If you want to install a tow bar on your car, it can very quickly become a nightmare to work out what to do and what to buy. So many phrases build up; like swan neck, flanges and pin hitch setups that it can quickly get overwhelming. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best tow bars for you along with some advice that will make deciding on a tow bar so much easier.
Just remember: most tow bars will require a separate tow bar bracket designed for your specific vehicle.
Different types of tow bar
There are two main types of tow bar: ball and pin hitch. All you’ll need to remember is that ball tow bars are used for almost everything the average driver would ever need to tow on the road. Pin hitches are more for agricultural and industrial towing and so shouldn’t be too much of a concern.
What you need to know before towing anything
What are you towing?
If a trailer weighs over 750kg or more than half the towing car (whichever is less) then it requires brakes by law. Braked trailers must not exceed 3,500kg.
For caravanning, most cars capable of towing more than 2,000kg should be capable of easily towing an average-sized caravan. Larger, twin-axle caravans, however, will require a larger SUV or pickup that can safely tow more.
What is the maximum weight your car can tow?
It’s important to know how much you can tow. A car’s maximum towing capacity can be found in the driver’s handbook and will explicitly tell you what the maximum weight you can tow is. Be sure to double-check each time you tow anything.
Trailers also have a maximum authorised mass printed on them that must be abided by, too. if you’re unsure about the total mass, towing scales are available to ensure you’re as safe as possible.
Do you need any further accessories?
There are plenty of towing accessories available to make your life easier. For example, if you’re intending to go caravanning it may be a good idea to buy some extended mirrors so you can retain good visibility.
Stay legal
Avoid a nasty fine and stay safe by brushing up on the legislation surrounding towing by looking at our legal guide.
Maypole Ball & Hitch Tow Bar
Price: £39.95 | VIEW OFFER
This is the complete package offering ball and pin hitch coupling. The ball hitch allows it to couple to standard trailers while the pin hitch means it can be used for industrial purposes too.
Ring Extended Neck Tow Ball
Price: £24.99 | VIEW OFFER
As simple as a tow bar gets, this tow bar simply bolts onto a standard tow bar bracket and that’s it. The ball-shaped coupler makes it perfect for towing caravans, trailers and even horse boxes.
Maypole Pin Hitch
Price: £44.95 | VIEW OFFER
Perfect for agricultural uses and not much else, this ‘pin hitch’ tow bar can only be attached to farming and industrial trailers. Not much use for the standard driver but perfect for use on the farm.
AA Tow Pole
Price: £24.99 | VIEW OFFER
Designed exclusively for towing broken down vehicles, this tow pole can tow cars weighing up to two tonnes. This product doesn’t require a tow bar bracket either, instead using towing points (found in your car’s handbook).
Thule EasyBase 949 Tow Bar Ball Mounted Cargo Rack
Price: £280.00 | VIEW OFFER
This is more of an accessory than a tow bar but is still a very useful addition for bike lovers. Easily attach this platform to a standard tow bar and it offers extra storage that folds flat when not in use. Able to carry 45kg it can even be fitted with covers for transporting other goods.
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