TAKE IT AWAY!
Towing a caravan abroad adds another layer of preparation and planning for drivers, says Sophie Butler
As well as compulsory car documentation (full driving licence, a V5C log book and insurance certificate), plus items including a warning triangle, headlight converters and a reflective jacket (see theaa.com for a full list), there are other elements to consider for trips abroad:
New rules, which came into effect in January this year, require drivers to display a GB identifier – either on a registration plate or in the form of a GB sticker (see gov.uk/visit-europe-2021), with a separate GB identifier on the rear of a towed caravan.
A green card as proof of insurance is required when driving in the EU, both for your car and, separately, for a caravan. Notify your insurer about which countries you are planning to visit to make sure you are covered and whether there are any restrictions to consider.
Driving regulations vary from country to country, so check. In Portugal, bike racks must be carried at the rear of
a towed caravan rather than on the boot of a car, while reflective marker boards are required for larger vehicles in Spain.
Speed limits also vary. Maximum motorway speed for a car and caravan (under 3.5 tons) in Italy and Switzerland is 80km/h (50mph), while in Spain it is 90km/h (56mph) and in France 130km/h (80mph).
In Switzerland, not only do cars using the motorways need a vignette (sticker) displayed on the windscreen, but a towed caravan requires a second vignette (see myswitzerland.com). Vehicles over 3.5 tons incur a daily road tax.
Many countries in Europe have tightened their rules on low emission zones. For information about congestion charging and urban traffic restrictions throughout Europe, see urbanaccessregulations.eu.
For more information, including ferry bookings and online reservations for caravan pitches abroad, see the National Caravan Council’s advice pages (freedomtogo.co.uk). Further sources include The Caravan and Motorhome Club (caravanclub.co.uk) and The Camping and Caravanning Club (campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk).