Embarking on your first caravanning trip? Fantastic! It’s an exciting time filled with freedom, fun, and new experiences. However, towing a caravan adds a whole new dimension to any holiday, making factors like what to bring, time spent on the road, and where to park incredibly important. To help ensure a smooth journey and enjoyable holiday, Explorex has compiled a list of essential tips for first-time caravan users.
1. Make a Checklist
You’ll need a comprehensive array of items when holidaying with a caravan. Essential items include a towing aid appropriate for your vehicle, a fire extinguisher, wheel chocks, a 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 beginners, while others can be acquired over time for added comfort and convenience.
2. Ensure Your Van is Safe and Secure
Before hitting the open road, make sure your caravan (and vehicle) is road-ready. Write a checklist in advance and keep it handy. Verify that the towing aid is fitted correctly, secure all drawers and loose items, and lock windows and doors. Remove wheel chocks, secure or remove the jockey wheel, and raise the caravan’s steps. Check that all lights are operational and that all tyres are properly inflated.
3. Take It Easy
Towing a caravan takes getting used to, and you should always exercise extra caution. Additionally, remember that towing increases fuel consumption, especially when driving into the wind. Maintain a reduced speed and be mindful of traffic behind you, using slow vehicle turnouts when possible. Avoid swerving for wildlife and be aware of side winds caused by large vehicles.
4. Have an Early Start
Rise early and start your journey before the roads become crowded. This is particularly beneficial when towing a caravan for the first time, as you’ll feel more confident driving in light traffic.
5. Be Prepared for Confined Spaces
A caravanning trip can test the strength of any relationship. Be prepared for the fact that you will be traveling in close quarters. Give each other space whenever possible.
6. Work as a Team
Reversing a caravan can be challenging. Practice before you leave to avoid any public mishaps. Choose the shortest path necessary for reversing at your site. Communicate clearly with your partner, using hand signals or two-way radios if needed. Use mirrors, be patient, and stay calm.
7. Have a Set-Up Routine
After a long drive, you won’t want to spend hours setting up. Practice beforehand to become more efficient. Typically, start by unhitching the caravan, engaging the handbrake, and moving your vehicle. Level the caravan, lower the corner steadies, set up gas and water systems, and connect the power. Inside, check the power and water supplies: heating, taps, oven, fridge, etc.
8. Don’t Take Opinions as Gospel
Fellow caravanners love to offer advice, but remember that everyone’s experience is different. While some tips can be useful, don’t feel obligated to follow every piece of advice you receive. Nod and smile if it gets overwhelming.
9. Pack Up Properly
When packing up, refer to your checklist. Ensure gas is turned off, electrics are disconnected, and water and wastewater supplies are removed.
10. Take a Course
If you’re serious about caravanning, consider taking a ‘caravanning for beginners’ course. These courses provide valuable theoretical and practical advice and can greatly boost your confidence. Alternatively, have a caravan specialist check your rig before you set off. At the very least, have a trial run with your caravan before embarking on a longer journey to familiarize yourself with your new ‘home away from home.’
The team at Explorex is always here for you. Support is only a call away!
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