5 TIPS FOR A FUN CARAVAN TRIP!
1. PACK WELL
Getting your gear squared away in a caravan is all about balance. Keep your weight evenly distributed across the van by storing items according to their weight.
Because most caravans have a limited payload (some would argue too limited) if you’re new to the van you should weigh what you’re about to load into it.
Get all your gear packed in their bags or tubs, in the one spot at home. Have a list of what you’ve packed (so you know what you’ve missed) and then weigh it all.
All you need is a set of bathroom scales for most gear. Some items can be placed on the scales directly, others you’ll have to hold and step on the scales, subtracting your weight from the total.
When packing the items into your van you need to distribute them evenly throughout the van.
Don't pack heavy gear in high cupboards, leave them for lighter items.
Get the full weight of the van (Aggregate Trailer Mass, or ATM), its axles-only weight (Gross Trailer Mass) and its towball download mass (TBM). Then compare these to the maximum weights declared on the caravan’s compliance plate (and on the towbar for the vehicle’s maximum permitted TBM).
If your van is over its legal weight, you’ll have to shed some payload. Don’t forget that payload not only includes the gear you put in the van but also water and gas as well as any accessories not fitted at the factory.
2. MAKE A CHECKLIST
You’ll need an array of items when holidaying with a caravan. It helps to create a list of your essential items to ensure you don't forget anything. Make sure to include any beach/sporting equipment if needed.
Other essential caravanning items include a fire extinguisher, wheel chocks, caravan jack, sway control device, towing mirrors, extra coolant and oil, a spare fan belt, and insulation tape.
As with any hobby, some items are essential for newbies, while others can be purchased over time for extra comfort and convenience.
3. ENSURE YOUR VAN IS SAFE AND SECURE
Once armed with the essentials, you’ll need to make sure your caravan (and vehicle) are safe to be on the open road.
It’s best to write a checklist before you depart and go through your safety list to ensure everything is safe and secured correctly before driving to your next destination.
4. MAKE FRIENDS
The caravan community is a friendly one. Introduce yourself to fellow caravanning enthusiasts and share tips and tricks with each other.
You might even find some new friends to join you in your holiday activities!
A camping holiday is a great chance to escape from the city’s busy life and give your children some unique experiences with loads of fresh air and physical activity. There are some fun activities that you and your kids can join in on, for instance: swimming, hiking or star gazing. Your kids would definitely love them and cannot wait to tell their friends about it when coming back.
5. TAKE SOME TIME OUT
Among all the activities you have planned, leave some time for relaxing and enjoying your surroundings. You'll be recharged and ready for the next adventure!
Nothing beats the freedom of the open road; the sense of adventure and fun as you explore new places and the flexibility that comes from taking your accommodation with you.
Australia is a fantastic country full of beauty and diversity and there are lots of great people to meet. Don’t put it off. Hook up that caravan and hit the road.
