As we enter the summer months, many will be getting ready to enjoy a road trip in their beloved campervan to enjoy the many sights the UK has to offer. But if you’re a growing family or your summer hobbies are screaming for more space, then towing with a campervan might just be the answer! From campervan insurance to weight restrictions, there are things to be aware of before you hit the road, so read on to find out.
Why Tow with a Campervan?
Whether it’s extra storage space or sleeping areas you need, towing with a campervan provides the perfect solution for your road trip needs, as cabin space may be lacking in some smaller campervans. For instance, if you have items like a pram or surfing gear, towing with a campervan may provide that little extra storage space for equipment.
Or, maybe you’re in need of extra sleeping berths for family and friends to join you on those long summer nights, which towing a caravan could prove to be incredibly useful for. If you are looking to tow a caravan, you no longer need to worry about bringing the car too, as your camper may be able to tow it for you!
Things to Be Aware of
Whilst towing might provide the answer to your needs, there are some things you need to consider before you set off on the road…
Weight Restrictions
You will need to carry out some calculations to understand the appropriate towing weight for your camper. A modern VW transporter can tow upwards of 2,000 kilos, but this depends on the vehicle type that you will be towing.
The Gross Train Weight (GTW) of your original vehicle will affect what you can tow. The owner’s manual will be your guide for this and may also include towing restrictions for your vehicle too. It is recommended that you should tow no more than 75% of the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) when the two parts are in tandem. While you can tow up to 100%, this is not advised as it may cause problems with braking functions, driver safety and even manoeuvrability. You don’t want to get stuck down any tight country lanes!
So, before you set off on your road trip, ensure you’ve checked that what you’re towing is not only legal, but safe for your vehicle.
Licence Regulations
Another consideration for you is whether your licence covers you for what you’re towing.
From the 16th of December 2021, if you passed your driving test after the 1st of January 1997, you are allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM. There is no need to contact the DVLA either, and when you do get a renewed licence, the category BE will be automatically added. And if you did get your licence before the 1st of January 1997, you can drive a vehicle and trailer with an MAM of 8,250kg.
Whilst it is more than likely that your licence does comply with towing, it is always best to check, as you don’t want to be caught short.
Insurance Policies
Last but certainly not least on your pre-holiday checklist is to make sure that your insurance policy covers you.
Campervan insurance policies are often tailored and specific, so it may be the case that you will not automatically be covered for towing. You may even need to take out a specialist campervan policy or speak with your chosen insurer to make sure that you’re allowed to tow onto the back of your camper. Your insurer may impose weight restrictions or restrict the type of vehicle that you are allowed to tow, so it is best to find this out in advance!
You also need to check your breakdown cover, ensuring that you’re fully covered for rescue for both of your vehicles. You don’t want to get stuck on the side of the road when you could be enjoying the sun from a beach somewhere…
Now you can go ahead and enjoy your summer road trip, equipped with everything you need to know about towing a campervan. If you’re looking for even more information on how to tow with your campervan, then check out the Just Kampers Insurance blog.
