Caravanning FAQs

The year of a caravan is easily determined by the VIN number.

• Caravans manufactured before 1991 – the first 2 characters of the VIN number determine the year i.e. 87AV7845 is a 1987
• Caravans manufactured after 1991 – the 10th character determines the year – click here to decipher VIN number year codes

To measure a caravan’s awning size take a long piece of string and run it from the floor, around the awning rail and to the floor the other side – this measurement is your awning size. See the red arrow on the picture to the right –>>

Caravan insurance is not required by law (at the time of writing) but is highly recommended. Your car or home insurance will not likely cover your caravan in the event of an accident or if it were to be stolen.

Protect your asset!

Read more about caravan insurance here.

The short answer is no – it is not advisable.

Caravan batteries are made in a slightly different way. If you think about car batteries, they are designed to be used every day. Whereas a caravan battery (aka leisure battery) has been specifically designed to last longer without charge.

9 time out of 10 the reason for a caravan mover not working is one of the following problems:

• Flat battery
• Isolation switch not turned on
• Rollers not engaged on to wheels

If it none of the above, contact your local caravan workshop as you may have an issue with your battery, battery charger or the mover itself.

You need B+E requirements on your driving license to be able to tow a caravan. You should still be aware of your weight restrictions though. Find out more here.

When you have a towbar fitted you are likely to be asked whether you would like single or twin electrics fitted.

Single electrics – Your car is wired up to only power the road lights on your caravan which is the minimum requirement

Twin electrics – Your car is wired up to power the road lights, reverse light (if any), run your fridge and charge your leisure battery (if you have a battery charger on board – most modern caravans do)