While it's tempting to rush out and start your caravanning holiday, it pays, in the long run, to slow down, check off your list and get organised. Here are 7 things to remember before starting your trip:
1. Drive around your local area
Caravans are completely different to cars and even the most experienced drivers would benefit from a practice run. Practice maneuvering tight spaces, taking corners, reversing and accelerating.
2. See what needs to be locked down
While you're on the road, take note of any noises coming from the caravan. Cupboards may need to be locked down so they don't open, same with fridges, doors etc.
3. Practice setting up
Practice parking, setting up an awning, locking the caravan down and hooking up to power or sewerage. That way, when you have to do it in public at a caravan site, you won't be as nervous and you'll look like a pro.
4. Research
Unless you're a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants person, it helps to write an itinerary and work out how many kilometres you will drive each day and where you want to stop for the night.
5. Create a packing list
Find out what you actually need and what you can go without. If you're planning to stay at free sites with no power, do you need the coffee machine, microwave and toaster? Or, what about entertainment? Do you need a laptop, portable DVD player or card games for entertainment, and to avoid cabin fever.
6. Take spares
A spare tyre, spare toiletries, spare cupboard handles - pretty much anything you cannot go without, pack two of them. There's nothing worse than being stuck in the middle of nowhere with a flat tyre or cupboard door that keeps banging open.
7. Everyone has an opinion
Friendly faces will be throwing their well-meaning opinions and advice your way constantly. Smile and nod.
We're having a major caravan auction starting Thursday 8 February and ending Saturday 11 February. Browse models
here and get on your way!
05 Feb