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In the UK, there are three types of towing electrical socket to choose from – a single 7-pin, a twin 7-pin, and a single 13-pin.
Single 7-pin electrical sockets
Also known as 12(N), 7-pin towing electrical sockets are usually fitted as standard on any towbar. They provide power to the lights on a trailer or caravan so are perfect when towing a trailer alone. However, a 7-pin socket will NOT power the interior features of a caravan, for example your fridge, or the reversing lights, and your caravan battery will not charge. In these cases, an adaptor is needed.
Twin 7-pin electrical sockets
A twin 7-pin towing electrical socket is required if you are towing, and want to power the internal functions of, any caravan built before 2008. Also known as 12(S), a twin 7-pin socket features a second 7-pin socket which powers the interior electrics of the caravan and charges its battery.
13-pin electrical sockets
All towing caravans manufactured after 2008 require a 13-pin towing electrical socket, which has been standard across European countries for many years. Essentially, a 13-pin socket combines a twin 7-pin into one unit, giving you a single socket for all your electrical needs. For vehicles with detachable towbars, the 13-pin socket is the best option as it can be folded up behind the bumper when the towbar neck is removed, where there isn’t enough room for a twin 7-pin socket.
At BEC Ingoldmells, we stock a wide range of electrical connectors for your touring caravan, including adaptors, 12(N), 12(S) and 13-pin sockets. Our full range of towing electrics can be viewed here.
