Before you go

The checklist items listed below are only suggestions and can be altered to suit individual requirements.

Car

• Fuel tank(s) full and spare fuel if travelling long distances
• Oil level - engine and transmission
• Coolant level
• Condition of all hoses
• Fan belt tension and condition
• Brake fluid level
• Tyre pressures
• Operation of lights
• Mirrors secured and adjusted
• Insect screen in front of radiator

Caravan Interior

• Cupboards and drawers securely closed
• Table secured
• Refrigerator - check that the containers with liquids are sealed and lock door
• Hatches and windows closed
• No loose items in cupboards or on shelves
• Fire extinguisher fitted

Caravan Exterior

1.  Prior to holiday

• Gas bottle filled and secured
• Water tank filled
• Brakes checked and adjusted
• Wheel bearings adjusted
• Spring shackles lubricated (this is easier if van is jacked up to remove load off shackles)
• Wheel nuts tight
• Condition of tyres

2.  Before moving off

• Jockey wheel removed or secured
• Lights operating correctly
• Gas turned off
• Tyres inflated correctly
• Doors locked and steps raised
• Jacks raised or safety stands removed
• Wheel chocks removed
• Hand brake released
• Electrical connection between car and van secured
• 240V electrical lead disconnected
• Water and/or sullage hose disconnected
• Towing equipment correctly fitted
• Safety chains secured

Spares

• Fan belt and radiator hoses
• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Spare wheel and tyre to suit caravan
• Tube to suit car and caravan tyre
• Insulating tape
• Electrical wire
• Tow rope

Tools and Equipment

• General assortment of hand tools to suit sizes on car and caravan
• Tyre levers (2)
• Wheel brace to suit wheel nuts on car and caravan
• Jack to suit car and caravan
• Tyre gauge
• Wheel chocks
• Blocks for placing under corner jacks, stands for wheels for soft ground or unlevel site

Other Considerations

• Check the weather forecast for your destination and driving conditions before setting out
• Give a friend or family member who's staying home a copy of your itinerary, including a contact phone number and details of where you'll be staying
• Learn the basics of First Aid so that you can feel confident in an emergency. The Red Cross offers courses in basic first aid
• Learn campfire safety to help you keep the fire in the fire ring and prevent spreading
• Respect the rights of other people like yourself enjoying a caravan holiday