Preparing your caravan properly before a big trip is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free adventure. Whether you’re heading up the East Coast or planning to tour outback roads across caravan Australia, getting everything ready beforehand can make all the difference. At Adelaide RV, Jeb shares his tried-and-true process to make sure his caravan is road-ready and adventure proof.

If you’re planning a caravan holiday soon, follow this guide to give yourself peace of mind before you hit the open road.

Reflect and Plan Ahead

Before any trip, Jeb recommends taking a moment to look back at your previous journeys. How many kilometres did you travel? How long were you away? For example, on one of his big trips up the East Coast, Jeb was looking at travelling 4,000 – 5,000 km over five weeks. Knowing this helps you determine whether your van is due for a service, particularly for key items like wheel bearings and brakes.

✅ Tip: If your planned trip will add 8,000 – 10,000 km to your odometer, consider getting a service done before departure. Preventative maintenance can save you from a serious breakdown on the road.

Battery & Electrical Systems: Out of Storage, Into Touring Mode

When you’re getting ready for a caravan holiday, make sure your battery systems are switched from storage mode to touring mode. This change ensures all inputs and outputs are active and the system is ready for use.

Jeb’s process includes:

• Switching the REDARC Manager30 or equivalent out of storage mode.
• Checking battery capacity – aim for 100% before departure.
• Plugging into a 240V power source with a 15A lead to recharge the battery fully.

Even if your van doesn’t have a high-tech system, plugging into power and ensuring your charger is on is usually enough to keep your battery topped up.

Preparing Your Caravan Water System

Jeb always drains his water tanks after a trip and refills them with fresh water before the next one. Here’s how to do it right:

• Remove the water filler caps and fill each tank individually.
• Watch for overflow to know the tank is full.
• Double-check that the tank drain valves are securely closed.
• Use food-grade hoses (blue or white) to avoid that unpleasant rubbery taste from a garden hose.

Also, ensure the grey water outlet is closed before travel to avoid contamination from dust and road grime.

Gas, Hot Water & Appliances Check

Nothing ruins a caravan holiday faster than discovering your hot water system or stove doesn’t work – especially on a chilly morning in Clare. Jeb’s advice:

• Fill your gas bottles ahead of time.
• Test your gas appliances, including the hot water system, to make sure everything ignites and heats properly.
• Let the system run long enough to ensure water is flowing and heating through all outlets.

✅ Tip: Catching faults while still in the city gives you the chance to fix them before heading out to rural or remote locations.

Cooling Down: Fridge Preparation

If your van has a three-way fridge (240V, 12V, and gas), switch it on at least a day or two before departure. This allows the fridge to cool thoroughly before you stock it with food, particularly in warmer months.

Jeb suggests:

• Power the fridge with 240V while still parked.
• Crank it to its coldest setting to get a head start on cooling.
• Make sure the fridge seals properly and the door latch is engaged.

Wheels, Tyres & Tools

Don’t overlook your tyres! Jeb inflates his tyres to their max PSI while the van is in storage to help prevent flat spots, then adjusts them before hitting the road.

• Check tyre pressure and match it to your planned terrain.
• Use a torque wrench to ensure all wheel nuts are tight.
• Don’t forget to check your spare tyre – take off the cover and confirm it’s in good condition and properly inflated.

Final Pre-Trip Checks: Lights and Safety

Before rolling out:

• Plug in the 12-pin plug, Anderson plug, and camera feed (if fitted).
• Check all lights – indicators, brake lights, tail lights, and clearance lights.
• Do a complete walkaround to verify everything is working.

This quick check can prevent serious issues on the road and keep you legal and safe.

Ready for the Road

Preparing your caravan might feel like a chore, but doing it properly ensures your trip will be memorable for all the right reasons. From tyre checks to battery power, water tanks to fridge cooling, Jeb’s system helps eliminate surprises once you’re out on the open road.

At Adelaide RV, we’re here to help you stay adventure ready. If you’re planning your next caravan Australia experience or have questions about getting started, reach out to us anytime via adelaiderv.com.au.

And don’t forget – we love hearing from you. Share your own checklist or travel tips in the comments. Happy travels!