Towing Trailer Tents: A Guide

Can You Tow a Trailer Tent or Folding Camper? The Essential Guide

The allure of a trailer tent or folding camper is undeniable for many outdoor enthusiasts. Offering a step up from traditional camping without the full commitment of a caravan, these versatile options provide comfort and convenience. A significant advantage is their generally light weight and ease of towing, making them accessible to a wide range of drivers. However, before you hitch up and head off on your adventure, it's crucial to understand the regulations and best practices surrounding towing, especially concerning your driving licence and vehicle capabilities. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to tow your trailer tent or folding camper safely and legally.

Understanding Your Driving Licence for Towing

The type of driving licence you hold is paramount when determining what you can legally tow. In Great Britain (excluding Northern Ireland), a standard driving licence issued after passing your test typically covers categories B, B1, and BE. Let's break down what these mean for towing:

• Category B: This allows you to drive a vehicle with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of up to 3,500kg.
• Category BE: This category is specifically for towing. It permits you to tow a trailer with an MAM of up to 3,500kg behind a vehicle that falls within the Category B limits.

Therefore, with a standard licence, you can drive a vehicle up to 3,500kg and tow a trailer with an MAM of up to 3,500kg. This generally covers most trailer tents and folding campers. It is vital to remember that it is the official Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of the trailer tent that is legally considered, irrespective of how much luggage you actually load into it. This MAM must always be within the towing limit specified by your vehicle's manufacturer.

Where to Find Your Licence Information

Your entitlement to drive, including any towing categories, will be clearly indicated on your driving licence. If you have an older, paper-style licence, these categories are usually listed on the front. For newer, pink photocard licences, the categories are typically found on the reverse side of the card.

For more detailed information and up-to-date regulations regarding driving licences and towing, the Directgov website is an invaluable resource. You can also consult the Driving Standards Agency for further guidance.

Vehicle Towing Limits: What You Need to Know

Even if your licence permits towing, your vehicle itself will have specific towing limits. These are set by the manufacturer and are crucial for safe operation. Exceeding these limits can compromise your vehicle's performance, handling, and safety, and could also invalidate your insurance.

You can usually find your vehicle's towing limits in the owner's manual or on a sticker located on the vehicle itself, often within the driver's door frame or under the bonnet. It's essential to check these figures before purchasing or towing a trailer tent.

Key figures to look out for include:

• Kerbweight: This is the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment, a full tank of fuel, and all necessary fluids, but without passengers or cargo.
• Towing Limit: This is the maximum weight the vehicle is legally permitted to tow.
• Gross Train Weight (GTW): This is the maximum total weight of the vehicle and the trailer combined, including passengers and cargo.

The trailer tent's MAM must not exceed the vehicle's towing limit. Furthermore, the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer (GTW) must not exceed the vehicle's Gross Train Weight.

The 85% Guideline: Ensuring Stability

For a more comfortable and stable towing experience, especially if you are new to towing, The Club recommends towing a trailer tent or folding camper up to approximately 85 per cent of your vehicle's kerbweight. This is often referred to as the 85% rule.

Why is this guideline important? A heavier trailer relative to the towing vehicle can lead to instability, particularly on the road. By adhering to the 85% guideline, you create a more balanced outfit, reducing the risk of snaking (where the trailer swings from side to side) or other dangerous handling characteristics. This is particularly true for smaller cars or those with less powerful engines.

Table: Understanding Towing Weights

To help clarify these terms, here's a simple table:

Gaining Confidence with Towing Courses

Towing for the first time can feel daunting. Fortunately, there are resources available to help you build your confidence and skills. The Club offers courses specifically designed to assist you in gaining confidence when towing on the road and manoeuvring on site. These courses provide practical, hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced instructors.

You can also explore local training organisations that are recognised by the Driving Standards Agency. Investing in a towing course is a worthwhile step for anyone new to towing, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Choosing the Right Trailer Tent or Folding Camper

When selecting a trailer tent or folding camper, always consider its MAM in relation to your vehicle's towing capacity. Lightweight models are ideal for smaller cars, while larger, more equipped units might require a more substantial towing vehicle, such as a 4x4 or a people carrier.

Pay attention to the manufacturer's specifications for both the trailer and your car. Don't be tempted to overload your trailer, as this not only affects handling but can also lead to legal issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I tow a trailer tent if I passed my test before 1997?

A1: Generally, if you passed your car test before 1 January 1997, you may have a larger entitlement to tow, often referred to as "grandfather rights." These rights typically allow you to tow a heavier combination of vehicle and trailer. However, it's always best to check the exact categories on your licence and consult official sources for the most accurate information.

Q2: What happens if my trailer tent's MAM is higher than my car's towing limit?

A2: You cannot legally tow a trailer tent if its MAM exceeds your vehicle's towing limit. You would need a different vehicle with a higher towing capacity or a lighter trailer tent.

Q3: Does the 85% rule apply if I have a large 4x4?

A3: While the 85% rule is a guideline for stability, especially for less experienced towers, larger 4x4s often have higher towing capacities and can handle heavier loads more stably. However, it's still prudent to consider the 85% guideline for optimal handling and to ensure you're well within your vehicle's limits, particularly if you're new to towing that specific combination.

Q4: Where can I get my trailer tent insured?

A4: The Club offers a comprehensive trailer tent insurance policy with competitive pricing, providing cover while you're on the move. "Club Care" is a recommended option for many.

Conclusion: Tow with Confidence

Towing a trailer tent or folding camper can open up a world of adventure. By understanding your driving licence entitlements, adhering to vehicle towing limits, and considering the 85% guideline for stability, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Don't hesitate to seek out training if you're new to towing. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can confidently hitch up and explore the great outdoors.

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