Hobby - maximum legal towing size

[Claire_5039866]

Hi All
After a couple of years away from touring we have decided to buy another van. As the kids are older now we're looking for a fixed bed and the Hobbys seem to offer great value for money. I want a good sized van - the bigger the better really - and will be towing with a Ford Galaxy. I know the max legal width was 7'6 but I've heard this has now changed and there is no problem with an 8ft van, is this true? Also what is the max length the van can be? Finally any recommendations for a Hobby that would suit 2 adults, 2 teenage boys (although sometimes they bring a friend) and 2 labradors. All suggestions gratefully received.
Claire

 

[SteveW77]

Before I purchased an 8ft van, I would check with the insurance companies to see if they will cover them on British roads.
If it is still illegal, they will not cover them, as you cannot be insured whilst commiting an illegal act.

Steve W

 

[Lutz]

2.50m wide caravans have been legal in the UK since April. However, the length restriction (7m body length, i.e. overall length minus A-frame) still stands. Of course, as Steve has pointed out, your insurance company needs to be willing to cover such a large caravan. Apparently, not all are.
I would, however, advise you to think very carefully before buying a 2.5 wide caravan. They are really not much fun to tow unless you stick predominantly to motorways with lanes that are wide enough to cope with heavy commercial vehicle traffic which is just as wide. Going down country lanes with a wide caravan can be very tiring as you have to take so much more care with oncoming traffic.

 

[forestgump]

you may find that there may be some stigma with these type of larger vans on some sites it should not realy affect you but it might