Towing a Caravan or Trailer: A Pre-Trip Checklist
Use this caravan and trailer towing checklist to check ratings, tyres, coupling, brakes, lights and load security before departure.
Lothar Spurzem · CC BY-SA 2.0 de
Towing changes the way a vehicle accelerates, corners and stops. A pre-trip check should cover both the tow vehicle and the trailer, and it should begin with the ratings rather than the equipment list.
If you are unsure whether your combination is within its limits, resolve that before travelling.
Confirm the ratings and licence requirements
The allowable loaded trailer mass is constrained by the applicable ratings; do not assume the highest figure on a brochure is the one that governs. Account for towball download and its effect on the tow vehicle’s load.
Check the relevant state or territory rules and any licence restrictions. NSW Government guidance sets out towing rules and practical checks, but requirements can differ by jurisdiction and licence class.
If your combination is unusual or close to its limits, obtain qualified advice and use actual weight data rather than estimates.
Inspect the trailer before connecting
Check tyres for pressure, damage and wear, and inspect wheels and wheel nuts according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Look for visible damage to suspension, chassis and coupling components.
Confirm that lights and indicators work and that the number plate is visible where required.
Check the coupling is compatible with the towbar and secured correctly. Attach safety chains as required, using the correct attachment points and method for the trailer and jurisdiction.
If the trailer has brakes, test them using the manufacturer’s procedure. Trailers over certain mass thresholds may have specific braking or breakaway requirements; verify the rules that apply to your trailer.
Load and secure the trailer
Distribute cargo according to the trailer manufacturer’s guidance and keep within the trailer’s carrying capacity, axle ratings and tyre limits. Secure items against movement and make sure nothing can fall or overhang unlawfully.
Close and latch doors, hatches and covers before moving.
Check how the load affects towball download and the tow vehicle’s remaining payload. Heavy items placed too far forward or rearward can affect stability.
Prepare the tow vehicle
Check tyre pressures for the towing load if the manufacturer specifies a different setting. Inspect lights, mirrors, visible fluid leaks and service status.
Confirm that the vehicle is not overloaded by passengers, luggage, accessories and towball download. A vehicle can be under its total GVM yet exceed an axle or component rating.
If the trailer is new to you, practise low-speed manoeuvring and reversing in a safe area before joining busy traffic. Understand how the trailer changes turning radius and braking distance.
Adjust mirrors to maintain useful visibility and ensure the driver can see safely around the combination.
During the journey
Allow more distance, accelerate and brake smoothly, and plan a conservative speed for road, weather and traffic conditions. Stop at safe intervals to check that the coupling, safety chains, load, doors and covers remain secure.
If you notice sway, unusual noise or a change in braking, slow safely and stop to investigate rather than continuing.
Plan shorter driving days and rest breaks. Towing can be more tiring than ordinary driving. Keep the route flexible and avoid entering roads or sites that are not suitable for the vehicle and trailer combination.
The first kilometres after connecting
After connecting the trailer and checking the lights, drive a short distance in a safe area and stop to recheck the coupling, chains and load.
This does not replace a full pre-trip inspection, but it can reveal a latch or item that was not secure. Repeat checks during the journey at safe stopping points.
If the combination sways, the brakes feel different or the vehicle behaves unexpectedly, reduce speed safely and stop to investigate.
What to keep in the glovebox or trip file
Keep the vehicle and trailer documentation, roadside-assistance details, insurance information and any relevant permit or booking details accessible.
Record the loaded configuration and the ratings you checked, especially if you regularly tow a different trailer. Make sure another driver can find the information if needed.
After the trip, note any loose fittings, tyre wear, brake issues or repairs required.
A trailer has its own maintenance needs, so keep a separate record of service and inspection work rather than adding everything to the tow vehicle’s history without distinction.
Frequently asked questions
Can I tow to the vehicle’s maximum advertised capacity?
Only if every applicable rating and legal requirement is met, including GVM, GCM, towbar, coupling, trailer and tyre limits.
Do I need to check the trailer every trip?
Yes. Check roadworthiness, tyres, lights, coupling, chains, brakes where fitted and load security before departure.
Does a weight-distribution hitch increase towing capacity?
Do not assume so. Check the vehicle and towbar manufacturer’s instructions; such equipment can affect loads on components.
