They say that safety on the road always begins with visibility; that’s why the side mirrors of your vehicle are angled in a certain way to make sure you see everything on the road. But what if you are on an outdoor adventure and you will be towing along a trailer with you? Extendable towing mirrors are there to help and rescue you to get you safely to your destination. However, how do you know which extendable towing mirrors to pick when there are so many of them?
What Are Towing Mirrors?
Towing mirrors are basically extensions of your vehicle’s standard mirrors. They are specifically designed to give you an enhanced field of vision so you can change lanes or even reverse without any worry of getting in an accident by bumping other vehicles, even with your trailer attached. Here’s how you can make the right choice of choosing the best extendable towing mirrors for your needs.
Assess your vehicle and towing needs. If you already have a towing mirror in mind, check with Australian regulations first to see if it is compliant so you can consider it in your assessment of your vehicle and the load you will be towing. Full visibility along the length of your trailer is important, and towing mirrors with great extension should definitely be on your list.
Types of extendable towing mirrors. Extendable towing mirrors come in two primary styles: clip-on mirrors and replacement mirrors.
- Clip-on mirrors are so easy to install and remove. This is usually the choice of towing mirror if you are not the type to drive around frequently with a trailer. If you are eyeing this type, make sure that you go for anti-slip clamps so it does not come off during long drives.
- Replacement mirrors, on the other hand, are designed for people who tow their vehicles more frequently, and this is a way more efficient option for those situations because it has integrated features that clip-on mirrors do not have.
Durability matters. High-quality materials will always be a non-negotiable, especially when safety is vital. With Australia’s challenging terrain matched with extreme climates, your towing mirrors should handle everything that comes its way, whether that is strong vibrations or harsh environments.
Consider handy features. Modern extendable towing mirrors function more than just extending your field of vision. If you need these features while you are on a long trip, consider them as well:
- It adjusts electronically, so you need not step out of your vehicle to control the best angle you need to see visibly.
- It has a heating feature so your mirrors won’t fog up in harsh weather.
- It has integrated indicators so other drivers can get better visibility too.
- It offers great flexibility, especially in wider towed vehicles.
Research and seek recommendations
Sometimes, reviews are not enough, especially if you face a different situation than what was mentioned online. Find forums that you can relate to and that have been in the same situation as yours so you’ll know the experience of seasoned travellers and use it to your advantage.
