What Car - Getting The Right Outfit Match

Understanding the Terms

If new to caravanning, it is easy to get blinded by all the different terms with regards to the weight of the caravan, and your proposed towing vehicle. Below are a number of key terms you will need to know when looking for a new or used caravan.

MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass)

The weight of the caravan when loaded. For caravans produced before 1998, this may also be known as MGW (maximum gross weight).

MIRO (Mass In Running Order)

The weight of the caravan with just the basic equipment such as gas bottles etc.

Kerbweight

The total weight of your car, when unladen (Empty). You should be able to find this in the manufacturers guide for your car.

When looking to purchase a caravan you need to consider the size and weight of the caravan in relation to your towing car. You will need to know the MTPLM weight of your caravan, and as a rule the MTPLM must not weigh any more than 85% of your cars kerbweight. It is legal to tow up to 100%, but generally not recommended unless experienced.

To help you work out what your car can tow, please see the example below, which you can adjust for your own vehicle.

Citroen C5 2.2HDI VTR+ (2008)

Kerbweight = 1729kg

1729kg x 0.85 = 1469kg (85% of the cars kerbweight)

Therefore, the suggested MTPLM weight of the towed caravan is 1469kg.

Noseweight

Your car and your caravan also have a maximum noseweight (vertical load bearing on the tow ball). Generally, the a safe measure for towing is between 5% & 7% of the total weight of the caravan. However, cars, towbars and caravans often have a limit stated, which must always be followed regardless of the weight of the caravan.

For Example

If the MTPLM of your caravan is 1860Kg, the suggested noseweight would be between 93kg & 130kg. If your car has a maximum noseweight of 75kg, then this figure must be used.