OVERLANDING WITH TRAILERS: PROS AND CONS
Overlanding trailers are becoming increasingly popular among adventure travellers—and for good reason. A well-designed trailer can offer expanded storage, improved organization, and greater flexibility on the trail. But like any gear decision, towing a trailer comes with trade-offs. Whether a trailer is right for your setup depends on your vehicle, travel goals, and personal preferences. 
At STARS Overland, we often choose to tow trailers because they provide the extra cargo space needed for a fully loaded rig. With a trailer, we can carry more gear, free up space in the tow vehicle, and even accommodate multiple rooftop tents—making it possible for one vehicle and one trailer to sleep an entire crew.
So, should you tow a trailer on your next overland adventure? Let’s break down the pros and cons of overlanding with trailers.
✅ PROS OF OVERLANDING WITH TRAILERS
1. More Freedom at Camp
One of the biggest advantages of towing a trailer is the ability to stage your camp setup and leave with just the tow vehicle. This is perfect for weekend warriors who want to explore nearby trails, go fishing, or run errands without packing up camp. It also allows groups to split up—some stay at camp while others head out.
In emergency situations, having a staged trailer can also be a safety asset, allowing for quick departure without dismantling your entire setup.
2. Better Weight Distribution
Trailers typically have higher tow ratings than vehicle payloads, making them ideal for carrying heavy gear like:
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Water tanks
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Rooftop tents
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Galley systems
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Large storage boxes
This setup reduces the need for extensive vehicle modifications and helps maintain better handling and suspension performance.
3. Superior Organization
A well-built trailer offers unmatched organization and we can assist with build of your trailer of your:
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Flat cooking surfaces
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Spacious dry storage
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Easy access to gear
STARS Overland custom-made trailer
Trailers also support larger rooftop tents, which are lower to the ground and easier to set up and tear down. Discover our range of Rooftop tents from iKamper, Quick Pitch and Eezi Awn for top-rated overlanding equipment. Those brands offer the most price-competitive rooftop tents with unmatched quality.
❌ CONS OF OVERLANDING WITH TRAILERS
1. Reduced Manoeuvrability
Towing a trailer affects your ability to make quick decisions on the road. Defensive driving becomes harder, and tight turns, lane changes, and sudden stops can be risky.
In many countries in Europe, narrow streets and limited parking make trailers a challenge. Off-road conditions like deep snow, sand, or mud can also hinder performance due to added weight.
2. Increased Complexity
Adding a trailer means more mechanical parts—and more potential failure points. You’ll need to consider:
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Draw bar clearance (especially with side-opening doors like on the Lexus GX)
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Brake controllers (check our range of Brake Controllers
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Suspension upgrades
3. Higher Costs
Longer rigs may incur extra fees on ferries, toll roads, and shipping. Heavier trailers reduce fuel economy and range, possibly requiring upgrades like a Long Range Automotive tank, which adds even more weight and affects spring rates.
🔧 TIPS FOR TOWING AN OVERLAND TRAILER
If you decide to tow, here are some essential trailer towing tips:
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Match tire size and hub pattern between trailer and tow vehicle
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Power management: Trailers can draw significant power—ensure your alternator and battery setup can handle it
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Brake controller: We recommend the REDARC Tow Pro, which offers both on-road and off-road modes. Check our range of Brake controllers.
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Suspension upgrades: Consider springs, dampened shocks, or airbags to maintain ride height and performance. Check our range of suspension here.
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Integrated power systems: Most of our trailers use REDARC Manager30 and RedVision systems for complete power management
FINAL THOUGHTS: IS AN OVERLANDING TRAILER RIGHT FOR YOU?
Overlanding with a trailer offers many benefits—from increased storage and comfort to better camp flexibility. But it also introduces challenges in manoeuvrability, complexity, and cost. The key is to evaluate your travel style, vehicle capabilities, and long-term goals.
We are here to help you! Contact us to discuss your requirements
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Until next time, stay curious, stay inspired !
