PRE-TRIP RV CHECKLIST

It is important to make sure you perform all necessary checks before you leave on a caravan or RV adventure. Prior to travelling to your next destination, we have compiled a pre-trip RV checklist for you to ensure nothing is forgotten before driving off. 

While conducting these checks, it is a good idea to have a physical checklist printed as well as a second pair of eyes to prevent any oversights.

*To print off the full checklist, see the bottom of the article!

RV pre-trip interior check

Secure any loose items or luggage. Make sure all internal doors and cupboards are closed and secured – including the refrigerator door. All internal loads and loose items in the caravan must be secured, this includes any bags, the TV, microwave plate, etc. Disconnect the TV. Set the fridge to 12V mode so that it remains cool during your trip, and engage the travel catch. Wind the TV antenna down and secure it in the travel position. Secure all vents/ hatches, skylights and window mechanisms but be sure to leave window shades open.Then, exit the caravan and lock the door behind you. 

Interior check, done!

RV pre-trip exterior check

Now it’s time to make sure the outside of your caravan is ready to take off.

Pack away all power cords, water hoses or other cords. Make sure all external (storage) doors are locked and gas taps and cylinders are turned off. Remember to drain the water system before disconnecting it. Ensure all waste tanks are empty and the water pump is turned off. Secure all awnings and make sure all straps and handles are tightened. Check that the entrance step and stabiliser legs have been retracted.

Caravan hitching

Ensure your caravan is correctly coupled to the tow vehicle. Check that the fixing nuts on fixed tow balls have not come loose and check the nose weight, ensuring it is leveled. Then check your safety (break away and secondary) cables are correctly attached. Two chains are normally fitted. Crisscross the chains and use ‘D’ shackles to connect them to the secure points on the towbar. Check that the hand break and motor mover is disengaged and remember to connect the caravan’s electronics to the car. From there check that the break lights, taillights, indicators, reverse lights and clearance lights are all operating well. You will need a spotter for light checks. Ensure the jockey wheel is raised and secured.

Make sure towing mirrors are fitted and adjusted. You must be able to see clearly down both sides, as well as behind your caravan.

Wheels

Move to the wheels of the caravan. These are fundamental to road safety. Check that all wheel fixing bolts are correctly tightened. Tighten them with a torque wrench to 90ft lb or 125nm. It is recommended that nuts should be re-tightened at intervals of 100km for the first 400km and every 1000km after that.

Check tyre pressure and make sure that the tyres are not worn and can still manage the trip. You can check your caravan manual or on the sidewall of the tyre for the correct tyre pressure. Make sure that there are no cuts or cracks in tyres and ensure they still have good tread.

Lastly, to avoid the embarrassment of missing something such as a forgotten attached cable, take one last walk around. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to complete all checks, as you would not want to have to stop on the side of the road to make adjustments or worse!

Now that you’re armed with a great RV pre-trip checklist,  start planning your next family trip! Begin hunting for your perfect RV today. Search our extensive list of motorhomes and caravans for sale in Australia – search now. If you’re planning your trip and need a place to stay, Campstay has the best park or campground near you, search today.