Best Travel Trailer Tires

From the safety of you and your family to enjoyable trips — a lot depends on choosing the right tire. You might have the best RV trailer in the world, but without a set of quality tires, it will be pretty useless. For that reason, it is very crucial to pick the best travel trailer tires.

Probably, you are planning on buying a new set of tires for your trailer? If so, we have got your back.

Quick answer to which ones are best:

Gladiator Trailer Truck Tire

Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

Check Price on Amazon

Check Price on Amazon

Gladiator Trailer Truck Tire

Check Price on Amazon

Carlisle Radial Trail HD Trailer Tire

Check Price on Amazon

To help you with this process, we have jotted this article down. This post contains detailed information about some of the best RV trailer tires you can buy right now.

In this in-depth post, we will cover all the features, pros, cons and so on about the selected tires. Also, you will find a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best travel trailer tires for your precious trailer.

So, fasten your seatbelts and let’s dive right in...

Best Travel Trailer Tires - Reviews

How to Choose the Right Trailer Tire?

To this point, we have reviewed the 12 top travel trailer tires available out there. From that, you can easily narrow down your selection and make a smart decision.

However, to make things clearer and easier for you, we will be addressing some key factors and concerns about trailer tires.

Added to that, we will also let you know how to buy the right trailer tire in the next section.

We hope with the help of these tips and information, you will be able to choose the perfect tire for your trailer. Here we go...

Types of Trailer Tires

Generally speaking, there are 2 types of trailer tires available. They are known as Radial and Bias ply tires.

The major difference between these 2 types of tires is in the construction of the tire's internal structure. Let’s elaborate…

Radial Tires

Typically, the radial tires are manufactured with inner belt layers (preferably made of steel) which run at an angle of 90-degree of the tread centreline.

As a result, the radial tires have flexible sidewalls. Also, these tires run cooler and come with a longer tread life.

Besides, the radial trailer tire has less rolling resistance, which results in saving a lot of fuel, smooth ride and better speed. So, for the best fuel economy, this trailer tire could be a good pick.

Due to the steel belt constructions, the overall build quality of this type of tires tends to be stronger than the bias-ply tires.

From the observations, we can tell that the radial tires are better for long trips and high volume use.

So, if you use your trailer frequently for long-distance trips, then radial tires would be a better choice.

Bias Ply Tires

On the flip side, the bias-ply tires are manufactured with inner belt layers (preferably made of nylon/steel) which run at an angle of 30 to 45-degree of the tread centreline.

This type of construction makes the sidewall of bias-ply tires very tougher than the radial tires.

For that reason, these tires run straighter than radial tires. However, the downside of bias-ply tires is that they have less tread life.

Yet, due to the rigid construction of the sidewall, these are better for off-road and capable of loading heavier loads. On top of all these, these are also cheaper than radial tires.

So, if you use your trailer infrequently and for off-road driving, then bias-ply tires would be a good option for you. Plus, you are also saving a bit of money in this case.

Other Crucial Factors

Now that you know about different types of tires, we can move on to let you know about some very important factors to consider before buying tires for your trailer. Let's go…

Size of the Trailer Tire

You can easily learn the size of any particular trailer tire from the description code on the sidewall of the tire. And, it is very vital to know the exact size of the tires your trailer needs.

Typically, you will see a code like this — ST 205/75R15, which represents the size of the tire. Here’s the breakdown of the code.

The ST stands for ‘Special Trailer'. That means this particular tire is intended for trailers only. Next, the ‘205’ represents the tread width/section width in millimetres.

Then the ‘75’ indicates the aspect ratio of the tire. The aspect ratio of a tire is the ratio of the height of the sidewall and the tread width.

Now, the ‘R' means that this tire is a radial tire. In the case of bias-ply tires, it will be ‘D' instead of ‘R'.

The ‘D' means it comes with diagonal bias-ply construction. And finally, the ‘15’ indicates the rim diameter of the tire.

On our reviews above, we have already mentioned the size of the tires (where’s applicable) for your convenience. Now, you have a clear idea about reading the tire size code.

Using this information above, you should be able to look for the best-fit tire for your trailer. Otherwise, the tire might not be compatible with the wheel. 

The Load Index Rating/Maximum Weight Capacity

To put it simply, the load index rating or load range indicates the maximum amount of load a particular tire can carry.

So, first, you should count the total load (approx.) your trailer would need to carry on a regular basis.

Then you should buy the set of RV tires that is capable of carrying that much load. Bear in mind, the maximum weight load capacity includes the weight of your trailer as well.

It is not only the additional loads. Usually, the load range of trailer tires is represented by the letters from B to F.

Here, the load range B is the lowest rating and F is the highest rating. So, if you are planning on towing heavier loads you will have to choose a tire with a load range of at least D, E, or F. 

Sidewall Strength

Most of the best travel tires come with strong sidewalls. In our reviews above, we have included only the tires which come with appropriate sidewall strength.

If you get a low-quality tire, your tire might get punctured anytime.

If the sidewall of your tire is not sturdy enough, it won't be able to take much pressure.

Also, it will be more prone to damage while you are carrying heavy loads. Thus, help yourself and get a tire with strong sidewall.

Speed Rating

For trailer tires, the speed rating is not that important. However, for your safety, you should know the speed rating of the tire you are going to buy.

The speed rating indicates the top speed a tire can handle without any damage to the tire.

Speed ratings are denoted by the letters from L to V. However, for high-speed exotic cars, there are separate speed ratings which are denoted by the letters V, W, Y, and Z.

In the case of trailer tires, you would see mostly speed rating of ‘L’.

That means, your trailer tires can handle the top speed of 75 mp/h or 120 km/h without any issues.

Some trailer tires also come with the speed rating of M (a bit higher than L). But, whatever the speed rating is, it is advisable to drive below the speed limit of the area you are driving on.

Max Inflation Pressure Rating

Every best RV trailer tires would come with a max tire pressure rating. You should not inflate your tire beyond that.

The maximum pressure rating represents the highest inflation pressure a tire is manufactured to contain.

You need to remember that the inflation pressure of any tire should be measured on cold conditions. Because overheating might increase the inflation pressure on any tire.

Normally, the max inflation pressure is denoted in kPa (kilopascals) and psi (pounds per square inches).

We have tried to mention the highest inflation rating for each tire whenever possible in our review above. So, you can make your decision with ease.

Distance, Terrain Type, and Weather Condition

The size, load rating, pressure ratings, etc. should be on your top priority while you are buying a new set of tires.

But that doesn’t mean, you can leave out some other less discussed yet essential factors like the terrain, distance, and weather condition.

First and foremost, you should think about the distance you will use your trailer to cover.

For instance, you might use your trailer for long-distance traveling on a regular basis. Then, you should go with high-quality radial trailer tires and vice versa.

Not all tires are suitable for rough and treacherous roads. If you happen to drive your trailer through off roads, then you should consider tough and rugged tires.

On the flip side, if you are driving on highways, most of the trailer tires can handle it effortlessly.

Next comes the weather condition. A lot of buyers don't think about this vital factor while picking their trailer tires.

Luckily, most of the best RV trailer tires are made for all types of roads as well all types of seasons

And, you should also go with the tire which can handle the harshest weather conditions like snow, rain, extreme heat, etc.

Or else, it would be hard to use your trailer in severe weather conditions.

Quality of Ride & Longevity

Wouldn’t you want an enjoyable ride while you are on your trailer? We bet you would. But the quality of your ride entirely depends on the quality of the tires you have mounted on your trailer.

If your tire is deteriorated or has bumps on it, there will be vibrations and bounce. This is not pleasant on long trips at all.

But the best RV trailer tires are made with a high-quality rubber compound. This ensures that there will be no bumps on the tires.

Fort that reason, you will have a smooth ride if you choose from the tires we have mentioned.

Besides that, choose a tire which is known for its longevity and longer lifespan. That way you won’t have to buy new tires frequently.

It will also save a lot of money in the long run. Because it is always wise to spend a bit more money on quality tires upfront than to keep buying new tires often.

The best travel trailer tires would deliver the same ride quality even putting on after thousands of mileage.

It will always be like brand new until it’s time to replace the tire. You should not buy a set of tires which will wear out after a few hundred miles.

Lucky for you, we have included only the best of the best RV/travel trailer tires on this review post. So that you won’t have to face this type of scenario.

When should you replace the current Trailer Tires?

Buying a new set of tires is pretty simple. But knowing when you should go for a new tire is a bit tricky. And, if you don't know when exactly to buy a new one, you should learn more about this.

Otherwise, you and your trailer might be in danger. So, here are some signs which will indicate that you will need to replace the existing tire on your trailer.

Average Lifespan

The general rule of thumb to replace your trailer tires would be from 3 to 6 years.

If you got a set of high-end trailer tire and you use your trailer hardly, then you might not need to replace them even after 6 years. But it is not recommended to go without replacing your trailer tires every 6 years.

But on the contrary, if you use your trailer very often and carry heavy loads, you might need to replace them after 3 to 4 years.

Now, remember this is applicable only for the high-quality best trailer tires. If you are using low-quality tires, it might not even last a year.

Tread Wear

In some cases, it doesn’t matter when the last time you have replaced your trailer tires.

Because the longevity of a tire depends on a lot of factors like the type of the trailer, the load it carries, the weather, the road, and so on. Thus, it is always better to check the condition of your tires regularly.

If you notice that the tires are wearing down prematurely and unevenly, it’s time to replace them. Checking the tread wear regularly would also give you peace of mind.

Aside from that, if there are little to none tread compound left on the tires, you should change them as soon as possible. It is better you do that even before you hit the road the next time.

Better Safe than Sorry

You should always keep an eye on the condition of the tires of your trailer.

If you follow the best maintenance practices, then you will receive top-notch service from your tires regardless of the price or the expected lifespan of the tire.

If you plan on going on a long trip, you should check the tires carefully. If you think that there will be issues while you are on the road, it is better to change them sooner than later. Also, you should carry tire deflators with you.

Your safety should always be your top-most priority. Otherwise, a tire might blow in the middle of your trip. And, you have to deal with that right there.

FAQ about the Best Trailer Tires

In this section, we are going to answer the most prevalent questions regarding trailer tires. So, let’s move on!

Which brands make the best trailer tires?

There are a number of well-reputed trailer tire manufacturer companies out there. To name a few: Carlisle, eCustomRim, Trailer King, Wheels Express Inc., Freestar, Gladiator, Free Country and more. Going with any of these brands will be great if you want to get a long-lasting service from your boat trailer tire.

Is there any difference between the trailer and car tires?

Definitely. These are two entirely different kinds of tires. The car tires come with thick tread which has better traction.

That allows cars to make sharp turns and to reach a higher speed than trailers. Also, the sidewalls of car tires are flexible for a comfortable ride.

Whereas the trailer tires are made to carry heavy loads with sturdy sidewalls. Also, these tires are made with less thick tread for rough and risky roads.

Thus, trailer tires can’t attain a high speed like car tires.

Are trailer tires balanced?

Absolutely. These are specially tested on the road and laboratory. The best new trailer tires will come with perfect balance for your peace of mind.

How much will a trailer tire cost?

The price of RV tires depends on a lot of factors. So, it is hard to give an accurate rate. In general, a heavy-duty trailer tire can cost you from $40 to $150.

However, you should bear in mind that it is an estimation. But, usually, it is possible to get a high-quality new trailer tire for about $80 to $100.

What is the average lifespan of trailer tires?

We have already talked about this earlier in the buying guide section. Typically, a good quality best trailer tire should last between 3 to 6 years.

Yet, it depends on a lot of aspects. So, make sure you are checking the condition of the tires regularly so that you know when you need to use a new set of tires. If you get a heavy duty trailer tire from a good brand, you can expect long-lasting service from it.

How should you rotate trailer tires?

You can balance your trailer tires by rotating them. It is advisable to do it often to check whether there are any mechanical issues with the wheel or the tire.

You can do it any way you want such as from side to side, front to back, using an X pattern, and so on.

How much should you inflate the trailer tires of yours?

It depends on the specific model of your trailer tire. You will receive specific instructions with your tire from the manufacturers.

Please, follow that to make sure you are not over/under-inflating your tires. It is wise to check for the tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge before long trips. Also, an ARB compressor might come in handy in these situations.

How do you change trailer tires?

It is very easy. Just make sure you are following the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your tires. Nevertheless, it is similar to replacing tires on any other similar vehicles.

How to prevent dry rotting on trailer tires?

First, you will need to know why this happens. Dry rotting can be instigated due to a lot of reasons including low inflation, inactivity of the tires, overheating, etc.

This issue is also known as sidewall cracking. To prevent this, you should always check on the level of air pressure on the tires.

If needed, you should adjust the level of tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

And, while storing your tires, you should keep a few tips in mind. For instance, it is better if you store the tires on climate-controlled storage space.

If that is not possible, you should use a board to keep the tires separated from the asphalt. That way, the tires will be safe from any type of corrosion.

Another essential tip is to keep the tries away from sunlight whenever it's possible. If you need to store the tires for a long time, then you should use a tarp to cover them which will keep the tires dry.

And, if it is possible, you can use a steel rack to store the tires for better result. However, the most important thing to do is to check on the tires regularly whether you are using them or not.