learn to tow a caravan Page 18

Want to learn to tow a caravan? Start with the boring‑but‑crucial bits: match your tow vehicle’s GVM/GCM and the van’s ATM, aim for 8–12% ball weight, and don’t overload the rear like it’s a garage sale.

In Australia, trailers over 750 kg need brakes, and over 2000 kg require a breakaway system; you’ll also need a quality brake controller.

Fit proper towing mirrors so you can actually see what you’re dragging, keep tyres at sensible pressures, and load heavy items low and forward of the axle.

Practice coupling, straight‑line braking and slow‑speed reversing in an empty car park, then graduate to highway speeds when sway control and common sense say yes.

If the rig starts to snake, ease off the throttle—don’t fight it like a rodeo—let it settle, then reassess weight distribution or consider a WDH and sway control.

Finally, check state rules, service intervals and torque settings, then go find a campsite that’s slightly less level than your patience.