Come on guys, sometimes some of you (no criticism) are a little over cautious towards many things that most people just get on with. If they are happy to try, then let them. Rizzo, I'm sure your friend will be just fine.
It really is no criticism of those of a slightly more wary disposition, other people will reach out and strive towards their potential. At the same time if you are not confident then no point over-doing it.
Mike
Go carefully and do what you know is right for you! Our first trip was to France. My oh had no problems, though I was nervous as he drove onto the ferry.
We had our 'first tow' last weekend with the new van,I'd forgotten how big it was since ordering it in September,just under 24' in all,setoff nervously, about an hour to the caravan site but once we got going all seemed ok.Had double checked everything,lights,connections,interior doors/cupboards,etc. I found that it made me concentrate more and appreciate braking distance,other road users and weather conditions instead of just 'driving' I even stopped twice within 10miles to check again!,on nearing our site i wanted to carry on further so i'm sure if your friend takes his time he'll be ok. When we picked up our van the sales girl said just enjoy it and let everyone else rush along after all its part of the holiday.
We bought our van last year and the first time lee towed was a week later from south wales to deer park in dartmouth, got lost at briham , and had to turn around with the van on the back ina very tight country lane.
------------- Shels
Easy Camp Tornado 3, Vango Banshee 300 Pro, Airgo Air Genus 400
The first time I ever towed was when I picked up my brand new van from Selston, Nottingham. Towed it totally empty all the way back to Worcestershire no probs, although my mate sat beside me was an experienced tower. My CC towing course wasn't until a week later. Now I tow without having to think about what to do etc..
Not concerned with the distance but would start with a secondhand one to get the idea... Dent in brand new toy might upset.... personal opinion.
It is the manovring that is the problem, hooking up and positioning this is at the beginning and end.. and presumably at the motorway services with parking.... So distance is probably not the biggest obstacle.
Does concern me personally when people are over confident..... some are just naturals...some are just deluded.
Well, I was also mad. Never towed before, bought caravan, hooked upto my Pajero, towed it for 15 miles home
Got home, fitted a winterhoff stabiliser and following weekend drove from Surrey to Croyde Bay - about 5 hrs in total, now dont have any issues with towing. Reversing with it - thats different question
I learned how to tow when I took our van from the east coast, through to the midlands and then on to Scotland. If you can drive a car it should be no problem as long as you remember you have the van on the back. I also got the reversing bit right 1st time I tried. 5 mins with anybody reversing and they can do it. Wife went on a manouvering course though. She enjoyed the day and can now reverse spot on. Was better than me showing her.
------------- Reality is an illusion created by lack of alcohol!!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Is he Mad?
