How to Reverse Your Caravan Safely

Reversing a caravan often leads to collisions, both on and off-site, which can result in an avoidable and expensive claim on your caravan insurance policy. Whether you are performing a three-point turn on a closed road, or simply fitting your unit onto an awkward pitch, reversing is an inevitable part of caravanning.

The key to reversing a caravan correctly is to remember that the hitch acts as a pivot, therefore whatever direction the rear of your car is moving in, the caravan will be doing the opposite. This can result in confusion, but one widely-employed technique is to place your hand at the base of the steering wheel - then whichever direction you move your hand in, the trailer will move in the same direction.

But watch out: an added complication arises when the caravan starts to pivot about the axles, as one corner of the car will begin to move closer to the corner of the caravan. This movement is known as jack-knifing and can lead to surface damage on both the car and caravan. To avoid this, a small amount of counter-steering should be carried out mid-way through the reversing manoeuvre.

Those still struggling with reversing a caravan can take a training course to help with their technique, but the main thing to remember is to take your time and keep calm, as reversing in a hurry is the quick way to a needless caravan insurance claim.

Caravan Gadgets

If you're still finding it difficult, purchasing some added equipment may make your life easier.

Extra-wide towing mirrors

These can help with visibility, as they allow you to spot any small movements from your intended line of reversing. Of course it is helpful to have a patient co-driver who can get out of the car and watch the corners of the caravan.

Reversing cameras

Another key piece of kit which can help is a caravan reversing camera - this allows you to see the corners of your caravan for yourself without having to leave the driver's seat.
There are a number of on the market (including 4kam, Trailer Vision and Indicator). The wireless models are particularly handy as they can also be fitted to your tow-car's bumper to help with the process of hitching up. Some even come with multiple cameras that you can switch between at the touch of a button, offering the driver several views of their towing unit.

View more caravan gadget.