Many families are considering caravanning holidays as the summer draws near. You still have your home comforts, but you have the freedom to move around in your own vehicle once you arrive at your destination. If you don’t like the current place or want to change the scenery, you can simply hook the caravan up again and move on.
Towing a caravan can put extra strain on your vehicle as well as your driving abilities. It is also possible to become in a very difficult situation quickly due to the added weight and size, especially if you are traveling at high speeds along a motorway. Before you set out on your journey, make sure the caravan is secure and safe.
You should first evaluate the vehicle’s ability to transport the additional load if you are new to caravanning. You should check your vehicle’s maximum towing weight. This can usually be found in the owner’s handbook. As a guide, it is approximately 85 percent of the vehicle’s total curbside weight.
To ensure the caravan is stable when being loaded up, keep heavy items low to the ground and above the main axel. The caravan will vibrate violently at high speeds and lift the rear wheels off the tow vehicle if it is too far back.
It is possible for the caravan to exceed its maximum allowed nose weight if it is too far forward. This is the force that is applied downwards on the rear axle of your vehicle by the caravan’s weight. The caravan’s total weight should not exceed 7 percent. However, the owner’s manual can provide an exact figure. The caravan and tow vehicle could suffer structural damage if they exceed the maximum allowed nose weight. The caravan should be level with the tow vehicle or slightly lower than the other. Click here to read about Your family will benefit from roadside assistance with towing services.
Before you leave, make sure that all windows and doors are locked and closed. Check that all brake lights, indicators lights, and reversing lights work properly. Keep in mind that extra weight may mean that you need to change the position of the headlight bulbs so that it doesn’t glare at oncoming drivers.
Make sure you have the correct tyre pressures, the right wing mirrors, and that both the caravan’s brakes and the tow vehicle’s brakes are working before you leave on your caravanning vacation.
This will ensure that your caravanning trip is enjoyable and stress-free. You should also consider packing spare headlight bulbs [http://www.phoenixautobulbs.co.uk/], so you are not left with the inconvenience or trying to find a replacement item at the last minute. It is also worth carrying spare car bulbs [http://www.phoenixautobulbs.co.uk/upgrade-car-bulbs-c-76.html] for your caravan, including brake lights, reversing lights and number plate car lights.