Towing a trailer, car, motorcycle trailer, or small caravan behind your motorhome can make travelling much more convenient, but it also brings additional legal responsibilities. Before you set off, it’s important to understand the rules covering towing weights, driving licences, equipment and road safety.
This guide explains everything UK motorhome owners need to know to tow legally.
1. Can Your Motorhome Tow?
Not every motorhome is approved for towing.
Before fitting a towbar or connecting a trailer, check:
- The manufacturer’s maximum towing capacity.
- The Gross Train Weight (GTW) shown on the VIN or weight plate.
- The maximum permitted towball nose weight.
- Whether your motorhome converter has reduced the towing capacity during conversion.
If no towing capacity is stated, you should assume the vehicle is not approved for towing. Never rely solely on the chassis manufacturer’s figures if the motorhome has been converted.
2. Check Your Driving Licence
Your licence determines what combinations you are legally allowed to drive.
Most drivers with a Category B licence can tow trailers up to the legal limits introduced in 2021, but heavier motorhomes may require Category C1 or Category C entitlement depending on the vehicle’s Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
Always check both:
- Your driving licence categories.
- The motorhome’s maximum authorised towing limits.
3. Know Your Weight Limits
Understanding vehicle weights is essential.
Key terms include:
- MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass): Maximum permitted weight of the vehicle when loaded.
- GTW (Gross Train Weight): Maximum combined weight of the motorhome and trailer.
- Nose Weight: Downward force applied by the trailer onto the towball.
- Trailer Weight: The fully loaded weight of whatever you are towing.
Never exceed:
- Maximum axle weights
- Maximum motorhome weight
- Gross Train Weight
- Maximum towing capacity
- Towbar limits
- Tyre load ratings
Remember that adding bikes, passengers, water, fuel and luggage all count towards your legal weight.
4. Use an Approved Towbar
Your towbar should be suitable for your specific motorhome and professionally fitted.
Check that:
- It is correctly rated.
- It is securely mounted.
- Electrical connections work correctly.
- The towball is in good condition.
- The nose weight is within limits.
Poorly fitted or overloaded towing equipment can make the combination illegal and unsafe.
5. Trailer Brakes
In the UK:
- Trailers over 750kg Maximum Authorised Mass must have an operational braking system.
- Braked trailers must have a functioning breakaway cable.
- Smaller unbraked trailers require a suitable secondary coupling.
Always inspect the braking system before travelling.
6. Lights and Number Plates
Your trailer must display:
- Brake lights
- Indicators
- Rear lights
- Reflectors
- Rear fog light (where required)
- Matching registration plate showing the towing vehicle’s registration
Check every light before every journey.
7. Loading the Trailer
Correct loading improves stability.
Good practice includes:
- Place heavier items close to the axle.
- Secure every load properly.
- Avoid excessive rear weight.
- Keep the correct nose weight.
- Never exceed the trailer’s payload.
Poor loading is one of the main causes of trailer snaking.
8. Speed Limits When Towing
In the UK, vehicles towing trailers are limited to:
- 50 mph on single carriageways
- 60 mph on dual carriageways
- 60 mph on motorways
You must also stay out of the right-hand lane on motorways with three or more lanes unless directed otherwise.
9. Towing a Car Behind a Motorhome
Many motorhome owners tow a small car.
Common methods include:
- Car trailer
- Tow dolly
- A-frame
While A-frames can be used in certain circumstances in the UK, their legal treatment varies across Europe. Some countries prohibit or restrict their use, so always check the rules for every country you intend to visit before travelling abroad.
A full trailer is generally the least legally complex option for international travel.
10. Before Every Journey
Carry out a complete walk-round inspection:
- Check hitch security.
- Attach the breakaway cable correctly.
- Test all lights.
- Inspect tyres for damage and pressure.
- Ensure wheel nuts are tight.
- Secure the load.
- Check mirrors.
- Confirm registration plate is fitted.
- Verify trailer brakes operate correctly.
Taking five minutes before departure can prevent accidents and roadside penalties.
11. Insurance
Tell your insurer if you regularly tow.
Also check whether your policy covers:
- The trailer
- The contents
- A towed car
- European travel
Separate trailer insurance may also be worth considering.
12. Travelling in Europe
If you’re taking your motorhome abroad:
- Research local towing laws before departure.
- Check whether A-frames are permitted.
- Confirm trailer registration requirements.
- Carry any required safety equipment for the countries you visit.
European rules differ considerably, so never assume UK regulations apply overseas.
Final Checklist
Before every journey, make sure:
- ✓ Your motorhome is approved for towing.
- ✓ Your driving licence allows the combination.
- ✓ All weight limits are within specification.
- ✓ The towbar is correctly fitted.
- ✓ Trailer brakes and breakaway cable work.
- ✓ Lights and indicators operate correctly.
- ✓ The registration plate is fitted.
- ✓ The load is secure.
- ✓ Tyres are correctly inflated.
- ✓ Mirrors provide adequate rear visibility.
- ✓ Insurance covers your towing setup.
Conclusion
Safe and legal towing starts with knowing your motorhome’s limits and following the relevant regulations. By checking your weights, equipment, driving licence and trailer before every trip, you’ll reduce the risk of breakdowns, penalties and accidents, allowing you to enjoy your travels with confidence.
