There’s plenty to think about before you hit the road on your caravan adventure. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you are prepared before you go.
CAR
– Fuel tank(s) full
– Oil level in engine and transmission
– Water or coolant level
– Condition of all hoses
– Fan belt tension and condition
– Brake Fluid level
– Tyre pressures, including spare
– Operation of lights
– Mirrors secured and adjusted
– Air shockers inflated (if fitted)
– Insect screen in front of radiator.
CARAVAN INTERIOR
– Cupboards and drawers closed & table secured
– Refrigerator door locked & check that containers with liquids are sealed
– Hatches and windows closed
– No loose items in cupboards or on shelves
– Fire extinguisher fitted
CARAVAN EXTERIOR
– Gas bottle fitted and secured
– Water tank filled
– Brakes checked and adjusted
– Wheel bearings adjusted
– Wheel nuts tight AND condition of tyres
Note: It is advisable to have the caravan serviced by a specialist prior to the journey
BEFORE MOVING OFF
– Jockey wheel removed or secured
– Lights operating correctly
– Gas turned off
– Tyres inflated correctly
– Doors closed and locked
– Jacks raised or safety stands removed
– Wheel chocks removed
– Hand brake released. Electrical connection between car and van secured.
– 240V electrical lead disconnected
– Steps raised
– Towing aid correctly fitted
– Safety chains secured.
SPARES WHICH MAY BE USEFUL
– Fan belt
– Radiator hoses
– Engine oil
– Coolant
– Spare wheel and tyre to suit caravan
– Tube to suit car and caravan tyre
– Insulating tape
– Electrical wire
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
– Assortment of tools to suit sizes on car & caravan
– Tyre levers (2)
– Wheel brace to suit wheel nuts on car and caravan
– Jack to suit car and caravan
– Tyre gauge
– Wheel chocks
– Blocks for placing under corner stabilisers when ground is soft or under a wheel when site not level.
Make sure that you have the necessary tools required to fit the spares that you may have taken for the trip.
For your own sake, and that of your passengers, it is essential that all gas lines, connections, appliances and electrical fittings be checked regularly.
The task will take only a few minutes and you will develop more confidence in your unit if you know it is safe.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
In addition to regular checks it is essential that an approved fire extinguisher is always on board. Extinguishes come in a multitude of sizes, price ranges and different types of operation.
Make sure the one you select is big enough to handle a fire, should one ever develop. Once having bought an extinguisher mount it in a readily accessible position. Ideally you should be able to reach the unit from outside the van. It is no use having a ”toy” extinguisher inside the van if a fire develops. Remember that your huge investment, your life and those of your passengers are at stake.
When buying an extinguisher, make sure it is a reliable one. The simpler the operation the better as there is less chance of something going wrong. And make sure it is one which meets the levels of safety required by a responsible body, such as the Australian Standards Association, or the Insurance Council of Australia.
All fire extinguishers sold in Australia must conform to the relevant standard as laid down by the Standards Association. If your extinguisher is of a type which, over a period of time, loses its effectiveness, replace it when necessary. Fire fighting experts generally recommend that a fire extinguisher is checked at least every couple of years to ensure correct operation.
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This post was reprinted from Caravan & Camping SA
Read more: https://www.caravanandcampingsa.com.au/hints-and-tips/pre-holiday-checklist
