Caravanning can be a super exciting time – offering freedom, fun, and the thrill of a new experience! BUT there are a number of pitfalls that can spoil the fun of your first family journey.
While you’re sure to have done your research on most aspects of the caravanning experience, there will always be an oversight or two.
Follow these 7 tips for caravanning for beginners to ensure that your first journey is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible!
1. Get Your Equipment Sorted
Caravanning for beginners isn’t cheap, but there is a list of essentials you really must have before you set off. You’ll need:- a towing aid
- caravan jack
- sway control equipment
- towing mirrors
- a fire extinguisher
- engine oils and fluids
- wheel blocks
- other gear depending on your caravan.
2. Consider Safety Hazards Before You Leave
Everyone knows to check all lights and tyre inflation levels before setting off, but there are other safety checks that can be made. Before you start your journey, always ensure:- The jockey wheel is secure
- Your caravan steps are raised
- The towing aid is correctly fitted
- Check that everything inside your caravan is secured down (so that it doesn’t roll around)
- Check the doors and windows are locked
3. Don’t Overdo It
Nobody wants to be the motorist who holds up traffic, but it’s best to err on the side of caution when you’re getting started. Use slow vehicle turnouts and allow motorists to pass you when safe. Your focus should always be on safe towing rather than speed! Driving at highway speeds while towing a caravan can also lead to very poor fuel consumption, especially in windy conditions.4. Start at the Crack of Dawn
You’ll feel more confident in the early stages of your first caravan adventure if you hit the road early. The traffic will be much lighter, and you’ll be able to get a feel for the handling of your caravan without having to navigate roads full of motorists.5. Make the Most of the Space You Have
If you’re caravanning with your young family, it’s hard to know how you’ll all take to the confined living areas. Be mindful of everyone’s personal space, try to be as patient as you can and spend as much time outdoors as possible to start with, until you get used to each other! Caravanning for beginners can be stressful enough without family arguments putting a dampener on your trip.6. Prepare a Routine for Setting Up
There’s a lot to do when you arrive at your overnight stop, and time is not always on your side. Practising beforehand can help to streamline your setup routine and give you extra leisure time. Depending on your van, you’ll need to unhitch your caravan and move your vehicle, level the caravan, drop the corner steadies, set up gas and water and connect the electricity. You don’t want to be doing all of this for the first time in the dark.7. Work as a Team When Parking
There aren’t that many opportunities to practice reverse-parking your caravan, and it can be daunting the first time you make an attempt. You’ll likely have an audience when you arrive at your overnight stop – so make sure you choose the shortest possible path for reversing. Use your mirrors, take it slowly and communicate clearly with your partner as you bring your van into park.
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