Towing & Legalities

Do I need a special license?
In the UK, Drivers who passed before January 1st 1997 can tow a combined vehicle and trailer weight up to 8,250kg.
No. Under changes that removed the trailer towing test in the UK, you can automatically tow a trailer up to 3,500kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) regardless of when you passed your test.
However, make sure your category B+E entitlement is officially recorded on your photocard driving license.

Does a caravan need an MOT?
No, touring caravans do not require an MOT.
However, they are shaken about on the road and must be kept in a “roadworthy condition”.

Are there speed limits?
Yes. In the UK, you are limited to 50mph on single carriageways and 60mph on dual carriageways or motorways.

Can passengers ride in the caravan?
No, it is strictly illegal to have passengers inside a touring caravan while it is in motion.

The 7-Metre Rule
If your towing vehicle’s MAM is 3,500kg or less, you cannot tow a trailer longer than 7 metres.

Weights & Towing Safety

What is the 85% rule?
It is highly recommended that a fully loaded caravan weighs no more than 85% of your car’s kerbweight.
This keeps the combination stable and prevents “snaking”.

How should I pack my caravan?
Distribute weight safely. Pack heavy items (like awnings and heavy things) low down on the floor, directly over or slightly in front of the caravan’s wheels. Keep lighter cargo in the high-level overhead lockers.

Essential Legal Gear
You must have a proper type-approved towbar, a breakaway cable, the correct matching car registration plate on the rear of your caravan, and working towing mirrors if the caravan is wider than your car.

Maintainance and running costs

Do I need insurance?
While not legally compulsory, comprehensive touring caravan insurance is highly recommended.
Your standard car insurance only covers third-party liability for the towed trailer.

How often should it be serviced?
Like a car, caravans require annual servicing to check gas, electrical, and braking systems.

Pitching & Site Etiquette

What’s included on a serviced pitch?
Standard touring pitches often provide an electric hook-up, a drinking water tap, and grey water drainage.

Do I need to “drain down” in the winter?
If you are storing your caravan during the colder months, you must completely empty the onboard water system to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Maintenance & Best Practices

MRO vs. MTPLM
Mass in Running Order (MRO) is the weight of the empty, factory-standard caravan. Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) is the absolute heaviest the caravan can legally be when fully packed. Never exceed the MTPLM.

Traveling to Europe

UK Trailer Registration Scheme
For travel to most European countries, caravans over 750kg MAM must be registered with the DVLA before you leave.
You will be issued a certificate and need to display a separate trailer registration plate on the back of your caravan.

Changes at the Border
The rollout of digitized borders and the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) means increased processing times at ports—always plan ahead and allow extra travel time

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Pet Travel

Be aware that the Animal Health Certificate process remains in place for Brits traveling to mainland Europe with pets; there are separate passport rules that apply to EU residents only.