Caravan Guide: All You Need To Know About Your Caravan And Its Accessories

"Caravan" is an ancient term that coined from a big group of people across the African and Asian region. These people were believed to walk and cover miles on foot. To make sure that they have all the necessary supplies to thrive in forests and deserts, these people used to carry all routine essentials with them.
A modern Caravan or RV is a similar vehicle without essentially having an engine of itself but mostly towed behind a road vehicle. It is like a motorhome with fitted accommodation and cooking equipment. A caravan covers all your basic needs while embarking for a camping trip, enhancing your camping travel experience multifold.
modern Caravan or RV

Here's a caravan guide that will help you to know all about Caravanning and the accessories that are best to buy:

What do you need to know about caravanning?

Caravan travelling is a perfect activity to spend fun time with your family and friends. While planning for a Caravanning trip the answer, you must know about the questions are:

which season is best
which places to visit
which places are best to visit at this time of year
what to carry on a caravanning trip
how to make more space
how and why people enjoy caravanning trips so much

In this article, we are going to answer all of these questions in many different ways. So keep on reading till the end.

A Beginners Guide to Caravanning

Sorry to break this to you but the hard truth about caravanning is that caravanning for beginners is exciting but difficult. We have curated a list of some most common questions that will help you a lot if you are just a beginner and it's your day zero to camping.

Part 1: What to Carry

Que. What do I need for my first caravan trip?

Ans. Planning for your first caravan trip may seem just like packing for a simple vacation, but on a caravan trip, you need to carry caravan tools with you. You should plan your trip in advance. Arrange a list of towing services on the way so you can quickly contact them in case a need arises. Make a list of all the places you can visit or rest. On your first caravan trip, you must also carry a few items, such as:ol>

Fire extinguisher
RV coolant
Extra RV batteries
Sleeping bags
Toolkit
Shovels, clamps and poles
Extra storage spaces like awnings and annexes

Que. Is towing a caravan difficult?

Ans. Depends on how you plan to tow it! If you have a caravan that needs an additional vehicle to carry it, then it is highly recommended that you assess the weight and load-bearing capacity of both the caravan and the vehicle that you plan to use for towing. You can fasten both with a locking nut and bolt system that will make sure the safety of the link between the two.

Que. What do I need to put in my caravan? (A Complete caravan set up checklist)

Ans. We suggest you can carry a lot of items to put in your caravan.

Batteries
Chargers
Cutleries
Groceries
Tables and chairs
Warm blanket, pillows and sleeping bags
Toiletries
Sanitisers
Towels
Empty bags and pouches
First aid kit
Extension cords
Dustbins
Torch
Sporting gears
Indoor sports
Extra blanket
Picnics
And anything else that you regularly need at home

Que. What equipment does a touring caravan need?

Ans. There are many types of equipment that come handy while travelling for a smooth and luxurious trip with your loved ones. You should carry both indoor and outdoor essentials such as:

Indoor equipment: Gas Kettle, Water Containers, Gas Bottles, Barbecue, Essential Toilet Items and other handy kits and tools
Outdoor equipment: Awnings, Rugs, Lightweight Chairs And Stools, Static Motorhome Step and utility items according to your comfort needs

Part 2: How to prepare

Que. What do I need for caravanning?

Ans. You need to make sure to have a valid license for both your vehicle and towing a caravan behind it. Without a license, you may attract some serious trouble to yourself. You will also need intercity and interstate permit for caravanning. Carrying some cash is also very helpful as you may often travel through highways and the ATMs are not filled quite regularly.

Que. What do I need for a caravan holiday list?

Ans. A caravanning holiday is very different from any usual holiday trip. It requires packing a lot of extra items. Even the best size is incomplete without preparing for a full-fledged holiday list.
To ensure a fully-prepared caravanning holiday, you should pack these things before hitting the road:
You can prepare your checklist category wise.

Kitchen: Pack extra plates, knives, serving ware, pots, and express maker
Medical: Personal and emergency medicines with extra pair
Bedding: Sleeping bags, portable bunk beds, cushions and bedsheets
Toilet: Hand wash and sanitisers, chemicals, cleaners
Caravan equipment: Battery, awnings, caravan covers and step
Entertainment: Card games, sports equipment
Additional: LED Flashlights, extra cords, glue, etc

Que. How to set up caravan?

Ans. Setting up a caravan is a very easy 3 step process. The difficult part is the labour needed in doing the steps. Steps to set up the caravan on site:

Identify the proper space and park your Caravan
Level your caravan and unhook from any other towing vehicle
Connect utility supplies and facilities like electricity, gas, water, and toilet to your caravan

Caravanning essentials

For a carefree caravanning experience, there are popular caravan brands that supply caravan products. These items help you in different ways once you reach your caravanning site.

Awnings: They can be fixed in the ground and protect you from weather elements like heat and rain
Annexes: Designed for providing you with a room for doing your favourite tasks in a hassle-free manner
Carpets: Beneficial for offering a stabilised structure to your caravan
Shades: Overnight camping is incomplete without shades

Caravan tips and tricks

Some caravan tips and tricks to bear in mind are:

Carry divider walls for dividing space inside your annexe.
If you are travelling with your pet, then carry pet enclosures with you.
Bring along slide-on bag sealers for storing multiple things.
Include gas bottle cover for securing it from weather elements.
Buy foldable pop-up laundry baskets before caravanning.
Carry compact water carriers for filling your aqua guard.

Popular caravan products and accessories

Annexes for Caravan and Motorhome

What is an annexe?

The most frequently asked question is, what is an annexe? An annexe is designed to provide an extension in your caravan. They can be installed in the fly screen, full walls, doors and windows.

Benefits of Having an Annexe

Annexes offer you privacy to relax in your space. They allow you to spend quality time in the fresh air. You don't have to worry about sudden weather changes as they are durable enough to protect you. They can be attached with awnings for additional space.

How to choose Right Caravan Annexe?

It is important to ask yourself what I should look for when buying a caravan annexe. First of all, decide whether you want porch rooms or extra rooms. It is recommended to buy the one with flared walls for enhanced protection. Also, buy the one with zips so that you can assemble the annexe easily.

How to set up caravan annexe step by step?

One of the convenient ways to Setup an Annexe is to:

Initially open and stretch up the annexe.
Roll out the fabric of your caravan annexe.
Make sure to layout the walls before installation.
Ensure to fit the poles properly.
Your annexe can now be attached to your awning for use.

Buying Guide: Which Annexe is Right For You

While purchasing a caravan annexe, you should be mindful of the following factors:

Right material: It is important to choose between canvas and vinyl material. Canvas material allows you to breathe comfortably as compared to vinyl. But vinyl material is lighter than canvas. As a buyer, you should go for an annexe with top material made of canvas and bottom made with vinyl.
Pattern and Colour: You can choose between the striped or plain design of your caravan annexe according to your taste.
Layout: It includes factors like annexe with internal walls, number of rooms, doors and windows. It is better to purchase an annexe with flared walls for improved space and protection.
Shade walls: You should consider buying a product that protects you from UV rays. Consider purchasing an annexe with a high sun protection aspect.

Awnings for Caravan and Motorhome

What is caravan Awning?

A caravan awning is an extended form of shading system. There are popular caravan awnings with extra rooms, providing a wide area for your individual requirements.

Popular Caravan Awnings

A caravan awning is essential for many caravan and motorhome enthusiasts. Finding the best caravan awning for your needs can be tricky, especially when you have a lot of options. It becomes difficult to decide the one awning for your caravan that would suffice all your requirements while being within your budget. Let’s start by exploring the different types of awnings on the market.

Roll Out Awnings
Wind out awnings
Wind Up Camper Awnings
Electric Awnings

How to install caravan awning?

You can roll out and wind your caravan awning out. For this, you need to follow these steps:

Slide awning in awning trail of the caravan.
Place the awning legs vertically.
Fix the top and bottom brackets (both sides) of the awning.
Remove the travel pins from both sides.
Extend your caravan awning properly.
Take measurements and levelling, set screws on the awning hardware.
Your awning is now ready to use.

How to choose the most appropriate awning for your caravan?

After figuring out how big should an awning be, the next step is to focus on its material. Choose canvas material for sun rays protection. Mesh fabric is perfect for enjoying the scenery outside. Acrylic fabric is less transparent than mesh but allows sunlight to enter. You can choose it if you want something stylish. How big should an awning be?

How to put up caravan awning

The simple tips to how to put up caravan annexe on site are:

Undo the travel locks from both ends.
Undo the plastic hatch and pull out the awning roller.
Once the awning is extended, fix the support arms up.
Put both the legs up and lock them.
Lock the support arms off from both ends.
Your awning is now rolled out.

How to put down the caravan awning

To close your caravan awning, follow these simple steps:

Take both front and rear outside arms and bring awning down.
Loosen tensioning knob to slide off both front and rear support arms.
Slide off your awning smoothly.
Close your travel locks now.

Caravan awning maintenance

Once you have figured out how to choose a caravan awning, you also need to know how you can maintain it. To keep your caravan awning long-lasting, you should wash off the fabric with water once a month. Once it is dry completely, then only close it.
Remember to not use any harsh detergents while cleaning. Keep a kit handy in your caravan for effective maintenance.

Caravan awning repair kit

Having awning repair kit ensures instant action on any piece or equipment. This kit is useful in cleaning flat surfaces of your caravan—the repair kit comes with repair adhesive, tape, wipes and gloves for easy and reliable repairs.

How to remove stains from vinyl awnings

You can use cleaning solutions to clean stains from your vinyl fabric awning. This solution contains bleach, soap and water to hose off the awning. It is necessary to let it dry fully before using it again.

How to secure a caravan awning

A caravan awning has the risk of bending or blowing off due to stormy weather. When you are camping in windy locations, remember to carry ratchet straps to hold your awning against the wind.
You can also use de-flappers to place the awning tight. Other than this, you should pitch the poles tightly. A 45-degree angle offers maximum resistance.

Best way to stop caravan awning from flapping

To prevent flapping of caravan awnings, make sure to carefully set the awning rolling correctly. It is better to use anti flap kit to stop strong wind damaging your roller bar. Fix the awning properly in the ground for firm support.

What awning does my caravan need?

A perfect caravan awning depends on two things: measurement and material. Analyse your requirements properly to choose between canvas, vinyl or mesh fabric material. Take and note down measurements correctly before buying a caravan awning.

How do you measure a caravan awning?

You can use a string for measurement. But how to use it to measure a caravan awning? Here's how you can do so:

Place the string on the position where awning channel meets the ground.
Stretch it to another adjacent side.
This length is the actual size of your caravan awning in centimetres.
Make sure that the caravan is placed on the even ground.

Does a caravan awning need to be exact?

As far as the measurements are concerned, it is recommended to have the exact measurement size of the full caravan awnings. But there can be little adjustments in the fit, as companies offer a wide variety of size in their products.

What's the best caravan awning to buy?

Xtend outdoors is one of the most popular caravan brands that deal in awnings, in different materials and designs. They offer vinyl awnings, wind up camper awnings, roll out awnings, and electric awnings.
You can also buy an awning repair kit from here. Get a caravan awning price guide by requesting a quote on their website.

What type of awning is best?

There are mainly two types of caravan awnings available in the market

Static awnings: They are permanently fixed to offer protection against weather throughout the year. You can choose to install them for decks or patio at your home.
Retractable awnings: You can use these temporary awnings for extending your outdoor space. Can be mounted to both wall and roof, one may use it to beat harsh weather.

So, which are the best caravan awnings for your abode? Choose wisely.

How do I know what size awning I need?

To purchase an exact awning for your caravan, you need a perfect awning size. The calculator suggests you measure from the point where awning rail meets the ground, and again back to the ground. This length is taken in centimetres.

What is the best size caravan to buy?

The size of an awning depends on the measurement of the caravan awning rail from the ground. This length is in centimetres. The size 9 caravan awning is a common size that fits into 850-875cm long caravan awning size.

Best Caravan Spots in Australia

New South Wales

BLUE DOLPHIN HOLIDAY RESORT, YAMBA

Known for its family-friendly accommodation, Blue Dolphin Holiday resort lets you enjoy in their in-house caravan and camping sites. All their sites are well-equipped with camp kitchen facilities. Plan a weekend getaway for fun activities in their picnic areas and pools.

FIRST SUN CARAVAN PARK, BYRON BAY

First Sun Holiday Park is dedicated to camping and caravanning lovers. They offer lush green surrounds, picnic spots and cooking facilities. You can enjoy trekking and campaigning activities along with taking water rides in their 15 waterfront powered sites.

Western Australia

ESPERANCE SEAFRONT CARAVAN PARK

Located opposite the beautiful Esperance Bay, Esperance Seafront Caravan Park consists of 170 sites surrounded by national parks. They have powered camping sites with the view of pristine beaches. It is the perfect escape to enjoy both caravanning and water-related activities.

MONKEY MIA DOLPHIN RESORT CAMPING

Famous for dolphin encounters, Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort has more than 120 caravan and camping sites. You can plan a luxurious time with your family in their beachfront family villas. Plus, they have both powered and unpowered camping sites.

Queensland

CAIRNS COCONUT HOLIDAY RESORT

Located in Cairns city, Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort provides you with a lavish stay where you can play sports and enjoy on-site water games. Each of their accommodation is inclusive of a private balcony, free parking, flat-screen TV and an air conditioner. Spend a luxurious vacation here.

DALRYMPLE TOURIST VAN PARK, CHARTERS TOWERS

Dalrymple Tourist Van Park offers you camping cabins with a pet-friendly facility. You can relish a wide range of meals that can be customised to your requirements. Plan a relaxing holiday and explore their toasty campfire, herb gardens, and resort-style pool.

Northern Territory

KAKADU LODGE AND CARAVAN PARK

To make you experience a quintessential camping experience, Kakadu Caravan Park has 200 unpowered camping areas surrounded by lush greenery. Have a pleasant stay with their family cabins, clean amenities and barbecue facilities.

BATCHELOR RESORT, RUM JUNGLE

Surrounded by Rum Jungle, Batchelor Resort gives you a comfortable stay along with discovering nature's beauty. The resort has powered sites, family cabins and tent sites for camping. Plus, you get to explore historical sites and natural grandeur of Litchfield National Park.

Victoria

BEST FRIEND HOLIDAY RETREAT, YARRAM

Best Friend Holiday Retreat is an award-winning park that offers you both affordable and luxurious cabins. Their park is pet-friendly, and their camping and caravan sites are fenced properly—a perfect holiday resort with a fantastic garden and rainforest views.

ANGLESEA BEACHFRONT FAMILY CARAVAN PARK

Angelesa Beachfront Caravan Park is an ideal destination to experience an adventurous camping trip with your family. You can book their bush camping sites, vents, tents suited to individual needs. Situated near the coastline, you can enjoy soothing waves and fresh ocean air.

South Australia

ARKAROOLA TOURIST RESORT, FLINDERS RANGES

Arkaroola Tourist Resort attempts to provide you bush camping, unpowered caravan sites, bunkhouse and cabins on its premises. For camping, they offer camp kitchen and laundry facilities. All you need to do is to book your favourite camping option in advance to enjoy a hassle-free stay.

TANUNDA CARAVAN AND TOURIST PARK, BAROSSA VALLEY

Tanunda Caravan and Tourist Park consist of both powered and unpowered camping sites. You can relish a real camping experience here as they offer a camp kitchen and BBQ facility. They have pet-friendly cabins along with beautiful swimming pools to refresh your body and soul.

July 31, 2020

Values Kids Learn On RV Trips

The entire spirit of camping for kids is to enjoy fun activities with their parents. The world of campfires, fresh air and natural beauty, not only refreshes them but teaches them a lot. As a parent, you should involve your kids in tasks like packing up essentials, setting up an annexe , arranging campsite, etc. These small tasks boost their confidence and ability to do tasks on their own.
Values Kids Learn On RV Trips

The environment of camping fosters relationships and reliability. As a parent, you want your kids to discover their share of learnings. RV trips are a reason to spend time with kids and teach them fundamental values in a fun way. This way, your kids will not feel bored and learn engagingly.
Here are some life values kids learn on RV trips:

1. Flexibility:

RV trips are full of unexpected events. Right from breaking up any part to managing without something; all teach the value of flexibility to your kids. Adapting to a new environment and having fun at the same time is a valuable life lesson. Your children learn to be flexible with plans in case things start falling apart.

2. Teamwork:

Camping is a bonding activity that teaches your kids to work in a team. RV trips require everyone to be cooperative and supportive of each other. Your kids can learn to value loyalty and to work as a part of a team. Moreover, your kids learn how to split different tasks like cooking, cleaning and work collaboratively.

3. Patience:

Things do not work according to your plans, and sometimes you have to wait for good things. Activities like fishing, sitting patiently during long trips and setting up camping extensions teach them to be patient and practice gratitude. RV trips can bring some discomfort at times along the way, but your kids can learn to put their thoughts in order in such tough situations.

4. Hard Work:

Camping involves a lot of fun games for kids, but they also learn to work in wild settings. Things like setting up and taking down the BBQ arm before and after the meal, installing pegs, masts, poles and ropes and checking them daily for any looseness, setting up the meal area, game area and cleaning up after you are done using, teach them the value of persistent efforts needed to achieve goals.

5. Respect towards Nature:

Exploring the wilderness of nature makes you a part of it. Your kids can learn to appreciate and preserve nature’s beauty. They learn to unplug from everyday routine and seek inspiration from nature. Eating outside, watching starry skies, listening to birds chirping; all strengthen the connection between nature and your kids.

6. Staying Organized:

Kids can also learn the importance of staying organized. When your kids assist you in fixing divider walls to play and keep their toys and games, keeping the pet safe in pet enclosure, teach them to keep things in a tidy and organized manner.

7. Curiosity:

When your kids step outside, they learn to embrace the unfamiliar environment. RV trips are a medium to witness the diversity of the world we live in. The exposure to famous landmarks, historical sites makes them curious and experience joy. It also makes them observant of new places, people and ideas.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next camping with your kids now. RV trips and camping are not only for exploring but an excellent chance to instil important values in your kids. These values prepare your kids for adulthood and are crucial for their holistic development and well-being.

July 24, 2020

9 Things that Can Make You Sick While Camping

Getting sick is really frustrating, and when you are away from home, it increases the frustration level as the situation is downright miserable at a campsite. Moreover, when your camping is all about the multiday hike, then you cannot afford to be sick because it could be dangerous for you.

Things that Can Make You Sick While Camping

Also, the weather may even take a wrong turn leaving you stranded on the road; so, it’s always better to be prepared for the worst circumstances. Here are some common ways you can get sick, avoiding these would help you with a safe and secure camping trip this time:

Un-boiled water from the lakes or rivers

You may find the river or lake water pristine and fresh, but it can be very unsafe for drinking. It may contain chemicals, pollutants, microbes, bacteria, diseases, and viruses that can survive in water for long enough. Ingesting such water, you are calling great trouble for yourself.

You stand a high chance of catching intestinal infection diarrhoea, which could be fatal if left untreated. Make sure you drink boiled water, and unless you are in a life and death situation where there is no way to purify it, you shouldn’t drink it. We recommend you carry drinking water before you head for camping, and when you have all the resources, then why take such risk?

Rodents

You will encounter lots of rodents and their droppings on the way to your campsite. It is best to protect your food from these rodents dropping because it may spoil your food, and it would be challenging to figure out later on as urine is invisible. In case you eat such an infected food, you may catch some deadly diseases that include anthrax, botulism, rabies, raccoon roundworm, giardia, hantavirus, Lyme disease, and plague.

Propane heaters in tents

If you use propane heaters in your caravan, then beware you may get suffocated due to the release of carbon monoxide. And, you may even burn your entire tent if it catches fire by mistake. We recommend looking for heaters with automatic carbon monoxide detectors as it shuts off the system to discover a low level of oxygen.

Rotten food

It is easy to get your food spoiled while camping, especially during summers. Eating such rotten food may cause indigestion, and you can catch several digestive diseases. We know you would never appreciate such a situation, and you may get extremely sick and catch food poisoning if you consume such food.
It is always best to cook your food thoroughly and never leave raw food on unprotected surfaces. Also, carry disinfectant wipes to clean off the surfaces. Use pasteurized dairy products and make sure you wash all the vegetables before cooking.

Too much exposure to the sun

Being on a camping trip, you are likely to get some heat under the season and who doesn’t enjoys it. But, the problem arises when you overdo it. You should avoid getting too much exposure to the sun; otherwise, you may get sunburns or heat rash.

It blocks the sweat glands and prevents the moisture from reaching the skin surface, which can result in mild itchiness, blisters, or deep red bumps when left untreated. Apart from this, if you continue getting exposure to the sun, you can catch a heatstroke, which could be potentially fatal. Make sure you wear cool and comfortable clothing during summers and also keep your sleeping area cool.

Wild plants

You may come across several wild plants during your camping, but its best to keep yourself protected, you may hurt yourself. They can prick you, and most of the illness comes from mistaking berries and other plants as edible when they aren’t, which could be extremely poisonous. Also, you must gather some knowledge about such wild plants and fruits, which may harm you.

Insect bites

When you are on camping, you may get several diseases like dengue fever, West Nile virus, Lyme disease, or other complications due to insect bites, whether it is a bug or a mosquito. Fortunately, there are many ways you can avoid such a situation:

Keep camping gear and tents away from the grass
Wear light-coloured clothing.
Use an insect repellant while camping.
Avoid overheating and sweating
Use a mosquito coil around camp.
Burn sage in the campfire

You can also attach mesh screens from Xtend Outdoors to your awning windows to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

Not maintaining proper hygiene

Sometimes we don’t pay much attention to hygiene, which may land us in big trouble later. It is important to do laundry when you return from camping, as you may notice some bugs on your clothing. Also, it would help if you washed your hands before cooking and eating food because you may not know how many viruses you have touched on your way to camping.

Otherwise, you may catch infections such as intestinal upset and diarrhoea and get eye infections.

Excessive consumption of Alcohol

You may enjoy sipping alcohol while camping or when spending time with your friends in the woods, as nothing is satisfying than that. Getting overly drunk may catch accidents where you may accidentally burn trees around you on just a spark. If you go drunk for river rafting, you may get drowned. So, it’s best to consume alcohol in a limit so you can handle yourself while camping.
These were some of the reasons you may hurt yourself or catch diseases while camping. Now that you know everything that can hurt you, it’s best to be prepared.

We hope you enjoyed reading the blog. For more caravan related stuff, stay tuned with us!

July 14, 2020

12 Fascinating Facts about Caravanning

Are you heading for your first caravan trip and curious to know how it feels?
It is like a magical experience with a beautiful sight where you disconnect with a stressful routine and spend time with nature. If you have never been camping, we recommend you go camping this holiday season and try something extra special.

Fascinating Facts about Caravanning

Here are 15 facts about caravan trip that will instantly light up your mood:

Relax! You aren't going to cut off from the society

People are often worried because they feel that they will be cut off from society.RV Parks offer 4G through which you can stay connected with your family and friends while enjoying the trip.

You may see a crazy line of Caravans on the road

As you hit the road in Australia, you will see crazy lines of a caravan touring from different parts of the country in the summer season. The lines are so long that they may block the entire region.

Caravans aren't new

If you think caravans are new, then you are wrong. They have been in existence longer than you think. The first caravan was documented in the 13th century, but it was first used for leisure in the 20th century. However, they have evolved a lot in the last century.

'Caravan' is not of Romany origin

Many people think that caravan is a Romany word; however, it is wrong. Instead, the word is derived from the Persian word, Karwan.

A smart rule for choosing a caravan

Caravanners follow a basic rule while choosing the right caravan for themselves. This is the smart 85% rule, which says that a caravan shouldn't weigh more than 85% of the tow car's curb weight.

Mark it as a second home

You can book a Caravan parking site and keep your RV for good. Next time whenever your friends plan a vacation, you can suggest them the same place and even gift them with a spot even during the busy camping season.

You can experience luxury while caravanning

Earlier caravans used to come with basic features in mind, but now caravans are more luxurious and are designed while keeping the lavish living in mind. Most of them now come with advanced features, marble countertops, and modern style beds which is the permanent part of modern living in caravans,

Caravans can be custom-built

Well, caravans already come with smart features,but if you want to make them more comfortable, you need to make a little extra investment, and everything will become perfect. Also, you can add your sense of style to the interiors and turn it to heaven inside.

The washing line could always be full

Washing and drying clothes while on a caravan trip can seem like a battleground where the washing lines will always be full. However, if you are an early bird, then you can wash it off in the night and hand upon the clothesline even before the sun comes out, and you will be done with your tasks.

Make your caravanning comfortable with accessories

A basic caravan in today's time can be a turn off for most of the young caravanners. Still, they have the option to make it more comfortable with countless accessories like annexes, awnings, extensions and shades, and many more.

You can protect your caravan in different ways

Barren roads and deserted locations may turn your caravan trip into a nightmare, but you can still protect your caravan through laser ID to lock the wheels and doors. Moreover, you can park your caravan on a busy road in the city or a safe location.

You can choose pet-friendly caravans

If you are a pet lover and like to carry your pets on a caravan trip, then many caravan sites will allow you to bring your pet with you. However, you need to keep them safe and prevent them from going here and there. You can use pet enclosures that you can carry to most of the locations and keep your pets safe and secure without compromising on the privacy and view.
So, these were some of the caravanning facts that you should know if you are a beginner. Hope you liked this blog, stay tuned with Xtend Outdoors for more caravanning related stuff.

July 07, 2020

The Ultimate Checklist When Buying a Used Caravan

When you have a tighter hand at the budget and wish to buy a caravan, then a brand-new caravan comes with new appliances, furniture, and expensive fittings. All this may make your dream caravan out of reach.

However, you can still fulfil your dream and enjoy a road trip with a used caravan. The market is full of second-hand options in Australia from where you can pick one for yourself. But, choosing the best one is the primary concern, which could be a little daunting.
You need to carefully inspect the caravan before you buy, which will simply unravel the complexities of finding a pre-loved caravan. We have come up with some purchase considerations that will help you find a caravan that ticks all the right boxes. Let’s take a more in-depth look:

Points to consider while calculating your budget for the caravan:

The maximum towing capacity of our vehicle and any upgradations needed
Number of times you plan for a caravan trip
Size of the caravan and capacity to accommodate people
Features- segregating the essential and advanced features
Margin to customize

Apart from this, there are some other points to discuss with the seller:

Years the caravan has been in use
Caravan history and maintenance records
Year of the last service
The distance the caravan has covered
Any major problems to be fixed

It would be best if you made some more inspection checks, and you might be stressing over these. Believe us, you don’t need to, as the least auto-savvy buyer can also perform these inspections. You just need to be patient and take your time. In case your seller doesn’t let you perform the inspection, then that’s a clear indication that the caravan may have some major issues.

Exterior Checks for the Caravan

Poor exteriors can give you an idea of what condition the caravan is in. Also, you need to know; otherwise, it may give you numerous issues down the road. Here are some main things to check on the exteriors of the used caravan your intent to buy:

Check for leaks, fading paints, and scratches
Check ladder if adequately installed or not
Check for unusual sounds when you drive, rock, or shake the caravan
Inspect shock absorbers for wear
Check for seals around the doors and windows
Check for rust
Check brake pads and hand brakes
Check all the towing equipment such as a hitch, jockey wheels, and jockey wheel bearings
Check for gas bottles and connections
Check cables for fraying, damage, and make sure all power plugs work and all are watertight
Check seals around the windows
Check whether the caravan has proper accessories such as awnings and annexes, extensions, and shades.
Check for flooring, poles ropes and pegs, bags, and covers.

If not, then you can buy it from XtendOutdoors, it offers the best deals on it.

Interior Checks for the Caravan

As you go from exterior to the caravan’s interior, you may get plenty of ideas to discover potential problems based on what you found outside. Use all your experience, knowledge, and be vigilant because it’s better to find issues at the moment and negotiate repairs during a purchase.

Check for all the appliances such as fridge, TV, radio, or resource monitor, whether accurate or not.
Check whether the satellite TV receives proper signals or not.
Check for solar panels if installed
Check for shower, toilets, taps, and tanks
Knock the inside of walls to check whether there are any hollow spots and cracks
Look at the overall shape of interior frames
Check the condition of canvas and seals
Check hinges and knobs in the kitchen area
Thoroughly inspect cooktop and other cooking appliances
Inspect electrical tags for compliance
Check for water stains on walls, windows, kitchen area.
Check for dust on cupboards.

If you think that you would need to clean the caravan later on after making a purchase then, you can use cleaning products from XtendOutdoors. You can use them both on the exterior and interiors of the caravan.

After going through the inspection, if you feel that you have found the right caravan that’s super comfy and has all the amenities, work on the negotiations. Compare different models as it will help you gauge how much worth it is. Evaluate your budget and cost of repairs, whether you have to make any adjustments to it? Discuss all these with your seller and when you find the terms and conditions satisfactory, move ahead with the purchase.

These were some important tips when you decide to buy a caravan. We hope you found it useful. If you want some more interesting stuff related to caravanning, stay tuned with us!
Thanks for visiting!

June 29, 2020

Winter Touring in Caravans and Motorhomes

Winters are so gorgeous in Australia that you will cherish the freezing mountains and cold pathways throughout your journey. During winters, Australia looks completely different and beautiful.
Winter Touring in Caravans
Well, if you aren't that familiar with the winter touring then, we have compiled a list of important stuff that you should carry to make your caravanning a little more comfortable:

Install some Annexes and Awnings

When travelling with the family, you need to make sure to have more than enough space for everything. In a cosy motorhome, it may not be possible to have enough space and so, installing awnings and annexes will help you.

Carry a supply of Freshwater

Australia is freezingly cold in winters. The pipes and tapes freeze and so do the other water resources. While buying water from the supermarket is always an option, but carrying some on your own is both economical and wise. You wouldn’t want to stay thirsty for hours running out of drinking water, waiting for some supermarket to show up.

Snow chains to tow your caravan

It can be extremely frustrating to carry extra weight during snowy winters; so, make sure you carry snow chains as it gives you extra traction on slippery roads. However, it requires some practice, but following proper instructions can you lead you in the right way. Also, we would recommend you to carry some waterproof gloves in the caravan for chain fitting which will keep your hands warm and keep the grease off your hands.

Cooking equipment is a must

How can you forget about delicious camping meals, when thinking of caravanning? To make your caravanning more enjoyable and comfortable, carry all the necessary kitchen equipment so that you don’t have to hassle for food. And, when we talk about caravanning food, then Aussies have a special memory associated with caravan barbecue as it is one of the most suitable settings to cook.
If you are concerned about a safe cooking space then, you can use Xtend Outdoors BBQ ARM. Made of sturdy galvanized steel, it is strong and easy to attach.

Caravan awnings are a life saviour

Carrying caravan awnings would come handy in protecting yourself from the wintery chills that you get on site. It will provide you with an extra room that’s insulated and protect you from the discomfort that cold breezes pose whenever the caravan door opens.
Carefree Fiesta Manual Roll Out Led Awnings is favourite among all RVers as it is simple to use and easy to set up.

RV Covers to protect your RV

You would surely not want your RV to look shabby due to bird feathers and snow accumulated on the top of your RV. It’s better to carry an RV cover to keep it protected from all the snow and grime that may accumulate when you park your RV somewhere and plan to unwind for a while.

Always carry cassette toilets

Another important concern while caravanning during winters is the exposure to chilly winters as you make a place for toilet and shower on the camping site. It can be really freezing and cold outside, so, it’s best to carry a Caravan Ensuite which is specially designed to add a shower and toilet area in your camper room. Moreover, it also gives you privacy which is much needed and easily attaches to your caravan.
These were some essential items that you must not forget when you are touring during the winters in Australia. Now that you know what to consider for a perfect winter camping, so just prep up and hit the road.
Have a happy and safe winter touring. For more caravan related stuff, stay tuned with Xtend Outdoors. We wish you have an exciting caravanning experience ahead!

Thanks for visiting!

June 24, 2020

Homeschooling While Caravanning

Schools have closed on-campus programs and offered online classes due to worldwide lockdown. As a parent, it is really worrisome to imagine your kids get accustomed to the shifting paradigm of education.
You may be afraid that soon in some time your young ones will start forgetting the lessons and by the time lockdown ends, they may have forgotten most of what they learnt so far and schools may ask to repeat maybe one or two levels of classes once again, right from the beginning.

In case you are also one among such parents then you can take a sigh of relief as we are acquainting you with a whole new kind of child-education methodology – Homeschooling while Caravanning!

Road Schooling a completely Fresh Start

Homeschooling and Travelling may sound ridiculous to anyone hearing it for the first time, but trust us, once you will dig it deeper, you will be amused to know how a lot of parents (travelling) on the road are doing it (and enjoying as well)!
Caravanning with kids is a big step in itself, and the decision of homeschooling on the road could be both, daunting and tricky. But one thing to assure you here is that it is going to be an enthralling experience for you and your kids.
Let us have a look at the checklist of what you should prepare while shifting from regular classroom education to the homeschooling on the road:

Turning your Caravan into a Classroom

You can add an L-shaped Porch or Storage Room to your Caravan and have your very own home school ready for some learning to get in action. The new environment will amuse your kids for good.
To keep a regular class or school-like feel, you may choose to add some books and games as well!

Getting a High-speed Internet Connection

With the latest standing of Australia on 68th positions among the 122 nations, it is quite evident that our continent faces the issue of poor internet connection or slow internet speed more often than anywhere else.
To make sure that your kids get the best education, you need to make sure to install a good internet service provider to look for any educational resource without the interruption in education.

Scheduling Education and Fun

Getting distracted from schooling while caravanning can emerge as a big issue even when it actually starts happening. So, to avoid the guilt trip of wasting one whole year of your kids, you can rather, start planning the schedule along with the itinerary.
You can schedule classroom-based learning while you are driving and open nature learning for the destinations you plan to visit.
This will allow both you and your kids to have a clear vision and goal, helping in avoiding any disputes or disappointments after it starts.

Deciding the places to Recline

Mark all the destinations and try finding out suitable caravan parking spaces around so you can make sure that your kids get ample time to acquaint with the surroundings and you achieve the ultimate purpose of taking their education outside the classroom.
In case you do not find any appropriate spots to take a breath, you can always install annexes and awnings nearby your Caravan and create your own reclination space anywhere you want.

Including some Travel-Themed lessons

Never underestimate the power of hands-on experience. Always remember the purpose of why you choose to take your kids with you while travelling.
Making a curriculum for them that coincides with both classroom and travelling will excite them and make the whole of the drill a lot easier for you as a parent. Given the freedom, you will see how beautifully they will develop their skills and upgrade themselves during the entire process.
These were the tips to consider while homeschooling on the road. We hope you found this useful. Stay tuned with Xtend Outdoors to know more about many of such fun stuff you can do while caravanning.

June 16, 2020

8 Tips to Keep Your Caravan Organized

Do you find it challenging to fit in everything into your caravan? Then, it’s time to de-clutter your caravan space and get it organized.
Whether you are on a solo trip or traveling with your family, it’s obvious to have a mess, and it is the reason that most of the travelers struggle on their way. It is important to stay sane and organized during the trip so you can effectively manage everything and concentrate on enjoying the trip.
Organized Caravan
We have come up with eight space-saving and storage tips for you so that you can have some sorted and relaxing time with your family:

Collapsible products

Always invest in collapsible products as they will solve storage issues and saves space. Get your hands on tabletop ironing boards, collapsible or pop-up laundry hampers, clotheshorses, drawer dividers, and many more. You can even hang them on the caravan ceiling and utilize the unused areas to store your stuff. Apart from this, you can easily put it under the bed and store all the odd items in it. It will make your caravan look de-cluttered and much organized.

Hooks

When you frequently travel, you might be aware of the pain of saving space and keeping your stuff organized. Invest in lots of hooks; it can be a great space-saving solution as you can hang a lot may things on hooks be it utensils, clothes, or keys. It can be a practical addition in your caravan that will help you to locate things easily.

Annex and Awnings

You can use annex and awnings outside your caravan when you plan to stay at a preferred stop. This way you can have a little more organized trip as you don’t need to hassle around looking for a place to unwind. Instead, you can make more space to unwind with annex and awnings and shield your caravan from rain, sun, and wind.

Fiamma Awning- F45S is one of the best awnings designed in user-friendly European style, which is easy to handle and use. It fits in the small and large types of motor homes that give extra space to accommodate some items.

Electric Roll Out Annexe is another excellent product that comes with anti flap kit and curved rafters. It imparts strength to your awning and adds extra floor space which you can use it as an extra utility space for storage. This way, you don’t waste time looking for things in your caravan.

Pet enclosure

If you are a pet lover and frequently travel with your pets, then we can imagine the mess they create. Keeping them is a tedious task as they always keep you on your toes and make you run to look for them every now and then.

Pet enclosure can be the best thing you invest in as it provides an entirely safe, secure, and private area for your pets without compromising on your leisure time. You can easily install it at any location and customize it to suit your taste. It is going to give you a much more relaxed and organized trip with your pets.

Stackable storage tubs

Stackable storage tubs have the potential to accommodate maximum items from clothing to kitchen utensils and cleaning essentials to children’s toys. You can keep it in the kitchen area to store utensils or other essentials. Make sure you choose the stackable containers according to the dimensions of the area in your caravan where you want to fit in.

Magnetic strips

Magnetic strips are also a great option to keep your stuff organized such as scissors, knife, or cutter. You can stick them on free space inside your caravan. It is handy, and you can easily locate them when you need them.

Nesting bowls and measuring spoons

Use nesting bowls and measuring spoons in stackable sets is another excellent investment you can make. They avoid wastage of food items and keep you organized while cooking in your caravan. They can easily be accommodated as they are space-saving and are convenient to locate when you are to bake or cook something.

Rollout awning clothesline

Are you frustrated at the thought of drying your clothes when you are caravanning? If yes, then you need not worry anymore. We would recommend you invest in a rollout awning clothesline. You can call it as “laundry on wheels.” It is a very convenient option to dry up your clothes and keep yourself organized. It can be easily attached to your caravan and comes with a carry bag that you can easily store in your caravan.

Important tip -

“Less is more” and it is certainly true in this sense where you may get frustrated while fitting in your excess stuff. Remember you are on a trip and not at home. We would recommend you to carry less stuff with you so that you don’t struggle to store it in your caravan. Moreover, take multipurpose items with you so that you can avoid the hassle of carrying everything with you.

So, when it comes to organizing your caravan follow the tips mentioned above, and consider carrying less stuff as organizing is difficult with excess stuff.
We hope you liked the blog. For more updates, stay tuned with us.

June 08, 2020

CHOOSE THE BEST BATTERY FOR YOUR CARAVAN

Caravan batteries form an essential part of the entire system without which you can't imagine a good caravanning experience. When it comes to caravan batteries, the better it suits your caravan, the better performance you can expect.
Caravan Battery

Well, the market is choke-full of battery options, and getting confused is obvious. You shouldn't be confused anymore as we are here to help you choose the best battery for your caravan, so don't worry. But before we move ahead with the battery options, let's understand the basic difference between a caravan and a car battery that people often confuse.
A car battery provides high power, which is enough to start a car while a caravan Battery is designed to provide steady power over a prolonged period. Moreover, the power requirements for caravans often depend on your level of comfort when you are on your camping. This power helps to keep your electrical appliances charged for a long time.
Hence installing a battery into your caravan is the best way to store energy for your electronic devices. This way, you can are free from the hassle of noisy generators at the campsite. Also, you won't need any mains supply to get your electronic appliances charged.
Now, that you know the difference between a car battery and a caravan battery, let's move ahead with the best option for your caravan:

DEEP CYCLE BATTERIES

As far as RVer's are concerned deep cycle batteries are the ideal choice for your caravan. They are used for running appliances in your caravan and come in different types such as Gel, AGM, and Lithium.

Gel Cell

Gel cell batteries come with plates that keep the electrolyte fluid suspended in a silica gel. These are spill-proof and robust. However, they fall on an expensive little side but are more efficient for deep cycle operations. The only one drawback that they have is their sensitivity towards high voltage spikes. Hence you are required to keep them charged at 14.4V for which you would need a separate dedicated charger.

AGM

Another category of deep cycle batteries is the Absorbed Glass Mat(AGM). It has an absorbed glass fiber mat that sits suspended in an electrolyte. They are completely sealed and requires less maintenance on your part. Since they have the lowest self-discharge rate, they are ideal for frequent caravanners.

Lithium

Lithium-ion(LiFePO4) is the most common type of battery used for RVs. The biggest advantage of having a Lithium battery is that even if your battery is down by 10-20% on a charge, the output voltage remains constant. They, too, require a dedicated charger. If you require a 12V load during an extended trip, you don't need to worry as Lithium batteries would get off well.
The only drawback it has is that it falls on a costly side. If you can afford to have them, then there's no better choice than this.
These were some of the battery options for your caravan. We would recommend you to look after your needs and the kind of comfort level you wish to have in your RV. Only then you move forward with the battery selection.
Apart from batteries, caravan accessories also hold the same value when it comes to comfort. If you are looking for some cool caravan accessories then, check out our website https://www.xtendoutdoors.com.au/. We are the market leaders in RV outdoor products and offer premium annexes, awnings, and accessories. We deal in retail, wholesale, and have an exclusive installation network. If you need our help, do let us know at- https://www.xtendoutdoors.com.au/contact/ or call us at- 1300-783-776.
We hope you liked reading the blog. For more updates, stay tuned with us.

May 29, 2020

TIPS FOR SAFE CORONAVIRUS CAMPING

Travel planning has been disrupted everywhere due to COVID-19, and people are asked to avoid unnecessary travel. But, as the camping season is coming back, we all need to rethink the idea of camping and figure out ways for safe camping.
However, we are encouraging you to follow social distancing and keeping yourself safe strictly. Well, if you are living in places where camping is still allowed, we must say that you are fortunate enough to taste freedom. As you hit the road, you must understand your responsibility and indulge in safe camping. But how would you do that?
SAFE CORONAVIRUS CAMPING

How to Camp Safely during the Coronavirus Epidemic?

Here are some tips and trick to safe and secure camping during the pandemic:

Do research

Before you go out camping, you must do your homework and figure out the places with travel restrictions, avoid going to such places. Also, keep room for some flexibility as changes are coming in rules every other day. Follow the credible resources to carry out your research and schedule your trip accordingly.

Prep your resources

Ensure that you prep your resources before you indulge in camping so that you don’t have to face an uncertain situation. Note down the essential you would probably need during the trip; it could be a gas tank, groceries, sanitizers, handwash, and other important stuff. Carry some medicines as you may face shortage of medical stuff due to the outbreak.
Also, if you have to interact with the locals in case you need something, we would recommend you to follow social distancing.

Find a safe spot

You may get past to some containment zones while you are on your trip where the spread is at a higher level. We would recommend you find a safe spot and stay there so that you don’t expose to the virus.

Take proper nutrition during the trip

As you all know that coronavirus is hitting bad to the people with low immunity, so make sure that you keep your nutrition up while camping. We would recommend you take immunity boosters along with you, or if you don’t have, then you may follow some simple remedies to up your immunity level. Eat as many fruits, nuts, and seeds as possible.
As you would be camping, it is apparent to stay awake while driving the caravan; you still need quality sleep to keep up the energy levels. Make sure to get plenty of sleep as it will boost your immunity.
Also, do spend some time under the sun. It would help your body make natural Vitamin D, which plays a vital role in boosting your immune system.

Consider backyard camping

Being an adrenal junkie or a travel lover, we know you can’t keep from camping. Still, it is important to keep your excitement level under control, at least at this time. We would recommend you to try out backyard camping, this way you will get some good time to spend outdoors with your family. You can decorate your camping site in the backyard to give it a feel as if you are caravanning outside.
You can use inflatable extension rooms adjacent to your caravan and attach shade walls to it. Also, you can enclose an awning porch to spend some time partying outside with your family.
We know the importance of spending time outside; it helps you release stress and refreshes your mood. Whether you plan or not plan to step out, it is essential to spend some time outside even in the quarantine, but with proper safety. Make sure to follow social distancing and other restrictions as your step outside.
We hope that you liked the blog. For more updates, stay tuned with us.

May 22, 2020

Traveling by RV is Safer than Buses, Trains, and Airplanes during COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 has scared people so much that they are reluctant to travel through buses, trains, and aeroplanes. As people are practising social distancing to contain the spread of the virus, they are refusing to take any public mode of conveyance.
RV Traveling

So, what are we left with? If you travel through any public transportation, you don’t know if anybody who sneezed during the trip had coronavirus. In such a difficult time where nobody can bear people coughing and sneezing behind their back RV comes to our rescue. When you have RV then why to go through such torture?
Here are four reasons that will let you ditch the public transport and switch to RV:

Excellent Mode of Quarantine

When nothing is left untouched from coronavirus, then your RV is the best way to quarantine yourself. When you are to travel from one place to the other, you can do it without stepping out of your RV.
Apart from this, it is going to be a comfortable journey as you have everything inside from food to entertainment to sleeping arrangements. It is like a mini mobile home where you can keep a distance from others.

Safe and Secure

Your RV is the safest mode of travelling where you won’t come in contact with anybody during your trip. Moreover, your luggage and other things are kept safe and secure, which leaves no chance of theft.

Convenience

When you travel through an aeroplane, bus or a train, you have to follow the timings and leave your house early to reach the place at the time. If you are having a flight scheduled at morning 6, then you need to be at the airport by 4 AM and leave the house even earlier. As a result, you would sleep for the rest of the day. But, when you travel through RV, you have the convenience to travel on your terms and can leave the house at the time you want. Moreover, you have the bed inside so wherever or whenever you wish, you can stop to take some rest.

Pricing

Many would claim that RV is expensive, but what about the travelling bills you pay if you are a frequent traveller? It is a significant investment where you can enjoy the freedom to travel on your terms in the long run. Make sure that you maintain your RV properly and keep it clean and sanitized.

Food Safety

When you travel through some other public transport, you have to make all the preparations such as food and packing your luggage beforehand. Moreover, you don't know that the food you are being served may contain coronavirus. But, when you travel through RV, you have the kitchen therein where you can cook food whenever you want safely with all the precautions.
We know that you are not willing to put yourself and your family at risk during COVID-19 pandemic. We would recommend you to travel through an RV and stay safe in your ecosystem till the danger subsides. COVID-19 epidemic has made travel by RV safer and reliable than any other mode of conveyance. At this point of time, RV has the upper hand over other transportation modes, if you are looking to buy one contact us here!

May 07, 2020

How to Recreate Camp Cooking at Home

Have you ever gone camping? If yes then, you might be missing the camping experience, especially the camping meals. We all know there is something unique about camp cooking which makes it a memorable experience. Be it grill or using foils for cooking meals you get ample opportunity to get creative while cooking in the open during camping.
If you got an open space at home, either you could start cooking in the fresh air, or you can also use a caravan awning porch for cooking. We recommend you to eat outside in the fresh air to enjoy a camping experience fully. You can also attach shade walls to your caravan, arrange some chairs and take delight in the open space.
Camp Cooking at Home

Let’s have a look at a few recipes to re-create a camp cooking experience:

Campfire Damper

It is the traditional camping dish of Aussies which is so easy to make that even kids can cook it over the campfire. If you don’t have the campfire setting at home then, you can try making it in the oven. The recipe is simple where a wheat bread is baked in the coal fire and served with your favourite topping. It tastes delicious and gives you the feel of an ultimate camping experience.

Baked Potatoes

Potatoes are everyone’s favourite and are easy to make. Pierce the potatoes with a fork, wrap them in foil and let them cook in the oven. Take out the potatoes after a while and add your favourite toppings, butter, salt, and some pepper to enhance the taste. You can also serve it with some delicious dips, sour cream, chives, cheese, avocado, and baked beans.

Jaffles

Jaffles is another gourmet recipe that you can try at home to refresh your camping memories. It is one of the easiest camping meals that you can prepare at home. You need to make a sandwich with your favourite filling and you are done. Either you can use a jaffle maker or can cook it in a BBQ. If you don’t have any of these, then cook them in a sandwich press or try making it in a pancake style in a frying pan.
You can use ham and cheese, baked beans, tinned spaghetti, mince or anything that you like as a sandwich filling.

An Aussie BBQ

When it comes to cooking on a camping trip; it is incomplete without a BBQ. A classic Aussie BBQ can also be created with available options at home; it doesn’t need to be grand at all times. You can use veggie skewers, onions, sausages, burgers and kebabs, let it charred to get that smoky taste and the real campfire feel.
You can use a BBQ arm extendable stand by Xtend Outdoors to make your camp cooking a little more comfortable.

S’mores

S'mores is another delicious camping treat that you can easily make at home. You can use chocolate, marshmallows and crackers to make the simple dish. Usually, you toast the marshmallows on the campfire when you are on a camping trip. Here you can get a BBQ, to toast the marshmallows and prepare delicious s’ more into an open sandwich. It is similar to grilled cheese. You need to place it in the oven or a BBQ to grill for a few minutes. Make sure you don’t burn them entirely else it will melt and drop everywhere.
These were some camp cooking ideas to recreate a camping experience while you are at home.

April 25, 2020

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