Reversing a caravan or trailer is challenging and can be extremely difficult for new caravan owners. But fear not! It is achievable for everyone. Just take the time to practice and get to know how to manoeuvre your vehicle.
It is imperative that you learn how to reverse as you may to do this to get out of a tricky situation, or you may also find that knowing how to reverse will help you enjoy some better camping sites. The main thing to remember when reversing a caravan or trailer is the opposites rule – to move the caravan to the right, the steering wheel needs to be turned gradually to the left, and vice versa. More on this later.
The first thing to do when mastering caravan and trailer reverse skills is to practice.
Before heading off on your journey, it is a good idea to find a quiet carpark or paddock where you can practice manoeuvring without the worry of other vehicles, people or being on time. If possible, take a friend with you so that they can help guide you. Remember, patience is key, and practice makes perfect.
When you are about to reverse your caravan or trailer, first get out of the car and look at your surroundings and check whether the vehicle and caravan will fit and pace out the area. It is also a good idea to take into consideration the space needed for an awning or annex and factor this into your checks.
If it is possible, try and reverse from the right and position your caravan or trailer so that it is pointed in the direction that it needs to go. If you have a friend to assist, make sure that they are clear with their communication and instructions. Some people like to use the ‘right hand down, left hand down’ method and others choose the ‘push/pull’ method to explain which way to turn the steering wheel. It is also important for your guide to use clear hand and voice instructions. Make sure you are both on the same page so there isn’t any confusion!
Once you have the caravan or trailer positioned, apply the opposites rule. If the caravan needs to go right, turn the steering wheel to the left and vice versa. Next, slowly begin reversing. This is where it is really important to practice so you gain the feel of which way to turn and work out what works best for you.
Remember, gradually reverse, and turn the steering wheel. Only use small turns as the caravan or trailer will amplify the movement.
If you happen to oversteer or miss where you need to go, move forward until you have the caravan or trailer in the correct position, stop, and reverse again.
Once you have successfully reversed the caravan or trailer and it is in its correct position, perform necessary safety checks such as ensuring the handbrake it set, the wheels are chocked and cannot move.
Lastly, enjoy your adventure!
