How to Choose the Right Caravan: Part 3
1. Inside your caravan, make sure that:
_ all the cupboards are securely closed
_ the refrigerator door is locked
_ the windows and hatch are closed
_ there are no loose items in the caravan
2. Ensure the caravan is:
_ correctly coupled to the tow vehicle. Then check your safety chain/s.
_ Two chains are normally fitted. Crisscross the chains and use 'D' shackles to connect them to the secure points on the towbar.
3. Ensure that the electrical plug between the caravan and tow vehicle is connected.Then check;
_ brake lights,
_ tail lights,
_ turn indicators
_ clearance lights
_ electric brakes (if fitted) to make sure they are working.
4. Before moving off, make sure that:
_ the gas is turned off
_ the door is locked
_ the jockey wheel is removed
_ the levelling jacks are fully wound up
_ the steps are raised
5. Release the caravan handbrake.
6.Finally: walk around the caravan for one last safety check. It can be very embarrassing to drive off with the electrical lead still connected!
Before You Go - Considerations;
_ Check the weather report for the area where you will be camping. Nobody wants to spend a week in the rain. If you get caught in a thunderstorm, don't take shelter under a tree. Your car is a safer place.
_ If you are camping, practice pitching the tent in your backyard before you leave. Not only will that save time, but also you'll find out if any parts are missing or if the tent is damaged.
_ Leave your itinerary with a friend or relative — include your car licence number, where you plan to be, when you plan to return, and a mobile phone number if you have one.
_ Learn the basics of first aid. Organisations like the Red Cross offer courses in basic first aid.
_ Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition, and if you are towing a caravan be sure all mechanical and electrical goods are in sound working order.
_ Always respect the power and danger of campfires. Keep fires within a contained area with a ring of rocks and an outer ring of gravel or dirt to protect against the fire spreading. Keep children away from the fire.
_ Respect the rights of other caravanners. Caravans are often close together and noise, pets, and other disturbances may annoy others.
_ Wear shoes or sandals at all times. There are many things you don't want to step on or in.
Are We Having Fun Yet?
When everything is organised, planned, packed, and checked you can start having fun. When you have planned a few successful camping trips you will find it gets easier and easier.
Travelling with your pet
Park policy on allowing pets is constantly changing. If you find a park in your destination area that will accept pets, please telephone the park first to:
_ ensure that there has not been a change of policy; and
_ find out whether any conditions apply.
Before you leave home, be sure to pack up everything you will need for your pet. For example:
_ Food and water bowls
_ Grooming brushes
_ Collar and lead
_ Any medication your pet might require With proper planning, your pet will enjoy their holiday as much as the rest of the family.
Courtesy Caravan, RV & Accommodation Industry of Australia
CHECKLIST: Before you hit the road
Caravan and RV travel checklist - Here you'll find a travel checklist to help you pack the "right stuff". Keep your Caravan/RV stocked and you'll be ready to go anytime, anywhere. But before you leave home, be sure to
balance your load - and don't over pack. (Consult the weight label on your Caravan/RV for more information.)
Here's a list of some stock items to keep on board.
_ Batteries
_ Binoculars
_ Bottle/can opener
_ Camera & film
_ First-aid supplies
_ Fishing gear
_ Flashlights, lanterns
_ Folding chairs
_ BBQ & fuel
_ Insect repellent
_ Maps, road atlas
_ Matches
_ Picnic basket
_ Rope, cords, or wire
_ Shovel (small folding type)
_ Sports equipment
_ Sunscreen
_ Toilet paper
_ Tool kit
_ Garbage bags
_ Umbrellas
_ Water hose (Hose pipe)
