Prepping for a caravan trip
After researching destinations, poring over maps, and organising someone to water the garden, you’re ready for that long-anticipated caravan trip. The tropics, the Tassie wilderness and Eyre Peninsula await.
Words: John Pedler
To help make sure it’s a caravan journey to remember – for all the right reasons – good preparation is key. Whether it’s a long weekend away or the big lap, here are a few tips for preparing your caravan for your next getaway.
Service
Just like a car, your home-away-from-home needs regular servicing. It’s recommended you organise a thorough check of your caravan at a reputable service centre every 12 months or 10,000km, whichever comes first.
A complete caravan service should cover brakes, tyres, wheel bearings, lights and indicators – including interior lighting and power points – gas connections and battery health.
Tyres are your van’s only connection with the road, so it’s vital they’re in good nick, including the spare. Check the tyres aren’t excessively worn or damaged, and consider consulting a tyre specialist if you have any concerns. Check the tyre placard attached to the van for information on the correct tyre pressure.
Fire safety
By law, a caravan must have a dry powder fire extinguisher on board that complies with the Australian Standard. Learn how to use the extinguisher before you head off so you’re prepared in an emergency, and make sure it’s properly secured in the van and easily accessible.
Water and plumbing
Check the water pump and taps are working, and remember to pack the necessary hoses for refilling the water tank and connecting to sullage points. You may want to pack a bucket for grey water in case the campground doesn’t have individual sullage drains for each site.
Fridge
Check the caravan fridge’s operating instructions, and where recommended, plug the appliance into 240-volt power for 24-48 hours before your trip. This should help the fridge reach its optimum operating temperature before you leave.
To help the fridge stay cool, pre-chill any items you intend loading into it. Once the van’s hooked up to the towing vehicle, remember to switch the fridge over to 12 volts.
Hook-up checklist
The caravan dealer probably provided you with a checklist when you bought your van, but here are some vital steps that can’t be missed:
- Tow-bar hitch secured with locking pin
- Coupling locked in position
- Safety chains securely attached
- 12-volt plug firmly plugged into the vehicle.
In and around the caravan, make sure the:
- TV aerial is down
- Roof hatches are closed
- Windows are locked
- Cupboards and drawers are securely latched.
- Before you head out the driveway, make sure your towing mirrors are properly adjusted, and remember to release the handbrake on the van before you start moving.
Have a great trip.
IMAGE: Getty.
Is your rig insured?
Consider getting RAA Caravan Insurance for peace of mind.* Get a quote at raa.com.au/caravan-insurance
*Caravan and Trailer Insurance is issued by RAA Insurance Limited ABN 14 007 872 602. AFSL 232525. Limits apply. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination available from the RAA website when deciding whether to purchase this product.
