Are You Towing This Winter?

November 9, 2015 4:00 pm

Many of us have hobbies that require us to transport large and bulky items from time to time. We may have a passion for caravan holidays, dedicate time to restoring classic cars or enjoy getting a boat out on the open water. We may enjoy the challenge of equestrian competitions, the thrill of paragliding off hillsides or simply love gardening. Any of these interests may mean that we need a strong, large vehicle that is capable of helping us fulfil our desires.

For some of us, having a tow car on our drive at all times provides us with a convenient means of transport. In this case, owning a suitable tow vehicle is the obvious solution. Others will just need a tow car on a couple of occasions per year, such as a boat owner who wants to take their vessel to the water in spring and back onto dry land for over wintering. For such needs, tow car hire can be a more practical and affordable option.

Tow car hire offers the practicality and performance when you need it, without the maintenance and running costs at all other times of the year. You’re hire vehicle will be maintained in top condition and hire charges will include insurance. It also means that you can hire a suitable vehicle for the particular towing requirements of the job.

Practicalities of Towing in Winter

Before towing a trailer, horse box or caravan you need to know the weight that you will be towing. With this knowledge you can ensure that your driving license covers you for this weight and that you select a compatible tow car that has suitable braking systems, stability and strength for that weight.

A vehicle is put under additional stress when towing and this impacts on its ability to respond. This is further exaggerated during the winter months when driving conditions can be far from favourable. To improve your chances of a safe journey it is important to make a few considerations prior to winter towing.

Firstly, planning can make all the difference. Look at the weather conditions and forecast to help pick the best time to travel. If conditions are bad, it is advisable to postpone the journey, even if it’s just for a few hours. Once on the road, keep tuned into a local radio station, so you have regular updates on traffic reports and road conditions, so you can avoid problems on the road.

Secondly, undertake some basic vehicle checks before heading off. You need good tread on your tow car tyres, clear windscreen and mirrors, as well as lights which are both clear and fully operational on both the tow car and trailer or caravan.

Thirdly, allow more time for your journey, reduce your speed and allow more space between you and the vehicle in front. This will give you and your vehicle more time to react to whatever is happening on the road ahead. Make sure your mobile phone is charged and you have the contact details of your breakdown service in case of an incident.

Finally, it takes more energy to keep warm during the winter months, so in addition to keeping your fuel tank filled, you may need to make more stops to keep your own energy levels up. If you are passing through Leeds, you may like to stop at Caravanserai. This restaurant draws on age old traditions from the Middle East, were Caravanserai provided a place for travellers to stop, rest and get refreshments on long journeys. Designed in the style of an ancient caravan, this could be the perfect place for a break.

For tow car hire, Leeds is served by 4×4 vehicle hire and other branches can be found throughout the UK.