1. Prepare Your Caravan

• Check Tyres: Inspect the tyres for any signs of wear and make sure they are inflated to the correct pressure. click here to visit our tyre check blog post

• Battery: Ensure your caravan's battery is charged and in good condition. This will power lights, water pumps, and other appliances when not connected to mains power.

• Clean Interior & Exterior: Before packing up, give both the inside and outside a good clean to make it more pleasant to use.

• Check Lights & Indicators: Test all exterior lights, including brake lights, indicators, and reverse lights, to ensure they are working. carry spare bulbs and fuses

2. Check Your Tow Vehicle

• Towbar: Ensure the towbar is secure and that the ball mount height matches your caravan’s coupling.

• Electrical Connection: Verify that your vehicle's electrical socket is working and that the caravan’s plug is properly connected for lights, brakes, and signals. The Vechline 13 pin tester is a handy tool to check both your cars 13pin electrics aswell as the caravans

• Towing Capacity: Double-check that your car’s towing capacity exceeds the weight of the loaded caravan.

3. Setup at the Campsite or Parking Area

• Leveling the Caravan: When you arrive, use leveling blocks or a leveling system to ensure your caravan is stable and level. This is especially important for comfort and to keep appliances (fridge, etc.) working correctly.

• Stabilizing Jacks: Deploy the stabilizing jacks to prevent the caravan from rocking when you move around inside.

• Unhitch the Tow Vehicle: Once leveled, unhitch the caravan from your tow vehicle, and park the car in a secure spot.

4. Power & Water Connections

• Electric Hook-up: If you're at a site with electric hookups, connect the caravan to mains power using an extension cable make sure to unravel fully . This powers your lights, air conditioning (if fitted), and any appliances inside.

• Water Supply: Connect the fresh water hose to the caravan’s water intake and the campground's water source. Make sure to check for any leaks before use.

• Waste Disposal: Ensure your waste water tanks are ready for use, and plan how you’ll dispose of waste water if the site doesn’t provide a dumping station.

5. Interior Setup

• Unpack & Organize: Place your items like bedding, food, and clothes inside the caravan. Organize the space to make sure everything is secure for travel.

• Turn On Appliances: Turn on the fridge, stove, or microwave if you plan to use them. Make sure everything is functioning as it should.

• Set Up Sleeping Areas: Set up your beds or fold-out sections. Make sure any awnings or annexes are extended if you need extra space.

6. Safety Checks

• Fire Extinguisher: Ensure the fire extinguisher is accessible and fully charged.

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test alarms to make sure they are working properly.

• First Aid Kit: Make sure your first aid kit is stocked and easily accessible.

7. Outdoor Setup (Optional)

• Awning/Canopy: If you have an awning or canopy, set it up to create some shade or extra living space outside.

• Outdoor Furniture: Set up chairs, tables, and any other outdoor equipment for comfort.

• Security: If leaving the caravan unattended, consider using wheel locks or hitch locks for added security.

8. Additional Considerations

• Check Weather Conditions: If there’s a storm forecast or strong winds, ensure your caravan is anchored properly and that all windows, vents, and doors are securely closed.

  
  

Pet Setup: If you’re traveling with pets, create a designated area for them inside the caravan. Don’t forget food, water, and bedding.