Thank you for the shout-out! Great video. Many people think cancelling a caravan trip due to the weather is a sign of failure or incompetence. It's actually the opposite. Dan, you've shared your sensible reasoning for cancelling. You're right; it's not worth the stress. I hope you get to reschedule soon
Best decision Dan we had seriously bad winds last April when went up to Stonehaven CAMC site. We stayed 1 extra night at Strathclyde Country Park to avoid towing in those bad winds. So not worth towing this weekend. ❤
Thanks for another thought provoking video Dan. My main consideration when deciding whether to tow in wind or not is the wind direction. I’ve experienced some uncomfortable drives in 30-40mph gusts when I was side on to the prevailing wind, but had a very pleasant tow in 50mpg gusts when the wind was behind the unit. Being alert is the key and allowing lots of extra time for a slower journey including extra breaks to calm down.
Good decision Dan, it’s not worth taking the risk. Two years ago we were returning from North Devon and the weather was atrocious, loads of rain and very strong winds. The journey back to Surrey took much longer because I was very cautious but it was stressful. Not worth it. I always check the weather forecast before I travel with the van.
Good call! Worst i had was towing a 2 tonne caravan back from Edinburgh down the coastal A1 last year with numerous gusts...crossed the Tyne and just before the Gateshead Metrocentre there's a (gradual 90") bend and a gust caught us in the blink of an eye which caused total loss of any steering and we headed towards the central barrier at about 40mph in the outside lane (queuing traffic in the inside lane)..just before disaster at the last fraction of a second regained steering and averted what I dred to think could've happened. You're totally right in not towing in the weather that is forecasted. 👍
We went to Chatsworth Park for the New year. We left a day early as snow and freezing rain was on its way. Don't blame you canceling. Best to stay safe ❤
Spot on Dan, check the forecast and make the decision, don’t go, stay another night until it blows through, go home a day early….the questions we ask ourselves. It’s the gusty wind I don’t like towing in, but it’s the forecast I stick with and make the decision. Hold the line with the unit with the throttle is what I always do, lorry or bus over takes wait for the point of the overtake and hold the throttle or give a slight bit of throttle….I always tow with an allowance to speed up to the limit if needs be….my IAM advanced driving instructor training I did. 100% with you no way would I have gone to Cirencester Park this weekend, it’s only an hour from us in Ross, but safer and nicer at home in the forecasted weather, plenty of drier nicer breaks to come. All the best Tris and Nikki 😀😀
It depends, with a sensible portion of caution - my preferred approach to most risky situations. As soon as you asked what wind speed I would consider to be OK, my first thought was “gust”. I’m a recreational pilot, and crosswinds are an issue in a light aircraft, but gusts far more so! To “borrow” an aviation saying: it’s better to be [somewhere safe] wishing you were [away], rather than being away and wishing you were somewhere safe!
Great Video! In answer to your question: No i definitely wouldn't be looking to tow a caravan in this weather! As an HGV driver (44 tonnes +) I've witnessed all too many folk who think 'it won't happen to me' end upside down on the motorway/dual carriageway. 'Self preservation' folks !!
Totally agree with your decision Dan. I was on a site in Belford, Northumberland in September 2018 when Storm Ali struck. I should have been travelling back to the Midlands but, decided to stay on because I didn't want to take any chances. My decision was justified further when the guy in the caravan opposite who was a long distance lorry driver, said he didn't want to risk it either and was staying on too despite only having a relatively short journey home.
I don’t blame you I would cancel as well. I won’t tow it it gets to windy. I would rather stay another night if I was on site. 40 mph wind and gusts is enough for me.
Hi Dan. I have towed around 20 to 30 mph wind. That was very scary. I survived by keeping my speed down to around 45 mph. With forward planning and knowing the wind was going to be high, l would do what you have done and stay home. Sensible choice. Great advice. Take care. Richard
Very wise! This activity we do is meant to be for enjoyment! And travelling to another place just to get rained on their isn't fantastic fun! Especially if there is a danger in getting there! Better on another day when there's a better chance of getting there in one piece! All the best David
My absolute max is 40MPH wind for towing and then only if I have little choice. I’ve cancelled a few trips over the years due to predicted wind speeds, it’s just not worth the risk. We tow our 1500KG caravan with a 2500KG tow vehicle and personally I think that helps too with stability in high winds.
Last year we left a day early from Cirencester due to the anticipated wind speed, so pleased we did Driven in driving rain , not as scary as gusts of winds,living in Weston the M5 can be a nightmare Best to stay safe
Hi Dan.i remember when I was young and with my mum and dad our caravan being upturned by wind.dad was an experienced driver but couldn't stop it happening.i vividly remember him saying she's going then the rear end of the range rover lifting and we were suspended for a few minutes.i also remember the screams of my mum and sisters then ys all standing by the roadside in the storm just watching all our stuff blowing across the roadway.in fact the police said we were fortunate because had it been a lighter car the van would have turned the car aswell.so as you will tell my response to your question.if you don't think it's going to be safe then don't risk it.tbh I think I'd have been about 10 years old,I'm now 56 and that is a very clear memory.stay safe
Our first trip in our last caravan with the grandchildren was horrendous, we weren’t expecting it to be that bad. We were under a big tree, by a river that was rising rapidly and the caravan was rocking like nobody’s business. Really scary, fortunately the wind died down before we came home. We had actually delayed collecting it when we purchased it because of the wind. Never advisable if you don’t absolutely have to. Great decision.
Hi Dan. Great instructive video as always. I'm in North Yorkshire and Caravaning in this weather would certainly be a no-no. I've even cancelled my morning golf due to the 50mph gusts (or is it the lack of talent?)
The last big storm we camped at Wells Touring Park set up up in lovely weather , then spent next three days praying the caravan didn't blow over with gust reaching 85mph a very scarry experience. Camping should be fun not dangerous.
It's better to be safe than sorry, good choice in cancelling/ postponing this weekends trip. I've seen a few caravans scattered in bits across the motorway network(PS. not any of mine), many of these are the pride and joy of their owners all smashed up. There has been enough advanced warnings about a high winds this weekend, and for high sided vehicles not to use various roads. The only thing I am going to do with my caravan this weekend, is go down to the storage yard and make sure all is well.
Good advice Dan, been towing for many years Dan, no way would I be out on the road in what's supposed to be coming tomorrow, it's a red alert with us up in East Lothian Scotland. (Scotland)
I'm actually still away this week. I planned it ages ago before the weather reports happened and I'm due back tomorrow, and I came out on Wednesday. I'll be back at work in Saturday when the weather hits :o
Worst tow i ever had was going over the severn bridge north bound. Wind was quiet strong. Unfortunately it was a journey i needed to make for an emergency at home
We did this just before Christmas in the storm we had that (can’t remember the name). I’m confident enough towing but it’s not just me, I have my wife and 2 boys 1 of which is a toddler so would rather head the warning contact the site we are visiting and postpone it and stay home safe and sound. Better to be safe than sorry is my opinion
I don't blame you Dan. We took a break away in Somerset in Dec , 5 days before Storm Darragh hit. Winds were around 40 gusting while towing which wasn't too bad. But as Darragh hit 5 days later we had to be evacuated from our site as the site owner said he had a duty of care and we could leave our van in his barn. With a red warning our trip home without the van was horrendous. Now we are back at this site and Storm Eouyn is hitting with forecast winds gusting at 50. luckily we are not going home until next weds. Always best to stay safe.
Last year we towed back from Longleat to south wales and from the moment we got onto the M4 westbound the wind was insane. No warning, no storm so prob actually not that bad but crazy. I’m sure I felt the front wheels of the car lift at times too! And I wasn’t overloaded. But I’ve noticed… mainly with the m4… In wales the majority of the motorway has banking or trees at the sides or is in a cutting. The English side is Very open. Every time I head over the border the wind is worse once I cross the bridge. Maybe I’m imagining it but there is a massive difference in topography.
I remember a few years ago where the wind was really bad. I didn't travel till it calmed slightly. I travelled, arrived and the wind all weekend was appalling. Branches fell on the caravan. And a massive one missed the car by inches. I have a photo somewhere. The club site kept ringing up constantly asking if I was coming or not. I wish I just cancelled it. They were more concerned about me coming rather than the safety of us travelling.
No I definitely wouldn't want to be out towing in any type of bad weather, what would be the ppint, personally I can't see much fun sitting in a caravan in the pouring rain, wondering if we might end up in oz lol. For me we prefer the nicer weather xxx
I have teach advanced driving for more years than I care to remember. I always tell people one use your motor mover, but learn how to reverse your caravan and then always use your multi mover. The reason is the number one insurance claim is people reversing the caravan so take it out of the equation and number two if the weather is really bad be snow and ice or wind think what you would say to someone who was towing and has just had an accident then leave the Caravan at home and stay warm with your family go and get daylight is not an issue setting off a day early if possible is not an issue. When we were away this Christmas 2024. we left the site a day early because of the forecast for the colossal rainfall and the site is a little bit known for flooding. Why take the risk it’s just not worth it if you get caught out in heavy winds drive very slowly 30 miles an hour or even less if it’s bad because if you’re doing 60 and your van start swaying, you’ve got problems and everything you love in life is in that car with you. James
I wouldn’t tow in any bad weather if I had the choice I work in the logistics industry and I see what happens to 44 ton artic’s pulling trailers tomorrow we have cancelled all our deliveries to Scotland and Ireland it’s simply not worth the risk
Ive towed home in 50-60mph winds yes clean trousers time but slow and steady all the way. The caravan did step out sideways coming round past the iron lady at Newcastle i booted it pulled the caravan straight and plodded on. Oue lass was a bit nervous to say the least. But i would say to anyone make sure you as the driver are happy to drive if not stop another night 😊
As a fully paid up member of the Self-preservation Society, there is no way on God's Earth that I would knowingly set off in, or towards, storm conditions. I saw a 32 tonne artic blow over on the M25 during the famous 1987 Michael Fish storm. A wise decision Dan. Live to DIY another day!
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you for the shout-out! Great video. Many people think cancelling a caravan trip due to the weather is a sign of failure or incompetence. It's actually the opposite. Dan, you've shared your sensible reasoning for cancelling. You're right; it's not worth the stress. I hope you get to reschedule soon
My gazebo is currently in my next door neighbours garden, you made the right decision!
Right decision there's always another time I've come home early before because wind was forecast for 60mph
Best decision Dan we had seriously bad winds last April when went up to Stonehaven CAMC site. We stayed 1 extra night at Strathclyde Country Park to avoid towing in those bad winds. So not worth towing this weekend. ❤
Totally agree with you, better safe then sorry!! 😊
Good advice Dan. Stay safe at home.
Thanks for another thought provoking video Dan. My main consideration when deciding whether to tow in wind or not is the wind direction. I’ve experienced some uncomfortable drives in 30-40mph gusts when I was side on to the prevailing wind, but had a very pleasant tow in 50mpg gusts when the wind was behind the unit. Being alert is the key and allowing lots of extra time for a slower journey including extra breaks to calm down.
Very sensible decision
Good decision Dan, it’s not worth taking the risk. Two years ago we were returning from North Devon and the weather was atrocious, loads of rain and very strong winds. The journey back to Surrey took much longer because I was very cautious but it was stressful. Not worth it. I always check the weather forecast before I travel with the van.
Good call!
Worst i had was towing a 2 tonne caravan back from Edinburgh down the coastal A1 last year with numerous gusts...crossed the Tyne and just before the Gateshead Metrocentre there's a (gradual 90") bend and a gust caught us in the blink of an eye which caused total loss of any steering and we headed towards the central barrier at about 40mph in the outside lane (queuing traffic in the inside lane)..just before disaster at the last fraction of a second regained steering and averted what I dred to think could've happened.
You're totally right in not towing in the weather that is forecasted. 👍
We went to Chatsworth Park for the New year. We left a day early as snow and freezing rain was on its way. Don't blame you canceling. Best to stay safe ❤
Spot on Dan, check the forecast and make the decision, don’t go, stay another night until it blows through, go home a day early….the questions we ask ourselves. It’s the gusty wind I don’t like towing in, but it’s the forecast I stick with and make the decision. Hold the line with the unit with the throttle is what I always do, lorry or bus over takes wait for the point of the overtake and hold the throttle or give a slight bit of throttle….I always tow with an allowance to speed up to the limit if needs be….my IAM advanced driving instructor training I did. 100% with you no way would I have gone to Cirencester Park this weekend, it’s only an hour from us in Ross, but safer and nicer at home in the forecasted weather, plenty of drier nicer breaks to come. All the best Tris and Nikki 😀😀
I think you made the right decision well done.
It depends, with a sensible portion of caution - my preferred approach to most risky situations.
As soon as you asked what wind speed I would consider to be OK, my first thought was “gust”. I’m a recreational pilot, and crosswinds are an issue in a light aircraft, but gusts far more so!
To “borrow” an aviation saying: it’s better to be [somewhere safe] wishing you were [away], rather than being away and wishing you were somewhere safe!
Great Video!
In answer to your question: No i definitely wouldn't be looking to tow a caravan in this weather! As an HGV driver (44 tonnes +) I've witnessed all too many folk who think 'it won't happen to me' end upside down on the motorway/dual carriageway. 'Self preservation' folks !!
Totally agree with your decision Dan. I was on a site in Belford, Northumberland in September 2018 when Storm Ali struck. I should have been travelling back to the Midlands but, decided to stay on because I didn't want to take any chances. My decision was justified further when the guy in the caravan opposite who was a long distance lorry driver, said he didn't want to risk it either and was staying on too despite only having a relatively short journey home.
I don’t blame you I would cancel as well. I won’t tow it it gets to windy. I would rather stay another night if I was on site. 40 mph wind and gusts is enough for me.
Hi Dan. I have towed around 20 to 30 mph wind. That was very scary. I survived by keeping my speed down to around 45 mph.
With forward planning and knowing the wind was going to be high, l would do what you have done and stay home. Sensible choice.
Great advice. Take care.
Richard
Very wise! This activity we do is meant to be for enjoyment! And travelling to another place just to get rained on their isn't fantastic fun! Especially if there is a danger in getting there! Better on another day when there's a better chance of getting there in one piece! All the best David
My absolute max is 40MPH wind for towing and then only if I have little choice. I’ve cancelled a few trips over the years due to predicted wind speeds, it’s just not worth the risk. We tow our 1500KG caravan with a 2500KG tow vehicle and personally I think that helps too with stability in high winds.
Right call Dan, we cancelled too mate, no good when the winds blowin a gale.
You have definitely taken the right decision, it would be foolish to tow this weekend. Better safe than sorry !
Thanks for the video.
Last year we left a day early from Cirencester due to the anticipated wind speed, so pleased we did
Driven in driving rain , not as scary as gusts of winds,living in Weston the M5 can be a nightmare
Best to stay safe
Hi Dan.i remember when I was young and with my mum and dad our caravan being upturned by wind.dad was an experienced driver but couldn't stop it happening.i vividly remember him saying she's going then the rear end of the range rover lifting and we were suspended for a few minutes.i also remember the screams of my mum and sisters then ys all standing by the roadside in the storm just watching all our stuff blowing across the roadway.in fact the police said we were fortunate because had it been a lighter car the van would have turned the car aswell.so as you will tell my response to your question.if you don't think it's going to be safe then don't risk it.tbh I think I'd have been about 10 years old,I'm now 56 and that is a very clear memory.stay safe
Good topic and nice one turning a storm into relevant and decent content.
Our first trip in our last caravan with the grandchildren was horrendous, we weren’t expecting it to be that bad. We were under a big tree, by a river that was rising rapidly and the caravan was rocking like nobody’s business. Really scary, fortunately the wind died down before we came home. We had actually delayed collecting it when we purchased it because of the wind. Never advisable if you don’t absolutely have to. Great decision.
Hi Dan. Great instructive video as always. I'm in North Yorkshire and Caravaning in this weather would certainly be a no-no. I've even cancelled my morning golf due to the 50mph gusts (or is it the lack of talent?)
I certainly wouldn't be towing this weekend great advice Mr T
Good advice...
Just had a look at the earth nullschool wind map - yep its going to be a good one. Good call.
The last big storm we camped at Wells Touring Park set up up in lovely weather , then spent next three days praying the caravan didn't blow over with gust reaching 85mph a very scarry experience. Camping should be fun not dangerous.
It's better to be safe than sorry, good choice in cancelling/ postponing this weekends trip. I've seen a few caravans scattered in bits across the motorway network(PS. not any of mine), many of these are the pride and joy of their owners all smashed up. There has been enough advanced warnings about a high winds this weekend, and for high sided vehicles not to use various roads.
The only thing I am going to do with my caravan this weekend, is go down to the storage yard and make sure all is well.
Great decision Dan. We cancelled a of trips away, because of horrendous weather. Best to be safe than sorry.
Good advice Dan, been towing for many years Dan, no way would I be out on the road in what's supposed to be coming tomorrow, it's a red alert with us up in East Lothian Scotland. (Scotland)
I'm actually still away this week. I planned it ages ago before the weather reports happened and I'm due back tomorrow, and I came out on Wednesday.
I'll be back at work in Saturday when the weather hits :o
Worst tow i ever had was going over the severn bridge north bound. Wind was quiet strong. Unfortunately it was a journey i needed to make for an emergency at home
We did this just before Christmas in the storm we had that (can’t remember the name). I’m confident enough towing but it’s not just me, I have my wife and 2 boys 1 of which is a toddler so would rather head the warning contact the site we are visiting and postpone it and stay home safe and sound. Better to be safe than sorry is my opinion
Were going asay tomorrow, keeping a very close eye on the weather but going south east. So far weather reports looks ok.
Still looks pretty gusty country wide.
I don't blame you Dan. We took a break away in Somerset in Dec , 5 days before Storm Darragh hit. Winds were around 40 gusting while towing which wasn't too bad. But as Darragh hit 5 days later we had to be evacuated from our site as the site owner said he had a duty of care and we could leave our van in his barn. With a red warning our trip home without the van was horrendous. Now we are back at this site and Storm Eouyn is hitting with forecast winds gusting at 50. luckily we are not going home until next weds. Always best to stay safe.
Last year we towed back from Longleat to south wales and from the moment we got onto the M4 westbound the wind was insane. No warning, no storm so prob actually not that bad but crazy. I’m sure I felt the front wheels of the car lift at times too! And I wasn’t overloaded. But I’ve noticed… mainly with the m4… In wales the majority of the motorway has banking or trees at the sides or is in a cutting. The English side is Very open. Every time I head over the border the wind is worse once I cross the bridge. Maybe I’m imagining it but there is a massive difference in topography.
Based In Belfast and predicted 90-100MPH winds. Would certainly put the ATC to be in good condition 😂
I remember a few years ago where the wind was really bad. I didn't travel till it calmed slightly. I travelled, arrived and the wind all weekend was appalling. Branches fell on the caravan. And a massive one missed the car by inches. I have a photo somewhere.
The club site kept ringing up constantly asking if I was coming or not. I wish I just cancelled it. They were more concerned about me coming rather than the safety of us travelling.
No , No, No …… because it may get windy in the car too. 🤪🥴
No I definitely wouldn't want to be out towing in any type of bad weather, what would be the ppint, personally I can't see much fun sitting in a caravan in the pouring rain, wondering if we might end up in oz lol. For me we prefer the nicer weather xxx
🙏
Exactly what I would do Dan,not worth it,
Common Sense is another word for Safety.
Towed in 50mph winds ,that was more than windy enough. So that's my Max
You’ve made the right decision. Not worth the risk .
I have teach advanced driving for more years than I care to remember. I always tell people one use your motor mover, but learn how to reverse your caravan and then always use your multi mover. The reason is the number one insurance claim is people reversing the caravan so take it out of the equation and number two if the weather is really bad be snow and ice or wind think what you would say to someone who was towing and has just had an accident then leave the Caravan at home and stay warm with your family go and get daylight is not an issue setting off a day early if possible is not an issue. When we were away this Christmas 2024. we left the site a day early because of the forecast for the colossal rainfall and the site is a little bit known for flooding. Why take the risk it’s just not worth it if you get caught out in heavy winds drive very slowly 30 miles an hour or even less if it’s bad because if you’re doing 60 and your van start swaying, you’ve got problems and everything you love in life is in that car with you.
James
I wouldn’t tow in any bad weather if I had the choice
I work in the logistics industry and I see what happens to 44 ton artic’s pulling trailers tomorrow we have cancelled all our deliveries to Scotland and Ireland it’s simply not worth the risk
Ive towed home in 50-60mph winds yes clean trousers time but slow and steady all the way. The caravan did step out sideways coming round past the iron lady at Newcastle i booted it pulled the caravan straight and plodded on. Oue lass was a bit nervous to say the least. But i would say to anyone make sure you as the driver are happy to drive if not stop another night 😊
As a fully paid up member of the Self-preservation Society, there is no way on God's Earth that I would knowingly set off in, or towards, storm conditions. I saw a 32 tonne artic blow over on the M25 during the famous 1987 Michael Fish storm.
A wise decision Dan. Live to DIY another day!
I wouldn't tow if there was a storm your caravan cost to much to risk it
Cancel it is not worth the risk also if you can change the date is a good thing better safe then sorry