On this web site there is no such thing as a dumb question when newcomers need help
Our home away from home |
Joan and Dave are new to the caravanning, camping and Recreational Vehicle experience so we have created a new section in our Public Forums on GoSeeAustralia and New Zealand - Newbie Questions - to help.
We all were Newbies once. So as they take to the road we hope you wiser heads will be with them all the way.
Here is what Joan and Dave asked us to help with -
"Just a thought - as we are just new to the whole caravanning scene (we take delivery of our new (old) van tomorrow - very nervous and scared at the thought of driving it from Bayswater to Mornington, Vic.!!")
Happy campers Pauline and Robert Ferguson |
"Perhaps you could consider this group of people like ourselves - as complete novices and in need of as much advice and helpful tips/techniques as all you veterans can give us!!"
"What do we need to know regarding "caravan park etiquette"??
"What do we need to remember to bring with us?? ..... etc. etc.
"Looking forward to this next new phase in our lives".
Regards Joan & Dave, Australia
Well Joan & Dave, you are right, This is a great idea as it separates the beginner stuff into one easy forum for those just starting.
Secondly, as it is advertised as for newbies there should be no such thing as a dumb question, we all have the right to learn.
Here is a basic list looking at the caravanning thing from the following angles:
Car Equipment.
Caravan exterior.
Interior requirements and;
Luxury nice to haves.
Breakfast for two |
Under essential Car Equipment either before picking up the caravan or
fitted/purchased when picking up the caravan:
Tow Mirrors
Tow bar (of suitable rating).
Trailer wiring and socket.
Electric Brake controller (If required) .
Weight distribution/anti sway bars dependant on caravan selected .
For the exterior of the caravan:
D shackles for safety chains (with suitable rating) .
Wheel chocks for parking (may be just couple timber blocks) .
15 amp power cable (can be purchased from dealer, or hardware store).
Sullage drain hose .
Food quality water hose (stops bad tastes in tanks) .
For Interior:
Anti-slip mats for cupboards and bench tops .
Basic dinner set (either cheap crockery or plastic/melamine).
Cutlery .
Cooking pots .
Basic utensiles for cooking .
Bedding.
Towels.
Torch.
Basic spices (salt pepper all season etc to taste ).
Washing up stuff (soap, tea towels).
Luxury nice to haves:
TV / Entertainment.
Cloths hangers.
Laundry bag.
Spare chemicals for tiolet if fitted.
Electric blower heater (thermostat controlled is best) .
There is nothing quite like a good, safe, campfire |
Hope this kicks it off there is much more.
One last thing, don't be too nervous driving just take your time and plan ahead with certain things like:
Get into the required lane long before any turns as it is harder to merge with a caravan.
Allow extra clearance when cornering (caravans cut corners).
Allow extra braking distance.
Don't be pushed or bullied by other vehicles, safety first.
When backing have someone direct (with longer caravans we use handheld UHF so the person assisting can be where they can see and still communicate with the driver).
Be carefull and mindful of overhanging branches/awnings/eaves if you have a full height caravan campervan or motorhome.
Here are some features which will help with getting the best from life on the road:
Start from scratch and find the caravan most like your dreams
Big Rig Rod puts in with truckie tips for safer roads
Family Parks of New Zealand leader in welcome for pets on tour
On the Road with no Fixed Abode - get mail, car rego, pay bills, stay online, enjoy TV and vote
GoSeeNewZealand looks at how to hit the road with your caravan in top shape
Campersat tunes in an eye in the sky for RV wanderers
Learn to live with your camper trailer
For more information
contact: Garth Morrison
Editor Go See Australia and Go See New Zealand Directory
Email: garth@contact.com.au
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