Story: Caravans
Episode: 8
Presenter: Nikki Parkinson
Air Date: 11 July 2021

Believe it or not, there is a right and a wrong way to pack your caravan and secure your load. Nikki shares a few vital tips to pack correctly and best ensure a stress-free journey.

• Ensure your car is up to towing your van - check the load limit for your vehicle and add 200kg to the caravan weight to account for bedding, travel gear and all the bits and pieces.
• The towing mass (or towing rating) is found under the towing section in the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook.
• The key is to place most of the weight over the axles, followed by the front of the van and finally the rear.
• Heavy items should be placed as low and centrally as possible.
• Medium items should be stored below window height.
• The lightest items should be kept as low as possible or in overhead lockers.
• If your van is wider than your car then you will need to get towing mirrors to ensure you can see cars behind you.
• The maximum legal speed limit whilst towing is 100km/h - even if the road speed limit is higher.
• It is not only dangerous but also illegal to have passengers riding in the van whilst towing.
• Before purchasing a caravan or trailer, it’s critical you give careful consideration to your vehicle’s towing mass and construction prior to purchase.

For more information:  https://www.rsc.wa.gov.au/