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quoteRemembering what needs switching off, unplugging, detaching etc, before setting off on a caravanning holiday can be a job in itself! That’s why we have created this handy guide and printable pre towing checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything.
Start by checking that all cupboards and locker doors inside the caravan are closed and locked. Caravan Guard has received many insurance claims where heavy items have dropped out of cupboards and storage baskets smashing work tops, hob covers, sink covers and even shower bases! Avoid unnecessary claims by making sure heavy items are secured away correctly. Also be sure to carefully load your caravan for a safer towing experience.
There are a few things to remember in the kitchen and shower area; firstly, turn the fridge selector switch to 12v and lock the fridge door. Turn off the water pump master switch, along with all taps and the shower control too. Caravan Guard receive a steady flow of claims for damaged roof lights that have been left open and damp caused by open window so an obvious check is to ensure these are closed.
Once the inside of your caravan is taken care of, there are a few quick things to be done outside. Start by turning the gas off at the cylinder and then make sure all water and waste tanks are drained correctly so that you’re not carrying any unnecessary weight on your travels.
Many caravan owners have invested in a wide range of security devices. It goes without saying that you’ll have to remove your hitchlock and wheel clamp, but don’t forget if you have a proactive tracking device that triggers on movement sensor or via a geo fence, you need to deactivate it before setting off otherwise you’ll create a false theft alert for your tracking device’s monitoring centre.
It’s also always important to check your caravan’s noseweight before you set off (whether you’re new to towing or an expert, it doesn’t hurt to check this each time). If this is too light or too heavy the caravan could become unstable whilst towing or your towcar’s steering ability could be affected.
To help guarantee a smooth, uneventful journey, always check that the tyre pressure is at the right level. Over or under inflated tyres can lead to caravanning accidents and premature tread ware. If you’re not quite sure what level is right for your caravan check out our guide to caravan tyre pressures.
To avoid any unnecessary wheel detachments make sure that all wheel nuts are torqued up. Again if you’re not too sure how to do this, take a look at our guide on tightening wheel nuts and upgrading your current wheel nuts.
Last but not least remember to keep your payload lower for a safer and more fuel efficient towing experience.
We’ve got many more checks to perform on our downloadable caravan pre-towing checklist. We think this is a comprehensive list of things you need to do before towing your caravan but you can even write in a few checks of your own checks at the bottom of the design if you think we’ve missed anything. Of course we want you to tell us what you think in the comments below.
Brilliant. And thanks to all who’ve added further suggestions. My partner and I always do the same checks in opposite directions, rather than follow the leader. Always said we should have a checklist, so thanks a mill. Now where did we leave the car!
As a husband and wife team we find two heads are better than one, it pays off too, we are all human and at times overlook to check certain items. Good article
Thanks Arthur! Wise words indeed.
Just came back to caravaning agter a. Umber of years and I used this last year to remind us of wvwrything to do, it was great, although some of rhe ofher caravanwrs looked atme as if, newboy !!!!!!!
It is essential to have a checklist, which should include more than one checker to prevent an oversight.
I would also advise (not necessarily a checklist) an awareness of impending rain where roof windows are concerned, particularly overnight rain.
All good common sense, both in the Check list and in the customer’s comments, but what about ensuring that towing mirrors are affixed before starting off, also that the road lights on the caravan are working, and the break away cable properly connected?
Three really good suggestions Josie, thanks! Don’t forget there are three spare lines at the bottom of the checklist to add your own checks! That way you won’t forget a thing.
Will you add the other suggestions to your list and then arrange a reprint. I can then encapsulate it knowing it will not get worn out and soiled.
We could do yes Paul – keep the suggestions coming everyone!
Additional check:
Check ALL exterior locker doors are closed and locked.
(Re-check main door).
Two great suggestions, thanks Tim and Bob!
Don’t forget to disengage mover mechanism.
I have done my own check lists for starting off, for setting up and for coming back home.It means there are no mistakes like leaving skylight open or many other things that could get missed
It sounds like you’re very organised Michael – you can never have too many checklists!
Very handy article and checklist. Trouble is, don’t seem able to print it!
Dear Lawrie, I’m sorry you were unable to print this. I have sent you the pdf of the checklist as a file attached to an email. Please let me know how you get on with that.
a/ Ensure all external access doors are closed and secured
b/ All taps including shower are open at mid point for for hot and cold
This is brilliant! A simple but effective reminder of things to do because I always seem to forget something when hitching up!
Thanks Jimmy, glad you found the checklist useful.