Advice library

Where is the serial number?

Usually on the “A” frame, windows, or bottom of the door.

Do you have to insure a caravan to put it on the road?

No, however if you were involved in an incident without an insurer to pick up the bill, it will be you that has to foot any repair / replacement bills, which can be expensive.

Is my caravan covered whilst it is attached to my car?

Yes.  If the caravan damages a third party whilst attached to your car, they would claim for damage to their property under your car insurance and you would claim for damage to your caravan under this policy.

What is TyrePal?

TyrePal is a tyre pressure monitoring system, which can be fitted to your car and / or caravan.  With the aid of valve pressure sensors fitted to your tyres, the system links up to a small monitor in your car keeping you informed of any overheating or incorrect pressures within the tyres.  You can read more about the benefits here.

What are Tyron Bands?

Tyron safety bands are mechanical devices that are fitted to the wheel whilst the new tyre is being fitted. It provides users with a limited ‘run flat’ type effect in the event of a blow out or puncture. You may have seen the effect of a blow out perhaps during F1 racing where the tyre eventually ‘winds’ its way off the wheel. The Tyron band fills the well within the wheel to hold the tyre beads in place thus preventing the road wheel from impacting the surface of the road. You can read more about the bands in this article.

What does CaSSOA stand for?

CaSSOA is the acronym for the Caravan Storage Site Owners Association.  More information about the work that they do and the storage facilities approved by them can be found on their website.

What is the noseweight?

The maximum weight your caravan can put on a car’s tow ball as set by the car manufacturer.

Is there a second hand price guide for caravans?

Yes. Glass’s Guide is a trade publication that lists tourers and their dimensions, their retail cost, trade prices and also indicate the cost as new.

What is meant by a full service pitch?

There are a number of terms used to describe the facilities on a caravan site.  A full service pitch has individual provision for fresh water supply and waste water disposal, in addition to mains electricity and sometimes television aerial connection.

My insurers insist on a hitchlock – what is this?

Hitchlocks are a security device, which prevent the caravan being connected to a tow ball. There are different varieties on the market, but the idea is just the same. A hitch lock fits over the caravan hitch and either prevents the hitch handle from being lifted or dropped, or completely seals the hitch head to prevent it connecting with a tow ball.  If fitted corrected, they are an excellent aid towards caravan security. For more ideas and tips on caravan security, please read this article.