Getting away from it all with your touring caravan can be a great way to sneak in some extra holidays whilst exploring the UK and beyond! The thought of having to tow something so large behind your car, however, might make many people nervous. Here at The Insurance Emporium, we want everyone to be able to get the most from their passions, whilst staying safe in the process. That’s why we’re sharing these top tips for towing a caravan, essential for both novices and experienced ‘vanners alike!
1. Weight watching
It’s important to know the tow limits that your driving licence allows. This will differ depending upon when you passed your driving test. You can use this service on the GOV.UK website to check what you’ll be permitted to tow.
2. Set the bar
It could be good to check your tow bar! They must be ‘type approved’, meaning it conforms to EU regulations, and that it’s designed for your car. You might also want to make sure it’s in good working order, with all its parts in place.
3. Check out
There are a few checks which you should carry out every time you’re going to tow your touring caravan. These are; checking your tyre tread and pressure, making sure the rear lights on your caravan work and that you have a valid number plate.
4. Admire the view
It’s a legal requirement to ensure you can see the rear of your touring caravan from the driver’s seat. If you can’t, you could potentially receive a three point penalty, £1,000 fine or prosecution! It might be wise, therefore, to fit towing mirrors to help extend your view just that little bit more.
5. Get a load of this!
When packing your belongings, make sure you try to keep the ‘van as light as possible. It’s often a good idea to keep heavier items close to the floor and towards the axle of your caravan.
6. Passenger safety
It’s illegal to carry passengers in a caravan that’s being towed, so make sure everyone can fit in the car! It’s also not wise to carry any animals in your caravan as you tow, as it has the potential to be really dangerous for the animals, whatever their shape or size.
7. Whatever the weather
Towing a caravan will mean adding a great deal of length to your car, which might mean you’ll be affected more by adverse weather conditions. Perhaps try avoiding the roads during times of high wind, heavy rain or excessive surface water.
8. Spare room
When towing, it could be good to allow yourself extra time for any type of manoeuvres. It’s best to brake earlier than you usually would, and remember that you’ll probably take longer to accelerate because of the extra weight.
9. Slow down
The speed limits are different for people towing touring caravans than for regular cars! On motorways the limit is 60mph. With national speed limits, the maximum on a dual carriageway is 60mph and on a single carriageway it’s 50mph. You also can’t use the fast lane of a motorway to overtake (unless instructed to do so).
10. Be considerate
Think about other road users! If traffic builds up behind you, pull over in a suitable spot to let them pass. Being considerate might stop other drivers becoming annoyed or manoeuvring dangerously.
As daunting as towing might seem, it’s not something that should get in the way of your adventures. Hopefully these tips will help you out the next, or the first time you decide to tow your ‘van! If you’re getting your touring caravan ready for a trip, you might want to consider insuring it. The Insurance Emporium offer three different Touring Caravan Insurance policies, with a range of Optional Benefits to choose from, such as Unlimited European Use. You could also get up to 45% discount* when you take out a policy. Head to The Insurance Emporium to find out more!
* The discount is available for the first 12 premium payments on lunar and calendar monthly policies or one premium policy on annual policies.
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