Most towing problems start before the wheels turn: a coupling not fully latched, a jockey wheel left down, a roof hatch open. This checklist puts the official guidance from Transport for NSW and RAC in the order you’d actually do it. Run through it every time you hitch up, not just at the start of a trip.
What to check, and why
A good pre-towing check covers six areas: tyres, wheels and brakes; coupling and connections; lights; load and weights; the van secured inside and out; and a final walk-around. Most problems that cause sway, damage or a roadside stop come from something small in one of those areas being missed, which is why doing it in the same order every time matters.
- Tyres and brakes: pressures to the manufacturer’s spec (checked cold), tread at least 1.5 mm with no cuts or bulges, and brakes working on all axles (Transport for NSW checklist).
- Coupling: the coupling and towball must match in size and be fully latched; chains connected as the manufacturer specifies and crossed under the towball.
- Breakaway system: for caravans over 2,000 kg, Transport for NSW says the breakaway cable must be connected and its battery charged.
- Load: heavy items low and centred over the axles, and within every weight limit. See our weights explainer.
- Van secured: gas off, hatches and windows closed, awning locked, leads and hoses stowed.
The 8 checks people most often miss
- Coupling fully latched, with its safety pin or catch engaged
- Safety chains connected and crossed under the towball
- Breakaway cable connected and its battery charged
- Jockey wheel removed or locked in the travel position
- Indicators, brake and tail lights tested with a helper
- Gas cylinders turned off
- Roof hatches, windows and awning secured for travel
- Caravan handbrake released and wheel chocks collected
See the Checklist Pack
Official checklists worth keeping
- Transport for NSW caravan safety checklist (PDF)
- RAC caravan pre-trip checklist (PDF)
- WA “Give a Caradamn” towing checklist
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