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Q I've bought a caravan. The only trouble is I've never towed anything before in my life.

A First, you must make sure your car is capable of safely towing the caravan you have bought.

Your owner's manual or dealer website should be able to give you information about the maximum weight it can manage, and don't forget that loading up with your possessions could take it over the limit.

If in doubt, take it to a public weighbridge. Maintenance of the caravan is just as important as maintenance of your car, so check that everything is as it should be - particularly the visibility of the rear lights and indicators.

As far as driving is concerned, driving with a caravan in tow is very different to driving a solo car.

We would recommend booking a lesson with a specialist instructor, particularly when it comes to mastering reversing manoeuvres.

Pulling away from the kerb without the requisite skills is an act of gross negligence.

The Caravan Club's website is a good place to start (www.caravanclub.co.uk) for information. Always remember that while on the move you are much larger, heavier and slower to respond (whether braking, accelerating or steering) than you tend to think.

4:19pm Thursday 6th March 2008

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