Towing a family car isn’t something most people do every day — but when you need to move a vehicle safely, choosing the right trailer makes all the difference. Whether it’s a breakdown, a classic car purchase, or transporting a second car, finding the best trailers for towing family cars in the UK comes down to safety, weight limits and ease of use.
This guide explains the best trailer types for towing family cars, what to look for, and how to choose the right option for UK roads.
What Type of Trailer Is Best for Towing a Family Car?
Most family cars require a car transport trailer, sometimes called a car transporter. These are purpose-built trailers designed to carry vehicles securely and legally.
The best options typically include:
Braked axles
Integrated loading ramps
Multiple tie-down points
Adequate deck length and width
Avoid using flatbeds or general-purpose trailers unless they are specifically rated for vehicle transport.
1️⃣ Braked Car Transport Trailers (Best Overall Choice)
Braked car transport trailers are the best and safest option for towing family cars in the UK.
Why they’re ideal:
Designed for heavier loads
Improved stopping power
Better stability at motorway speeds
Legal compliance for most family cars
Most modern family cars weigh between 1,200kg and 1,800kg, which means a braked trailer is usually essential.
Best for: Hatchbacks, saloons, estates, SUVs and electric vehicles.
2️⃣ Single-Axle vs Twin-Axle Trailers
Single-Axle Car Trailers
Lighter and easier to manoeuvre
Suitable for smaller family cars
Often cheaper to hire or buy
Twin-Axle Car Trailers
Better weight distribution
Increased stability
Ideal for heavier vehicles
If you’re towing a larger family car or SUV, a twin-axle trailer is often the better and safer choice.
3️⃣ Open vs Enclosed Car Trailers
Open Car Transport Trailers
Most common in the UK
Easier loading
More affordable
Widely available for hire
Enclosed Car Trailers
Extra protection from weather and debris
Higher cost
More commonly used for prestige or classic cars
For most family cars, an open braked car transporter is more than sufficient.
Key Things to Check Before Towing a Family Car
Before choosing a trailer, always check:
Tow vehicle towing capacity
Combined vehicle and trailer weight
Nose weight limits
Ignoring these checks can lead to unsafe towing and legal issues.
Safety Tips for Towing Family Cars on a Trailer
Use proper wheel straps or rated tie-downs
Secure all four wheels
Check tyre pressures on both trailer and tow vehicle
Test brakes and lights before setting off
Recheck straps after the first 10–15 minutes
A correctly loaded car transporter should feel stable and predictable when towing.
Hire or Buy a Trailer for Towing a Family Car?
Hire a trailer if:
You only need it once or twice
You’re moving a car short-term
You don’t have storage space
Buy a trailer if:
You regularly move vehicles
You buy and sell cars
You want long-term convenience
Through Brent, you can hire or buy car transport trailers across the UK, making it easy to compare options, check availability and book online with confidence.
👉 Visit Brent to find car trailers suitable for towing family cars near you.
Find the Right Car Trailer on Brent
Brent connects you with trusted sellers and hire outlets, helping you:
Compare car transport trailers
Find local availability
Hire or buy online
Tow safely and legally
Whether you’re moving a small hatchback or a larger family SUV, choosing the right trailer ensures a smoother, safer journey.
-Brent