With a particularly pleasant Autumn on the horizon, many people have opted to take the caravan out for one last relaxing break before winter hits.
However, when towing your caravan from your home to the campsite and back, preparation is key to ensuring a safe, relaxing and enjoyable journey without the risk of an incident.
Caravan towing services are available if you want to avoid the hassle, but here are some important considerations to make before you tow your caravan.
Weight Distribution Is Key
Most discussions about the weight of a caravan focus on its gross weight, which is understandable as the law focuses more on the legal maximum weight and length of a car and trailer.
However, what is also important to ensure a safe drive is how this weight is distributed, Ideally, you want the most weight to be placed in the middle of the van, between the two wheels to avoid problems with driving balance.
Ideally, try to find a nearby weighbridge and get it weighed professionally, otherwise, you may have to rely on guesswork and box weights.
Make Sure Your Towing Car Is Equipped Appropriately
A tow car typically needs extra equipment to make it legal to tow a trailer or caravan behind it and making sure you have everything fitted and that it meets safety standards is vital.
The main three to remember is to use an approved tow bar for the car you are using, towing mirrors that are wide enough to give you a view of the back of your trailer, and a working brake system for your caravan if it exceeds 750kg once loaded.
Carry Out Safety Checks Before You Set-off
Before you set off, make sure you check that your vehicle is safe and legal to drive.
This includes making sure the caravan is securely coupled and none of the cables are damaged, the wheels and tyres are not too worn, the lights work and that the mudguards are securely fitted.