If you’re hooking up the caravan and hitting the open road in 2025, then it’s time to brush up on your towing know-how! Whether you’re a beginner to hauling around a caravan or a seasoned pro, it’s always a good idea to refresh your know-how. Below is a quick rundown of the key points you’ll find in the Complete Guide to Everything Towing in Australia – en excellent e-book from the Caravan Industry Association of Australia.
Click here to download a copy for yourself – you just never know what it could come in handy, or what tips you’ll pick up from it!
Tow Vehicle
Before you hitch up, it’s vital to check that your vehicle is actually designed for towing. That means knowing your tow vehicle’s capacity, tow ball weight limits, and how your car handles different load conditions. Think of it as matching the right tool to the job—understanding what your vehicle can handle is the first step to a smoother journey.
Towing Parts
From tow bars and couplings to safety chains, towing parts are the backbone of any secure setup. Make sure every component is built to withstand the weight you’re pulling. This is also the best time to get top-quality accessories that align with your vehicle’s specifications.
Braking Systems
A good braking system is crucial for safe towing. In Australia, trailers over 750kg need independent brakes for added control. Whether you choose electric or hydraulic brakes, be sure they’re up to spec and regularly maintained.
Tyres
Never underestimate the importance of good tyres. This includes checking both your tow vehicle’s and the caravan’s tyres for correct pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. Proper tyres = safer travels, smoother rides, and better fuel efficiency.
Definitions
Towing involves loads of jargon—Gross Trailer Mass (GTM), Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM), and so on. Understanding these definitions helps you follow the rules, avoid fines, and, most importantly, stay safe on the road.
5th Wheeler Towing
If you’re towing a 5th wheeler, extra considerations come into play. These setups offer more interior space but also require special attachments and clearance in the tow vehicle’s bed. Ensure you know your state or territory’s regulations around 5th wheelers.
Off Road Towing Tips & Techniques
Planning to go off the beaten track? Off-highway towing demands extra caution and different techniques, from driving at reduced speeds on corrugated roads to ensuring your vehicle’s ground clearance is up to snuff.
Preparation
A little preparation goes a long way. Give your caravan (and your vehicle) a thorough check-up—fluid levels, lights, battery health, and any other maintenance tasks—so you don’t run into unwelcome surprises on the road.
Weight Distribution Hitches
Overloading the rear of your vehicle can create dangerous handling issues. A weight distribution hitch helps balance your caravan’s load across all axles, improving stability and steering control.
Sensible Loading
It’s not just about how much you pack but how you pack it. Placing heavy items low and evenly over the axles reduces sway and keeps your centre of gravity stable. Secure loose items so they won’t shift during travel.
Trailer Stability and Sway
Trailer sway is every tower’s worst nightmare. Correct loading, good weight distribution, and the right towing speed can prevent most sway situations. If sway does happen, knowing the proper recovery techniques can help you regain control.
A-Frame Towing
If you’re thinking about flat-towing a small vehicle or equipment behind a motorhome (also known as A-frame towing), make sure you have the right frame setup, braking aids, and legal clearances to keep everything compliant.
Rear Marking Plates
You’ll often see reflective red-and-yellow “Do Not Overtake Turning Vehicle” plates on caravans and trailers. These aren’t just for show—they’re a legal safety requirement in many cases, particularly for larger rigs.
Towing Your Trailer
Driving with a trailer attached changes your road experience entirely. From adjusting your mirrors to taking corners wider, proper towing etiquette ensures you and other drivers stay safe and comfortable.
Legal Requirements
Every state and territory has its own set of rules for towing. Make sure you know the specifics—like speed limits, licensing, and weight restrictions—before you hit the highway.
Further Information
Need more detail? The Caravan Industry Association of Australia’s official guide goes in-depth on regulations, tips, and best practices. It’s a treasure trove of information for both newbies and veteran towers alike.
Insurance
Finally, make sure your insurance covers both your vehicle and your trailer. Having adequate insurance protects you from unexpected costs in case things don’t go as planned.
Need a Hand with Your Towing Setup?
Check out the video below to learn more about how we can help!
If all of this information has left you itching to get your rig sorted and your next adventure on the calendar, we’re here to help.
At Allbrand Caravan Services and Sandgate Auto Electrics & Automotive Services – our two fantastic companies under the McArthur Industries umbrella) , our fully qualified team of technicians, fitters, mechanics, and auto electricians can get your tow rig perfectly set up—so you can spend less time stressing over details and more time planning your next Aussie escape.
Ready to dive deeper? Download the guide from the Caravan Industry Association of Australia and swing by our workshop or use the details below to get in touch if you’d like a hand putting their top-notch advice into action. Happy towing and safe travels!
Call Us:Â (07) 3869 2969
Visit Us:Â 113 Connaught St, Sandgate
Email Us:Â info@allbrandcs.com.au
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