Whether you’re cruising down the Pacific Highway or navigating rugged bush tracks, tyre pressure matters more than most realise. It affects handling, braking, fuel efficiency, and — crucially — your safety. For those towing caravans in Heatherbrae, setting the right pressure can make or break a trip.
This blog dives deep into how to get it right and why it’s essential for smooth, stress-free towing.
Why Tyre Pressure Is So Important
Correct tyre pressure ensures:
- Proper load distribution
- Optimal fuel efficiency
- Improved tyre lifespan
- Better control and braking
Overinflated tyres reduce contact with the road, making handling twitchy and less forgiving. Underinflated tyres, on the other hand, overheat quickly and can blow out — especially dangerous when towing a heavy van.
Recommended Tyre Pressures for Caravans and Tow Vehicles
There’s no one-size-fits-all pressure. Your owner’s manual is always the first reference point.
- Tow vehicles: Most 4WDs suggest 32–40 PSI unladen. When towing, bump this by 4–6 PSI depending on weight and load.
- Caravans: Look for the tyre placard — typical pressures range between 45–65 PSI depending on tyre type and weight.
Never guess — always check sidewalls and compliance labels.
How Load Affects Tyre Pressure
The heavier the load, the higher the pressure required. Caravan tyres support thousands of kilos — and not adjusting for this can cause rapid wear or sidewall collapse.
Important factors:
- Water tanks
- Gas bottles
- Luggage and food
- Extra passengers
- Towing gear
You can weigh your van using a public weighbridge to calculate a safe PSI based on actual mass. Use the manufacturer’s load-inflation table if available.
Adjusting Pressure for Road Conditions
Heading off-road? Drop pressures slightly to increase traction. On sandy or rocky trails, a decrease of 5–8 PSI can smooth the ride. But don’t go too low — running flat risks tyre and rim damage.
Coming back to sealed roads? Always re-inflate to highway levels before resuming speed. Keep a portable compressor on hand for this exact reason.
How Temperature Affects Pressure Readings
Tyres expand as they heat up. A 4 PSI increase between cold and hot tyres is completely normal. Always check and adjust pressures when tyres are cold — ideally before hitting the road in the morning.
If you must adjust hot, aim for the higher end of the recommended range. And check again when they’re cold to fine-tune.
How to Check Tyre Pressure Properly
Use a digital gauge or a well-calibrated handheld tool. Petrol station gauges can be inconsistent.
- Check when tyres are cold
- Measure all tyres — including spares
- Don’t forget the tow vehicle
- Recheck after long driving days or terrain changes
If your van has dual axles, measure each tyre — uneven loads can affect balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Trusting guesswork instead of gauges
- Forgetting to check spares
- Ignoring trailer tyres
- Not adjusting after adding gear or water
- Setting hot pressure as cold base
Tyre care is routine — treat it like checking your mirrors or fuel gauge.
Tips for Better Towing Performance
- Use LT (light truck) rated tyres for durability
- Install TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems)
- Balance loads evenly in the van
- Repack wheel bearings annually
- Rotate tyres regularly
Good towing isn’t just about power — it’s about confidence and safety on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What Happens If My Tyres Are Over or Under-Inflated?
Over-inflated and under-inflated tyres each come with their own risks—especially when towing a caravan. If your tyres are over-inflated, they become too rigid, leading to reduced contact with the road. This not only affects grip and braking distance but also causes uneven wear, particularly in the centre tread. The ride becomes harsher, which transfers unnecessary stress to your suspension and chassis. On the other hand, under-inflated tyres are more flexible than they should be. This leads to excessive heat buildup, increased rolling resistance, poor handling, and higher chances of a blowout. Low tyre pressure also accelerates sidewall wear and reduces fuel efficiency. When towing a heavy load, both extremes are dangerous. Always follow your tyre manufacturer’s PSI recommendations and adjust slightly for different loads or road types. Regular pressure checks, especially before long trips, help keep everything safe and efficient.
How Often Should I Check Tyre Pressure When Travelling?
Tyre pressure should be checked far more frequently when towing a caravan than during day-to-day driving. Ideally, you should check tyre pressure every morning before you hit the road—especially if you’re on a multi-day trip or covering significant distances. Always measure tyre pressure when tyres are cold, as heat from driving increases PSI and can skew your readings. Make it part of your travel routine to check pressures after major terrain changes—switching from sealed roads to gravel or sand, for example. Don’t neglect your spare tyres either. Use a reliable digital gauge and keep a portable compressor handy so you can adjust pressure on the go. Also, remember to recheck if you’ve loaded or unloaded heavy gear. Tyre pressure isn’t something you can “set and forget.” Keeping a consistent eye on it is the best way to prevent premature tyre wear, breakdowns, or dangerous handling problems on the road.
2) What PSI Is Too High for Caravan Tyres?
The maximum PSI for caravan tyres depends entirely on the tyres’ rated load index and construction type. Many caravan tyres are rated up to 65 PSI, but this doesn’t mean you should inflate them to the maximum limit. Over-inflating tyres beyond what’s necessary for the weight being carried can cause the centre of the tyre to wear out faster than the shoulders, reduce road grip, and negatively affect ride comfort. On the other end, under-inflation causes sidewall stress and overheating. For most caravans, a PSI between 45–65 is typical depending on weight and load distribution. Always refer to the tyre sidewall and manufacturer’s placard inside the van for guidance. Avoid the “more is better” mentality—it’s often wrong when it comes to PSI. Use an accurate gauge, and make minor adjustments based on conditions. If you’re unsure, a tyre specialist can help determine the safest PSI for your specific setup.
3) Can I Use the Same Tyre Pressure for My Tow Vehicle and Caravan?
Although it might seem convenient, using the same tyre pressure for your tow vehicle and caravan is usually not advisable. Both vehicles have different weight distributions, tyre types, and loading dynamics. Your tow vehicle, whether it’s a 4WD or a ute, might perform best at 32–42 PSI depending on its load and tyre construction. Caravans, especially dual-axle models, generally require a higher PSI—often between 45–65—to handle their weight safely. Mismatching tyre pressures can lead to poor handling, premature wear, and reduced braking efficiency. Instead of guessing or matching values, refer to each vehicle’s manufacturer placards or owner’s manuals. And if you’ve installed aftermarket tyres or made suspension modifications, get new pressure recommendations from a tyre specialist. Accurate PSI readings tailored to each part of your towing rig can drastically improve safety, comfort, and fuel economy. Consistency matters—but only when it’s correctly applied to the right components.
4) Should I Let Air Out of My Tyres When Off-Roading?
Yes — and it’s one of the most effective adjustments you can make when transitioning to off-road terrain. Lowering tyre pressure increases the surface area in contact with the ground, which improves traction, especially in sand, gravel, or muddy conditions. For your caravan, reducing tyre pressure from 65 PSI down to 45–50 PSI can make a noticeable difference. For your tow vehicle, dropping from 38 PSI to 28–32 PSI is common. However, you need to strike a balance. Too much deflation risks the tyre coming off the rim or suffering sidewall damage. Always re-inflate once you’re back on sealed roads, as low pressure on bitumen leads to overheating and wear. A portable compressor and tyre deflator are essential tools if you’re exploring mixed terrain. And always drive at slower speeds when running deflated tyres. Done right, this small step can prevent getting bogged, improve ride comfort, and preserve your gear..
Speak With the Local Experts at 7th Street Caravans
Whether you’re just starting your towing journey or fine-tuning your tyre setup, the team at 7th Street Caravans can help you choose the right caravan setup and keep it running smoothly. Their experienced crew know what works best on Australian roads — and can help with the kind of practical advice that makes all the difference on the road.
Start your journey with confidence — visit 7th Street Caravans or give our team a call on 02 4012 6009 for friendly, local advice.