How to safely tow a caravan
Hitching up your rig and setting off to explore the outdoors is a favourite national pastime, however, if you’re new or not quite seasoned in towing a caravan than take heed of our top tips for safe towing.
Check your car is in good order
Towing a caravan will greatly increase the stress placed on your car so it is essential that the car be in good mechanical condition. Check the brakes, steering, suspension, tyres and importantly, the cooling system.
Practice short trips
If you’re a newbie, it’s a good idea to get a feel for driving with a caravan. Start with short trips and gradually increase the distance before you set out on your adventure. It’s crucial you familiarise yourself with the weight of the van and understand any adjustments necessary when accelerating, breaking and overtaking. Allow for a greater distance to slow or stop than you would in a car. When turning a corner, remember the extra length of the rig and take the widest path possible. And most important of all, practise reversing. It’s often considered a nightmare but with practice, your technique will develop.
Measure and remember the height of your van
When you’re driving around in a car, there’s generally no need to ever think about height clearances under bridges, car parks or those pesky trees that overhang roads. Not so when you’re towing your caravan. Make sure you check the height of your van, including roof racks. And take note of clearance signs on roads.
Establish a routine check
Make it a habit to check everything is in order before you move the caravan at any time. Remember the power, water and waste-water services should be disconnected, windows and cupboards fastened, parking legs fully raised, step up and jockey wheel removed. Check the coupling electrical connection and that the chains are located and secure.
Distribute the weight
It’s very important that your caravan is balanced, with the payload evenly distributed. Only load heavy objects such as spare wheels, batteries, gas bottles and water casks in place that where the caravan manufacturers state.
Keep an eye on tyres
Tyres should look the same, have good tread and no cracks in sidewalls. Under-inflated tyres create towing risks: they run hotter and more likely to blowout and they give rise to sway, which is very dangerous. Check caravan tyres regularly as they deteriorate quickly.
Related links:
Why I sold up, bought a motorhome and hit the open road
What to do if your motorhome breaks down
Five simple ways to protect your caravan or motorhome from theft