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Outback Touring – Preparation

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We suggest the following outback touring preparation before you embark on a tour.

Item/Modification/Task
Benefit/Reason
Notes
Install a Friction Sway Control. Keeps van under control in sandy or muddy conditions. Subject to the weight ratio of the car and caravan.
Ensure Two Spare Caravan Wheels are carried. Because travelling without a functional spare creates anxiety that will spoil the experience.
Fit deflector plates to shield all exposed PVC pipes under the floor. Stones will quickly shatter any exposed PVC piping.
Fit water tank guards to cover the tanks and the inlet and outlet barbs. The plastic tanks and fittings are highly vulnerable to stones. Your water is very important.
Carry a second gas bottle. LP Gas may not always be available. Ensure the means of storing and securing the bottle is adequate.
Adequate ground clearance for the caravan is a must. Prevent the van under belly from bottoming out due to sandy tracks, wheel ruts or the like. We recommend a minimum of 17″ coupling height.
Fit hold down mechanisms for stove lids, microwave and fridge doors. On corrugated roads a fridge door can swing open and make one hell of a mess. Octopus straps with anchor points work well.
Check that the fridge, stove and microwave are well fixed to the body. Again the corrugations will force heavy objects free of any inadequate mountings. eg. The fridge chassis should be bolted through the floor.
Ensure that the caravan fridge works well on 12 volts from the car and is satisfactorily insulated and vented. Anticipate hot weather so get the best out of your refrigerator whilst you are both driving and stationary.
Seal any obvious dust entry spots: wheel arches, around pipes etc. Otherwise you may encounter bull dust in the van for a long time after. A pressure vent or four seasons hatch does help.
Seek advice as to whether an A-Frame Stress Rail is required. A stress rail gives the A-Frame extra support and reduces flexing. Particularly important where the draw bar is light weight.
Carry a spare caravan chassis spring, U Bolts and Fish Plate. Relatively easy for a local workshop to fit if required but difficult to procure.
Ensure the caravan body is well attached to the chassis. Corrugations will cause the van to tear away from the front cross member if this fixing is failing. Test by pushing the front roll up and down and watching for movement at the bottom.
Assess the risk of damage (from stones) to the towing vehicle’s rear window. Stones can ricochet off steel fitting back onto the vehicles rear window. A laminated, heated and tinted rear window might cost $1000.
If you don’t have a second spare wheel to suit the car ensure you carry a spare tube. Because travelling without a functional spare creates anxiety that will spoil the experience. Make sure you have the right equipment to install it too!
  • Gather information about the specific outback area you plan to visit. Learn about the terrain, weather conditions, road conditions, and any potential hazards.
  • Check if permits or passes are required for certain areas or national parks, and obtain them in advance.
  • Familiarize yourself with the local regulations and guidelines for camping, waste disposal, and fire safety.
  • Ensure your caravan is in good condition and roadworthy. Schedule a thorough inspection and servicing of the vehicle, including checking tires, brakes, suspension, and electrical systems.
  • Install any necessary safety features, such as a fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, and carbon monoxide detector.
  • Consider adding additional storage solutions, such as roof racks or storage boxes, to accommodate extra gear and supplies.
  • Securely fasten all items inside the caravan to prevent shifting during travel.
  • Determine your intended route, including the places you want to visit and the distance between them.
  • Take into account the driving time, fuel availability, and any potential overnight camping spots or rest areas along the way.
  • Consider your travel pace and allow for flexibility in case you want to spend more time at certain locations or adjust your itinerary.
  • Carry sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and washing. In the outback, water sources may be limited or not readily available.
  • Pack enough food and non-perishable items for the duration of your trip. Plan meals in advance and consider any dietary restrictions or preferences.
  • Bring appropriate clothing for the outback conditions, including hats, sunglasses, sturdy footwear, and clothing for both warm and cool weather.
  • Pack essential camping gear such as tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs, cooking equipment, and utensils.
  • Don’t forget personal items like toiletries, medications, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a comprehensive first aid kit.
  • Inform someone of your travel plans and provide them with a detailed itinerary. Establish regular check-in points or a system for emergency communication.
  • Carry a reliable communication device such as a satellite phone or an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB).
  • Research the available mobile network coverage in the areas you’ll be traveling through and consider purchasing a booster or external antenna if needed.
  • Study basic navigation skills, including using maps, compasses, and GPS devices.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic car maintenance procedures and carry necessary tools and spare parts.
  • Research the nearest medical facilities, service stations, and mechanical workshops along your route.
  • Carry a well-stocked emergency kit, including a fire extinguisher, spare tire, jack, wheel brace, jumper cables, and a tow rope.
  • Learn basic first aid skills and bring a comprehensive first aid kit that includes supplies for treating common injuries and ailments.
  • Contact AllBrand Caravan Services today for more tips!