Towing a caravan in adverse weather

Towing a caravan in challenging conditions like rain, high winds, or snow requires extra care to protect yourself and your investment. Slippery roads, strong gusts of wind, and poor visibility can increase the risk of accidents and make towing more difficult.

Preparation before you travel

1. Inspect your equipment: Ensure the hitch and safety chains are secure. Test all lights (brake, indicators, and running lights) and check that your tyres are properly inflated and in good condition.
2. Adjust mirrors: Secure towing mirrors tightly to prevent slipping, especially in wet or windy conditions.
3. Weight distribution: Place 60% of the load in front of the axle and 40% behind. Store heavier items near the centre and secure all items to prevent shifting.
4. Weather check: Review the forecast for your entire route and listen for travel updates. Consider postponing if severe weather is expected.

Towing in windy conditions

High winds can destabilise your vehicle and caravan, leading to snaking or jack-knifing. Follow these tips for safer towing:

• Regain control: If snaking begins, hold the wheel firmly and avoid sharp steering. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
• Reduce speed: Slower speeds and driving in a lower gear gives better control and allow safer reactions to sudden gusts.
• Increase space: Allow more distance from other vehicles to compensate for wind-driven swerves.
• Avoid exposed routes: Stay off bridges, open motorways, and mountain passes during strong winds. Stop in a safe spot if the wind becomes unmanageable.

Towing in rainy weather

Wet roads reduce traction and increase stopping distances. To stay safe:

• Slow down: Lower speeds improve control and reduce hydroplaning risks.
• Prevent hydroplaning: If hydroplaning occurs (where tyres lose contact with the road due to standing water), ease off the accelerator, keep the wheel straight, and avoid braking until traction returns.
• Gentle movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly to avoid skidding. Avoid sharp turns or sudden lane changes. Disable cruise control in slippery conditions.
• Clear visibility: Use wipers and defoggers to maintain a clear view, and steer clear of puddles when possible.

Towing in fog

Fog significantly reduces visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

• Use fog lights: Turn on fog lights if available, and ensure all lights are working.
• Follow road markings: Use them to stay in your lane when visibility is low.
• Maintain focus: Avoid distractions and increase following distance.
• Slow and steady: Drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the range of your headlights.

Towing in snow or icy conditions

Snow and ice present unique challenges due to reduced traction and poor visibility.

• Tyres: Use winter or all-weather tyres with adequate tread, and check tyre pressure regularly.
• Clear snow and ice: Remove snow and ice from your vehicle, caravan, lights, and hitch.
• Pack essentials: Carry a shovel, salt, ice scraper, blankets, food, and water.
• Drive slowly: Reduce speed and double your following distance to allow more reaction time.
• Brake carefully: Use light, steady braking to avoid skidding.
• Stick to main roads: Major roads are more likely to be gritted or ploughed.

If conditions become too severe, pull over to a safe location and wait for improvements.

Summary

In summary, towing in adverse weather requires preparation, caution, and adjustments to your driving technique. By following these tips, you can tow safely, protecting your caravan and ensuring a safer journey for all road users.