Towing your brand new caravan. for the first time can be a very daunting task. But what is most certainly more daunting is pulling up at a campsite and having to reverse it onto your spot under the watchful eye of all of your caravanning peers.
Now I would always advise you to drive slowly. I know this seems a bit patronising and obvious but some people try and speedily get it over and done with. This is not the way to do it.
You should also ensure that the distance you are reversing is the shortest distance possible. Make it as easy as you can for yourself by driving forward as much as you can to ensure you, if possible, only have to reverse it back in a straight line. If this isn’t possible then you need to read on.
If possible, make sure that you are turning in the direction of your driver’s side window. It is much easier if you can look over your shoulder or using your wing mirror on your side rather than trying to see round the corner on the other side.
Now, before reversing you should definitely make sure that you are safe to do so. It is wise to do a quick safety check and ensure that the ground is even, that there are no obstructions in the way, and that there isn’t anything overhanging that may impede your progress. You should also check to make sure you know exactly where you want your caravan to end up.
Now, this is where it starts to sound complicated; to determine which way you want to turn read what I am about to write. Whichever way you want to turn you have to move the steering wheel up with the hand on that side. I know it sounds a bit complex but let me break it down for you. If you want to reverse to the right then all you have to do is turn the steering wheel up using your right hand. The opposite for your left.
You have to make sure you don’t over-steer it, once you are heading in the right direction you should reduce your lock and attempt to follow the caravan around. If you need to reduce the turn, then you have to increase the lock in the other direction. See it is simple really, not hard at all. You need to take your time and change your lock in advance in order to give your caravan time to react to it.
Basically once you are in you can relax. Everyone around will have been watching so the pressure is now off, they can all go back to their books and card games. Well done you!