Before Take-off

Caravan Towing Checklist

Embarking on a caravanning adventure? Before you hit the road, it’s essential to make sure your caravan is properly prepared for towing. This Caravan Towing Checklist will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a safe and stress-free journey.

Is your Car Ready?

Prepare your Car

Getting your car ready for towing is essential for a safe and smooth journey. Proper preparation ensures that your vehicle can handle the additional load, and it helps maintain stability and control on the road.

        • Ensure your vehicle is ready for towing and fit towing mirrors.
        • Check that the tow bar is securely attached.
Prepare Your Caravan

Handbrake & Locks

        • Ensure the caravan handbrake is ON.
        • Remove wheel locks and hitch lock.
Unplug & Detach

Disconnect Services

        • Turn off and disconnect water and electric.
        • Switch off the gas supply.
        • Drain hot water and empty all waste.
Get Ready

Motor Mover Preparation

        • Turn ON the Motor Mover Master Switch.
        • Engage the Motor Mover.
        • Release the handbrake.
        • Check the nose weight.
Get Moving

Hitching Up

        • Wind up the caravan steadies (legs).
        • Move the caravan to the car and hitch up.
        • Attach the breakaway cable and connect the electric cable (check for slack).
        • Check the hitch indicators.
        • Wind the jockey wheel up to lift the rear of the car slightly (25–50mm).
        • Secure the jockey wheel in the up position and ensure it’s tight.
        • Disconnect the motor mover and turn OFF the Mover Master Switch.
Finally

Last Inspections

      • Release the handbrake and engage the stabiliser.
      • Check that the fridge is running on 12 volts.
      • Turn OFF the 12-volt master switch.
      • Secure loose items inside the caravan.
      • Ensure blinds are in the up position for travel.
      • Stow the step
Final Final

Final Walk Around

        • LOCK the caravan door and ensure it’s not alarmed.
        • Check all road lights.
        • Ensure the caravan handbrake is fully released.
        • Check that fridge covers are in place (if required).
        • Confirm that the aerial is down and all vents and windows are closed.
        • Double-check that the door is locked.

This checklist is designed to guide you, but it’s essential that you personally ensure everything is safe for towing. If you have any suggestions for improving this checklist, please don’t hesitate to email me.