Caravanning, Camping & Motorhoming in Western Australia

Caravanning

1. Buying the van

  • Be aware of your ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) - the total laden weight of the caravan including payload. If exceeded insurance and warranty may be void.

  • The dealer should advise the type of towing equipment & tow bar suitable for your van.

  • Understand Ball Weight - the impact of the weight of the van on the towing vehicle. Usually Australian design vans have between 10% and 15% of total van weight on the tow ball with a gross trailer mass allowance of 300kg on a single axle and 400kg for a tandem model.

  • What maximum weight can your vehicle tow? Check your vehicle plate.

  • What is your vans recommended tyre pressure? On average about 15kpa above normal.

2. Understanding driving alterations when towing your van

  • Acceleration is slower.

  • Braking is slower and increases stopping distance. However, most new vans are fitted with electronic brakes requiring the tow vehicle to have a brake controller fitted.

  • When travelling downhill a lower gear must be used. This gives better control and reduces the load on your brakes.

  • Accelerator, brake and steering must be smoother to avoid sway or "snaking" causing loss of control.

          "Towing Safely" information sheet

 

3. Safety on the road - for you and others

  • The increased braking distance means that an increased distance between yourself and any other vehicle is essential for safety.

  • Allow for increased time and distance required when overtaking due to larger overall rig length.

  • Allow for a wider berth when turning due to increase in overall vehicle length.

  • Parking is seen as the most difficult exercise but practice makes perfect. Try using a guide to avoid accidents.

  • Be aware of height restrictions, especially if your van is higher than your vehicle.

  • Remember that driving tired can kill. Take regular breaks to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

4. Weather conditions

  • High winds may mean loss of control. Serious accidents can occur if your van is top heavy.

  • Wet Roads.

  • Drivers must heed any "Dangerous Crosswinds" signs. Gusts may affect the stability of the caravan.

5. Packing your van correctly

  • Pack heavy items at floor level with particular weighty items over the axle.

  • Place light items in elevated cupboards to avoid being top heavy.

  • Ensure all items are secured so nothing becomes lose and moves around the van whilst in motion.

6. Helpful accessories

  • Extended mirrors are needed to see behind the van.

  • Brake controller - activates the vans brakes simultaneously with the brakes of the towing vehicle.

  • Necessary tools required to fit parts on your van and any spares you have.

  • A fire extinguisher is essential.

7. Special requirements for different vans

  • Van is wider than 2.1m: Side lights are required for night driving.

  • Van weighs over 2 tons ATM: A breakaway system is required.

  • Automatic vehicles should use manual control in a low gear when climbing / descending steep slopes.

  • Up to 2.5 tons Gross Vehicle Mass: One safety chain is required.

  • Between 2.5 to 4.5 tons Gross Vehicle Mass: Two safety chains are required.

8. General checklist before the trip

  • Wheel Bearings - Grasp the tyres & rock firmly. Is there excessive movement?

  • Load Mass & Weight - Does the suspension look right, properly distributed & balanced? Is it below the weight limit?

  • Brakes & Brake Fluid - Do they function correctly? Are your brake fluid levels correct?

  • Handbrake - Has the handbrake on the caravan / trailer been correctly released?

  • Tyre Inflation - Are your tyres correctly inflated to suit your van?

  • Caravan / Trailer Coupling - Are trailer coupling and safety chain/s securely fastened?

  • Crossed Safety Chains - If 2 safety chains are fitted cross them to prevent the draw bar from contacting the road if the trailer becomes disconnected.

  • Awnings - Is the roll-out awning stored away and locked in position?

  • Jockey Wheel - Remove jockey wheel from clamp and store in boot or lock in travelling position.

  • Stabilisers - Are the front & rear stabilisers in up position? Stow the winder in a safe place.

  • Pop-tops / Camper Trailers - Ensure that all pop-top & camper trailer roof clips are in place.

  • Gas Cylinders - Check gas levels & that all cylinders are turned off.

NO ONE IS PERMITTED TO RIDE INSIDE THE VAN.