Last reviewed 27 August 2026 · Based on current GOV.UK towing guidance and practical caravan-matching experience.
Start with the car’s maximum braked towing weight
The vehicle manufacturer sets a maximum weight for a braked trailer. Find the figure for your exact engine, gearbox and derivative in the handbook, official manufacturer information, V5C where shown, or by checking the vehicle weight plate and confirming the result.
This is an upper vehicle limit, not automatically the ideal caravan weight. Other limits and stability considerations still apply.
Compare it with the caravan’s MTPLM
Use the caravan’s MTPLM rather than its empty or unladen weight. MTPLM is the maximum the caravan is permitted to weigh when loaded for travel. It should not exceed the car’s confirmed maximum braked-trailer limit.
Check the towing ratio
Divide the caravan MTPLM by the car’s kerb weight and multiply by 100. Many UK towing guides use 85% as a cautious starting point for drivers with less towing experience. It is guidance, not law, and it does not guarantee stability.
- Caravan MTPLM ÷ car kerb weight × 100 = towing ratio
- Use an exact kerb-weight or mass-in-service figure for your vehicle
- Never substitute gross vehicle weight for kerb weight
Complete the remaining checks
- Gross train weight and the car’s actual loaded weight
- Car, towbar and caravan nose-weight limits
- Towbar compatibility and permitted towing capacity
- Your driving-licence categories
- Payload, axle limits, tyre pressures and load distribution
Official sources and further checks
Rules and vehicle limits can change. Before towing, check GOV.UK towing-with-a-car guidance, GOV.UK towing weight and width limits and the documentation supplied by your vehicle, towbar and caravan manufacturers.