Haulin' class

20 January 2023

It’s holiday time. For many motorists that means cruising the roads and highways with a caravan, boat or trailer in tow. It’s fun and economical, but you need to know what you’re doing if you want a stress-free trip.

Firstly, read your vehicle owners’ manual to find out its towing capacity. Don’t go over the limit, not even a bit.

Ensure the tow-ball and trailer-hitch fit well. 

Check the lights and indicators work once you’ve connected the light cable from the caravan/trailer to your vehicle. 

Once you’ve packed your caravan or trailer, check the load to ensure nothing’s overhanging – this is dangerous and could see you cop a fine. 

Cover the load with a secure tarp if you’re towing an open trailer.

Finally, check vehicle and caravan/trailer tyres to make sure they’re all at the recommended pressures.

Be alert to weather conditions on the road – particularly strong winds and rain – and adjust your driving style accordingly. 

Pull over and take a break if conditions are poor.

Monitor vehicles ahead and allow additional room to compensate for extra braking and acceleration times. Choose a lower gear when descending hills to save the brakes.

Reversing a trailer into position can be hard. It’s best to begin with the trailer and vehicle in a straight line then slowly ease back. Remember, if you need to move the trailer to the left then you need to turn right. It takes practice. Do that before you leave home, not when you arrive at the caravan park and have an audience watching.

Most importantly, drive safely.

Words: VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun on 20 January 2023.