increases at a rate much greater than the increase in wind speed. In other words; when wind speed doubles, the power of that wind could increase eightfold.
If I am on a quiet backroad that can safely tolerate driving much slower, then I may consider towing in stronger winds. (Highways or freeways generally don’t safely tolerate driving much slower than the speed limit.)
Some roads are closely surrounded by large trees, with many tons of wood suspended overhead. Windfall can become a concern.
When in doubt, it may be best to err on the side of safety.
Keep in mind that other drivers will almost certainly decide to "go for it". These drivers may become the primary risk, as their trailers fishtail, creep over the line or even capsize.
I prefer to enjoy my towing experience. Carefully choosing when and where to tow enables me to more consistently achieve this preference.

Grumpy_G

Just got back to Central Oregon from a trip to Prescott AZ. There are some serious winds in the open areas in Nevada and Eastern Oregon, sometimes it feels like touching the brakes when a gust hits you. No problem with the trailer otherwise, towing a 320 with a Gladiator so a similar setup. Now snow is a different animal….