Pre-Trip Preparation
Complete pre-trip preparation checklist for towed caravans
- 18checks
- 4sections
- 45minutes
18 checks in 4 sections, about 45 minutes. Free to read or print — or run it in the app, where it adapts to your exact caravan and the equipment you own.
Marked items cause damage, a fine, or an accident if skipped.
01 Documents & Insurance
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Check vehicle registration document
Keep registration document accessible in the vehicle at all times
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Check insurance documents and policy number
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Locate breakdown cover card and emergency number
Note any international cover restrictions before crossing borders
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Check driving licence is valid and in date
02 Vehicle Preparation
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Check tyre pressures on caravan and tow car Safety-critical
Check manufacturer recommended pressures for loaded weight
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Charge leisure battery to full before departure
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Fill fresh water tank
Consider whether campsite hookup or aquaroll will suffice instead
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Check gas supply level
Carry a spare cylinder if touring in remote areas
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Test all lights: indicators, brake lights, running lights Safety-critical
Ask a helper to confirm brake and rear lights while you operate controls
03 Route & Booking
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Plan route and check road restrictions for caravans
Check height, width and weight restrictions, and caravan-prohibited roads
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Confirm campsite booking and check arrival time
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Check ferry or tunnel booking if applicable
Arrive at the terminal at least 45 minutes before departure
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Download offline maps for the journey
Download maps covering your full route in case of poor mobile signal
04 Packing Essentials
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Pack bedding and towels
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Pack kitchen essentials and food supplies
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Load outdoor furniture: chairs, table, awning mat
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Pack levelling blocks and wheel chocks
Chocks should always be placed before unhitching on any surface
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Pack water containers: aquaroll and wastemaster
Clean and rinse containers before filling at the start of the season
Related checklists
Other moments in the same trip.
- Departure from Campsite Complete pre-departure procedure for towed caravans 46 checks · 30 minutes
- Arrival at Campsite Complete setup procedure for towed caravans at the campsite 42 checks · 25 minutes
- Stepping Out Secure your caravan before heading out for a few hours 21 checks · 10 minutes
- Return Home Post-trip storage routine 11 checks · 20 minutes
These lists are maintained alongside the caracheck app and updated whenever the app is.