HANDY HINTS
FOR A SAFE AND HAPPY ADVENTURE
CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE READY TO HIT THE ROAD AND MAKE SOME MEMORIES!
BUT FIRST, THERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT SAFETY CHECKS BEFORE YOU HEAD OFF.
• Make sure you allow yourself enough time to complete a thorough check.
• Ensure that you are familiar with the different types of weight measurements (Tare Mass, Aggregate Trailer Mass, Gross Trailer Mass, Gross Vehicle Mass, Gross Combination Mass) and understand their individual weight limits and capacities.
• Check the tow vehicle and trailer’s service logbooks and ensure that they are not overdue for service.
If you are heading on a long trip, it is best to ensure both are serviced prior to leaving.
• Check that your vehicle and trailer’s wheel nuts have been tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Check tyre pressure and make sure that the tyres are not worn and can still manage the trip. You can check the sidewall of the tyre for the correct tyre pressure. Make sure that there are no cuts or cracks in tyres and ensure they still have good tread.
• Check that the brake lights, taillights, indicators, reverse lights, and clearance lights are all operating well. Ensure that the trailer’s lights, reflectors and number plate are clearly visible and not obstructed.
• Be cautious when first applying the brakes. Gradually increase the pressure applied to the brake pedal to check that the brakes are working properly. If necessary, use the electric brake control knob to adjust the braking force to suit the trailer’s load.
• Make sure all external doors and compartments are locked and gas taps and cylinders are turned off.
• Check that the entrance step and stabiliser legs have been retracted.
• If you have used wheel chocks, remember to remove them before leaving.
• Ensure your caravan is correctly coupled to the tow vehicle.
• Check that the fixing nuts on fixed tow balls have not come loose and check the nose weight, ensuring it is levelled.
• Check your safety (break away and secondary) cables are correctly attached. Two chains are normally fitted. Crisscross the chains under the draw bar and use ‘D’ shackles to connect them to the secure points on the tow bar.
• Ensure the jockey wheel is raised and secured.
• Make sure towing mirrors are fitted and adjusted. You must be able to see clearly down both sides, as well as behind your caravan.
• Secure all loads properly and ensure that there are no loose items in the trailer, including internal equipment which may move during travel.
• Check any smoke detectors and fire safety equipment are in working order.
• For your own safety and that of your passengers, plan your trip well, get plenty of rest and take regular breaks.
This is only a guide. You are responsible for the RV when in your care. Drivers towing a vehicle remain responsible for ensuring that they have the appropriate licence, skills and experience to tow the vehicle. There are great resources out there to help you.
It’s now the time to enjoy the freedom, fun and thrill of a new experience. Happy Caravanning!
HANDY HINTS AND BASIC TIPS FOR EACH STAGE OF THE ADVENTURE...
SETTING UP
• Position and level caravan with ramps and chocks.
• Unhitch caravan from vehicle, pull handbrake and chock wheels.
• Drop down and adjust stabiliser legs.
• Hook up water hose, sullage hose and 15amp electrical lead.
• Turn gas bottles on.
• Prime HWS and turn on now if needed. Choose gas or electric. (Approx. 30mins to heat up)
• Turn fridge to electric or gas. Chill fridge before you travel (Only runs off 12v whilst travelling)
• Set up TV and wind-up antenna, tune TV if required.
• Roll out awning.
• Set up your chairs, turn on some tunes, grab a beer or wine and enjoy yourself! Cheers!
PACKING UP
STORING YOUR VAN
• Set fridge to run off 12v whilst travelling.
• Wind up stabilising legs.
• Remove electrical leads and sullage hose.
• Turn off gas bottles (never travel with gas bottles on)
• Lock shower door, ensuite door, Fridge door and secure windows, hatches etc prior to travelling.
• Wind down TV antenna and remove TV from bracket. Store safely.
• Roll awning away and lock in the travel position.
• Hitch caravan to car, coupling locked down and safety chains on. Weight Distribution Hitch fitted and adjusted.
• Release handbrake and remove Jockey wheel, chocks, ramps, etc.
• Check mirrors and lights on caravan.
• Check electric brakes are adjusted in the car for the caravan before
• Turn main 12v off or disconnect batteries.
• Connect a 15amp power lead to van to charge batteries regularly. Approx. every 2 months.
• Empty fridge, clean and leave door ajar to eliminate odours/mould.
• Drain and clean toilet cassette and grey water tank.
• Regularly check for water leaks inside.
• Regularly maintain exterior with a wash and wax like you would a car (Do not use anything abrasive or heavy chemicals like truck wash)
• Maintain chassis from potential rust using a rust protection spray, gold gal and touch up spray can.
• Regularly service your van as per your logbook by a reputable caravan repairer.
