Tips for backing up a boat trailer

[funbun]

I recommend sending or taking people learning to back trailers, and gettting them used to using their side mirrors, to an area with a large empty parking lot. Where they can use the lined parking spaces to reference the control of the trailer while backing. This has allowed numerous individuals to become more proficient and confident in this task, unlike many we see holding up other boaters while they use “trial and error” at the ramp.

That's great for those who have that option, and assumes the person is a good teacher. Nothing can ruin this more than a person who doesn't have the patience to teach a beginner.

But for those who have neither available, practicing right in your own driveway provides the same "practice" space. Note the cinder blocks and engines and clutter all around the truck. Those are my lane lines and are far more realistic than the lane lines of a big parking lot. Note the chair I nearly ran over. That is a teaching moment. Without saying so, I'm teaching people to watch out, stay alert and be careful. Lane lines don't necessarily do that.


With everything open 24 hrs per day, it's getting harder and harder to find adequately empty parking lots. Driveways are available for practice any time.