Pre-Journey Checklist for Safe Towing with Your Caravan

As the driver of the tow vehicle, you hold the primary responsibility for ensuring the safe operation of the caravan you're towing. Before embarking on your journey, it's crucial to carry out the following checks:

Proper Load Distribution:
Ensure that the caravan's load is correctly distributed. Heavier items like tents should be placed over the axle of the caravan to prevent issues of too much or too little nose weight.

Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM):
Check if the actual loaded weight of the caravan is within its official GVM. The GVM can typically be found on a tag attached to the caravan's tow hitch.

Towing Vehicle's Limit:
Confirm that the actual GVM (loaded weight) of the caravan being towed does not exceed the towing vehicle manufacturer's recommended maximum towing limit. The caravan's GVM should not surpass the Tare (unloaded weight) of your motor vehicle. You can find the Tare details on your vehicle's license disk.

Electrical Connection:
Inspect the cable and plug connecting the lights from the tow vehicle to the caravan to ensure they are undamaged and securely plugged in.

Caravan Lights:
Check that all caravan lights, including tail lights, stop lights, and indicators, are in good working condition. Verify this each time you hitch the caravan to your motor vehicle.

Number Plate:
Ensure the correct number plate is fitted securely on the rear of the caravan.

Breakaway Cable/Chain:
Confirm that the breakaway cable or chain is undamaged and correctly connected to a suitable point on the tow bar of the towing vehicle.

Stabilizer System:
If your caravan is equipped with a stabilizer, ensure it is fitted correctly according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Tire Pressure:
Check and adjust the tire pressures of both the caravan and the towing vehicle. You can find the recommended caravan tire pressure on the wheel arch of the caravan. If not, consult your nearest caravan dealer. Also, make sure the tire pressures of your motor vehicle are correct.

Wheel Nuts:
Are all the wheel nuts of the caravan tightened correctly? Give them a check to ensure they are secure.

Proper Coupling:
Confirm that the caravan is correctly coupled to the motor vehicle's tow ball.

Leveling:
Check if the caravan is level. It should not be excessively nose down or nose up. A slight nose-down position is preferable.

Nose Weight:
Make sure the caravan's nose weight adheres to the recommended specifications for the tow hitch. You can typically find this information on the caravan's tow hitch. If not, consult your nearest caravan dealer for guidance.

Jockey Wheel and Corner Steadies:
Ensure the jockey wheel and any corner steadies are fully wound up and securely in place.

By diligently performing these checks, you can help ensure a safe and trouble-free journey with your caravan. Your commitment to safety not only protects you but also the well-being of other road users.