The answer is a little more winding than initially expected, because it depends on the country you are driving in, the weight of your combination and sometimes even the technical condition of the trailer tent. In this blog, we explain it clearly for you, so that you are well prepared to hit the road.
In the Netherlands: maximum 90 km/h
In the Netherlands, a speed limit of 90 km/h applies to cars with a folding trailer (or trailer).
So that’s always the limit, even if your trailer is light and your car could effortlessly handle more.
The reason? Safety! A trailer (or folding trailer) affects the handling of your car because of its extra length and weight. The extra weight makes the braking distance longer. Wind sensitivity is also higher.
Also pay attention at route controls! Some section controls also register driving with a trailer. The section control may indicate 100km/h, but for driving with a trailer, 90km/h remains the speed limit.
💡 Tip: Always make sure the drawbar pressure is set properly and your trailer is loaded properly. Improper distribution can cause swaying at higher speeds. The maximum nose weight of our Holtkamper trailer tents is 75kg (except the Offroad models).
Abroad: different rules
Are you crossing the border with your Holtkamper? Then the rules change.
Each country has its own speed limits for combinations with trailers or caravans. Below is a handy list of the most popular camping countries:
| Country | Maximum speed with trailer | Remarks |
| Netherlands | 90 km/h | Always 90 km/h, regardless of weight
Pay attention at speed checks |
| Germany | 80 km/h (standard) / 100 km/h (with TÜV approval) | Only with special 100 km/h approval |
| France | 130 km/h on highways, but 110 km/h with trailer > 750 kg | In rain: max. 100 km/h |
| Belgium | 120 km/h | Only if total weight of car + trailer < 3.5 tons |
| Switzerland | 80 km/h | Strictly controlled, even for light folding trailers |
| Italy | 80 km/h on highways, 70 km/h on secondary roads | High fines if exceeded
The ANWB recommends a 70 and 80 km sticker |
| Spain | 90 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on secondary roads | |
| Denmark | 80 km/h (100 km/h with approved combination) | Sticker required at 100 km/h inspection |
| Sweden | 80 km/h | |
| Norway | 80 km/h |
Germany: the “Tempo 100” scheme
Do you often drive to Germany? Then you can have your trailer tent inspected for 100 km/h.
This inspection must be requested in person and is conducted by organizations such as TÜV NORD or DEKRA in the Netherlands.
For this, you must meet a number of conditions, such as:
- Your trailer tent must have an overrun brake and shock absorbers.
- The tires must be less than 6 years old and suitable for higher speeds (minimum speed index L = 120 km/h).
- Your car must be powerful enough and equipped with ABS.
After approval, you will receive a “Tempo 100” sticker that must be placed clearly visible on the back.For the placement of this sticker, we can mount an aluminum plate on the back of the Holtkamper.
Please note that without this sticker, the 80 km/h limit automatically applies.
Why those limits are important
A folding trailer weighs less than a caravan, but it is still a trailer.
At higher speeds, the risks increase rapidly:
- The braking distance becomes longer.
- The likelihood of swaying due to wind or traffic increases.
- Tires heat up faster and can blow if overloaded or improperly inflated.
In short: it is not just about what is allowed, but also about what is safe.
Practical tips for safe driving with your Holtkamper
✅ Check tire pressure: too low pressure causes instability and wear.
✅ Distribute the weight well: heavy stuff at the bottom, as close to the axle as possible.
✅ Check the clutch and lights before departure.
✅ Schedule extra travel time: quieter driving is more relaxing and safer.
Conclusion: take your time, enjoy the ride
Whether you’re driving to the Veluwe or to the south of France, with a Holtkamper your vacation begins on the road. Drive slowly, observe the speed limits of the country you are in and make sure everything is properly adjusted. This way you will arrive at your destination safe and relaxed.
Want to know more?
At our showroom in Utrecht we will be happy to tell you more about safe driving with your Holtkamper, from the correct tire pressure advice to tips for loading and adjusting the drawbar. Make an appointment online with our online planner, then we can help you further at your leisure.
