New and in need of help! towing

 There is loads of advice and video on the Advice and Training tab above that is worth a read.

Towing is relatively simple - just remember how long your unit is and so take corners more steadily as the van does cut across the apex of a curve and remember that accelerating away (at lights, overtaking etc) is slower - well it is with 1500kg on the back! 

Don't worry. take your time and enjoy your new hobby/way of life.

Good adavice I always did/do but last two times they weren't bothered at all but said they would make a note of it - there should be no increase in premiums btw 

sorry  CY - do you mean towing or fitting a towbar I did both and they weren't interested

Our instruction in towing consisted of my father in law (experienced caravaner) following us for about 30 minutes on our first tow, and he gave the advice listed above as well.

Thanks for all the great advice. Much appreciated. Initially the most difficult part will be towing from the back garden along the side of the house with only about 2inches on either side! through 2 gates.

I told the insurance company, they were apathetic.

Thanks again

If its that tight, investment in a motor mover could be a wise investment. They do allow you to get in tight spaces slowly and easily without any panic. Plus it reduces the need to reverse with the car and we have had to do so on some really tight pitches abroad! 

£345 looks very cheap for a towbar fitting, I would want to know the make involved and check to see what others say about the fitter.

Do make sure he knows you are towing a caravan as they require two extra cables as against a standard trailer. Not sure how old the car is but it might need programming to make the electrics work and if the car is under guarantee a Peugeot specific part. Not my subject really but I did have to fit the makers own part to preserve the guarantee.

As far as towing goes I would give it a go. It is not difficult and for hitching and pitching there are very good videos on you tube. Just take it easy and allow more room on slow bends. Towing mirrors are a legal requirement so get a decent pair.

I am a woman who tows alone. I have to admit, it was terrifying when I first hitched up and set off. Now, it's ok.

I make a checklist for hitching up and tick it off before I hit the road- because a hitch up #*!@ up is the first way to caravan disaster!

Buy a motor mover. Its too stressful without.

Go slow. Don't let anyone rush you. They won't be paying for your caravan repairs.

I get myself to summer festivals with friends. The more you go, the more you meet. 

It's actually very nice having the caravan to yourself. Have fun!

If your caravan has an Alko chassis you need to make sure you have a tow bar with a swan neck ball fitted, and you do need to remove all the paint from the ball with emery paper, then clean it with brake CLEANER before you use it to tow your caravan, regardless of the make of chassis. There mustn’t be any paint, or anything greasy, on the tow ball -very important.

Not necessarily a swan necked BG. A fixed towbar, such as I have always used, has an Alko pattern tow bar with necessary clearances but is not 'swan necked'..

agree with Easy, don't need a swan neck as 95% of towballs will have the correct clearance, If not all.