Planning your first caravan trip? It’s easy to get excited about the destination, less so about the long list of things you need to organise beforehand. But here’s the thing: a smooth trip starts way before you hit the road.
Whether you’re heading off for a weekend coastal escape or a longer cross-country journey, getting the setup right is non-negotiable. It’s not just about tossing your bags in and taking off. There are some must-do tasks and checks that’ll save you serious stress down the track.
Sort Your Tow Bar First
This one’s non-negotiable. If your tow bar isn’t up to scratch, you’re not going anywhere. Mobile tow bar installation is a great option if you haven’t already had one fitted. Why mobile? Simple. It saves time, no workshop visits needed, and you can get it done right in your driveway. That matters when you’re juggling prep work and timing.
Make sure the tow bar:
- Matches the towing capacity of your vehicle
- Has a properly installed electrical connection
- Is fitted with the correct hitch for your caravan
Don’t assume your vehicle is ready to tow just because it looks tough. Double-check the specs and make sure the install is done by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Learn the Weight Rules (Then Follow Them)
Caravanning isn’t just about hooking up and going. There are actual legal limits when it comes to weight, and ignoring them can be dangerous.
There are a few key numbers you need to know:
- GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass)– The total your car can weigh with passengers, fuel, and gear
- ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass)– The max your caravan can weigh when fully loaded
- GCM (Gross Combination Mass)– The max combined weight of your vehicle and caravan
You’ll need to weigh both your car and caravan (when loaded) before the trip. Don’t guesstimate it. Overloading can cause sway, braking issues, and legal headaches.
Get Comfortable Reversing
One of the most nerve-wracking parts of towing a caravan? Reversing into tight spots. Unless you’re only planning to stay in wide-open paddocks, it’s something you’ll need to face.
The best thing you can do is practise before the trip. Head to a quiet car park and take your time getting a feel for how the caravan moves. Use your mirrors instead of relying solely on a camera. Make small, gentle steering corrections rather than swinging the wheel sharply. It’s slower than you’d think, but that’s normal.
And if you’ve got someone with you, have them step out and guide you when parking at a site. It might feel awkward at first, but it saves a lot of hassle. You don’t need to be perfect; just confident enough to know you won’t be blocking up the whole park while figuring it out.
Triple Check Your Power Setup
Caravan power isn’t as simple as plugging in and flicking a switch, especially if you plan to stay off-grid or use unpowered sites. You’ll want to know exactly how your setup handles things.
Start by checking the condition of your battery. Make sure it’s holding charge and ready to go. If you’re using solar panels, clean them off and check they’re connected properly. Know what appliances you can run on 12V power and what needs mains. If you’re planning to plug into powered sites, make sure you’ve got the correct leads and adaptors for your van and for what the parks provide.
Getting this wrong can mean running out of fridge power, no lighting, or a dead phone just when you need directions!
Don’t Pack Like It’s a House
It’s really easy to overpack. The temptation is to bring every “just in case” item you can think of, but you’ll run out of space quickly and risk going over your weight limits.
Stick to what you know you’ll need. Think simple bedding, clothes for the actual weather (not all seasons), and cookware you use regularly at home. Avoid oversized appliances or anything that doesn’t serve more than one purpose. Go for compact versions where possible.
Before you pack, walk through your van and plan where things will actually go. It’s one thing to have the gear; it’s another to store it properly for travel.
A good tip is to do a trial pack. You’ll quickly see what fits, what needs a better storage plan, and what can stay home. You’ll be surprised at how little you really need to be comfortable.
Book Your First Site in Advance
There’s something romantic about the idea of hitting the road with no set plans, but on your first trip, that’s a risky move. Caravan parks, especially popular ones, can book out fast. Arriving late in the day with no site reserved is a recipe for stress, not freedom.
Booking ahead means you can choose a site that suits the size of your van. You can even request a drive-through spot, which is a game-changer when you’re still getting used to reversing and setting up. It also takes the pressure off your travel schedule, so you’re not rushing to beat the crowd or settle for a site that doesn’t work for your setup.
What You Do Now Makes the Trip Later
Getting ready for your first caravan trip isn’t just about ticking off a list; it’s about setting yourself up to actually enjoy it. A bit of upfront planning goes a long way. It’s not about perfection. It’s about avoiding preventable problems and making sure the basics are solid.
Get your tow bar sorted early, check your weights properly, and take the time to understand your setup. Practise the tricky stuff like reversing, double-check your power gear, and only pack what you truly need. Book that first stay in advance so you’re not scrambling. Then, once you’re on the road? Relax. It’s your trip, your pace.
