Summer is one of the busiest times of year for caravan owners. As families prepare for holidays and weekends away, it can be tempting to rush through the final checks and get on the road as quickly as possible.
However, taking a few extra minutes to prepare your caravan properly could make all the difference.
Recently, we have seen two separate incidents in which caravans became detached from their towing vehicles due to poor transport preparation. Fortunately, these incidents occurred before the vehicles reached public roads. Had they happened at motorway speeds or on busy roads, the consequences could have been devastating.
Whether you’re heading away for a weekend break or a longer summer holiday, carrying out a thorough towing safety check should always be part of your preparation.
Why caravan transport safety matters
A caravan that becomes detached from its towing vehicle is one of the most serious risks caravan owners face. Not only can it cause significant damage to the caravan itself, but it can also pose a major hazard to other road users.
Many towing incidents are entirely preventable and are often caused by rushed preparation, missed checks or incorrectly connected equipment.
Before every journey, it is worth taking the time to carefully inspect your caravan and towing setup.
Checking your hitch and coupling
Your hitch connection is one of the most important safety components on your caravan.
Before setting off, ensure the hitch is correctly seated on the towball and fully locked into position. Many modern caravans include a visual indicator to confirm the hitch has been engaged properly, but this should never replace a physical check.
The breakaway cable should also be securely attached to the designated towing point on the vehicle. This vital safety device is designed to activate the caravan’s brakes if the caravan becomes detached during travel.
A final tug test before departure can provide additional reassurance that everything is connected correctly.
Don’t forget your lights and electrics
Lighting systems play a crucial role in keeping you and other road users safe.
Before every journey, check that all indicators, brake lights, tail lights and number plate lights are functioning correctly. Electrical connections should be secure and free from damage or corrosion.
It only takes a few moments to perform these checks, but they can prevent dangerous situations and help ensure you remain compliant with road regulations.
Tyres deserve more attention than many owners give them
Tyres are often overlooked, particularly if a caravan has spent time in storage.
Before travelling, check that all tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures and inspect them for signs of cracking, bulging or uneven wear. Don’t forget to inspect the spare wheel as well.
Tyres naturally deteriorate over time, even when they have plenty of tread remaining. If you have any concerns about their condition, seek professional advice before travelling.
Check mirrors, weight distribution and security
Towing mirrors should be correctly fitted and adjusted before setting off. They are not only essential for visibility but are also a legal requirement in many towing situations.
It is equally important to ensure the caravan is loaded correctly. Heavy items should be distributed carefully to maintain stability and reduce the risk of snaking while travelling.
Before leaving, check that all doors, windows, rooflights and external lockers are properly secured. Loose items inside the caravan should also be stored safely to prevent movement during transit.
A simple check could prevent a serious incident
Most caravan journeys are completed safely, but the incidents we have recently witnessed serve as an important reminder that towing safety should never be taken for granted.
A few extra minutes spent checking your hitch, lights, tyres and towing equipment could prevent costly damage, protect other road users and potentially save lives.
At Secure Storage, we see caravans arriving and departing every day. Experience has shown us that the safest journeys always begin with careful preparation.
Before your next trip, take the time to carry out the essential checks. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, depends on it.
Stay safe and travel smart.