In all the excitement of preparing for a holiday, checking the caravan can sometimes get lost in all the other activities that need to get done. However, an unsafe recreational vehicle (RV) can not only put an end to any holiday plans, it can put lives at risk.
Spend some time, before driving off on holidays, to review the following RV safety checklist.
Coupling and Uncoupling a Caravan
If new to caravanning, get a caravan dealer or experienced caravan professional to demonstrate how to do this correctly. Practice with someone handy to advice that it is being done correctly.
Tow bar
European regulations say that two bars must be fitted to the recommended fitting point and must pass the Euronorm standard. See the caravan's manufacturer's handbook for further details.
Check the condition and operation of the tow bar. It may be necessary to lubricate.
See Caravan Tow Weight for more information on understanding tow weight limits.
Tyres
In the UK, it is against the law to drive with less than 1.6 mm of tread across the majority of the tread area. Check the condition of the caravan's tyres. If damaged, cracked or worn they should be replaced. It is recommended that caravan types are changed at least every five years, regardless of how they look.
Caravan manufacturers' handbooks advise the correct tyre type for that particular caravan. Not any tyre can be fitted to a caravan so it is important to check the handbook or with a caravan dealer.
Check the air pressure in the tyres. The correct pressure can be found in the caravan's handbook. Also check that the wheet nuts are set to the correct torque.
Lights
Check that all rear lights on the caravan are working correctly. Keep some spare bulbs in the caravan just in case some blow while on holidays. It is illegal to drive any vehicle on the road with faulty lights.
Number Plate
Check that the number plate on the caravan is intact and can be read clearly. If in a different vehicle than usually used to tow the caravan, ensure that the number plate is changed to match.
Window Seals
Replace any seals that have perished.
Loading the Caravan
Heavy items should be placed directly on the floor over the caravan's axle. Heavy items placed at the back of the caravan can cause it to sway dangerously.
Medium weight items should be placed on the floor distributed between the front and the back.
Only light items should go in overhead cupboards.
Keeping the Caravan Stable
Ensure than all items are wedged into place and cannot move. Any movement can cause the caravan to become unstable and make driving dangerous. Movement can also cause damage to the interior of the caravan.
Remove all water from tanks including the toilet flush tank.
Gas Safety
LPG cylinders should be kept in a upright position with the valves turned off and to the top. All LPG appliances must be serviced regularly. Calor provide further advice on caravan gas safety.
Driving safely with a Caravan
In the UK, the maximum speed limit on a motorway or dual carriageway, when towing a caravan, is 60mph. The fastest you can go on a single carriageway is 50mph (unless there are lower speed limits in place).
People, Pets and Caravans
It is illegal to carry humans inside a moving caravan. While animals can be carried in the van it is not recommended.
Vehicle Mirrors
If a caravan is wider than the towing vehicle, then UK law states that the towing vehicle must have adequate view of the rear of the car and both sides of the caravan.
Towing mirrors must not project more than 200 mm from the widest part of the car or caravan.
It is also a UK legal requirement that any caravan mirror must be type approved and e-marked.
Stabilising Struts
Ensure all stablising struts are raised before driving away.
Law and Insurance
Finally be aware of the laws applicable to towing a caravan; particularly if taking the caravan abroad. Also check what is covered by any insurance policies.
Taking the time to check that the caravan and towing vehicle is safe and secure can make all the difference in having a relaxing and enjoying holiday. It doesn't take long and it's worth the peace of mind!
Planning a Safe RV Trip provides more information on safe RV holidays.
