Tow Like a Pro – Caravan Safety Tips From the Experts
The weather is warming up at last. And that means many Brits will be planning a trip with a caravan, in some cases for the first time.
So today I’m sharing some top tips to ensure you (and your caravan) stay safe and reach your destination without any dramas. This post has been written in association with my friends at Compass, who are specialists in caravan and leisure insurance
As staycations continue to boom across the UK, more and more drivers are taking to the roads with caravans in tow. But with this rise in travel comes a sharp reminder: towing a caravan can be tricky, especially for the inexperienced.
According to recent claims data from Compass, a whopping 60.5% of touring caravan insurance claims are due to accidental damage. With the Easter holidays almost here and thousands of caravan enthusiasts preparing for trips, taking precautions on the road is more important than ever.
The Most Common Causes of Accidental Damage
Accidents often occur during reversing, navigating tight spots, or colliding with stationary objects like posts and curbs. Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, explains:
“Accidental damage claims typically arise from drivers struggling with visibility and alignment when reversing. Misjudging turn angles or road positioning can result in costly repairs. Swaying at high speeds or during windy conditions is also a major factor, particularly for less experienced drivers.”
Caravan sites, service stations, and even parking areas can become challenging environments for manoeuvring, especially without prior practice or the right equipment.
Top Towing Tips to Help Prevent Accidents
To help you stay safe and avoid unnecessary claims, Compass shares these essential towing safety tips:
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Check your towing match: Make sure your vehicle is suitable for towing your caravan. A good rule of thumb is the 85% rule – your caravan’s laden weight should not exceed 85% of your car’s kerb weight.
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Distribute weight wisely: Keep heavy items low and close to the axle to maintain balance and reduce the risk of swaying.
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Practice makes perfect: Reversing and manoeuvring can be difficult – especially under pressure. Practice in a quiet, open space and consider using a spotter or installing a reversing camera.
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Adjust your driving: Towing affects acceleration, braking, and cornering. Drive at moderate speeds, allow for longer stopping distances, and watch out for crosswinds.
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Run pre-journey checks: Check tyre pressures, lights, towing connections, wheel nuts, and mirrors before every trip.
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Know the law: Ensure you have the correct driving licence and stick to legal speed limits: 60 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, and 50 mph on single carriageways.
Insurance and Training Matter
With accidental damage such a common issue, having the right insurance is crucial. Caravan insurance is separate from car insurance and is necessary to cover damages specific to your caravan.
Minnear adds:
“Many caravan accidents are avoidable with the right precautions. We encourage all caravan owners to familiarize themselves with safe towing practices and ensure their insurance covers what they need. DVSA-accredited towing courses are a great way to build confidence – and some insurers even offer discounts to those who complete them.”
As more Brits embrace caravanning, being informed and prepared is key – not only for protecting your caravan but also for ensuring your family’s safety and that of others on the road.
For more information about specialist caravan and leisure insurance, visit compass.co.uk.
Many thanks again to my friends at Compass for their assistance with this article. If you’re holidaying in a caravan this Easter – or later in the summer – I do hope your journey is both safe and enjoyable.
Happy caravanning!
As always, if you have any comments or questions about this article, please do leave them below.