Heading out for a caravan holiday?
Follow these
tips for a perfect experience both on the road and at the campsite.
- Got WIFI … or sat nav … or just an old fashioned road map? Make sure you have what works for you to get you where you need to go safely and efficiently. Don’t get lost (unless that’s the objective!).
- Before hitting the road, have an endpoint in mind. Give yourself plenty of time to get there with slack built in to stretch your legs and go to the bathroom as well as for minor emergencies.
- Always check fuel levels and try to plot out when and where you’re going to refuel.
- Bring lots of games, DVDS, books, etc to keep everyone occupied during longer journeys.
- Book campsites well ahead of time and confirm dates!
- Be aware of where to purchase parts to prevent or minimise the effects of breakdowns. Sites like Campsmart sell caravan accessories. Give these sites a good browse and make a note (or better yet bookmark) such online resources before embarking upon your great caravan adventure.
- Plan meals before setting out. Figure out how often you’re going to need to replenish food and supplies and how that jibes with the route you have planned out. If not getting too far out into the wild, can you shop online with your favourite grocery and have the items delivered to where you’re staying?
- Stay in parks with plenty of activities for the different age groups you’re travelling with. If you’re caravanning with little ones, is there a playground or pool for them to enjoy?
- Don’t forget all the mundane necessities such as washing up liquid, eating utensils, napkins, toilet roll and all the other little things that become a big deal if you don’t have them.
- A few handy items to pack that not everybody always remembers are ziplock bags, clingfilm, large bin liners, and some sort of tape.
- Bring chairs!
- Use soft-sided bags for more manageable and efficient onboard storage.
- Roll clothing rather than fold them when packing.
- Pack with essentials and items you plan to use first or often most easily accessible.
- Save space by hiring things you’ll only need once you reach your destination, such as strollers, cots, bikes.
- Keep in mind the nature of your holiday. Are you heading to the beach, the mountains, an amusement park? Plan, pack and dress accordingly.
- Lay down the law before hitting the road. What are your expectations for cleanliness, meal time, sleeping and other concerns that everyone needs to be on the same page about?
- Bring a suitably stocked first aid kit!
