If you are new in caravanning please read on:
This page is designed to equip you with the basic
information needed if you're considering buying a
caravan or other recreational vehicle.
- Buying a Caravan, Camper or Tent Trailer
- Tow Vehicle Considerations
- Tow Vehicle Accessories
- Choosing the right Caravan, Camper or Tent
Trailer
- Before you Depart
- Learning to Tow
- Buying a Motorhome or Campervan
- Background Information
- Consumer Checklist for Buying a Motorhome or
Campervan
- Where to find additional information
Buying a Caravan, Camper or Tent Trailer
Tow Vehicle Considerations
If you are planning to buy a caravan, camper or tent trailer and you already own the
tow vehicle you must ensure your tow vehicle is capable of towing within the guidelines for the roads department in your state or territory and comply with the caravan,
camper or tent trailer manufacturer guidelines.
If you have done this you'll need to consider the following information for the purchase
of your new caravan, camper or tent trailer (consult you tow vehicle handbook or
manufacturer)
- The tow vehicle's allowable (braked and un-braked) towing weight
- The tow ball weight rating
- Any additional equipment required for towing such as the fitment of a transmission or power steering oil cooler in your tow vehicle
- Manufacturer specifications for the type and rating of the tow bar required for specific
towing weights
- Tare and gross weight of the caravan, camper or tent trailer you plan to tow
Tare is the weight of the caravan, camper or tent trailer after manufacture (this is also considered a
dry weight). Gross is the all-up weight the axles are legally permissible to carry. The difference (weight
rating) between tare and gross varies from manufacturer to manufacturer so ensure you always check
this).
If you haven't yet purchased your tow vehicle this means you will be less limited in your choice of caravan, camper or tent trailer. You won't be restricted by gross or tow
ball weight (unless you're planning to purchase a two -wheel drive tow vehicle) as
once
you've selected the caravan, camper or tent trailer you can them match the tow vehicle
to suite. Of course you must always consider budget and height restrictions.
Tow Vehicle Accessories
After you purchase your caravan, camper or tent trailer you may need
to consider the following:
Electronic Brake Controller:
In most cases you will require an electronic brake controller fitted to
the towing vehicle to activate the trailer braking system. This should
only be fitted by an authorised auto electrician.
Weight Distribution Hitch
Depending on the size and weight of the caravan you may also require
a weight distribution hitch. This device helps distributes the additional
weight to provide more level and stable road behavior. There are various
configuration of these devices. (Weight distribution hitches are not
required on all application, however they are recommended as a safety
feature and offer stability on the highway when larger trucks pass or
overtake).
Choosing the right Caravan, Camper or Tent Trailer
Before you purchase your new caravan, camper or tent trailer, consider
the following:
- How long do you intend living in it?
- How many people will it sleep?
- Do you intend travelling on road, off road or 4x4 tracks and trails?
- Do you require alterative power such as solar panels and dual batteries?
- Do you require an onboard toilet and shower?
- Will you require an awning or full annexe?
- Do you intend to cook inside, out or both
- Are there copious amounts of internal storage vital for all personal items
- Do you intend carrying push bikes or other large objects?
- Do you intend using it at home for additional accommodation?
- Is height a major consideration for storage?
The above list is a good start. We recommend that you develop
your own detailed wish list in conjunction with any towing, budget,
height or other limitation.
Before you Depart
Delivery lead times vary between brands and models and it's not
usual to wait a few months for final delivery. In the meantime you
should consider the following:
- Obtain a comprehensive insurance inclusive of contents
- Freshen up on your towing skills and weight distribution
- Plan your trip and obtain the information required
- Check out the huge range of accessories that will enhance
your trip
- Service your tow vehicle and ensure your trailer wiring harness
is the right connection
- If you have specified alternative power you may need to fit an
'Anderson Direct Power Feed Plug' to your vehicle.
Learning to Tow
Towing courses are available at;
Metropolitan Traffic Education
Centre
Located at North Balwyn RSL, 2 Centreway, Balwyn North VIC
Ph: (03) 9857 5209
These courses are available for the beginner right through to refer stages. They include towing backing and reversing, hooking up and weight distribution. You may use your own
vehicle and caravan or they can arrange a caravan for you.
Buying a Motorhome or Campervan
Motorhomes and Campervans are gaining popularity and there's
an extensive range available today. The following is designed to
assist you during the purchase process.
Background Information
Campervans
Campervans sit on many chassis, the most popular being VW,
Ford, Fiat, Mercedes, Iveco and Toyota brands. Poptops are fitted
to the smaller units however in just about all cases the original
body configuration is maintained. The Campervan concept
combines a home away from home while doubling as your daily
transport if required.
Turbo diesel engines coupled to manual or auto transmission are
quite common in today's market. Campervans are generally not
designed to tow another vehicle, however many can tow small
boats, jet skis, motor bikes and so on.
Motorhomes
Motorhomes are largely configured from an individual chassis
and body. Most Motorhomes offer toilet and shower as standard
and the list of options is determined by your budget or physical
size.
Be mindful of the fact motorhomes exceeding 4.5 tonnes require
a light truck licence. This is not difficult to obtain should a vehicle
of this size be in your sights.
Consumer Checklist for Buying a Motorhome or Campervan
- Ensure it's within your drivers licence limit
- Do you intend using it as a daily get about vehicle
- Check your storage location for length and height restrictions
- If you intend touring off the beaten track, fit a generator and/
or alternative power pack
- Do you intend towing a small 4x4? if yes, check to ensure
that chassis has the legal capacity to accomplish this
- Ensure your partner is comfortable driving a larger vehicle in case of illness or injury to the main driver
- Insure your new motorhome or campervan including contents
Where to find additional information
For more information on caravans, campers, tent trailers, motorhomes
and campervans search:
Industry Magazines
Caravan World, Caravan & Motorhome and On the Road Magazine
are three informative Australian Magazines that will provide useful information
on brands, models and more. These are available at all Newsagents
Dealerships
Talk to accredited CIA Member dealers and check out what's available,
Don't forget to take along your wish list. If you have trouble find
a specific brand, call your local Caravan Industry Organisation for assistance.
Also look out for RVMAA badge located near the entrance door which
ensures the caravan, camper, tent trailer, motorhome and campervan
was manufactured to the latest compliance codes
Caravan & Camping Shows in Victoria
The Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow -
www.caravanshow.com.au
The Melbourne Leisurefest - www.melbourneleisurefest.com.au
The RV & Camping Leisurefest - www.leisurefest.com.au
The Border RV & Camping Expo - www.borderexpo.com.au
Websites
The web can be a great source of information. Some manufacturers
and dealers have their own web sites and offer a comprehensive
overview of their products. Many Caravan Industry Organisations websites also contain extra tips, hints and links.
Click onto www.ciavic.com.au to view the Victorian Trades Division
Members and other information.
