Caravanning

1. Buying the van

• Be aware of your ATM (Aggregate trailer Mass)- the total laden weight of the caravan including payload. If exceeded insurance and warranty may be voided.
• The dealer should advise the type of towing equipment & tow bar suitable for your van.
• Understand Ball Weight - the impact of the weight of the van on the towing vehicle. Usually Australian design vans have between 10% and 15% of total van weight on the tow ball with a gross trailer mass allowance of 300kg on a single axle and 400kg for a tandem model.
• What maximum weight can your vehicle tow? Check your vehicle plate.
• What is your vans recommended tyre pressure? - on average about 15kpa above normal.

2. Understanding Driving Alterations When Towing Your Van

• Acceleration is slower
• Braking is slower and increases stopping distance. However virtually all new vans are fitted with electronic brakes requiring the tow vehicle to have a brake controller fitted.
• When travelling downhill a lower gear must be used. Giving better control and reduces the load on your brakes.
• Accelerator, brake and steering must be smoother to avoid sway or "snaking" causing loss of control.

3. Safety on the Road - for you and others

• The incresed braking distance means that an increased distance between yourself and any other vehicle is essential for safety.
• Allow for increased time and distance required when overtaking due to larger overall rig length.
• Allow for a wider berth when turning due to increase in overall vehicle length.
• Parking is seen as the most difficult exercise but practice makes perfect. Try using a guide to avoid accidents.
• Be aware of height restrictions especially if your van is higher than your vehicle.
• Remember that driving tired can kill. Take regular breaks to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

4. Weather Conditions to Look Out For

• High winds may mean loss of control. Serious accidents can occur if your van is top heavy.
• Wet Roads
• Drivers must heed any "Dangerous Crosswinds" signs. Gusts may affect the stability of the caravan.

5. Packing Your Van Correctly

• Pack Heavy items at floor level with particular weighty items over the axle.
• Place light items in elevated cupboards to avoid being top heavy.
• Ensure all items are secured so nothing becomes lose and moves around the van whilst in motion.

6. Helpful Accessories

• Extended mirrors are needed to see behind the van
• Brake controller - activates the vans brakes simultaneously with that of the towing vehicle
• Necessary tools required to fit parts on your van and any spares you have.
• A fire extinguisher is essential.

7. Special Requirements for Different Vans

• Van is wider than 2.1m - side lights are required for night driving.
• Van weighs over 2 tonnes ATM - require breakaway system
• Automatic Vehicles should use manual control in a low gear when climbing / descending steep slopes.
• Up to 2.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass - One safety chain is required
• Between 2.5 to 4.5 tonnes Gross Vehicle Mass - Two safety chains are required.

8. General Checklist Before the Trip

Wheel Bearings - Grasp the tyres & rock firmly. Is there excessive movement?

Load Mass & Weight - Does the suspension look right, properly distributed & balanced? Is it below the weight limit?

Brakes & Brake Fluid - Do they function correctly? Are your brake fluid levels correct?

Handbrake - Has the handbrake on the caravan / trailer been correctly released?

Tyre Inflation - Are your tyres correctly inflated to suit your van?

Caravan / Trailer Coupling - Are the trailer coupling and safety chain/s securely fastened?

Crossed Safety Chains - If 2 safety chains are fitted cross them to prevent the draw bar from contacting the road if the trailer becomes disconnected.

Awnings - Is the roll-out awning stored away and locked in position?

Jockey Wheel - Remove jockey wheel from clamp and store in boot or lock in travelling position

Stabilisers - Are the front & rear stabalisers in up position? Stow the winder in a safe place.

Poptops / Camper Trailers - Ensure that all poptop & camper trailer roof clips are in place

Gas Cylinders - Check gas levels & that all cylinders are turned off

 

NO ONE IS PERMITTED TO RIDE INSIDE THE VAN