There’s an undeniable allure to caravanning across Europe, with its picturesque villages, scenic drives, and the freedom to pull over whenever the open road beckons. But that freedom carries responsibility.
As the summer season approaches, Luxembourg’s national traffic police are once again launching their well-regarded preventive programme. This July, caravan and camper-van owners are invited to take advantage of free safety inspections at the UPR (Traffic Police Unit) headquarters in Bertrange.
Scheduled for Tuesday 1 July and Thursday 10 July, from 9 am to 1 pm, this initiative aims to ensure safer journeys by helping to reduce accidents caused by overloaded or poorly-maintained vehicles.
A quick visit for peace of mind
The risk is real. Overloading or poor maintenance can easily turn a dream road trip into a stressful and potentially dangerous experience. That’s where the UPR’s initiative comes in.
Taking place at 21a, rue du Chemin de Fer, L-8057 Bertrange, just outside Luxembourg City, this one-stop visit offers a free weigh-in to ensure your caravan or camper stays within the legal weight limits.
Officers will check tyre condition, advise on securing heavy or protruding loads and run through your vehicle documents. They will also confirm whether your driving licence covers your towing set-up. For example, Code 96 certification may be required if the combined weight exceeds Category B limits.
This straightforward check can help you avoid breakdowns and fines, giving you peace of mind for a safer, more relaxed holiday.
How British campers can get involved
Although early local coverage showed only Luxembourg-registered vehicles, visitors are just as welcome. UK holidaymakers travelling from France or heading to Belgium or the Netherlands can pull in at Bertrange. Simply turn up during opening hours with your caravan and paperwork such as your driving licence and registration documents. The checks are quick, fuss-free and completely free of charge.
Now a fixture of summer road safety, this annual UPR programme has been running for several years. With those long continental evenings on the horizon, make sure your trip is packed with tales, not tow straps and tyre woes. Swing by Bertrange on 1 or 10 July, take advantage of this cost-free slice of friendly policing and hit the road fully prepared. Safe journey!