How do I reverse my caravan?
At some stage you are going to have to reverse your caravan. Not an easy task and one which really takes lots of practice. If you have a twin axle caravan this is possibly the only way to maneouvre the caravan into position, so it is essential you get some practice in.
Reversing involves using the opposite lock to where you want to be and even now for me (26 years on), concentration is key - especially where tight areas are encountered.
Most caravanners I know have no issues towing, but never become complacent. Some years ago, I hurriedly hitched up my then new Sprite Musketeer, but didn’t check to see if the caravan hitch had engaged. I slowly drew away. A sudden jolt meant the caravan brakes had come on and the caravan nose hit the tarmac! Luckily no damage was done, but last year while on site I came across an owner who had set off back home only to discover his twin axle caravan come by the side and hit a wall! Even though he thought the caravan was hitched on it clearly wasn’t, so I usually give the hitch a pull to make extra sure!
Towing is easy, but to make it an art form becomes more involved and that’s no bad thing. My advice is always try to keep other road users in your mind, especially if you on a small road and cars are beginning to queue behind you. Pull in and let them past. Most will be grateful at this and it shows as a conscientious caravanner you care about other road users. Happy towing!
Finally, here are Andrew Jenkinson’s top ten tips to towing a caravan:
- Check the caravan is properly hitched to the car. Are detachable towballs firmly in place?
- Use your mirrors often
- Don’t overload the caravan and don’t exceed the cars towing / kerbweights
- Always make sure the tow vehicle is mechanically up to itTry and tow as much as possible (take a course if you can and build up confidence)
- Practice reversing
- Get used to the car and caravans handling
- Make time for your towing journey and choose your route carefully
- Keep the caravan regularly serviced and check tyre pressures on both car and caravan
- If you want to move the caravan into awkward spaces fit a caravan motor mover
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