The invention relates to a method for determining a travel direction of a vehicle (1), particularly a trailer vehicle, wherein wheel speed signals (n1, n2, n3) are captured and a travel speed (v) is determined, a longitudinal acceleration (a) of the vehicle (1) is measured, and a longitudinal acceleration measurement signal (Sa) is output, an approach process is determined from a time change in the travel speed (v), and the direction of the approach process is determined from the longitudinal acceleration measurement signal (Sa). An approach process in the reverse direction is particularly detected thereby. The invention further relates to a control device (2) for performing the method, particularly in a vehicle controller, a vehicle system, and a corresponding vehicle.