Towing a trailer or caravan can be a daunting task for inexperienced drivers. Get it wrong, and you could end up in a nasty accident or falling foul of the law. However, with some knowledge and preparation, you can tow safely and confidently. Here is a guide to get you started.
Check the Legal Requirements
The first step is understanding the legal requirements for towing trailers and caravans in the UK. Your driving licence must allow you to tow the size and weight of the trailer you intend to use. Category B licences allow drivers who passed their tests before January 1997 to tow trailers up to 7,500kg but drivers who passed their test after this date are restricted to trailers or caravans weighing no more than 3,500kg.
You'll also need to follow speed limits - motorhomes and car-carrying trailers can only be towed at up to 60mph on motorways and dual carriageways. Make sure the trailer's lighting system, brakes, tyres and other components meet legal standards too.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Check that your vehicle has the correct towing capacity for the trailer's weight. Refer to your owner's manual or vehicle documents. Make sure the towbar, electrics and any stabilisers or accessories are suitable and properly fitted by professionals. Automatic vehicles may require a transmission fluid cooler to cope with the extra load.
It's also important to load the trailer correctly so the weight is distributed evenly with around 5-7% of the total weight on the towbar. Too little or too much can affect stability. Heavy items should be placed low down and over the trailer's axle. Don't exceed the vehicle's or trailer's maximum load weights.
A bigger, heavier car is needed to tow a caravan, so if your car isn’t big enough, look for a larger model, such as a Volvo V60 or a BMW X5. Land Rover Discoveries are a good option, too. Anyone living in the South Sheffield/Midlands area can check out these cars for sale in Chesterfield.
Practice Reversing and Manoeuvring
Towing a trailer affects steering, braking, cornering and acceleration. Find a safe open area like an empty car park to get used to how the trailer responds. Reversing is especially challenging, so practice using your mirrors and going slowly. Tap the brake pedal to prevent the trailer from jack-knifing. Get someone to guide you if needed.
Take extra care with manoeuvres like turning corners and switching lanes. The trailer tracking line will be wider than your vehicle's. Leave plenty of space and take corners slowly. Let other road users know your intentions clearly when changing direction.
Drive Cautiously
Once you are on the road, remember the trailer adds extra length and reduced acceleration. Allow more stopping distance, use your mirrors frequently and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. Be extra cautious overtaking other vehicles - the additional length will require you to spend more time in the opposite lane.
Reduce your speed and use suitable gears for downhill sections to avoid the trailer pushing your vehicle. Some engine braking can help but avoid riding the brake pedal which could overheat them. Take regular breaks on long journeys too.
With preparation and practice, towing a caravan or trailer can be accomplished safely. Always follow legal requirements, prepare your vehicle, improve your technique and drive cautiously. Be patient with yourself - getting the hang of towing takes time for all drivers.