How to Use a Trailer for Rugby Gear Without the Headache

If you’ve ever tried to fit a whole pack of scrum caps, balls, boot bags, and tackle dummies into the back of a car, you know it’s a nightmare. A good trailer can solve that problem in minutes, but only if you pick the right one and load it properly. Below you’ll find simple steps that take the guesswork out of the equation, so you can focus on the next match instead of wrestling with your gear.

Pick the Right Trailer Size and Type

The first decision is size. A 4‑ft utility trailer works for a single player’s kit, but a 6‑ft or 8‑ft model is better for a team’s shared equipment. Look for a trailer with a low deck height; a lower step makes loading heavy boots and tackle bags easier on your knees. If you travel a lot, consider a trailer with a removable sidewall or a folding ramp – it speeds up loading and gives you extra protection against rain.

Load Smart, Secure Fast

Start with the heaviest items closest to the axle – that’s usually the tackle bags or the broken‑in scrum machine. Keeping weight centered prevents sway and makes steering smoother. Next, stack lighter gear like balls, cones, and cleats on top, using tie‑down straps or bungee cords to lock everything down. A quick tip: use a cargo net for small items. It keeps them from bouncing around when you hit a corner, and you can pull the net tight in seconds.

Don’t forget to check the trailer’s tire pressure before you hit the road. Under‑inflated tires wear faster and can wobble at high speeds. A pressure gauge takes less than a minute and saves you from a flat mid‑trip. While you’re at it, make sure the lights work – a broken tail light can get you a ticket and ruin the day.

When you arrive, unload the heaviest boxes first and place them where they’ll be used most – usually near the pitch or locker room. This way you avoid shuffling gear around later. If you have a ramp, slide the bags straight onto the ground and roll them into the changing area. It’s less work than lifting each bag over a step.

Finally, give your trailer a quick clean after each use. Wipe off mud, check the brakes, and tighten any loose bolts. A few minutes of maintenance now means fewer breakdowns later, and you’ll always have a reliable way to move your rugby gear wherever the season takes you.