Mobile homes and Caravans are extremely versatile ways of travelling and holidaying with your family and friends. However, getting started with caravanning can be daunting at first and the learning curve a steep one. As with everything, the key to becoming a caravanner is research, experience and practise – there’s nothing better than getting out there and giving it a go!
Here are a set of things and guidelines for you to keep in mind if you’re looking to start trying out caravanning!
Double-check your license
The first thing to sort out before start towing your new caravan is your licence. Different licences effectively allow you to drive (or tow) different vehicles. Make sure you investigate the details of your newly acquired caravan and check it against what you are legally allowed to drive or travel with. An accident is the last thing you need or realise that you are breaking the law after being stopped by the police.
Let’s set up your caravan for the first time!
If you’re wanting to go on a road trip or take an extended break with your caravan always learn how to set up your caravan properly before setting off. It’s easy to get too excited about your new purchase and set off straight away, only to realise you’ve forgotten certain things you may need. Here are some steps to follow once you arrive at the site:-
Choosing a pitching site - Seems obvious but it’s an important step. Consider just how close you want to be in the toilets, shops and even social venues. Additionally, there are a few different types of pitches available to you from site to site. Some pitches have water outlets while others don’t and similarly, some have space for you to put up an awning and others don’t. Ensure you review the site you are visiting to get a better idea of what you may need.
Reverse your caravan into the pitch you choose - This can be quite challenging at first but well worth doing, especially when you go to leave after your stay.
Ensure the caravan is level! - After parking your caravan, ensure it’s level using a spirit level. If the ground isn’t quite flat and your caravan isn’t level why not consider using a levelling ramp or block to help balance it.
Move your tow car now that your caravan is standing freely
Wind down the corner steadies – effectively this will stabilise the caravan further.
Plug-in power! – Make sure that you plug the cable into the caravan first and then the supply to ensure you aren’t carrying a live cable!
Connect the water supply! – If you have a dedicated water supply make good use of it! If not visit the communal water source and get the water you need there.
Setup the wastewater collector for the shower or sink
Get the gas connected inside your caravan
Turn on the power in your caravan by pressing the relevant switch
Turn on the water pump
Open the hot tap until you get a steady flow – this will indicate that the pump is working as it should and is cleaned out and ready to use.
Ensure you turn on the water heater inside your van
Apply the toilet chemicals – These steps will vary depending on which model of caravan you own.
Your first adventure…
Now that you are safe to leave and you have an idea of how to set up the caravan once you arrive on-site, it’s time to decide where exactly to go! For the first journey, we would advise you to select a location fairly close to home. We recommend this to effectively increase your confidence and help ensure that you arrive at the caravan site before nightfall which will make a huge difference during the setting up of your van.
Get friendly with the neighbours
Caravan sites are full of friendly people. Everyone speaks to everyone and help each other get comfortable and settle in. It’s worth taking time to speak to the neighbours after arriving. They will help you learn what that particular park has to offer and where all the key points of interest are. They may also have some information about the local area and what activities there are on offer. It’s a great opportunity to create friendships and becoming part of the caravanning culture.
Learn the etiquette of caravanning from those around you
Caravan parks have their etiquettes. Sometimes there are a few unwritten rules about what you can do and how you should go about it which could be unusual for first-time caravanners. Most can be learnt from watching others. Ensure you ask for any clarification you may need so that you can quickly pick up the details and bond with the rest of the campsite. This applies to all caravan destinations whether it’s a holiday park or a touring site.
Obey the rules!
Every caravan site is different and has different amenities. For example, some have 24/7 security and others have an on-site lake. Each site will have rules and naturally, they need to be followed. On some sites, they have curfews for young children or opening times for certain attractions – such as a mini-golf course. Do your research before you leave and once arriving, contact the park owners if you have any queries or questions that maybe the neighbours cannot answer.
For all your caravan and towing requirements please speak to the experts at Bowers Automotive on 01782 590 700 or email enquiries@bowersautoparts.net.