1. Before departure – Technical inspection
A good trip starts with a thorough check. Always run through these technical points before you leave:
✔️ Tire check
- Tire pressure at the right level? At Holtkamper it is usually 2.4 bar (also at the spare tire).
- Profile still at least 2 mm?
- No drought cracks or damage visible?
✔️ Lighting works properly
Check brake lights, turn signals, city lights and license plate lights.
✔️ Overrun brake and hand brake function properly
Test operation and check for wear.
✔️ Clutch and nose wheel in order
- The correct nose weight is between 50 and 75 kg (depending on the car).
- Nose wheel up and properly secured.
✔️Wielbouten tighten securely (using a torque wrench if necessary).
✔️Vergeet don’t attach the license plate!
2. Documents and papers
Make sure you have all the necessary papers with you; this will prevent hassles along the way.
✔️ Driving License
For driving a Holtkamper, driving license B is sufficient, due to its low weight.
✔️ License plate and NL sticker
- Does your folding trailer have a maximum authorized mass of 750 kg or less? Then it should have a white license plate with the same number as your car.
- For travel outside the Netherlands, it is necessary to use distinguishing mark (NL sticker). A NL sticker may not be stuck on this license plate but must be clearly visible on the back of the trailer tent
✔️ Green Card
Certificate of insurance (including for the trailer).
✔️ Hazard triangle and safety vests
Mandatory in many countries – better with than without!
✔️ Camping card (CCI)
The ANWB Camping Card or Camping Card International is convenient and often offers discounts.
✔️ Travel insurance with roadside assistance
Make sure you also have coverage for the trailer.
✔️ Type approval
The trailer tent must have a type approval. This is always regulated at the European level by the manufacturer. Therefore, check that this is clearly visible on the type plate on the drawbar. This plate must have the following information:
- Manufacturer’s name
- Type approval number with vehicle identification number
- Technically maximum permissible maximum mass and axle loads
3. Cargo and Loading
- Load evenly distributed, heavy stuff above axle and as low as possible, This provides a lower center of gravity and more stability while driving. Proper distribution of the weight affects the nose weight and handling of the trailer tent.
- Do not exceed maximum authorized mass (750kg)
- Nothing loose in the car that can slide while driving. For example, put tea towels on the cutlery drawer in the kitchen so it doesn’t rattle and everything stays neat and tidy while driving.
4. Attach
✔️ Plug connected
13- or 7-pin plug properly plugged in, cable not hanging over ground.
✔️ Clutch locked
Safety cable properly attached and manually check that the clutch is secure.
✔️ Handbrake released and support legs raised
Also fully screw in and secure the herring legs.
✔️ Mirrors adjusted
Ensure good visibility of the trailer on both sides.
5. Driving a folding trailer
✔️ Adjust driving behavior
- Adhere to the speed limits for trailers (often max 90 km/h, sometimes higher on highways).
- Keep more distance from predecessors.
- Be alert in high winds and overtaking trucks.
- Brake gradually – driving slowly is safer as well as more comfortable.
- Take frequent breaks to check tires, clutch and load.
In conclusion: with this checklist you will be all set for a carefree drive to your vacation destination. Take the time for proper preparation and then enjoy the adventure all the more – with the freedom and comfort of your Holtkamper.
Safe journey! 🌍⛺
