Last updated: November 26, 2024
Any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance – I really appreciate it!
When it comes to hauling horses, preparation is everything. I’ve hauled horses for decades—to the track, barrel races, and yearling auctions. Each trip taught me that having the right gear can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one.
I’ll never forget getting stuck in traffic for seven hours on a scorching Louisiana day with a young horse in tow. It was nerve-wracking, but thankfully, I had packed enough water to keep him hydrated. That moment underscored how crucial preparation is when trailering horses.
In this guide, we’ll explore the must-have horse trailer essentials to ensure your trips are safe and stress-free. From safety gear and emergency kits to comfort items, you’ll learn how to pack with confidence. Let’s dive in!

Emergency Roadside Kit: Your Safety Net on the Road
When transporting horses, unexpected situations can arise—flat tires, engine trouble, or even a sudden storm. Having a well-equipped roadside kit is essential to ensure your safety and your horse’s well-being.
Must-Have Items for Your Kit
- Reflective Triangles
Visibility is crucial if you’re stranded on the roadside. Place three reflective triangles at intervals behind your trailer to alert oncoming drivers. Look for DOT-approved options, as they meet safety standards. - Heavy-Duty Tow Strap
A tow strap can save the day if your truck or trailer gets stuck. Opt for one with a high weight rating (15,000 lbs or more) to ensure it can handle your trailer’s load. - Jumper Cables
Automobile batteries have a knack for dying at the worst times. Invest in cables that are at least 12 feet long with heavy-duty clamps. Alternatively, consider a portable battery jumper for added convenience. - Flashlight and Spare Batteries
A reliable flashlight is indispensable for nighttime emergencies. Choose a model with adjustable brightness, and pack extra batteries to avoid being left in the dark. - Basic Tool Kit
Include screwdrivers, pliers, and a multi-tool to handle minor repairs. A folding utility knife is also handy for cutting ropes or straps.
I learned the importance of a well-stocked roadside kit the hard way. Once, a flat tire left me stranded on a rural highway with my horse trailer. With no cell service and nightfall approaching, I was incredibly grateful to have the tools and supplies needed to change the tire myself. Without them, I would have been stuck with a stressed horse until someone came.
Having a roadside kit not only gets you back on the road quicker; it provides peace of mind knowing you can handle common emergencies.
Recommended Products
Here are some top-rated items to include in your kit:
- STDY Roadside Emergency Kit: A comprehensive option that includes jumper cables, tow straps, and a reflective vest.
- USB Rechargeable LED Road Flares: Bright, magnetic flares that enhance visibility in low light.
- Trailer-Aid Tandem Tire Changing Ramp: A must-have for quickly lifting your trailer when changing a flat.
Pro Tip: Build your custom roadside kit with high-quality tools tailored to your needs. Ready to hit the road? Download our Horse Trailer Essentials Checklist for quick reference.
Download Checklist
Tire Changing Tools: Be Prepared for the Inevitable
Flat tires aren’t a question of “if” but “when,” especially when hauling heavy loads like a horse trailer. Being prepared with the right tools can mean the difference between a quick roadside fix and hours of frustration.
Must-Have Tools for Changing Tires
- Tire Iron or Impact Wrench
- Opt for a cordless impact wrench for efficiency. Ensure it fits your trailer’s lug nuts.
Example: Cordless Impact Wrench.
- Opt for a cordless impact wrench for efficiency. Ensure it fits your trailer’s lug nuts.
- Drive-Up Block
- A drive-up block allows you to lift a flat tire off the ground without needing a jack.
Example: Trailer Aid Drive-Up Block.
- A drive-up block allows you to lift a flat tire off the ground without needing a jack.
- Lug Wrench Extension
- Provides extra torque for loosening stubborn nuts.
- Spare Tire and Jack
- Always carry a properly inflated spare tire. Use a hydraulic bottle jack rated for your trailer’s weight.
- Wheel Chocks
- Stabilize your trailer while changing a tire.
- Gloves and Flashlight
- Protect your hands and ensure visibility during nighttime emergencies.
Regular trailer inspections can prevent tire blowouts. Learn more in our horse trailer maintenance tips.
Checklist: Tire Changing Tools
- ✅ Tire Iron or Cordless Impact Wrench
- ✅ Drive-Up Block
- ✅ Spare Tire
- ✅ Hydraulic Bottle Jack
- ✅ Wheel Chocks
- ✅ Gloves and Flashlight

Essential Horse Trailer Water Containers
When hauling horses, hydration is critical. Horses are prone to dehydration, and the stress of travel amplifies this risk. On one trip, we were stuck on the Atchafalaya Basin bridge for seven hours in sweltering heat. Fortunately, I had packed enough water to keep my horse hydrated, avoiding a potential health crisis.
Choosing the Right Horse Trailer Water Tank
Selecting the right horse trailer water tank ensures your horse stays hydrated. Consider these options:
- Portable Water Containers
Rigid tanks with spigots simplify bucket filling. Durable and ideal for long trips.
Example: Portable Water Containers. - Collapsible Water Bags
Space-saving and lightweight, perfect for shorter trips or as backups. - Insulated Tanks
Keep water cool, especially in hot climates.
Pack extra water for emergencies. Horses drink 5–10 gallons daily, so plan accordingly. For more insights, visit Michigan State University Extension.

Tips for Hydrating Your Horse During Travel
Keeping water fresh and appealing to your horse is just as important as having enough. Try these strategies:
- Use Ice Packs: Surround water containers with ice packs to keep water cool.
- Add Electrolytes or Flavoring: Apple-flavored powders or electrolytes encourage hesitant drinkers.
- Refill Frequently: Replace stagnant water with fresh refills at every stop.
Learn more about preparing horses for trailering.
Pack Extra Water for Emergencies
Delays are unpredictable, as I experienced many times when traveling with my horses. Extra water ensures you’re ready. Horses drink 5–10 gallons daily, so calculate accordingly. Michigan State University Extension provides detailed guidelines.
Emergency Solutions for Portable Horse Water Containers
In emergencies, adaptability matters. Carry collapsible buckets or jerry cans to refill water from unconventional sources. I always keep an extra bucket handy—it has saved me multiple times.

- Rigid, 7-gallon rectangular water container with molded contour grip
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

First Aid Kits: Be Ready for the Unexpected
When traveling with horses, unforeseen situations can arise, making a well-stocked first aid kit indispensable. Whether dealing with minor cuts or more serious health concerns, being prepared ensures you can provide immediate care until professional help is available.
Equine First Aid Kit: Essential Components
Horses are susceptible to injuries and illnesses, especially during travel. An equine-specific first aid kit should include:
- Bandages and Wraps: Items like vet wrap and gauze pads are crucial for stabilizing injuries and covering wounds.
- Antiseptic Solutions: Products such as chlorhexidine or iodine solutions are effective for cleaning wounds and preventing infections.
- Digital Thermometer: Monitoring your horse’s temperature can help detect early signs of illness.
- Hoof Care Tools: A hoof pick and a hoof boot are essential for addressing hoof-related issues during travel.
- Wound Care Products: Sterile gauze, non-stick pads, and wound ointments aid in proper wound management.
Personal Experience: During a trip, one of my horses developed a minor leg injury. Having antiseptic solution and bandages on hand allowed me to clean and dress the wound promptly, preventing further complications.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
While ensuring your horse’s safety is a priority, don’t forget about your own well-being. Traveling with horses presents risks for handlers as well, so it’s vital to pack a human first aid kit alongside equine supplies.
Human First Aid Kit: Don’t Overlook Personal Safety
While focusing on equine care, it’s essential to be prepared for human injuries as well. A basic human first aid kit should contain:
- Adhesive Bandages: For minor cuts and abrasions.
- Antiseptic Wipes: To clean wounds and reduce infection risk.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Cold Packs: Useful for reducing swelling from sprains or strains.
- Scissors and Tweezers: For cutting bandages and removing debris from wounds.
Pro Tip: Store human and equine first aid supplies separately to avoid confusion during emergencies.

Preventive Measures and Quick Action
Proactive care is essential when traveling with horses, and regular monitoring can help catch potential problems before they escalate. Here’s how to ensure your horse stays healthy on the road:
Regular Inspections
At every stop, take time to carefully assess your horse for any signs of discomfort or injury. Key areas to check include:
- Cuts and Scrapes: Inspect legs, chest, and other exposed areas for superficial injuries. Even small wounds can become infected if left untreated.
- Swelling: Look for puffiness around the joints or other unusual lumps that could indicate strain or injury.
- Lameness: Walk your horse on a flat surface to observe its gait. Any irregular movement could signal a problem.
- Behavioral Changes: Watch for signs of stress, such as excessive sweating, reluctance to move, or unusual vocalizations.
Monitor Vital Signs
Knowing your horse’s baseline health metrics is critical. During travel, keep an eye on:
- Temperature: A normal horse temperature is around 99–101°F. Elevated temperatures can indicate stress or illness.
- Pulse: A healthy resting heart rate ranges from 28–44 beats per minute. Check with a stethoscope or by feeling the artery under the jaw.
- Respiration Rate: Normal breathing rates are 8–16 breaths per minute. Increased rates might suggest overexertion or dehydration.
These checks are particularly important in hot weather or after long travel days, when horses are more prone to heat stress and dehydration.
Know When to Seek Professional Help
While some issues can be addressed on the road, others require expert intervention. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice:
- Persistent lameness or inability to bear weight.
- Elevated temperature combined with lethargy.
- Excessive swelling or wounds that won’t stop bleeding.
Pro Tip: For a deeper dive into identifying and addressing common injuries, check out our guide to horse injury care.

Comfort and Convenience Items
Trailering can be stressful for both horses and handlers. Ensuring comfort during travel helps reduce stress, keeps your horse in good condition, and makes the journey smoother.
Horse Comfort Essentials
- Soft Flooring Mats
Reduce vibration and pressure on your horse’s legs and hooves. - Slow Feeders or Hay Bags
Providing forage during travel keeps horses occupied and reduces stress. Here are some recommended options for hay nets and feeders these are perfect for providing steady, manageable amounts of forage. - Leg Wraps or Shipping Boots
Protect against scrapes and strains caused by sudden movements. In addition, leg wraps and shipping boots also offer tendon and ligament support.
Handler Comfort Items
- Portable Tack Hooks
Organize halters, bridles, or buckets when stopped. - Folding Step Stool
Handy for accessing higher areas in the trailer. - Storage Organizers
Keep essential supplies like gloves, grooming tools, and paperwork in dedicated compartments.

Convenience Technology
Technology can enhance both safety and efficiency during travel:
- Wireless Trailer Cameras: Monitor your horse in real-time during travel. Look for cameras with night vision, wide-angle lenses, and motion detection. They provide peace of mind and allow early detection of any issues. Read more about setting up trailer cameras here.
- Portable Fans: Maintaining proper airflow in the trailer is critical, especially in hot or humid conditions. Battery-operated or solar-powered fans ensure ventilation and prevent overheating. Portable fans ensure proper airflow inside the trailer, reducing the risk of overheating. Check out portable battery operated fans on Amazon.
- Equestrian Apps: Apps like EquiRoute help plan routes with horse-friendly stops and provide emergency contacts for vets and farriers.
Conclusion: Prepared Trailering Leads to Safer Journeys
Preparing for a journey with a horse trailer involves more than just hitching up and heading out—it’s about ensuring the safety and comfort of both you and your horse. By packing the right gear and staying proactive with maintenance, you can turn potential emergencies into manageable tasks.
Don’t leave without being fully prepared! Download our Horse Trailer Essentials Checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Have a story about trailering your horse? Share it in the comments—we can all learn from each other to make every journey smoother and safer.