Maybe you are considering renting or buying a trailer for the summer season. Spacious and well-equipped, they are more compact than a motor home and allow you to go on holiday in your car, continue to travel without taking it with you. Towing a trailer requires some training. It is very useful to know the current rules. Here’s what can help.
car type
Make sure your vehicle is suitable for towing a caravan. A diesel car is more suitable than a petrol car as it has better torque. You should also ensure that your caravan matches the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle. Consult your gray card or owner’s manual for maximum limits.
hook type
Use an approved towbar that fits your vehicle. Make sure it is installed correctly by a qualified technician. There are two types: fixed hook or hook demountable.
Checking the electrical system
Make sure the caravan’s rear lights are working properly and are well connected to the car’s lights. In France, connecting the lights of the caravan is mandatory.
load distribution
Make sure the load is properly distributed in the caravan for optimum stability. Place the heaviest items at the bottom and in the front of the caravan.
Driver’s license
In France, a B permit allows you to tow a caravan the gross vehicle weight (PTAC) does not exceed 750 kg, and the PTRA (gross permissible moving mass) is 3.5 tons. BE permission is required outside this limit.
Speed limit
The maximum permitted speed for a car towing a caravan 90 km/h on the highway and 80 km/h on other roads if your PTRA exceeds 3.5 tonnes (BE permit)
Safe driving
Drive carefully, bearing in mind that you have a trailer attached to you. Increase the braking distance and avoid sharp maneuvers. Be especially careful when cornering and overtaking.
Additional mirrors
To increase visibility around your caravan and facilitate maneuversyou can equip your car with additional mirrors that attach to the hood.
Assurance
Check your car insurance to make sure you are covered for towing a trailer. Most insurance companies require specific insurance for the caravan.
Parking
Please note parking restrictions for vehicles with trailers. In some areas, caravan parking is prohibited or regulated.
Read also:
Camper vacation: which vehicle to choose?
Vacation in a mobile home: what to check on your car?
Vacationing in a motorhome: a list of essential equipment
Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.