Best Caravan Towing Mirrors
Guide to the best towing mirrors. How to pick and install the best caravan towing mirrors..
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Best Caravan Towing Mirrors
Updated: 28 October 2026
Quick Answer: The Best Towing Mirrors in Australia
For most Australian caravanners, the best towing mirrors are vehicle-specific replacement mirrors such as Clearview Towing Mirrors. They replace your factory mirrors, stay fitted permanently and slide out when you hitch up. If you only tow a few times a year, a quality clamp-on mirror gives you the legal view you need for a fraction of the price.
- Best overall: Clearview Towing Mirrors, from $745 a pair
- Best all-round replacement: MSA 4X4 Towing Mirrors, from $782 a pair
- Most popular clamp-on: Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet, $84.95 each
- Best clip-on for tapered mirrors: Milenco Platinum Grand Aero, $199.95 a pair
- Best on a tight budget: Multi Fit Strap On Towing Mirror, $18.95 each
Whichever you choose, the mirrors must let you see clearly behind and down both sides of the caravan. A reversing camera alone does not meet that requirement.
When it comes to towing a caravan, safety is key and having the right equipment makes all the difference. A good set of caravan towing mirrors extends your field of vision past the sides of the van, so you can see overtaking traffic, cyclists and the lane beside you.
This guide compares two vehicle-specific replacement mirrors and the six clip-on, strap-on and door-mount mirrors our customers buy most. It then covers the replacement parts that keep them going, which type suits your setup, the Australian rules and how to fit, adjust and look after your mirrors.
>> Shop all towing mirrors online at CARAC <<
Top 8 Towing Mirrors in Australia for 2026
Our list covers complete towing mirrors from our towing mirror range: two vehicle-specific replacement mirrors and six clip-on, strap-on and door-mount mirrors.
How we chose these mirrors: Clearview and MSA lead as the two replacement options. The remaining six are ordered by how many our customers bought over the past two years. Specifications come from the manufacturers where they publish them and from the product listing where they do not. Prices are CARAC prices on 28 October 2026 and may change.
About the reviews: Reviews marked "CARAC" are verified reviews of that product on carac.com.au. Where a mirror has few or no CARAC reviews, we have shown owner reviews from ProductReview.com.au and caravan and 4WD forums. Where no review of the exact product exists, we say so and show owner views on that style of mirror, clearly labelled. Quotes are verbatim and trimmed for length with spelling included. We include critical reviews where they exist.
1. Clearview Towing Mirrors (Best Overall)
Best overall
View Clearview Towing Mirrors at CARAC, from $745
Clearview Towing Mirrors replace your vehicle's factory side mirrors, using the same mounting holes, fittings and wiring. Final assembly happens at Clearview's Melbourne factory. Next Gen and Compact sets carry a 3-year warranty, and the Classic 12 months. You leave them on the car all the time, so there is nothing to fit, strap or store before each trip.
The current range has three models. The Next Gen and Compact slide out a full 180 mm for towing, through a two-stage telescopic arm with three positions (standard driving plus two towing positions), then retract to close to the factory profile. The Classic, which replaced the retired Original, extends 103 mm. Extension is manual on every model.
Key specs and features:
- Full replacement for factory mirrors on popular utes and 4WDs including LandCruiser, Prado, HiLux, Ranger, Everest, Navara, Patrol, D-Max, MU-X, Triton and BT-50
- Next Gen: large flat upper glass above a smaller convex mirror; Compact: one large convex glass
- Power fold and heated glass can be carried over where your factory mirrors have them, depending on the vehicle
- Category 5 LED indicators where your factory mirrors have them
- Folds inwards or outwards if struck
- Clearview states the mirrors meet applicable Australian Design Rules and should only be extended when towing
- Can be fitted at the CARAC workshop in Dandenong South, from $150 depending on the vehicle
Why choose it: the most stable and convenient option for anyone who tows often or travels full time. Clearview mirrors are ordered in for your exact vehicle, so call us on (03) 9794 7977 to confirm the right model and price.
What owners say: ProductReview.com.au and ExplorOz
they are a top quality product that withstood the GRR & many more corrugated roads in our 18 months of travelling.Jane · Next Gen owner · ProductReview.com.au, 2025
Excellent product twice now, for a 105 series and a 300 series Landcruiser.300apl · 5 stars · ProductReview.com.au, 2024
Installed them myself and the instructions were perfectly detailed and thorough with clear pictures of each and every step.Mick · 300 Series Sahara owner · ProductReview.com.au, 2024
Solid as a rock at speed do not get blowen about when a semi passes, great vision.... very happyTony H · 200 Series owner · ExplorOz forum, 2012
Not every owner is a fan. The larger head creates a blind spot that some owners say you must allow for, and the extra width is noticeable in tight car parks. One owner felt the passenger-side flat glass did not show the next lane when retracted, and another reported paint flaking on a mount. The ProductReview.com.au listing averages 2.9 out of 5 from 105 reviews (October 2026), with many low scores citing corrosion, peeling finishes or stiff arms, along with how warranty claims were handled.
Key details: Pair | Full replacement | Next Gen and Compact extend 180 mm, Classic 103 mm | CAT5 LED indicators and power fold and heating where fitted from factory | 3-year warranty (Next Gen and Compact), 12 months (Classic) | Ordered in for your vehicle
2. MSA 4X4 Towing Mirrors (Best All-Round Replacement)
Best all-round replacement
View MSA Towing Mirrors at CARAC, from $782
MSA 4X4 Towing Mirrors take a different approach. Instead of the split upper and lower glass on Clearview's Next Gen and Classic, MSA's patented design uses one large mirror that pivots on a heavy-duty extension slide. MSA designs them as all-round driving mirrors, with a compact non-towing position for car parks and garages.
Key specs and features:
- Full replacement for factory mirrors, using the factory mounting points
- Four mirror positions, from non-towing to fully extended
- One large mirror with vertical and horizontal adjustment, keeping your factory electric adjustment
- Heating, indicators, power fold and blind-spot monitoring offered per vehicle
- Folds inwards or outwards if struck
- MSA states the mirrors are ADR compliant and backs them with a 5-year warranty
- Fits LandCruiser, Prado, HiLux, Ranger, D-Max, BT-50, Patrol and more
Why choose it: a more factory-looking replacement with one large mirror and the longest stated warranty in our list. Like Clearview, MSA mirrors are ordered in for your vehicle, with a $40 freight charge and fitting from $150.
What owners say: limited independent feedback
the MSA mirrors are just one big piece of glass rather the the 2 piece mirrors the Clearviews arerumpig · forum member comparing models · ExplorOz forum, 2020
The MSA mirrors also seem to slide in and out easier IMOrumpig · forum member comparing models · ExplorOz forum, 2020
We could not find genuine owner reviews of MSA mirrors on CARAC, ProductReview.com.au or owner forums, so the comments above come from a forum member who has seen them fitted rather than an owner. The main trade-off is price: MSA starts at $782 a pair plus $40 freight, against $745 for Clearview.
Key details: Pair | Full replacement | One large mirror | Four positions | Heating, indicators and power fold per vehicle | 5-year warranty | Ordered in for your vehicle
3. Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet (Most Popular Clamp-On)
Most popular clamp-on
View the Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet at CARAC, $84.95
The Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet is the complete towing mirror our customers buy most. It clamps directly to your existing mirror assembly, then two ratchet straps pull it tight. The ratchets let you get far more tension than a plain buckle, which reduces vibration and keeps the head steady.
Key specs and features:
- Clamps to the mirror assembly, secured by a twin ratchet strap system
- Fits factory and aftermarket mirrors on both the driver and passenger side
- Does not block your existing side mirror
- No tools needed, with full fitting instructions
- Sold as one mirror; buy two for both sides ($169.90)
Why choose it: a sturdy, affordable choice for regular weekend and holiday towing, and the clamp-on our customers rate most highly.
What customers say: ★★★★★ 5 out of 5 from 5 CARAC reviews
Fit to my car perfectlyRicky H. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, June 2025
Great product exactly as describedNaomi · Verified Buyer · CARAC, October 2025
These are excellentGreg · Verified Buyer · CARAC, January 2026
Our reviews are short but unanimous. On strap-secured mirrors generally, forum owners recommend re-checking tension after rain, as wet straps can loosen.
Key details: Single mirror | Clamp-on with twin ratchet straps | Fits factory and aftermarket mirrors | Driver or passenger side | No tools | Part number MH3009
4. Drive Adjustable Strap On Towing Mirror (Best Adjustable Strap-On)
Best adjustable strap-on
View the Adjustable Strap On Towing Mirror at CARAC, $39.95
The Adjustable Strap On Towing Mirror clamps and straps over your existing door mirror to extend your view. It is quick to fit and remove, so it suits drivers who hitch up a few times a year and want the mirrors off the car the rest of the time.
Key specs and features:
- Clamps and straps over the existing door mirror
- Fits driver and passenger side mirrors
- Fully adjustable head that does not obstruct or damage your existing mirror
- No tools needed
- Sold as one mirror; buy two for both sides ($79.90)
Why choose it: an easy, low-cost way to get legal rear vision for occasional trips with a trailer, boat or caravan.
What customers say: ★★★★★ 5 out of 5 from 1 CARAC review
ExcellentSamantha W. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, November 2025
Owner views on strap-on mirrors in general (not this exact product):
No matter how firm I tightened them, they gradually slipped and altered the mirror angle.Sand Man · budget strap-on owner · ExplorOz forum, 2015
The strap on (to existing 4wd mirrors) were cheap and did a reasonable job but vibrated quite a lot.steamfire01 · strap-on owner · ExplorOz forum, 2013
Strap-on mirrors are a trade-off between price and stability. Expect to re-check the angle at fuel stops, especially on rough roads.
Key details: Single mirror | Clamp and strap | Driver or passenger side | Adjustable head | No tools | Part number MH717
5. Camec Clip On Towing Mirror Universal Fitting, Flat Glass (Best Flat-Glass Clip-On)
Best flat-glass clip-on
View the Camec Clip On Towing Mirror at CARAC, $34.95
The Camec Clip On Towing Mirror is a universal clip-on with flat glass. Flat glass shows following vehicles at their true size and distance, which many drivers find easier to judge than a convex mirror. Straps are supplied for extra security.
Key specs and features:
- Universal clip-on fitting to suit most vehicles
- Flat glass for true-to-size reflections
- Supplied with straps for added security
- Aerodynamic design and storage bag included
- Sold as one mirror; buy two for both sides ($69.90)
Why choose it: a simple, affordable mirror from a well-known Australian caravan brand, ideal for less frequent towing.
What owners say: ExplorOz forum
I got those Camec mirrors and have found they work quiet well on reasonable tar or dirt roads.Wilko · Camec mirror owner · ExplorOz forum, 2013
I found I couldn't adjust the Patrol's mirrors enough to give a good clear view usung the 'add-on' mirror.Ian W1 · Camec add-on mirror owner · ExplorOz forum, 2013
Owner view on clip-on mirrors in general (not this exact product):
I found that with clip-on or strap on mirrors on my 120 Prado wind pressure above about 90kph would fold them back.Frank P · 120 Prado owner · ExplorOz forum, 2013
There are no CARAC reviews of this mirror yet, and the forum posts above do not confirm the exact Camec model. Fit depends on your factory mirror: if you cannot angle your car's mirror far enough to see the clip-on, a replacement or door-mount mirror is the better choice.
Key details: Single mirror | Clip-on with straps | Flat glass | Storage bag | Universal fitting | Part number 040657
6. Adjustable Door Mount Towing Mirror (Best Door-Mount)
Best door-mount
View the Adjustable Door Mount Towing Mirror at CARAC, $55
The Adjustable Door Mount Towing Mirror mounts to the door rather than your factory mirror. A bracket sits on the door edge and a strap holds it in place, with a telescopic arm that extends from 330 to 470 mm. It is a good answer when your factory mirror is too rounded, small or flimsy for a clip-on to grip.
Key specs and features:
- Telescopic arm adjusts from 330 to 470 mm
- Standard door bracket fitted, plus a larger bracket for thicker door skins such as the X-Trail, Pajero and Prado
- Strap secured, for the driver or passenger side
- Wind-resistant design
- Sold as one mirror; buy two for both sides ($110)
Why choose it: the most adaptable budget option, with adjustable reach for wider vans and no reliance on your factory mirror's shape.
What customers say: ★★★★★ 5 out of 5 from 1 CARAC review
Owner views on door-mount mirrors in general (not this exact product):
No problems fitting them just be precise and careful.Bruce C · door-mount owner · ExplorOz forum, 2010
no matter how tight I adjust the tension on the strap it starts to vibrate at around 80kmh.V8 Troopie · door-mount owner · ExplorOz forum, 2011
Half a twist makes all of the difference.Col & Razza · agreeing with the strap-twist fix · ExplorOz forum, 2011
dirt will eventually get behind and sandpaper your duco or side stripDalb · door-mount owner · ExplorOz forum, 2010
One CARAC reviewer gave it 1 star after the clamps slipped off in wet weather, while noting it may have been their mirror shape. Clamp-on mirrors rely on a firm lip around the factory mirror housing, so check yours before buying and re-tighten the clamps regularly.
Key details: Pair with carry case | Clamp-on, no straps | Slightly convex glass | Housings up to 25 mm thick | Reach for vans up to 2.55 m wide | Part number MIL6613
7. Milenco Platinum Grand Aero Towing Mirrors, Convex Glass (Best Clip-On for Tapered Mirrors)
Best clip-on for tapered mirrors
View the Milenco Platinum Grand Aero (pair) at CARAC, $199.95
The Milenco Platinum Grand Aero is built for the steeply tapered mirror housings on many newer vehicles, where older clip-ons struggle to grip. Rubber-faced, spring-loaded stainless gripper plates shape themselves to the housing, giving a larger contact area than standard pads. There are no straps; the clamp alone holds the mirror.
Key specs and features:
- Spring-loaded gripper plates over 50% larger than standard Aero 3 pads
- Enlarged clamp accepts mirror housings up to 25 mm thick
- Larger diameter arm with enough reach for caravans up to 2.55 m wide
- Large head with slightly convex glass for a wider view
- Stainless steel and brass in key areas to resist corrosion
- Designed to fit almost any vehicle with a mirror housing; sold as a pair with a carry case
Why choose it: a clamp designed to grip tapered mirror housings more firmly than standard Aero pads, best suited to newer SUVs and utes.
What owners say: ★★½ 2.5 out of 5 from 2 CARAC reviews, plus the Practical Caravan forum
the big convex mirrors provide an excellent field of view for both driving and manoeuvring. There is still some minor vibration but the fitting clamps to the mirror are far betterRob R. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, October 2023
Far more secure mo7nting, less vibration and much improved field of view.Turnbacktime · upgraded from Aero 3 · Practical Caravan forum, 2022
Platinum gives a better field of vision without making everything look small.Danddandy · Platinum Grand Aero owner · Practical Caravan forum, 2022
Our one CARAC review is a 5-star rating without written comments. Put a half twist in the strap to stop it humming in the wind, wipe the door and bracket pads clean before fitting to protect your paint, then remove the mirror when you are not towing.
Key details: Single mirror | Door bracket and strap | Telescopic arm 330 to 470 mm | Two bracket sizes included | Driver or passenger side | Part number DM-609
8. Multi Fit Strap On Towing Mirror (Best on a Tight Budget)
Best on a tight budget
View the Multi Fit Strap On Towing Mirror at CARAC, $18.95
The Multi Fit Strap On Towing Mirror is the lowest-cost way into towing mirrors. Ladder straps hold the head over your existing mirror, and the 150 x 100 mm head rotates 360 degrees so you can set the angle you want. It is a handy spare to keep in the tow kit or the second car.
Key specs and features:
- 150 x 100 mm mirror head that rotates 360 degrees
- Ladder straps that stretch for a secure fit and restrict vibration
- Fits factory or aftermarket mirrors on either side
- Does not block your original mirror view
- Listed as E-marked and compliant with Australian requirements
- Sold as one mirror; buy two for both sides ($37.90)
Why choose it: fine for short, occasional tows on sealed roads, or as a backup set.
What customers say: no CARAC reviews yet
Owner views on strap-on mirrors in general (not this exact product):
No hassles with them coming loose ... good clear image in mirror.ACD 1 · budget strap-on owner · ExplorOz forum, 2013
The ones with the strap weren't doing the job on the GNH with the trucks moving the mirror every time they went past.Rowdy6032 · strap-on owner · ExplorOz forum, 2014
they really vibrate to the point of being totally useless.Dobbie · strap-on and clip-on owner · Expandas Down Under forum, 2015
Budget strap-ons suit short tows on sealed roads. For highway work with road trains, step up to a ratchet, clamp-on or replacement mirror.
Key details: Single mirror | Ladder strap fitting | 150 x 100 mm head | 360 degree rotation | Driver or passenger side | Part number MH1500
Towing Mirror Side-by-Side Comparison
Swipe sideways on mobile to see every column.
| Mirror | Type | How it fits | Glass and reach | Sold as | Price (both sides) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearview Towing Mirrors | Full replacement | Factory mounts and wiring | Flat upper and convex lower (Next Gen) or single convex (Compact); extends 180 mm (103 mm Classic) | Pair | From $745, plus fitting from $150 | Frequent and full-time towing |
| MSA 4X4 Towing Mirrors | Full replacement | Factory mounts and wiring | One large mirror; four positions | Pair | From $782, plus $40 freight and fitting from $150 | Daily driving and towing with one mirror setup |
| Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet | Clamp-on | Clamp plus twin ratchet straps | Single head, fits factory and aftermarket mirrors | Single | $169.90 | Regular holiday towing on a budget |
| Drive Adjustable Strap On | Strap-on | Clamp and strap over door mirror | Adjustable single head | Single | $79.90 | Occasional towing |
| Camec Clip On, Flat Glass | Clip-on | Clip plus security straps | Flat glass | Single | $69.90 | Drivers who prefer true-to-size flat glass |
| Adjustable Door Mount | Door-mount | Door bracket and strap | Telescopic arm 330 to 470 mm | Single | $110 | Rounded or small factory mirrors |
| Milenco Platinum Grand Aero | Clip-on | Sprung gripper clamp, no straps | Slightly convex glass; reach for vans up to 2.55 m wide | Pair with carry case | $199.95 | Newer vehicles with tapered mirror housings |
| Multi Fit Strap On | Strap-on | Ladder straps | 150 x 100 mm head, rotates 360 degrees | Single | $37.90 | Short tows and backup sets |
CARAC prices on 28 October 2026. Clearview and MSA prices start from the amount shown and vary by vehicle. Single mirrors are priced here as two units so every option is compared for both sides.
Replacement Glass, Heads and Parts
Towing mirrors take a beating from stone chips, corrugations and the odd gatepost, and replacing a cracked glass costs far less than a new mirror. Clearview replacement glass kits are the most ordered items in our whole towing mirror accessories and parts range. Clearview has retired the Original mirror, but we still stock its spare parts.
- Clearview Original convex glass kits: left and right, $30 each, including glass, backing plate, screw, washer and spring
- Clearview Original upper convex kits: left and right, $40 each, swapping the flat upper glass for a wider convex view
- Clearview Original flat glass kits: left and right, $40 each
- Clearview Next Gen lower convex kits: left and right, $30 each, with heated versions available
- Clearview Original indicators: left and right, $62 each
- Milenco clamps and pads: Milenco Replacement Mirror Clamp $27.95, Aero Platinum Replacement Mirror Clamp $59.95 and Milenco Mirror Pad 2 Pack for Aero 3 and Grand Aero 3, $12.95
- Milenco heads: Platinum Grand Aero Single Replacement Head, $60
- Blind spot mirrors: the 95 mm self-adhesive blind spot mirror, $9.95, adds a convex view to a flat towing mirror
Check your model (Original, Next Gen, Compact or Classic) and side before ordering. Left and right refer to the mirror as you sit in the driver's seat.
What customers say about Clearview Original convex glass kits: ★★★★½ 4.61 (left, 41 reviews) and 4.45 (right, 42 reviews) out of 5 on CARAC
Perfect replacement glass did a quick YouTube to find out how to remove and were installed in under five minutesJosh P. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, October 2024
Replacement convex mirror fitted perfectly and easy to install.Nigel L. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, May 2024
Fits perfectly , easy to fitTim C. · Verified Buyer · CARAC, August 2025
Which Type of Towing Mirror Should You Choose?
Whether you tow frequently or just occasionally, there is a mirror to suit your setup. Here is how the three main types compare.
Clip-On and Strap-On Towing Mirrors
As the name suggests, these mirrors attach to your vehicle's existing side mirrors using clips, clamps or straps. They are quick to fit, affordable and easy to store, which makes them a practical choice for occasional towing without modifying your vehicle. The trade-off is stability: they depend on the shape of your factory mirror housing, and cheaper strap-on designs can vibrate or move when trucks pass.
>> Shop clip-on and strap-on towing mirrors at CARAC <<
Door-Mount Towing Mirrors
Door-mount mirrors sit on a bracket at the door edge, held by a strap, then extend on an adjustable arm. They work on vehicles where a clip-on cannot grip the factory mirror, and the adjustable reach suits wider vans. Keep the contact pads clean so they do not mark the paint.
Extendable and Replacement Towing Mirrors
Extendable towing mirrors, also called telescopic or replacement mirrors, replace your factory mirrors permanently. You slide them out when towing and back in for everyday driving. They are custom-fit to your vehicle, built from durable materials and usually keep features such as indicators, heating and power folding. They are the best choice for regular trips, long-distance touring and life on the road.
>> Shop extendable and replacement towing mirrors at CARAC <<
Flat or Convex Glass?
Flat glass shows vehicles at their true size and distance. Convex glass bends the reflection to show a wider area, but makes vehicles look smaller and further away than they are. Many setups combine both: a flat main glass for judging distance and a smaller convex glass for the blind spot beside the van.
Are Towing Mirrors a Legal Requirement in Australia?
Yes, if your caravan blocks the view behind you. The Australian Road Rules (rule 297) say you must not drive unless you have a clear view of the road and traffic ahead, behind and to each side. Victoria's vehicle standards also require your mirrors to let you clearly see, by reflection, the road behind and any following or overtaking vehicle. Most caravans are wider than the tow vehicle, so standard mirrors cannot do that once you hitch up.
The benchmark comes from Australian Design Rule 14/02, which sets the minimum view for a car's standard side mirrors. The driver must see a flat strip of road at least 4 m wide from 20 m behind their eyes to the horizon, plus a 1 m wide strip starting 4 m behind, both measured out from the side of the vehicle. Your towing mirrors should give you that same view past the sides of the caravan.
- No fixed in-service width limit for cars and 4WDs in Victoria: under ADR 14/02, mirrors must not stick out substantially further than needed for the required view. The often quoted 150 mm limit (230 mm if the mirror folds back to 150 mm) applies to vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVM.
- Remove or retract them when not towing: the VicRoads pre-trip caravan checklist advises keeping extension mirrors no wider than required and removing them when you are not towing.
- Fines: in Victoria, driving without a clear view behind and to each side is an on-the-spot offence of 1.5 penalty units (about $314 at the 2026-27 rate).
Rules are similar across Australia, but check with your state or territory transport authority for local details. Caravan widths are covered in our caravan sizes and dimensions guide.
Can a Rear-View Camera Replace Towing Mirrors?
No. An add-on reversing or rear-view camera is a great extra, but it is not a legal substitute for towing mirrors on a car or 4WD. The vehicle standards require you to see behind by reflection, which means a mirror. Use a camera alongside your towing mirrors, not instead of them.
How to Fit Your Towing Mirrors
Fitting depends on the type of mirror:
- Clip-on and strap-on: clean the factory mirror housing, position the clamp or straps, tighten evenly and give the head a firm shake to check it does not move.
- Door-mount: clean the door edge, choose the bracket that suits your door skin, then tension the strap until the arm is rigid.
- Extendable and replacement: you will typically need a socket set or screwdriver to remove the factory mirrors, then follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect the wiring and bolt on the new mirrors.
At CARAC, we offer professional towing mirror installations at our workshop in Dandenong South to ensure they are fitted correctly and safely for your next adventure.
How to Adjust Your Towing Mirrors
Even the best towing mirrors cannot do their job if they are not properly aligned. With the caravan hitched, follow these steps:
- Sit in the driver's seat in your normal driving position and make sure you can reach and adjust both mirrors.
- Have a helper stand 20 m behind your seat, level with the side of the caravan. You should see them in the mirror. Ask them to walk 4 m further out from the side of the van; you should still see them. Repeat on the other side.
- Check the close view too: you should see a 1 m wide strip of road beside the van starting about 4 m behind your seat. Adjust the convex glass to cover this area and check for blind spots.
Strong winds, rough roads and passing trucks can shift mirrors out of place. Before every trip, give each mirror a gentle shake to make sure it is secure, re-tighten any fittings that move and re-check the angle at fuel stops.
Keeping Your Towing Mirrors in Top Condition
- Clean regularly: dust, road grime and insects build up quickly and reduce visibility.
- Inspect for damage: check the glass for cracks and scratches, and the brackets, clamps, pads and straps for wear. Replace worn parts early.
- Tighten loose fittings: check screws and bolts, especially after corrugated roads.
- Lubricate moving parts: a light lubricant on adjustable arms and slides keeps them moving smoothly and helps prevent corrosion.
- Store clip-ons properly: keep removable mirrors in their bag in a dry place when not in use.
For more ways to prepare your rig, read our caravan safety guide, our guide to tow hitches and why caravan weights matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best towing mirrors in Australia?
For frequent towing, vehicle-specific replacement mirrors such as Clearview or MSA are the most stable and convenient. For occasional towing, the Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet and the Milenco Platinum Grand Aero are strong clamp-on choices.
Do you legally need towing mirrors to tow a caravan?
You need a clear view behind and to each side of your vehicle. If your caravan blocks that view, which most do, you must fit towing mirrors. Driving without a clear view is an on-the-spot offence in Victoria.
Can I use a reversing camera instead of towing mirrors?
No. The rules require a view by reflection, so a camera can only supplement towing mirrors, not replace them.
Are clip-on towing mirrors as good as replacement mirrors?
Clip-on mirrors give a legal view at a much lower price, but they depend on your factory mirror housing for grip and can vibrate at highway speeds. Replacement mirrors cost more and need fitting, but they are more stable and stay on the vehicle permanently.
Should towing mirrors have flat or convex glass?
- Flat: shows true size and distance, easier for judging gaps when changing lanes
- Convex: shows a wider area, but vehicles look smaller and further away
- Both: a flat main glass with a convex lower glass gives the best of each
How far should towing mirrors stick out?
Far enough to see clearly down both sides of the caravan, and no further. Victoria sets no fixed in-service width limit for cars and 4WDs; the 150 mm and 230 mm limits apply to vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVM. For a standard 2.5 m wide van, look for mirrors with enough reach, such as the Milenco Platinum Grand Aero, with reach for vans up to 2.55 m wide.
Do I have to remove towing mirrors when not towing?
VicRoads advises removing extension mirrors when you are not towing. Replacement mirrors such as Clearview and MSA retract to a non-towing position instead.
How much do towing mirrors cost?
- Strap-on and clip-on: $18.95 to $84.95 per mirror
- Premium clip-on pair: $199.95
- Replacement mirrors: from $745 a pair, plus fitting from $150
How do I stop my towing mirrors vibrating?
- Clean the factory mirror housing and pads before fitting.
- Tighten clamps and straps evenly, using ratchet straps where available.
- Put a half twist in flat webbing straps to stop them humming in the wind.
- Re-check tension after rain and rough roads.
Final Thoughts
If you tow often, Clearview Towing Mirrors are our best overall pick: fitted once, stable at speed and ready whenever you hitch up. For occasional trips, the Haigh Towing Mirror With Ratchet gives you a solid, affordable view and the Milenco Platinum Grand Aero suits newer vehicles with tapered mirror housings.
Whichever mirror you choose, set it up so you can see 20 m back and 4 m out on both sides, check it before every trip and keep spare glass on hand. Our team in Dandenong South is always happy to help you choose and fit the right mirrors for your vehicle; call us on (03) 9794 7977.
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