How to get the most out of your caravan adventure
The caravan you choose should reflect the type of travelling you intend to do. Whether it’s weekends away or a year-long tour of our beautiful country.
If you intend to tackle lots of dirt roads you will need a caravan with that all important independent rear suspension and chassis strength.
If comfort is your priority then you should be looking at a caravan with a toilet and shower or perhaps air conditioning and/or LPG heater. Of course you need to remember that you will then be towing a longer wheel base to support this luxury.
If short trips are a favourite then you might opt for a low profile pop-top with a folding down roof section that can be stored neatly in the garage when not in use.
If you’re trying to keep your accountant happy, you might try the benefits of a compact camper trailer with a wind-up canvas upper section and extendable sleeping wings. Lots of beds can be packed in and of course there’s the benefit of low wind resistance and fuel economy.
If style is important then you may choose from a whole range of options such as leather upholstery, powder coated side cladding or a sliding BBQ. You may even decide on a brand new caravan with a custom built layout specially designed for you.
Using this handy fuel calculator, you can estimate your total trip fuel bill.
You will need to know your average fuel consumption, the petrol price and the total distance you will be travelling.
Click the link below to work out your total trip fuel bill.
Caravan & Camping Industry Association of NSW fuel Calculator.
LPG cylinders
Liquefied petroleum gas cylinders are made of high quality steel with a corrosion protective coating. The colourless liquid stored within the pressurised cylinders is propane. While they last for decades they need to be regularly serviced.
LPG servicing
Gas cylinders must be re-inspected at least every 10 years. Always get a qualified gasfitter to service your LPG appliances. And don’t forget to ask for an inspection record of the work done. Leakages are most likely to appear at the connection points such as valves, hoses or the regulator and so these must always be checked for signs of deterioration before use.
LPG storage
LPG cylinders should be used or stored in an upright position with the valves at the top. When your caravan is not being used place a cover over your regulator to help prevent moisture corrosion. Store propane cylinders outside.
LPG usage
Commonly used for cooking and heating, LPG burns with a blue flame and gives off a carbon dioxide/water vapour.
LPG is heavier than air and if there is a gas leak will tend to sink to the lowest points in your van.
LPG, though inherently odourless, has a distinctive odour added to it to aid in the detection of leaks.
If you suspect a leak immediately open all windows and doors and try to close the valve and replace the cap. Properly used, LPG is a safe and efficient form of energy.
To stop weight being removed from the front wheels when you hitch the caravan, use a load distribution hitch and always check that it is set up properly.
Check the tow capacity of your current vehicle so that you know the maximum weight you can tow.
Always double check the coupling to the tow vehicle as well as the two safety chains. These should be crisscrossed and connected by D shackles to the secure points on the towbar.
Check the connection of the electrical plug between the caravan and tow vehicle. Check brake and tail lights, indicators, clearance lights and electric brakes if fitted.
Manoeuvring
It is always a good idea to get some extra lessons on manoeuvring your car with the caravan attached before setting off on holiday. Generally, long wheel base units are harder to manoeuvre than short wheel base units.
To correct the caravan when reversing, try checking both rear vision mirrors, then, steering into whichever mirror the caravan appears in. Where possible, have another person assist in guiding you when attempting to park or reverse your caravan.
Make sure that the caravan load is correctly distributed to reduce the chance of the caravan swaying.
Licence
There is no legal requirement in Australia to hold a special driver’s licence to tow camper trailers, tent trailers or caravans.
To clean out water containers and tanks before your trip, add bicarb soda to water in the tank and go for a drive. Drain and refill with fresh water. You’ll appreciate the taste.
Pack hardy water containers for bushwalks.
To find out the best camping spots, cafes or low cost fuel in a new town, talk to the locals. Get a UHF CB short range radio which can be enhanced via repeater stations.
Whether you go for a simple hand held device or a wider range radio it’s a great way to quickly become familiar with the ever changing environs on your caravanning trip.
Taking your furry or feathered companion caravanning with you can be great fun. All that is required is a little bit of forethought, such as:
Ring ahead to see if the caravan park you had in mind has not changed its policy on receiving pets;
Check with your destination that they have water hoses for washing your pet, sufficient shaded areas for play and suitable fencing, cattle grids, etc to keep your pet from roaming;
Take plenty of plastic bags for picking up after your pet;
Remember to pack towels, bedding, feed bowls, food, collar and lead, pet medication and grooming equipment;
For added protection pack a sturdy fold-away baby pen or crate to confine your pet when you are unable to supervise play.
Shop around for a competitive premium and consider whether the policy is agreed value or market value. Always check clauses covering accessories, add-ons, personal contents, emergency repairs and accommodation, flood and additional charges.
Remember the quality of the cover will prove to be more important than the attractivness of the premium.
Remote areas
Leave an itinerary with a friend or notify police of your intended destination, ETA and licence details before leaving a populated area.
Theft
Take precautions such as: marking all windows with your registration number or VIN; keeping a back up battery operated alarm in the caravan; parking near other people; keeping a photograph of your caravan showing distinguishing marks in your wallet.
Do not leave valuables or portable equipment in your annex or around your caravan unattended and record the serial numbers of all appliances. Invest in a top quality coupling or wheel lock.
Before moving off
Turn off the gas. Remove the jockey wheel. Wind up the levelling jacks and raise the steps. Walk around the caravan for a final check and release the caravan handbrake.
Motion
Everything moves in a caravan. Close and lock all windows and cupboard doors. To keep items secure leave nothing loose in the caravan. Use non-slip mats in drawers, cover items in overhead lockers with towels, bind the tops of coat hangers together or snap a piece of foam pipe insulation over the wardrobe rail. Seal cereal or chip packets with a bull-dog clip and make sure the tops or caps are on all bottles or containers.
Driving
Leave more distance than usual between your vehicle and the car in front and approach corners with caution.
Be wary of high winds, side winds and when passing approaching larger vehicles.
Plan plenty of rest stops.
Bushwalking and camping
For that spontaneous bushwalk don’t forget to take water, a compass and sun protection; and wear suitable clothing and footwear. Keep fires within a contained area with a ring of rocks surrounded by a pile of dirt. Ensure your camping tents are made of closely woven canvas with strong stitching.
Given the combined caravan industry experience of the Fulcher's team you can be confident that you will receive only the best advice. Why not call Alan now on (02) 4655 9788 or visit our contact page.
