RV FEATURE
and covered to protect them
from the sun. Don’t forget
to check the inner rims and
tyre walls for impacts. Some
people even relieve their van’s
tyres of some of their load by
lowering the corner stabilisers. travelling, activating the fridge
and freezer at the same time.
That way I can be sure the
beer will be cold on that vital
first night and there will be ice
blocks for that welcome G&T!
FRIDGE Getting away for a break
can be stressful if you’re not
organised. There are all the
things you need to do, like
mail redirections, getting pets
to safe homes, hitching up
with inexpert help, adjusting
mirrors, setting your electric
brake controller and then
remembering how to tow when
surrounded by B-doubles!
So make the first night easy.
For a start, don’t travel too far,
and stop well before sunset
so you can set-up leisurely in
daylight.
My wife makes extra food
during the two weeks before
our departure and then freezes
it in meal-size containers than
can be microwaved.
If that’s not possible, just
have a counter meal and
relieve the pressure. You’re
meant to be having fun!
If you have switched your
fridge off before storing your
van and haven’t left it ajar to
breathe, expect mould. It’s not
just enough to use hot water,
you need to use a mould
inhibitor or it can grow back.
BATTERY
Modern caravans
run a range of
small electrical
items, from LED
warning lights
to GPS security
devices
and they
all suck power
from the
battery. As well
as turning off
your caravan’s
master switch,
you should also
ensure that it has
a power input of some sort
(some people even fit small
solar panels to their A-frame)
when it is stored, particularly if
your rooftop solar panels are
shaded or covered.
I make a point of plugging
my van into 240V mains for
at least two days before
16
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FIRST MEALS AWAY
YOUR TIPS!
This list is by no means
exhaustive. What do
you do to your van
to get it ready for
adventure?
Send your tips to
info@gorv.com.au