Tips for Towing For Those New to Caravanning

There are lots of people for whom the idea of towing a caravan is a little terrifying. But as long as you drive legally, sensibly and carefully, it is not as difficult as some people would have you believe. If you are new to caravanning, however, there are certain things that you should know about and consider before heading off for your first caravan holiday:

Legality:

First of all, you need to make sure that your driving license covers you for towing a caravan, so you are legal on the roads. You should also be aware that it is illegal for anyone to travel inside the caravan while you are in transit (nor is it safe for there be any animals in there). There are also speed limits for towing that you should be sure to adhere to. You are limited to 50 mph on single carriageway roads and 60 mph on dual carriageways and motorways. You must have a numberplate on the back of the caravan matching your car's and be property illuminated at night and you must have a working lighting bar.

Practicality:

Make sure that you choose a caravan that is suitable for your requirements and that it is possible to tow it with the sort of car that you drive. Small cars and sporty numbers can still tow, but you will probably have to stick to a smaller caravan, like a teardrop trailer or a fold-down caravan. When choosing a caravan, make sure it is one you are comfortable towing.

Extension mirrors are essential in order to clearly see what you are doing whilst towing a caravan. Other practicalities for the caravan owner include making sure that your caravan is connected and loaded correctly so make sure you know what you are doing in that regard so as to avoid any nasty accidents on the road.

Safety:

Safety is paramount when caravanning. Fortunately, it is easy to travel as safely as possible simply by making sure that you are cautious and take certain precautions, including not travelling at all if the weather is windy or really icy and the roads are unsafe for towing.

When driving with a caravan in tow, one of the key things to remember is that your ability to stop quickly is diminished. It was take a lot longer to slow and stop with a caravan pushing you down the road, so be aware of that and always leave enough space between you and other road users. Keep the speed down and be aware of the extra space it takes to turn. You will have to brake earlier and take corners wide to avoid clipping the kerb or verge.

When travelling along, take care to keep movements of turning and braking as smooth and gentle as possible to avoid problems with snaking and pitching. If you do feel the caravan oscillating remove your feet from the pedals and steer in a straight line to regain control.

Manoeuvring a caravan in a car park or at the campsite is something that may take a little getting used to if you have not towed before. But again, it is easier than you might imagine as long as you take it slowly and carefully.

Still worried? Consider taking a lesson or two in towing before you take to the road.