This is what Glen Langenegger, general manager of Budget Insurance, warns, noting that many drivers do not really know how they should drive when towing a caravan or trailer.

He says, "It's not only the accident risk that caravan or trailer owners need to be aware of, it's the potential of theft too. As a result, it is essential to insure your caravan or trailer and their contents. Equipping a caravan is a costly exercise, so it is vital for caravanners to insure the loose contents as well as the caravan itself. It's also not just furnishings and appliances that can go missing, but groceries too if a trailer is stolen or broken into."

Driving while towing a caravan introduces a whole new set of criteria for driving and drivers would be well advised to take a few lessons on driving while towing. Budget offers the following tips:

. Drive at a moderate speed - driving too fast can cause the caravan or trailer to sway.

. The extra weight means that it takes longer to slow down, so keep your correct following distance and be prepared to stop long before you may actually need to.

. Avoid sudden steering movements, as this can cause the caravan to sway.

. Do not move off the road to allow other vehicles to pass by, as this can cause a loss of control with the wheels on different surfaces.

. When turning, allow for a wider turning circle.

. When overtaking start indicating well in advance.