If you are planning to take your caravan for the first time on a camping holiday in France there are a number of things you should take into account. You can take your caravan by car or ferry, but there are some regulations concerning your caravan. Euro Tunnel has strict regulations concerning LPG cylinders: these must be disconnected and securely attached to the vehicle.

There are a number of documents that you should take with you. You must have your car registration document, the one called a V5. It must be the original document and not a photocopy. You should also have your MOT and insurance certificates. In some European countries you need an EU insurance certificate that you can obtain from your insurance company. You also need to obtain an EU insurance accident report. You can download these or your insurance company should be able to supply one. You should also inform your insurance company about your planned trip. It is advisable to take out breakdown insurance for both your car and your trailer.

If you have an older style number plate without the EU badge then you should use GB stickers on both your car and caravan. Headlight beam deflectors should also be fitted unless you intend to upset a lot of French drivers. It is a law that you must carry a spare set of lights for your car and your caravan, a fire extinguisher and a red warning triangle. A law recently introduced requires that you also carry a regulation high visibility jacket that must be worn in case of a breakdown. If you do not have one then you are liable to an on the spot fine of €90. A similar fine is also payable if you do not have the warning triangle.

You should ensure that you know the French regulations relating to both driving and towing a caravan, as they differ from those in the UK. The normal speed limit for towing is 50 kph in built up areas unless there are signs to the contrary. On major roads you can tow 110 kph and on Motorways at 130 kph in the dry and 110 kph in the wet. And don’t forget – drive on the right.