What is the 85% rule for caravans?
For safe towing it is recommended by many towing experts that a novice should keep the fully laden weight of the caravan no heavier than 85% of the kerbweight of the tow car. This is known as the 85% rule. Many RVers are strict followers of the 80% or 80/20 rule of towing, and it’s a great rule to live by if you want to ensure you don’t overload your tow vehicle. The 80% towing rule is less of a “rule” and more of an idea: don’t pull a trailer with a GVWR that is more than 80% of your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.For safe towing it is recommended by many towing experts that a novice should keep the fully laden weight of the caravan no heavier than 85% of the kerbweight of the tow car. This is known as the 85% rule.
Do caravans devalue quickly?
Caravans, like most vehicles, lose value over time. According to Big Outdoor Adventure, touring caravans typically depreciate by around 20% in the first year after purchase. After this initial year, the depreciation rate slows to approximately 15% annually until the caravan reaches ten years of age. Understanding Durability and Longevity Factors On average, touring caravans have a lifespan of around 14 to 15 years, while static caravans generally last closer to 30 years.In such cases, councils may allow occupancy under a specified timeframe, especially if you have approved plans for a home build. However, in many suburban or urban zones, councils require that an approved permanent residence exists on the land before any long-term caravan occupancy is considered.Legally speaking you are not allowed to use a caravan as a permanent dwelling on your property (without planning permission, that is). So, for example, you would not be able to allow a friend or family member to permanently reside in a caravan on your drive.Some councils — especially in rural or low-density zones — may allow people to live in a caravan on their land with minimal red tape. Others may impose strict limits or require development applications for stays longer than 60 days per year. In most cases, the caravan must: Be positioned safely.