The Best Accessories to Upgrade Your Raft Trailer

A high-quality raft trailer is essential for getting your gear to the water safely, but adding the right accessories can take your setup to the next level. Whether you want better security, improved convenience, or enhanced durability, the right upgrades can make a huge difference. In this guide, we’ll cover the best accessories to maximize your raft trailer’s performance and functionality.

1. Heavy-Duty Tie-Down Straps

Why You Need Them:
Properly securing your raft is critical for safe transport. Standard bungee cords or rope may not be enough to keep your raft stable during long trips or rough roads.

Recommended Options:

  • Cam Straps: Easy to tighten and won’t over-compress your raft.

  • Ratchet Straps: Provide extra security for high-speed highway travel.

  • Soft Loops: Prevent damage by eliminating direct strap-to-raft contact.

Pro Tip: Always double-check your straps before hitting the road to ensure they’re tight and properly positioned.

2. Spare Tire & Mount

Why You Need It:
A flat tire on your trailer can ruin a trip before it even begins. Having a spare tire on hand ensures you're ready for unexpected road hazards.

Best Options:

  • Choose an all-terrain spare tire to handle rougher conditions.

  • Install a locking spare tire mount to prevent theft.

Pro Tip: Check the air pressure on your spare tire regularly—don’t wait until you need it!

3. LED Trailer Lights

Why You Need Them:
Visibility is key when towing, especially in low-light conditions. Upgrading to LED trailer lights improves safety and ensures compliance with road laws.

Best Options:

  • Waterproof LED tail lights for durability in wet conditions.

  • Side marker lights for extra visibility at night.

  • Backup lights to help when reversing into tricky launch areas.

Pro Tip: Carry spare bulbs or fuses just in case your lights need a quick fix.

4. Locking Hitch & Coupler

Why You Need It:
Raft trailers are valuable, and unfortunately, trailer theft is a real risk. A locking hitch and coupler help prevent unauthorized towing.

Best Security Upgrades:

  • Coupler lock: Prevents thieves from hooking up to your trailer.

  • Hitch pin lock: Secures your trailer to the tow vehicle.

  • Wheel lock: Adds an extra layer of security when parked.

Pro Tip: If you’re leaving your trailer unattended for long periods, consider using multiple locks for maximum protection.

5. Gear Storage Box

Why You Need It:
Having a dedicated storage space for your rafting essentials makes packing and unpacking easier. A lockable storage box keeps gear safe and organized.

Best Features to Look For:

  • Weatherproof construction to protect against rain and dust.

  • Lockable latches for added security.

  • Ample space for oars, pumps, straps, and emergency gear.

Pro Tip: Mount your storage box near the trailer tongue for easy access.

6. Trailer Jack with Wheel

Why You Need It:
A trailer jack makes hitching and unhitching your raft trailer effortless. Choosing one with a wheel allows for easier maneuvering.

Best Options:

  • Swing-away jacks save space when not in use.

  • Heavy-duty jacks handle heavier trailers with ease.

Pro Tip: Keep the jack lubricated to extend its lifespan and prevent rust.

7. Off-Road Tires and Suspension Upgrades

Why You Need Them:
If your rafting adventures take you off the beaten path, upgrading your trailer’s tires and suspension will help it handle rough terrain better.

Best Upgrades:

  • All-terrain or mud-terrain tires for better grip.

  • Torsion axle suspension for smoother rides over bumpy roads.

  • Increased ground clearance to avoid bottoming out.

Pro Tip: Lowering tire pressure slightly can improve traction on rough roads.

8. Folding Walkway or Step System

Why You Need It:
Loading and unloading a raft can be challenging, especially on larger trailers. A fold-out walkway or step system allows for easier access.

Best Features to Look For:

  • Slip-resistant surface for safety.

  • Foldable design for space-saving storage.

  • Sturdy metal construction for durability.

Pro Tip: Position your step system near the raft’s main tie-down points for easy access.

9. Solar-Powered Battery Charger

Why You Need It:
If your trailer is equipped with lights, an electric winch, or other powered accessories, a solar charger ensures your battery stays charged.

Best Features to Look For:

  • Weather-resistant design for all conditions.

  • Trickle charge capability to maintain battery health.

  • Easy mounting options for convenient placement.

Pro Tip: A 10W-20W solar panel is usually sufficient for maintaining small trailer batteries.

10. Custom Trailer Cover

Why You Need It:
Protecting your trailer from the elements helps extend its lifespan. A fitted trailer cover shields against sun, rain, and dirt.

Best Features:

  • UV-resistant material to prevent sun damage.

  • Elastic hem or tie-down straps for a secure fit.

  • Breathable fabric to reduce moisture buildup.

Pro Tip: Use a cover with built-in ventilation to prevent mold and mildew.

Conclusion

Adding the right accessories to your raft trailer can improve convenience, safety, and durability. Whether you're upgrading for off-road performance, better security, or ease of use, these additions ensure that every rafting trip starts and ends smoothly.

Looking for high-quality raft trailer accessories? Check out our best-selling upgrades here and enhance your rafting experience today!