Ethan and some of the team from Caravan HQ recently took a couple of On The Move Caravans away for a long weekend trip in the stunning Gold Coast hinterland. While he was there, he took the time to give a On The Move Caravans 18’6 Traxx Series 3 walk through.

https://youtu.be/5na6Vn8OrpM

It certainly looks like he is a fan of the 18’6 Traxx series 3. And what a stunning location to spend the weekend.

From all accounts, the team had a great time, and the caravans handled it like a dream. We will be looking forward to seeing more photos and video from this trip in the not too distant future.

If you would like to learn more about this great Aussie Off Road Caravan, get in touch with us here

You can also see this as a stock item with Caravan HQ here

On The Move Caravans 18’6 Traxx Series 3 walk through is the first of many walk throughs to come. We will post these in our video section, as well as in our latest news, as they become available.

If there is a walk through you would like to see, let us know on our contact page.

Vital Tips for first time caravan owners

Going on your first caravan trip is so exciting for many reasons – but if we’re being honest, it can also be a little bit scary when you don’t have the right information.

No need to stress though, On The Move Caravans is here to help.

We’ve compiled a list of our top tips for first timers that’ll help make that trip one to remember, for good reasons.

Practice makes perfect

Before your first big journey, go for a practice run. Why? Because a smooth practice run means a stress-free main event! Set up your caravan in your backyard or a nearby park to familiarise yourself with the process and any accessories you have. This can save you so much frustration when you reach your holiday destination.

It also helps to create a set-up routine. Every caravan is a little bit different, but here’s a quick breakdown to get you started: Unhitch the caravan, secure that handbrake, and clear your tow vehicle away.

Next up, level your caravan and drop all four corner steadies till they’re firmly on the ground.

Activate the gas and water systems and plug in the power. Now, step inside your cozy haven and give the power and water supplies a once-over: heating, taps, oven, fridge – the whole shebang.

Taking the time for a trial setup can enhance your confidence and competence, ensuring a smoother experience when you finally hit the road. Don’t forget to pack up properly too.

Also, don’t forget to practice reversing. Again practice makes perfect: put in training runs before facing an audience.

Photo credit to Meerkat Creative

Don’t ignore campground etiquette

In the world of caravanning, embracing campground etiquette is the key to creating a community of respectful and considerate travellers. No one wants to be [‘that camper’ that everyone complains about.

Always be considerate of your surroundings. This isn’t just about being mindful of your neighbours, make sure you think about the wildlife too – this is their home after all.

Get to know your neighbours, you never know when you might need a helping hand. Plus sometimes they’ll know a thing or two about things to see and do, or you’ll make a new friend.

Other things to keep in mind are respecting the caravan park rules, stick to your own space, be mindful of volume – whether it’s music, TV or noisy conversations and always leave the campsite in the same condition you found it.

Enrol in a towing course

If you’re new to #vanlife, remember knowledge is the key to a worry-free caravanning experience. Towing a big caravan can be daunting, let alone potentially dangerous if you don’t follow a few rules.

Learning the ropes from seasoned trainers will help you understand things like payload and whether your tow vehicle is suitable or not. Ideally, do a course with your travel partner so you’re both on the same page. You’ll get hands-on advice about basic safety checks and tips on how to safely reverse a van.

Complete routine checks for early issue detection

Routine checks are the backbone of a trouble-free caravanning journey. By performing regular inspections, you can catch potential issues early, preventing them from escalating into major concerns.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide your routine checks:

Hitch and wheels: Look for signs of wear and tear, especially in high-impact areas like the hitch and wheels.
Seals around the windows and doors: Check for leaks or cracks. Damaged seals could allow dust and water to enter, leading to water damage or mould.
Roof inspection: Inspect the roof for any damage.
Ventilation: Ensure vents are clear of obstructions as proper ventilation is vital to prevent dampness inside the caravan.
Lights and signals: Confirm that all lights and signals are all in working order.
Handbrake and brakes: Ensure the handbrake is functioning properly and inspect the brakes for any signs of wear or damage.
Emergency equipment: Check your fire alarms, fire extinguishers and first aid kits to make sure they are all in good working order and nothing is missing or expired. A well-stocked first aid kit should contain bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape and other essentials.

Don’t forget to service your caravan

On that note, make sure to make time to have your van serviced! It’s drilled into us to always service our cars or motorbikes, but don’t let your van be forgotten.

The team at On The Move Caravans recommend servicing your caravan every 5,000km/six monthly, or before any big trip. If your caravan sits still for an extended period, it would be wise to get it serviced before heading out with your van in tow.

Our dealers offer a range of services:

Pre-Trip Service – check and repair (as required) of all major components.
Regular Servicing – check main areas of wear and tear together with those items that still require maintenance even when the caravan / RV is stored.
Electrical/Battery repairs and fitting – all 240V electrical and 12V battery repair and installation work including solar systems.
Gas fitting – repair, maintenance and fitting of all gas systems within a caravan / RV.
Suspension and Brakes – repair, maintenance and installation of all suspension types, braking systems and towing safety systems.
Carpentry – repairs, modifications and installations of all interior carpentry.
Exterior finishes – repairs and modifications to most exterior finishes used on modern caravans / RVs.

Don’t ignore noises coming from your caravan

If you hear anything out of the ordinary, don’t channel your inner detective. Immediately pull over and investigate the source of the sound. Can’t pinpoint the noise? No worries! If the source remains a mystery, it’s time to call in the pros. Schedule a check-up with a caravan professional to ensure every nut, bolt, and wheel is in tip-top shape.

Take it easy

No doubt you’ve been stuck behind a slow-moving van, but honestly there’s no reason to be embarrassed about taking it slow, especially if you’re new to the lifestyle. Naturally, towing something this big takes getting used to. It pays to rise early and hit the road before the crowds join the party. This is especially so when towing a caravan for the first time, as you’ll feel much more confident driving in light traffic.

Packing light 101

One of the top caravan tips for beginners – keep it light! Consider the weight of your caravan when fully packed. Overloading not only challenges your caravan’s limits but may also lead to legal consequences if you exceed towing capacity.

Packing heavy isn’t just a legal concern; it impacts your caravan’s fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability. Opt for a fuel-efficient journey and easier towing by taking only what you truly need for your trip. Leave the excess baggage behind. Literally.

Prepare to live in close quarters

Not used to living quarters in such close proximity to others? If you want to explore the country inside a caravan, it’s something you’ll have to get used to.

But don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be complicated, just make sure to plan accordingly. Bring a set of earplugs if you know that your companion snores. Take an eye mask as well if they like to stay up late reading with the lights on.

Find moments for everyone to enjoy some personal space – maybe a quiet reading session under the awning or a peaceful stroll. A little alone time goes a long way in keeping the caravan camaraderie intact.

On The Move Caravans is a family business, run by avid caravanners who love the lifestyle. Our people share this passion, and we’ll do everything we can to help make this part of the adventure a great beginning. If you’re thinking about starting your journey, contact us via the details here and we’ll be happy to help.

Vital Tips for first time caravan owners

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