TOP 10 TOWING TIPS FOR CARAVAN SAFETY

TOP 10 TOWING TIPS FOR CARAVAN SAFETY

With over 772,598 RVs registered in Australia*, Aussies love hitting the open road. But safety is key, especially when towing caravans. In NSW alone, between 2014 and 2018, 239 crashes involving vehicles towing caravans resulted in 12 fatalities and 120 serious injuries*. Here are ten towing tips to keep you RV-safe. 

Check Your Weight Limits – Overloading is a major factor in towing accidents. 50% of caravans and tow vehicles are estimated to be overweight*. Ensure your caravan stays within your Gross Combination Mass (GCM) and tow ball weight limits.

Use Towing Mirrors – Towing mirrors are essential for improving visibility. They should extend far enough to see along the length of your caravan and 20 metres behind it. We use, install, and recommend Clearview mirrors. 

Distribute Weight Evenly – Proper weight distribution makes your caravan easier to handle. If your tow ball weight is too low or high, it can cause instability. The best way to load your trailer is by placing the heaviest items low and centred over the axles. Aim to keep around 10% of the trailer’s loaded weight on the tow ball for optimal stability.

Perform Regular Brake Checks – Braking is vital when towing. Ensure your caravan has operational brakes, and regularly test them before long trips. Consider investing in electric brake controllers for added safety.

Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure – Properly inflated tyres improve handling and reduce wear. Regularly check your tyre pressure, especially on longer trips. 

Practice Reversing – Reversing with a caravan can be tricky. Before heading off, spend time practising in a quiet area. This skill will come in handy in tight spots.

Stay Under the Speed Limit – Towing caravans reduces stability at higher speeds. In NSW, VIC, SA, TAS, and WA, vehicles over 4.5t GVM or GCM are limited to 100km/h. TAS gravel roads have an 80km/h limit. In ACT and QLD, follow the posted speed limits, while in NT, heavy vehicles over 5t or 12t are capped at 100km/h. Always check local limits when travelling.

Secure Your Load – Ensure all items inside the caravan and ute are securely packed. An unbalanced load can affect your centre of gravity. Our MaxBoxes and tie-down systems can help offer secure storage solutions for your gear.

Be Mindful of Wind – Strong gusts of wind or passing large vehicles can cause sway. Slow down and gently apply the brakes if sway occurs to regain control. Having towing stability aids can make all the difference.

Plan for Rest Breaks – Driving while towing is more exhausting than regular driving. Take breaks every two hours and share the driving if possible.

For more information, check out Are You RV Safe on Ten Play or head here

*Facts and figures from rvsafe.com.au