Caravan and Camping Guide

Tag: camping

The ultimate 2025 gift guide for caravan and camping women
Need a gift to celebrate the adventurous spirit of the special women in you life? Whether your she is a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting to explore the joys of camping, finding the perfect gift to complement her adventurous lifestyle can be both exciting and rewarding. From innovative cpoamping gear to camping essentials for life on the road, our gift guide is here to help you find the ideal gift that will make her outdoor adventures even more memorable.
Floating Wine Glass
Perfect for wine lovers who love to swim for outdoor relaxation, these glasses are designed to float in water without tipping over. Made from durable materials, it ensures spill-free sipping during poolside lounging or bathtub retreats. This stylish and practical (plastic) glass adds a touch of luxury to any pool or beach side setting. Give her the gift of elegant relaxation with the Amphibi floating wine glass.
Muk Mats
Crafted with innovation and efficiency in mind, Muk Mats are a blend of state-of-the-art Polyethylene multi-filament yarn, ensuring they look great, but feel even better underfoot.

UV protected for durability, enjoy maximum water resistance and effortless muk removal. After use, simply shake, rinse, and store away from direct sunlight. The versatile mats are available in a range of different sizes to suit a number of applications and come in a range of colours to suit the fussiest of campers.

Portable HD LED Projector
Delight the whole family with the Portable HD LED Projector. This compact cordless versatile projector effortlessly connects to laptops, mobiles, tablets, cameras, and streaming devices for endless entertainment options while camping.

With an LED lamp lasting 20,000 hours, it’s gentle on the eyes and perfect for use in dark environments outdoors. Its compact design makes it ideal for travel, hiking, and camping, powered by a convenient rechargeable lithium battery. Control it easily with the included remote and enjoy a 480 x 272P resolution, expandable up to 1920 x 1080 and a projection distance of 1.5 – 2.5 meters.
Navigator Pantry Buddy
Save the stress about wine bottles getting smashed while travelling with this genius padded bottle protectors. The Navigator Pantry Buddy is fully adjustable to safeguard different sized large glass bottles which as wine and spirit bottles during travel. Their velcro design means it is quick and easy to roll up your bottles for quick storage.

With reversible Velcro, you can easily attach each buddy together for added stability in the cupboard meaning all bottles are velco’d together and movement is reduced while travelling. When not in action, they conveniently roll out flat, saving valuable storage space. These protectors are crafted from 100% Neoprene for ultimate durability. Their versatile design also allows you to create any shape to fill voids in the pantry effectively. Sold in packs of three, ensure her camping essentials are always protected.
Anything from the Navigator range!
Anything from the Navigator range! These innovative travel accessories offer something for every camping loving lady. Delight her with the Starlink Buddy, a versatile storage bag to keep her Starlink safe while travelling. For added convenience, consider the Nowhere Flip Stool, perfect for indoor and outdoor use. It provides multi-purpose use as a stool, side table or foot rest for comfort, style and versatility wherever she goes. And the Microwave Dish Buddy ensures safe keeping of her glass microwave plate while in transit.

With Navigator Gear’s combrmitment to quality and innovation, these gifts are sure to bring joy and convenience to any camping trip. Explore the range today and make her day truly special.

Hema Camps 12 Book
Hema Camps 12 book – Discover the ultimate guide to free and low-cost camping across Australia with the Hema Camps 12 book. Whether she is a seasoned traveller or embarking on her first adventure, this comprehensive guide is all you’ll need.Featuring verified free and budget camps, it covers everything from national parks to RV parks, with clear indications of whether a site is free or paid. Detailed maps and listings make it easy to locate sites in state forests, showgrounds, pub stays, and more. Plus, with only essential remote caravan parks included, this streamlined edition ensures you have the most relevant information for your journey through the Australian outback.
Devanti Portable Ice Machine
Treat her to the ultimate summer companion with this portable ice maker. With its powerful compressor and 2L water tank, it churns out 9 bullet-shaped ice cubes in just 6 minutes, perfect for keeping drinks chilled on hot days. Its compact design and user-friendly operation make it a breeze to use, weighing only 0.7kg and measuring 22.5 x 31 x 32cm.

Choose from two ice cube sizes to suit your preference and enjoy the convenience of automatic alerts for low water levels or full ice containers. Plus, with whisper-quiet operation, it ensures a peaceful atmosphere for her to relax and enjoy her favourite beverages while travelling.

Fire to Fork Cookbook
Ignite her culinary adventures with the Fire to Fork cookbook by Harry Fisher. From the rugged Kimberley coast to the heart of Aussie bush, Harry shares his passion for campfire cooking with simple yet sensational recipes. Combining quality ingredients with techniques learned from his chef mother, Harry’s approach elevates outdoor dining to new heights.

With over 60 recipes, including camp oven classics and campfire-inspired cocktails, this cookbook promises to delight adventurous cooks and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It’s a must-have for anyone seeking flavourful and fuss-free meals under the stars.
Will & Wind Sand-free Towels
Give the gift of sustainability and style with Will & Wind sand-free towels. Crafted from post-consumer plastic bottles, these towels champion environmental responsibility while offering top-notch performance. Utilising recycled polyester (rPET), they help reduce plastic waste in landfills and oceans.

With quick-dry technology and a sand-free design, they’re perfect for beach days and beyond. Compact and portable, they’re ideal for travellers seeking lightweight convenience. Plus, they’re luxuriously soft, highly absorbent, and easy to maintain with machine-washable convenience. Choose sustainability without compromising quality or comfort with Will & Wind towels, the perfect eco-conscious gift.
Wondermade Decals
Bring a touch of personality and charm to her caravan with Wondermade decals. These premium-quality wall stickers are not only incredibly easy to apply but also provide the convenience of being personalised so she can have her favourite pictures of her family on the wall without the weight of traditional photo frames.

Made from PhotoTex, a trusted polyester fabric material, they adhere securely to any painted wall or smooth surface, without leaving any sticky residue behind. Plus, they’re repositionable and reusable, allowing for endless creativity and flexibility. With water-based inks and a Class A fire rating, they’re safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly. Say goodbye to vinyl stickers that damage walls and hello to hassle-free decorating with Wondermade decals, the perfect gift for any occasion.
Wrapping Up
Let this gift guide inspire you to find the perfect token of appreciation for the special lady in your life. Whether it’s a sustainable towel for her travels, a cookbook for her culinary adventures, or a set of versatile decals to personalise her space, each gift carries the warmth of your love and gratitude. Let your thoughtful gesture reflect her uniqueness and cherish the memories you create together. Here’s to honouring the remarkable women who fill our lives with love, laughter, and endless support.

April 28, 2025
2025 Essential Gift Guide for Outdoor Dads
Camping gear is one of the perfect gifts, and definitely the sort of thing dad wants more than a tie or comedic socks. Yet just any old camping supplies simply won’t do. It’s not enough to get your dad generic camping accessories, you want to get him something that takes his caravanning or camping game to the next level.

Let’s face it – dads love to show off their new gadgets around the campfire!

If you’re scratching your head for Christmas gift ideas, we have done the hard work for you with the perfect camping accessories your dad didn’t even know he needed.

BBQ Arm Kit For Caravan

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
This BBQ arm kit is the perfect gift for a dad who loves caravan adventures in the bush. It gives him a place to set up his BBQ when there aren’t any tables around. Yet it’s also so much more.

When it isn’t being used to hold the family BBQ, the arm and platform are strong enough to support an esky. This keeps the family esky out of the dirt, thus keeping that dirt from later finding its way into the caravan.

There are a few different sizes to consider which might affect how you mount it. If you’re not sure, the 50mm/2″drawbar mount will fit most caravans. Whereas the 60mm drawbar mount is most compatible with Signature camper trailers, and the 75 mm/3″ drawbar mount is better suited to off-road caravans.

The platform tray is available in a regular and large size. If dad has a bigger BBQ, the large tray is probably better, as it might leave a little room for serving plates. Both sizes are available in aluminum and powder coat finishes for rust resistance.

2-Part Black Starlink RV Pole

Image courtesy of Caravan RV Camping
If your dad loves to keep up with the world even when he’s out camping, this 2-part Starlink RV pole might be the perfect Father’s Day gift. It gives him the ability to quickly mount his Starlink satellite dish in time for the footy.

Elevating the dish with a pole like this improves the likelihood of uninterrupted satellite signal TV and internet services through the Starlink system. It’s quick and easy to deploy and avoids the risk of someone driving over the satellite dish or tripping over the cable if it is kept on the ground. I have even heard of a caretaker mowing over someone’s cable – YIKES!
The bar is made from marine-grade aluminum, to prevent rust and give it superior stability. Then it’s powder coated to give it a sleek, black appearance. The pole can be mounted on the drawbar, rear bumper bar, or on your vehicle’s tow-hitch to get the optimal position and avoid the trees.

You can get just the pole, which is best if your dad’s caravan already has a spare jockey wheel mount.Otherwise, there are mounts available for the Jockey Wheel Clamp, the Universal Drawbar Mount as well as a Vehicle Tow-Hitch Mount.
Muk Mats

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
If your dad is driven up a wall by dirt and sand getting into the caravan or spreading through the tent, a good Muk Mat is the perfect Christmas gift. They’re made to be incredibly durable, while also being easy enough to keep clean.

These Muk Mats are available in grey and grassy green, with storage bags also available. We love that there are also step mats that dad can easily install on the steps leading into the caravan or tent.
The sweet spot here is to have a Muk mat or two for the steps and then another one right inside the caravan door or tent like a welcome mat. The mats on the steps get most of the dirt off the bottoms of the shoes. Then everyone takes their shoes off and leaves them off at the welcome mat to keep the floors inside the caravan or tent pristine!
A Yeti Tumbler

Image courtesy of Amazon

Yeti is the premier name in high-quality insulated coolers. They also offer a wide range of tumbler cups for dad to keep his favorite beverage ice cold. He’ll especially love it if your family does a lot of bush camping and access to ice is limited.

You’re pretty spoilt for choice when it comes to Christmas-worthy Yeti tumblers.

For an everyday cup that just the right size the 10-ounce Yeti Rambler might be your best bet. It’s got a sliding mouth and double insulated walls to keep Dad’s beverage hot or cold.
If Dad likes to pour a big drink, the 26-ounce Yeti Rambler might be better. It even has a screw-on top with a handle

For the Dad who is a coffee drinker, or just loves the sure grip of a handle the Yeti Rambler Travel Mug is the perfect fit. The base is even tapered to fit in Dad’s cupholder when he’s driving.

Yeti also has a range of interchangeable lids to suit your drinking preference as well as an impressive range of other camping products including ice bricks, eskies and camping chairs.
Battery-Powered Camping Tools
Battery technology has advanced to meet the needs of Dads who’d love to add some power tools to their camping arsenal. They spare dads from having to mess around with petrol and oil when camping in the bush. While also making it easier to get through some important jobs around the caravan site.

Image courtesy of Amazon
This Giantz 20V Cordless Chainsaw makes cutting firewood a breeze. The robust motor and blade length is perfect for cutting campfire wood. It starts with the press of a button, without all the hassle of petrol chainsaws that are typically struck down by carburetor problems.

This Giantz Lightweight Cordless Leaf Blower makes it easy for Dad to clear up leaf litter when setting up a campsite. It gets rid of all the debris that spiders and other creepy crawlies hide in or simply use it to help get the fire going.
PRO TIP:
Check if dad already has some battery powered tools at home and if so, buy him tools that are the same brand and battery. This means he doesn’t have to keep different sets of batteries for each tool as they will all be inter-changeable – brownie points for convenience!
Camp Boss Knife Roll

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
If your dad is the renowned camp cook, then this set of camping knives might be exactly what he needs for Christmas. Especially, if he’s been getting by with some old banished knives from the kitchen at home!

Each of the three knives is made from 3Cr13 stainless steel. This gives them the superior corrosion resistance you need in a camp kitchen knife. It also helps them keep their sharp edge for longer.

If they do ever get dull this Camp Boss knife roll set comes with a sharpening stone. Each knife also comes with its own protective sleeve.
Fire to Fork Adventure Cooking Book

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
This open fire cookbook is the perfect Christmas gift for a dad who loves to cook over an open fire. It’s loaded with over 60 tried-and-true recipes that any dad can master. The ingredients list ensures that he’ll have everything he needs when it comes time to move the meal from the fire to your fork.

The instructions are easy to follow, and the tone of the book will surely put a smirk on dear old Dad’s face. It’s the sort of thing he can read at home when he’s planning the trip, then pack along with all his other camping essentials.
Australian Bush Pubs Book

Image courtesy of Amazon
For a lot of dads, camping means leaving their favorite watering hole behind. Yet after days spent on the road, many dads yearn for a nice cold beer and a quality pub meal.

In a moment like that, this Australian Bush Pubs book is a real gem. It lets your dad find a quaint iconic Australian pub just about anywhere in the country. At home, he can sit down for a nice read, and perhaps find a little inspiration to help plan the next camping trip.
King Brown Lid Lifter

Image courtesy of Kingbrown Camp Oven Kitchen
A lot of dads love cooking in the camp oven. Yet that cast iron lid can get blazing hot, beyond anything a caravan oven mitt can handle.

When your dad has a King Brown Lid Lifter like this one in this arsenal of camping essentials, you can leave the burn cream in the first aid kit. The special handle makes it easy for dear old dad to hook and lift the cast iron lid securely and pull it up safely. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and won’t hog space with the rest of his camping accessories box.

The King Brown Lid Lifter will have everyone at dads campfire for a sticky beak.

Wrapping Up
This Christmas gift guide for dad is filled with great ideas to take your dad’s camping accessories to the next level. If dad is a practical man, the BBQ arm, the Starlink Arm or some Muk Mats might be the perfect gift. Not to mention the King Brown Lid Lifter’s ability to spare dear old Dad’s burned fingers!

If your dad loves to stick his nose in a book, the Fire to Fork cookbook or the Australian Bush Pubs book, might be the perfect Christmas gift. If anything, it’ll give him something to do at home, rather than underplanning the next camping trip.
November 13, 2024
Tested storage solutions for your caravan and camping adventures
Caravan and camping storage is about more than just a place for everything and keeping everything in its place. There’s an awful lot of jostling, bumps, and turns that can happen between home and your favorite caravan park. Not to mention the pandemonium that can happen in your caravan cupboards from just a few moments of fishtailing.

The right storage system also helps maximize the living space inside your tent or caravan. When loose items and clutter don’t have a proper place, they can take precious time away from your camping experience and even get someone hurt!

It seems clear that whether you’re tent camping or taking your caravan on holiday, you need a system of organizing that keeps things safe in transit, as well as easy to find when you finally do set up camp.

Your storage needs will likely change in the winter or camping off-season. Especially if you need to put your caravan and other camping gear in long-term storage.

Camping Storage Boxes, Trunks and Tubs
Camping storage boxes and trunks are a great way to transport bulk goods or hold onto camping gear when you aren’t actively using it. The best camping storage boxes have reinforced corners and heavy-duty lids that make it easy to stack them. Bonus points if it has a way for you to easily label what’s inside it.

Collapsible storage containers are handy for long trips and bush camping. You might start out with a lot of provisions, that dwindle over time. When it comes time to consolidate your camping supplies, the partially empty storage container collapses down to save space.

Some storage boxes are even built with doors or drawers that let them double as makeshift cabinets. This is great for tent camping or organizing a caravan that’s sparse on functional storage. Below are out go-to options:

Squirrel TC-50S Storage Box
A dual purpose storage box that can also be used as a bench. Indoor/outdoor use. Stackable. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Collapsible Storage Bin
Dual purpose use as a table. 55L capacity. Can be collapsed to a flat box for easy storage. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Storage Locker
Moulded storage locker for mounting on flat, vertical surfaces. Weatherproof. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.

Our Pick: Outdoor storage box
Multipurpose and lightweight. Foldable with side access. Timber top for multi purpose use. Image courtesy of Amazon.
Baskets and Hanging Bags
In a caravan, baskets and clip-on organisation systems are a great way to keep loose items grouped. It also makes it easy to see where everything is when you need it. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some are stackable, while others are easy to hang.

The Fusion-Loc system is also a great way to secure baskets, open containers and hangers just about anywhere. All without having to make major structural changes to the interior walls of your caravan.

Hanging pocket systems are also a great way to maximize the camping storage space behind doors and inside cupboards. A lot of them can be suspended from the ceiling of a tent to create a vertical organization system.

Baskets and Hanging Bags

Oztent Hanging Bag
Can add multiple bags together to organise your camping essentials. Velcro attachment for around the frame of your Tent or to any horizontal pole. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.

Over Door Hanging Storage
Large capacity storage with simple installation without drilling into cabinetry. Image courtesy of Amazon

Our Pick: Oztent Hanging Storage Pockets
Velcro attachment for handing on any horizontal pole for easy organisation of your camping essentials. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.
Camping Tables with Storage
A good portable table with storage is a great place to store kitchen camping supplies, and other camping essentials. It’s a place to set your camping stove and keep all your condiments close at hand. It’s also a place to give children their own desk space to organise their toys and art supplies. You could even set one up to be a nightstand next to a stretcher bed.

Ideally, you want to prioritise a camping storage table with telescoping, adjustable legs, which let you set it to the height you want. Storage bins with doors or zips keep loose items from spilling out. A cardboard floor inside cloth or canvas pouches also helps stand up condiment bottles and other flat-bottom items.

Oztrail Folding Table with Storage
A sturdy yet light weight aluminium folding table with storage underneath secured by a zip to keep the animals out. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.

Camping Table with Storage Basket
Foldable, lightweight camping table with storage basket, adjustable height. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Oztral Folding 3 Shelf Cupboard
Made from a strdy steel frame and removable MDF shelves, this lightweight cupboard also has mesh pockets for small items. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.

Our Pick: Folding Camping table with open shelves
This table ticks all the boxes with multiple storage optionsincluding table top, paper towel holder and mesh storage secure via zips. Image courtesy of Amazon.
Shelf Separators
When a caravan is underway, it doesn’t take more than one sharp turn to transform the inside of a cabinet or storage bin into absolute chaos. Later, this can add hours or organising into the simple process of setting up camp.

Shelf separators and drawer dividers keep things locked in their specific places. Keeping them organised and preventing needless damage. You can even use this same strategy in your caravan’s refrigerator.

Shelf Organiser
These dividers are fantastic for caravan sheves leaving easy access from the front without items sliding from side to side. The dividers are adjustable. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Drawer Dividers
Powder coated steel designed for front runner drawer systems in vehicles. Image courtesy of Outback Equipment.

Our Pick: Fridge and Drawer Dividers
These dividers are a campers best friend with multiple options for use. Image courtest of Amazon.
Temporary Hooks, Velcro & Magnets
There are tons of ways to organise small light camping items with temporary hooks, Velcro strips and even magnets. The best ones are completely removable without leaving any marks or damage on your walls or the inside of your caravan cupboard doors. if your wall surface is no suitable for Fusion-Loc there are some other great alternatives you can try.

Self-adhesive Stainless Steel Wall Hooks
Made of durable stainless steel and strong load bearing with 3m tape on the back of each hook. Image courtesy of Amazon.

3m Command Self-adhesive Hooks
These hooks to simople to install and remove with a huge 6.8kg load capacity. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Velcro Heavy Duty Stick On Hook Tape
This tape is great for inside cupboards for multiple smaller items. Tape comes in a 3m roll. Image courtesy of Amazon.

Our Pick: Reusable Velcro Cable Ties
Every camper needs a pack of these. They come in multiple pack sizes and have multiple uses. Particularly for organising cables. Image curtesy of Amazon.
Wrapping up
Keeping your camping gear organised saves you time and money. Knowing that everything is safely stored during transport gives you peace of mind, while also making it easy to set up camp quickly. This starts with camping storage boxes and tubs for bulk item storage in-transit. When you get to your campsite, they can even be used as end tables and nightstands.

A collapsible camping table with storage is a great way to create an outdoor cooking station. You can set up your camp stove and keep all your condiments close at hand. All without having to heat up the inside of your caravan or tent to cook a meal.

Shelf separators and drawer dividers keep your camping essentials from sliding and shifting around on the drive to your campsite. They also keep the contents organized when you set up camp, so everything gets put away in its proper place.

May 25, 2024
Lithium Batteries and Camping: Everything You Need To Know
Lithium batteries are ideal for camping, caravan, and RV adventures, providing a lightweight and effective power solution for your camping essentials. In this guide, we’ll go through everything you need to know about lithium batteries, and the key factors to consider when choosing the best one for your needs.

What is a Lithium Battery?
Lithium batteries are rechargeable energy storage solutions that utilise lithium-ion or lithium-iron-phosphate technology.

Lithium batteries have become an increasingly popular choice for campers in Australia, offering an effective and lightweight power solution for camping equipment. These batteries are commonly used to power camping essentials such as portable fridges, lights, fans, and devices. Their high energy density allows for longer-lasting power, and they’re considerably lighter weight than traditional lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for camping and RV adventures where weight is a crucial factor.

Their ability to deliver consistent power supply, faster charging times, and durability make them well-suited for the demanding conditions often encountered in the diverse landscapes of Australia. And, since they ensure reliable and efficient power for extended periods, they ultimately enhance the overall camping experience.
How to Charge a Lithium Battery
Charging lithium batteries can be simple, especially when leveraging solar power solutions. Utilising solar panels or a solar blanket is a sustainable and convenient way to recharge lithium batteries during outdoor adventures. So, if you haven’t already done so, it may be time to invest in a solar panel or solar blanket for caravan, RV, and camping trips.

To charge lithium batteries using solar energy:
First, unfold and set up your solar panels or blanket in an area with direct sunlight.
Connect your solar equipment to a solar charge controller. This regulates the charging process and protects the battery from overcharging.
Then, connect your lithium battery to the charge controller, and you’re good to go!
This solar-powered charging method offers an eco-friendly energy source that ensures a reliable power supply for your camping supplies in remote locations across the vast terrains of Australia.

If your camping vehicle isn’t powered by solar energy, don’t stress. Here are some alternative methods to charge your lithium battery:
Generator: Using a portable generator is a reliable way to charge lithium batteries. Ensure that the generator’s power output matches the requirements of your battery charger and make sure to follow the safety guidelines for generator use.
Vehicle: While on the move, you can charge your lithium battery by connecting it to your vehicle’s main battery, via a DC to SC charger. Install a battery isolator to stop charging when the vehicle is turned off to prevent draining the vehicle’s main battery.
Battery charger: Portable battery chargers designed for lithium batteries can be connected to a standard electrical outlet. These chargers are compact and convenient for recharging batteries when near a power source.
Power stations: Some campsites offer facilities with power packs or charging stations. These locations allow campers to recharge devices, including lithium batteries (via battery charger), using shared power resources.

Capacity and Voltage

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
Consider the capacity and voltage of the lithium battery. Capacity is measured in amp-hours (Ah), and common voltages are 12V or 24V. Choose a capacity and voltage that suits your camping needs and aligns with your camping gear.
For example, the Voltech Lithium LiFePO4 battery offers a robust capacity and voltage for extended camping trips, with 100Ah and 12.8v. That’s 1280 watt-hours (Wh) (Ah x V) .

Weight

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
For camping trips where weight is a critical factor, like 4WD camping, opt for a lightweight lithium battery. The BLA Marine Performance 12V Lithium battery is an example known for its lightweight design, weighing only 3 KG.
Cycle Life

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
Cycle life involves the number of charge-discharge cycles a battery can endure. A higher cycle life ensures long-term reliability. For example, the Voltech Lithium LiFePO4 120Ah battery offers a cycle life of 3000 times at 100% depth of discharge (DOD) and 4000 times at 80% DOD.
Cost

Image courtesy of Outback Equipment
Compare prices and features to find a lithium battery that gives you the best value for your camping needs. For example, if you have lower energy usage or are not travelling for long periods at a time, the BLA Marine Performance 12V Lithium battery is an affordable option that still features a high energy density and a large number of cycles at 2000 DOD.
For those with a higher energy usage, you may want to invest in a more high-end battery. For example, the Hardkorr 200Ah Lithium Deep Cycle battery offers a large capacity, a long cycle life, and a fast charge speed up to 4 times more than the average AGM battery.
Wrapping Up
Lithium batteries are becoming increasingly popular with campers, providing a lightweight power solution for all of your camping essentials. Commonly used to power camping essentials, such as portable fridges, their high power density offers more power in a lighter and more compact package.

Moreover, since lithium batteries have a deep discharge capability, they can be safely discharged to lower levels without causing damage; providing more usable capacity and flexibility in power management during caravan, RV, and camping trips.
May 1, 2024
The Best Camping Showers for Your Next Adventure
There are several types of camping showers to meet just about any camping style and budget. The problem is that camping accessory manufacturers are happy to throw a ton of options out there. So, we rolled up our sleeves to take the guesswork out of it for you with this camping shower buyer’s guide.
Camping Shower Options
When choosing the best camping shower, you first need to account for the resources you’ll have available. If you’re going to be deep in the bush without electricity in sight, a solar shower is your only option.

If you prefer to stay at caravan parks where electrical hookups and potable water are close at hand, you’ve got a lot more options. Both in terms of water temperature, pressure, and how you power your camping shower.

Solar Showers
Solar showers, sometimes called “Scottish Showers” harness good old-fashioned sunshine and gravity. You fill a bag with water in the morning and hang it in the sunniest place you can find. The sun gradually heats the water inside.

When you want to wash up in the evening, you hand the solar shower in a private place. Then turn the knob to get yourself wet and turn it off lather yourself up. One last blast rinses you off.
What we like
It conserves water and doesn’t use any energy resources.
It’s inexpensive and easy to use.
Small and light enough for a hike-in bush campsite.
What we don’t like
Only gives you warm water on sunny days.
Not good for warm morning showers.
The refill hole is usually too small to fill with hot water from a pot.
Hanging height can be a challenge for tall people.
Best Solar Showers for Camping

Companion Deluxe 20L Solar Shower
The Companion Deluxe 20L Solar Shower is made from 600D Ripstop® polyester and clear PVC with fully heat-welded seams to prevent leaks. It only weighs 300g when empty and comes with a mesh bag that makes it a great option for hike-in camping.

RINSEPRO 40L Solar Camping Shower
The RINSEPRO 40L Solar Camping Shower is a barebones Scottish shower made from welded PVC material. There’s nothing overly fancy about it, which is reflected in its friendly price point. The two things that put it a hair above the rest, is that it’s a rare camping solar shower that can hold up to 40 liters of water, whereas most solar showers only hold 20 liters. The filler port is also just big enough that you can wedge a narrow funnel spout into it. This means you can carefully add hot water on a cold or cloudy day.
Manual Pressure-Pump Camping Showers
There are a lot of creative options for this type of camping shower. Ranging from innovative foot pumps that let you dole out just the right amount of water as needed. Up to glorified garden sprayers with a special nozzle swapped in.

Insulation and volume are important factors with pressurized/pump showers. Small uninsulated vessels will quickly cool making it nearly impossible to have a truly warm shower. Especially in models that produce more of a fine spray than water droplets.
What we like
Better pressure than a gravity-fed shower.
You control the temperature of the water.
Saves water.
Easy to transport.
What we don’t like
Water can cool quickly.
Some make mist instead of water droplets.
Not hands-free.
Can be difficult to rinse off.

Best Manual Pump Camping Showers

Wildtrak Handheld 15 Litre Portable Shower Bag with Foot Pump
This Wildtrak Handheld 15 Litre Portable Shower has a leak-proof bag that’s easy to fill by hand. The bag has modest insulation, which helps keep the water reasonably warm for the next person. The foot pump lets you keep your hands free for washing, making it easy to dispense water on command.

WADEO Camping Shower, 3 Gallons 12L Portable Outdoor Camp Shower
This manual pump camping shower by Wadeo holds 12 liters of water with a hand held adjustable shower nozzle, built in temperature and water level display. This unit also doubles as a solar shower.
Electric Pump Camping Showers
Rechargeable batteries and small electric water pumps have finally evolved to the point where they can offer a truly viable camping shower. The pump module is lowered into a dry bag, or a bucket filled with water. This makes it easy to pour the hot water from your camp cook pot without painful spills.

The added challenge with these electric pump camping showers is that you need to properly prime the hose and pump with water before use. If the pump starts floating or the water level gets low, air gets sucked into the system, which stops the shower mid-stream.
What we like
You control the temperature of the water.
The electric pump provides a continuous stream of water.
Water pressure is superior to gravity-fed systems.
Doesn’t need to be hung overhead to work.
What we don’t like
The pump needs to be primed with every use.
Low water level can cause it to lose its prime.
The battery needs to be fully charged before first use.
Best Electric Pump Camping Showers

Ridgewinder Portable Shower
This electric pump camping shower is available as a complete kit, which includes a heavy-duty water bag. One of the things that stands out with this electric camping shower is that the electric pump is engineered to suck itself to the bottom of the bucket. This prevents floating and the loss of prime that many similar models suffer from. The battery life for the Ridgewinder Portable Shower is rated for up to 60 minutes, and it has a convenient USB recharging port.

CAOS USB Rechargeable Camping Shower
There are a lot of important little engineering cues that set this Caos rechargeable electric camping shower apart from similar models. This starts with the electric motor not being hosed in the submerged part of the pump, which reduces the risk of water leaks causing catastrophic failure. It was thoughtfully engineered so that the pump would fit perfectly into the mouth of a jerry can. This is a big plus if you have to haul your water into your campsite. If there’s a knock against the Caos electric camping shower it’s that the battery life is only rated for 45 to 60 minutes. Then it takes two hours or more to recharge it back to 100%.
Propane-Powered Hot Water Camping Showers
One of the newest innovations in portable camping showers uses propane to heat the water, while an electric pump delivers a steady pressurized stream. This is as close to a hot at-home shower as you can get in the bush.Yet these units aren’t all milk and honey. Some are designed to work off the cigarette lighter/power port in your car. Unfortunately, a lot of vehicle power ports and fuses aren’t designed to handle this level of draw, and you can easily burn them out. So, you want to prioritize a unit with AC/DC power connections and a built-in battery.

A lot of propane-powered camping showers are designed to run on small propane canisters. If you want to run it off a bigger propane tank, you’ll probably need to invest in an adapter.
What we like
Truly hot showers
The electric pump provides a continuous stream of water.
Like an at-home shower
What we don’t like
The initial purchase price is high.
Might burn out fuses & vehicle power ports.
Need an adapter to run off a large propane tank.
Too heavy and bulky for hike-in bush camping
Best Propane-Powered Camping Showers

Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater & Shower Pump
The Hike Crew portable propane water heater camping shower comes with a built-in battery with a charge life of up to 50 minutes. It also comes with a bevy of different power cords and charging options. So, you can hook it up to a generator, a caravan park power pilon, or your car’s power port. The Hike Crew propane water heater’s display tells you the temperature of the water coming in and going out. There’s even a built-in safety shut-off if the water gets over 61 degrees. Its overall ability to generate truly hot water means you can effectively wash grease off dishes, clean your hands, and take a comfortable hot shower.

Companion AquaHeat Lithium Gas Shower
The Companion AquaHeat lithium gas shower also has a built-in lithium-ion battery that can run the internal water pump for up to 2 hours on a full charge. It has a modest flow rate of up to 2 liters per minute and the water temperature can maintain 30 degrees, up to 50 degrees. Companion gets bonus points for including a 2.3-meter stand, which lets you shower hands-free. However, it doesn’t come with an AC/DC adapter. You have to use a DC power source to charge the battery or spend a small amount more to get what should be a standard power adapter.

Wrapping Up
By realising your camping style you can easily select the right camping shower for you. Whether you’re deep in the bush or staying at a well-serviced caravan park, there’s a suitable camping shower option for you. Solar showers offer simplicity and eco-friendliness, while manual pressure-pump showers provide control over water temperature and pressure. Electric pump showers offer continuous water flow and superior pressure (after priming of course). Propane-powered showers deliver truly hot showers as if you were at home.

Among the options, each type has its pros and cons, from convenience to portability to water temperature control. By weighing these factors against your camping style, you can find the perfect camping shower to keep you refreshed and clean during your outdoor adventures.
April 18, 2024
The Ultimate Tent Buyer’s Guide: Which is the Best Tent to Buy?
Buying the best tent to match your camping style is about more than just finding a piece of canvas that will keep the sun and rain off your face. The ideal tent needs to be based on the number of people you need to sleep, the type of campsites you like to stay at, and has enough space to keep all your camping essentials safely.If you need enough room for yourself on a hunting trip, then a swag or a small dome tent might suffice. If you’ve got three kids, you might need a 10-person family tent or a bell tent just to hold you all and keep the peace.
Tent Materials
The material your tent is made out of is a top factor in finding the best tent for your money. This includes not just what the walls and ceiling are made of, but also the floor.

Polyester tents tend to be a little more affordable, but they can be prone to rips, tears, and punctures. So, it won’t hurt to spend a little more on a tent made from Ripstop polyester. This material tends to be very breathable, and not ideal for camping in cold weather.

Nylon is more durable and a little more expensive than polyester. It can be prone to catastrophic tears, so a Ripstop nylon tent will have a longer lifespan. Nylon is slightly better at holding in heat and blocking out morning light than polyester.

Canvas is durable and less prone to ripping than other tent materials. It also does a good job of holding in heat and retaining cool temperatures, while still being breathable. It also does a decent job of blocking out the morning light. The drawbacks of canvas tents are that they tend to weigh more and are more expensive. Prolonged heavy rain can gradually start to saturate the material. Once it does, it takes a long time to dry the tent out. You can reduce this problem by spraying aftermarket waterproofing treatment on the tent.

PVC is a very durable, and highly waterproof tent material. Most have a fabric material on the interior side, adding to their impressive rip resistance. The problem is that PVC tents tend to be heavy to pack and cumbersome to set up. These tents often need the support of rigid poles, which further adds to the weight.

Tent Pole Types
Fiberglass tent poles are the most common and flexible support poles you find in modern tents. They’re light, inexpensive, and engineered to bend but not break. They hold up fine in moderate weather, but a strong storm can flatten a tent with fiberglass poles. If a pole breaks, it’s ruined, and depending on the manufacturer, finding a replacement can be challenging.

Aluminum tent poles are also lightweight, yet more rigid and harder to damage than fiberglass. They tend to cost more, and over time the ends of aluminum tent poles can break down where they link with the tent base.

Steel tent poles are rigid, strong, and very heavy. You only find them in large family tents, and canvas tents that aren’t intended for hike-in bush campsites. Tents supported by steel poles offer superior resistance to strong winds, which is a bonus. However, you also pay a premium price for steel tent poles.

Carbon fiber tent poles offer a nice blend of strength and lightness. They’re relatively new technology, which you don’t find in a lot of tents, and they usually come at a higher price.ht.
Tent Types & Shapes
Different tent types and shapes can sleep more people and hold more camping gear than others. Some simple tents like dome tents and swags are quick to set up, and light enough to pack with you bush camping. Whereas bigger 10-person tents and bell tents hold a lot of people and camping gear but are meant more for drive-up car camping in caravan parks.
Dome Tent
Dome tents come in a wide range of sizes, though most are meant to sleep 6 people or fewer. They are usually made from polyester or nylon with lightweight fiberglass poles for support, which makes them a good option for hiking tents and bush camping. A lot of dome tents let you use the rain fly as a full-cover roof. Then you can use accessory poles to create an awning or vestibule in nice weather. With minimal headroom, a dome tent isn’t the ideal place to hide out on a rainy day.

Budget Dome Tent
3 Season Dome Tent: Double layer, waterproof, windproof, aluminium rod.

Best Value Dome Tent
Amflip Dome Tent: Pop up, ultralight, waterproof, windproof, double layer, removable outer tarpaulin.

High End Dome Tent
Ever Advanced Dome Tent: lightweight backpacking tent, aluminium frame, waterproof high quality material, additional shaded area.
Pop-Up Tents
Pop-up tents are a form of dome tent where the lightweight fiberglass poles and the tent fabric are integrated. The tent can be folded or coiled into a small package for easy storage. It then sets up in seconds, springing to life as you release it from the pack.

Pop-up tents tend to be very lightweight and meant only to be a sleeping shelter. They’re a popular choice with spot-and-stalk hunters and hikers who like to go camping in the bush.

The thin poles in low-quality pop-up tents are prone to premature failure. So, if you want to use a pop-up tent for a long time to come, you need to be willing to pay more for a high-end unit.

Budget Pop-Up Tent
Wakeman Pop-Up 2 Person Tent: Water-Resistant, Portable, Waterproof, Lightweight, Pop Up, Tent Stakes, Rainfly.

Best Value Pop-Up Tent
Oztrail Pop-Up Tent: Pop up, removable cap for rain protection, mesh vents, guy points for windy conditions, silver coated 1000mm waterhead rated materials.

High End Pop-Up Tent
Blackhole Pop-Up 4 Person Tent: 3000mm water rating, 190T breathable polyester, side windows, fully taped seams, reflective guide ropes, accessory pockets.
A-Frame Tent
A-frame tents offer a lot of headroom right at the peak. They tend to be very easy to set up and are usually light enough for hike-in campsites. Materials and pole types can vary. If you want to use it as a hiking tent, I’d recommend sticking to models that use aluminum or fiberglass poles with a ripstop polyester or nylon fabric.

Budget A-Frame Tent
Trekking Pole A-Frame 1-2 Person Tent: Portable, Ultralight, Waterproof, Easy set up

Best Value A-Frame Tent
High Peak A-Frame Tent: Portable, Water-Resistant, Waterproo

High End A-Frame Tent
Darche 2-4 person A-Frame Tent: Zip on/off front awning, sealed and proofed seams, heavy duty PVC floor, water shedding windows, power cord inlet.
Swags
Swags are essentially a tent and sleeping accommodation in one. They’re easy to set up and you can take them just about anywhere. However, even a large free-standing double swag can be a little tight for two people, and downright claustrophobic if you need to stay inside on a rainy day.

Budget Swag
Kings Deluxe Single Swag: 400GMS ripstop canvas, high density foam mattress, water[proof PVC bucket floor, includes 2in1 LED light and fan.

Best Value Swag
Darche Dusk to Dawn Swag: Full length doors, high density foam mattress with removable cover, insect mesh, internal pockets, welded pvc bucket floor.

High End Swag
4×4 Equip Dual Cab Double Swag: Huge 1m hight, 70mm high density foam mattress, waterproof ripstop canvas, sealed seams, sandfly proof mesh, PVC bucket floor.
Multi-Room Tent
Multi-room tents are usually 6-person, or 10-person tents with hanging wall dividers to give everyone the feeling of having their own space. These are family tents that have a lot in common with dome tents but are typically larger and taller.

Since they’re so large, and weigh so much, a lot of manufacturers save weight with fiberglass poles. Unfortunately, this flexible structure and the massive walls of most family tents make them vulnerable to collapsing in strong winds.

Budget Multi-Room Tent
Cabin 10 Multi-Room Tent: Full fly for maximum weather protection, large side awning, main room can be split into 3 rooms, large windows for great ventilation, sandfly proof mesh, heavy duty PE floor, power cord entry and management system and plenty of storage.

Best Value Multi-Room Tent
Coleman WeatherMaster Tent: Separate floorless screen room, WeatherTec system with welded floors and inverted seams.

High End Multi-Room Tent
Oztrail Lumos Fast Frame Tent: Intergrated LED lighting, dual illuminated on/off switch with night setting, blockout coating, fast set up, 3000mm waterhead rated ripstop polyester fly, heavy duty PVC floor, full side awning with removable ind breaks, large doors,No-See-Um mesh panels for total insect protection, can integrate heaters and air conditioners.

Geodesic Tents
Geodesic tents are like dome tents that take intersection support poles to a whole new level. This gives these lightweight tents the added support to withstand strong winds, heavy rain, and even a fair amount of snow load. They’re a great option for hike-in bush camping enthusiasts and hunters.

Most geodesic tent makers claim their model is super-easy to set up. Unfortunately, a lot of them can be complicated to put up on your own, and the prices can vary for just a modest-sized tent.

Budget Geodesic Tent
Salewa Geodesic Tent: Self supporting construction, extension option, reinforced Hypalon sleeve finishing.

Best Value Geodesic Tent
Geertop Geodesic Tent: High quality alpine tent, ultralight, storage pockets, closeable ventilation windows.
Stretcher Tents
As the name implies a stretcher tent is a typical tent elevated off the ground by a stretcher or reinforced cot structure. It’s a great way to get your tent off the ground if you’re worried about snakes and insects.

Some stretcher tents have a swag, a dome, or a geodesic tent integrated with them. Others are just reinforced stretchers with the size and weight rating designed to handle a wide range of small tents.

Budget Stretcher Tent
Oztrail Stretcher Tent: Portable and quick set up, 1500mm Waterhead rated UVTex polyester flysheet, ultrafine No-See-Um mesh, heavy duty powder coated steel, awning option.

High End Stretcher Tent
Oztent Bunker Pro Stretcher Tent: Fast and easy set up, padded bed, heavy duty steel frame, superfine mesh, Ripstop canvas.
Tunnel Tent
Tunnel tents offer the easy setup of a dome tent with the massive size of a multi-room family tent. They’re light for their size as they’re essentially a series of very long fiberglass poles holding up a massively long sleeve of ripstop polyester or nylon fabric.

The challenge with tunnel tents is that they rely on a series of guy ropes to keep them standing. You need soil that can hold all the stakes with confidence. Even then a strong windstorm can sometimes manage to blow a tunnel tent flat.

Budget Tunnel Tent
Ceither Tunnel Tent: 2 doors, wear resistent, breathable fabric. Cannot be used on rainy days

Best Value Tunnel Tent
Campros Tunnel Tent: 2 rooms, windproof, waterproof.

High End Tunnel Tent
Naturehike Tunnel Tent: Lightweight, compact, UPF 50+ fabric, fly sheet, skirts for heat retention.
Bell Tent
Tunnel tents offer the easy setup of a dome tent with the massive size of a multi-room family tent. They’re light for their size as they’re essentially a series of very long fiberglass poles holding up a massively long sleeve of ripstop polyester or nylon fabric.

The challenge with tunnel tents is that they rely on a series of guy ropes to keep them standing. You need soil that can hold all the stakes with confidence. Even then a strong windstorm can sometimes manage to blow a tunnel tent flat.

Budget Bell Tent
Explore Bell Tent: Shade Coat 300D polyester seam sealed fabric, heavy duty PE floor, No-Seeum mesh, 5 air ventilation ports, bug screened doors, accessory pockets and power cord inlet.

Best Value Bell Tent
Miuz Bell Tent: Weatherproof, good ventiliation, cotton fabric.

High End Bell Tent
Happybuy Bell Tent: Waterproof, Windproof, bug mesh.
Instant Tent
Instant tents, or inflatable pop-up tents use compressed air inside inflatable beam structures to support the body of the tent. They set up in minutes without you having to mess with poles and other structural components.

There’s a real concern with leaks in one or more of the air beams. They can leak at the seams, due to a puncture or even in a crease that develops from sitting too long in storage. So, it helps to prioritize an instant/inflatable tent with reinforced PVC or thermoplastic urethane air beams.

Budget Instant Tent
Umbalir Instant Inflatable Tent: 2 minute set up, lightweight and compact, high quality polyester and mesh including ground sheet.

Best Value Instant Tent
OGL Extra Large Inflatable Tent: Storage hooks and pockets, mesh doors, able to set up heater or air conditioner, chimney opening, high density Oxford cloth with reinforced double-stitched seams. Weatherproof, good ventiliation, cotton fabric.

High End Instant Tent
Darche Air Volution Instant Tent: Puncture resistant air poles, dual action hand pump, 210 Denier oxford polyester Ripstop, 1500mm polyurethane waterproofing with internal seal, pockets for storage.

Wrapping up
The best tent for you is going to depend on where and how you like to go camping, as well as the number of people you need to sleep. If you have a large family with a lot of camping equipment, then a large multi-room tent like the Coleman Weather Master 10 Person tent might make sense.

If you just need a place to sleep that sets up quick at the end of a long hiking or hunting trip, then a swag or a single person stretcher tent like the Oztent Bunker Pro might be the best tent to meet your needs. They’re small, lightweight, and durable enough to last for years.

If your camping style is more like “Glamping” then you might want a spacious bell tent like the Happybuy Canvas Bell Tent or a high-end inflatable instant tent like the Umbalir Inflatable Glamping Tent with Pump. Both have plenty of room to sleep a family and can hold all the camping essentials you need to live the good life in the bush.

Happy camping!
April 8, 2024
Ultimate Guide for Choosing the Right Water Filter for Camping
A quality water filter is an indispensable piece of camping equipment when you’re out in the bush or camping at a site that doesn’t have potable water available. There’s also a difference between a water filter and a water purifier. Knowing which one is best for you starts with understanding the risks and identifying the type of water source you’ll be tapping into.
The Potential Risks of Untreated Water
Without proper water filtration, there’s a high risk of contamination and water-borne pathogens in any source of natural water. Even the clearest creek can still harbor dangerous microbes like protozoa, E. coli, giardia, cholera, and even hepatitis. Just to name a few

There’s also a risk of agricultural runoff introducing chemical pollution to a water source or creating an environment in which microbes thrive. A farm miles away that allows runoff from fields and livestock to enter a river can wreak havoc in that clean-looking creek.
What To Look for in a Camping Water Filter
The best camping water filter to meet your needs must be effective enough to prevent protozoa and bacteria from infiltrating the harvested water container. It also needs to have a reasonable flow rate, and enough capacity to get you from one natural water source to the next.
Filtration Method
A high-quality camping water filter will have a mechanical filtration system of .3 microns or smaller to block physical particles and sediment. Most will also have some type of chemical filtration or treatment to neutralize or absorb microbes.

Activated charcoal water filters have microscopic nucleation sites that capture potentially harmful microbes and some chemical contaminants. However, these filters have a limited capacity and need to be replaced and will need to be replaced more frequently in areas of high microbial contamination.
Flow Rate
The ideal flow rate for a good camping water filter is around 1 litre per minute. Any slower than that, and it can take a frustratingly long time to fill a large water tank or jerry can. Anything faster than 2 to 2.5 litres per minute likely has poor physical filtration and there’s a high risk of bacteria and other small microbes remaining in the harvested water.
PRO TIP

If your camping water filter’s flow rate is noticeably slower than it should be, it’s likely a sign of a persistent clog in the filter or the purification cartridge. The wise move is to dump out any recently harvested water, and then either clean or replace the filter apparatus.

Capacity
A good camping water filter needs to have a capacity that’s equal to or greater than the amount of water you’d need to filter and purify in a single adventure. Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the cartridge or filter multiple times, meaning you’ll have to carry those replacements with you on every trip.
Portability & Weight
If you want to use your camping water filter for hiking trips or deep bush camping, then lightness is a top priority. If you’re looking for a camping water filtration system for your caravan, you want to make sure that its dimensions will fit through into the cupboard or container it will live in.
Odor & Taste Removal
Some water sources carry off-putting flavours with them even after being filtered. If this is an issue with the natural water sources in your favourite camping areas, then you might want to prioritize a water filter with activated carbon, or some other type of proactive chemical filtration built in.
Reviews of the Best Water Filters for Camping
The best camping water filter to meet your needs must be effective enough to prevent protozoa and bacteria from infiltrating the harvested water container. It also needs to have a reasonable flow rate, and enough capacity to get you from one natural water source to the next.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking & Camping

Image courtesy of Amazon
LifeStraw is one of the biggest names in camping water filters. This model has a .2-micron filter which will block out 99.9% of microbes. The filter has a lifetime capacity of up to 4,000 litres.

The promotional videos you see for LifeStraw show people drinking directly from dirty puddles, which is far from the ideal way to use this camping water filter. To maximize the capacity of the filter it’s best to draw the water from a hand-dug gypsy well or from a large container after letting the water decant for several minutes.

Image courtesy of Amazon
Swayer is another well-known name in camping water filters. This model is designed for hikers to use but is portable enough to go just about anywhere. To that point, it’s threaded to fit a typical consumer water bottle!

The filter has a .1-micron tolerance and a capacity of up to 540 litres. You get two mesh filters with the purchase, which is more than enough for even an avid hiker or bush camping enthusiast.
Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw, Camping Water Filtration System

Image courtesy of Amazon
The Waterdrop is a multi-purpose water filter system that uses both a .1 micron 5-stage filter and a collection bag with a dispenser system. You can use it as a straw to drink directly from a stream or a spring.

You can also use the bag to collect up to 5 litres of water. It then passes through the filter system as a campsite water dispenser. This makes it great for hiking in your pack and letting everyone in the party refill their canteen. The filter has a capacity of up to 5,300 litres before it needs to be replaced. The filter also includes an active carbon cartridge, which helps neutralize odours and flavours.
PureTec Quick Twist Caravan / RV Undersink Water Filter Kit

Image courtesy of Amazon
This water filter system by PureTec is designed to be installed in a caravan. It’s great for times when you need to draw from a questionable water source, or you’re not confident in the purity of the caravan park’s water hookups.

The filter is engineered to handle up to one micron. Yet it still has a flow rate of up to 5 litres per minute. The 38,000-liter capacity before needing to replace the filter also gives you the confidence to leave your caravan parked at a seasonal campsite, without having to worry about water every time you go camping.

Wrapping up…
The best camping water filters have filters with a tolerance of .3 microns or smaller. You should prioritize filters that have the highest lifetime capacity. This makes it easy to use them in the bush without needing to constantly replace the filter. Multi-stage camping water filters and units that have active charcoal canisters in the filter system are also handy for neutralizing odours, as well as off-putting flavours and reducing the risk of chemical contamination.

If you need a camping water filter that fits easily in your pack, then the LifeStraw might be your best option. If you need something that you can use to filter a water dispenser for your party’s campsite, but you can still bring with you in your pack for a day hike, then the Water Drop might be the best camping water filter to match your camping style.
February 13, 2024
What to Consider Before Buying a Motorhome, Caravan or Camper Trailer
Choosing the best motorhome, caravan, or camper trailer (RV) takes a careful approach. There are a lot of things to consider, and getting any one of them wrong can prove to be a costly mistake. You need to take your time to make sure that what you choose is perfect for your camping needs.

This isn’t a decision to make overnight. The wise move is to spend at least six months doing research and getting all your financial ducks in a row. We put this buyer’s guide together to help you tick all the important boxes when shopping for your next motorhome, caravan, or camper trailer.
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Your budget is the very first thing you need to figure out when shopping for a new or used caravan. You need to factor in not just the purchase price of the RV itself, but also the cost of ownership.

This includes:

Camping accessories including BBQ, chairs, linen, pots, and pans
Insurance premiums
Extra fuel costs
Registration
Gas cost refills
Campground fees
Storage fees – will the RV be stored at home, at a friend’s house, or in designated storage?
General maintenance including servicing.
Interest and repayments if borrowing the funds.
You should also think about your camping lifestyle. If you prefer being at a park close to restaurants and take-away food while you’re on the road the cost of ownership is going to be much higher than if you’re content to cook your own meals at an off-grid site.
An Important Note on Insurance
Insurance on some RVs is more expensive to insure than others. Be sure to check the insurance requirements and get at least three quotes for every type and brand you’re thinking about buying.
Pro Tip

You might be tempted to skimp on the contents insurance to shave a little off your monthly payment. Yet personal items, camping equipment, appliances, entertainment equipment, and digital devices can easily be $10,000. If you are carrying jewellery, computers, and cameras this will be much more. If the worst happens, and those items are stolen, burned, or damaged, and they aren’t covered in the policy, it could be a total loss.

Many insurance companies have a specific amount of content coverage in different policy types as standard. Be sure to ask about the amount when you request a quote and compare it against what it would cost to replace your items, at new/current prices and increase the contents coverage accordingly.

When you get your caravan, camper trailer or motorhome, be sure to let your insurance company know where you’re storing it, and how it will be stored. If you move it to another location temporarily – don’t forget to tell them! Also, protecting it from the sun, wind, and strong storms helps your RV stay in tip-top condition and hold its value. It may also get you a small discount on the insurance!
Step 2: Consider the Type of RV

Once you have an idea of your potential budget, you can sharpen the focus on the type of caravan or camper that best suits your needs. Each has its pros and cons. Have a thorough discussion with your other half about where your ideal camping trip would be. Is it at the beach or out in the bush – maybe a combination of both? Can you survive without an ensuite or is a toilet onboard a necessity?

Another important consideration if your tow vehicle. Is it suitable for the type of RV you are considering? If not, then you may need to consider a more lightweight option if your budget doesn’t allow for a vehicle upgrade.

There are many types of RV’s including:
Camper Trailer
Camper Van
Pop up Caravan
Hybrid Caravan
Touring Caravan
Semi Off Road Caravan
Off Road Caravan
Fifth Wheeler Caravan
Campervan
Motorhome

The Towing Vehicle
If you choose a camper trailer or caravan, you also need to consider the towing vehicle. While some lightweight camper trailers and pop-up campers can be towed by a family SUV, you might need a large 4WD truck or a commercial vehicle to tow a larger caravan. When choosing the perfect RV, you need to consider and be aware of the following requirements for your tow vehicle:
GVM – Gross Vehicle Mass (Total weight your vehicle can weigh, this includes all accessories, passengers, fuel, luggage, camping gear, and tow ball weight)
GCM – Gross Combined Mass (Total weight of your vehicle and RV)
Towing capacity rating (maximum weight RV can weigh)
Maximum Tow ball weight
Payload
Driving the vehicle when not using the caravan
4-wheel drive for off-roading
Fuel economy (towing an RV can nearly double your fuel consumption)
Current vehicle equipped for towing (you will need a towbar, trailer wiring, electric brake controller, Anderson plug)
Pro Tip

Towing capacities on vehicles are not always what they seem. Your vehicle may be rated to tow 3500kg for example but once you add in the weight of accessories (e.g., bull bar, canopy, a second battery, fridge), passengers, and tow ball weight, you might be over your GVM before even putting in any luggage, camping essentials, or important items like some cold beers in your fridge.

Authorities are increasing their policing of overloaded vehicles, which include harsh penalties and not being able to drive your vehicle further which results in expensive tow trucks. All around OZ has a fantastic calculator to help you determine if the weights of your vehicle and/or trailer are legal.
Step 3: Consider the Brand
When choosing the best camping option for you, it’s best to stick with well-known brands that have a good reputation and have been around for at least 10 years or more. This should be a sign of reliability, quality, and customer service.Consider where the caravan is manufactured. A caravan produced in another country may not have the same quality construction as those made locally.

Contact a local repairer in your area or in your closest capital city. Ask them about brands generally or give them a couple of specific brands to give you their optinion. We took this approach when shopping for our latest caravan and it quickly answered our question as to why the manufactuer would not let us join their Facebook page.

We have done the hard work for you – check out our full list of brands available in Australia.
Pro Tip

Check Facebook for pages dedicated to popular RV brands. Read through the posts and comments to understand if there are common or consistent issues. Look for “Lemon” pages for each. If a brand has a Facebook page but only allows owners to be members, this should be a red flag! Ask the admin about being accepted because you are thinking about purchasing their brand. If they say no – well that’s a “no” to buy!
Step 4: Try Before You Buy!
This is one of the most important steps! This has personally saved us from costly decisions on many occasions. A great way to get a feel if the caravan you are considering is right for you is to hire one for a weekend or holiday. Several websites and dealerships offer caravans for hire. You may not be able to hire the brand you are looking at; however, the style is enough to give you an idea if it is the right one for you.

Try Star RV for motorhomes or hire companies such as Camplify which hire a broard range of caravans, camper trailers and motorhomes. Not only will you be able to get a taste for that style of camping, but it can also help you better understand what features need to be a high priority for your camping style, and which are not.
Conclusion
The process of choosing the best RV can be almost as much fun as going camping. Take all the time you need to research brands and consider the type of RV that suits your camping style.

Be honest with yourself about your budget. Be sure to factor in not just the price of the rig, but also the cost of ownership. Think about the camping supplies you’ll need to buy to make the most out of it. Consider where you’ll store it, and any storage costs you might have to bear.
Make sure to research different brands and look through Facebook groups for honest opinions. Also, research the insurance requirements and get at least three quotes to make sure there aren’t any other hidden fees or reduced benefit.
February 5, 2024
Are Vehicle Awnings Worth It?
Adding an awning to your 4WD is a great way to enhance your camping adventures, offering expanded living areas and better protection against the sun and rain. In this guide, we’ll explore the different uses for 4WD awnings and what to look for in a vehicle awning.
Different Uses For Awnings
From offering added protection to an extended living area, an awning is a must-have on anyone’s list of camping essentials. Here are several different uses for awnings to make the most of your 4WD camping adventures.
Weather Protection
In the diverse, and sometimes unpredictable weather conditions in Australia, vehicle awnings play a crucial role in providing effective weather protection. Awnings offer a quick solution to shield yourself, your vehicle, and camping equipment from the intense sun, sudden rain showers, and gusty winds that characterise the outdoors.

For travellers who are on a 4WD day trip or having a overnight stay and want extra, quick protection, 180 awnings are a great option due to their quick set-up, wide coverage, and durable material. For example, the Darche Eclipse 180 awning.

For travellers needing to shelter a larger family (more than 3 people), 270 awnings may be more appropriate due to their upgraded coverage. For example, the Kings 270 awning – a budget-friendly option for new campers. However, more experienced and regular campers trailing locations with more diverse weather conditions may want to consider upgrading to a more heavy-duty awning for better protection, like the Bushwakka 270 awning.

Adding on an Annex
While travelling in your 4WD has many benefits, including off-grid camping and versatility, you don’t always have enough living space to shelter items and yourselves from adverse weather. That’s where 4WD awnings come in handy. In addition to providing weather protection, awnings can also extend your living space by serving as an annex. By attaching an annex to your vehicle’s awning, you can create an additional sheltered area that can serve as a functional living space for sleeping, cooking, or storing camping gear. For example, the Darche Eclipse Retreat annex can attach to a Darch 180 or 270 awning to create a larger sheltered space.
What to Look For In a Vehicle Awning
To help you make the best purchasing decision on your vehicle awning, below considerations to help guide you:
Amount of shade: does the awning provide enough shade and general weather protection for all family members? Do you have slide out draws at the rear of your vehicle that you would also like shaded? Think about the difference between a 180 and 270 degree awning. The projection is also important.
Weight: Is the weight of the awning going to effect what else you can carry on top of your vehicle?
What is the fabric quality? We recommend a minimum of 280GSM
Is it waterproof?
50+UV protection?
Can you set it up easily by yourself?
Is it free-standing or needs poles? If it is free standing make sure it has fold out poles for added stability if the wind picks up. Make sure the poles are extendable in case your vehicle is higher than average.
If you have a rooftop tent is there a zipper opening for the ladder to access your tent?
Is the cover bag heavy duty?
Are the zippers heavy duty and wont seize up in salty air?
LED Strip Lighting
Whether you’re cooking up a BBQ or spending quality time by the campfire, adding outdoor lighting enhances visibility during the evenings and nights. One major benefit of adding an awning to your vehicle is that they offer a practical solution for mounting LED lights. Adding LED lighting to your 4×4 awning is relatively straightforward. Many awnings come with built-in LED lighting or attachment points designed for additional lighting fixtures. For example, the Darche 270 Freestanding LED awning includes fully integrated LED strip lights.

Some awnings may also feature additional camping accessories, like USB ports or power outlets that can be directly linked to your vehicle’s power system. This allows campers to charge their LED lights, phones etc directly from their 4WD, ensuring a reliable power source without the need for separate charging equipment.

How to Secure Your Awning in Adverse Weather
Securing your 4WD awning during storms is essential to prevent damage and ensure safety while camping. One effective method is to use ratchet straps to reinforce the stability of your awning. Before adverse weather hits, ensure that your awning is correctly set up and all components are in good condition.
Place the ratchet straps diagonally across your awning, attaching them to sturdy points on your 4WD, nearby structures or via ground pegs.
Tension the straps carefully to provide lateral support and prevent your awning from flapping or lifting during strong winds.
Additionally, you could consider using storm anchor kits specifically designed for 4WD awnings. These typically include heavy-duty straps and stakes to anchor your awning securely to the ground.
In addition to using ratchet straps, here are some other ways to secure your awning:
Wind Breaks: Positioning windbreaks or barriers on the windward side of your awning can reduce the impact of strong winds. This could be achieved with additional tarps or purpose-built windbreaks.
Awning Walls: If your awning comes with walls or skirts, attach them to add an extra layer of protection from wind or rain. Additionally, many awning brands offer separate walls and skirts, for example, the Darche Eclipse 180 awning wall set.
Adjustable Poles: If your awning has adjustable poles, lower them to reduce the sail effect and reduce wind resistance during strong gusts.
Regularly inspect the tension of straps, poles, and guy ropes during stormy weather. Ensure that everything is tightly secured and make adjustments as needed to secure your awning.
The Ultimate Vehicle Awning As Voted by Caravan and Camping Guide
Honestly, we don’t have vehicle awning at this point in time but we are certainly in the market for one and hence this guide! Based on our research we can’t go past the Campboss Boss Shadow 270 XL with its adjustable support poles, built in LED dimmable lighting and rooftop tent access.
Conclusion
There are many benefits to using awnings, from protecting your camping supplies from diverse weather to expanding your living area for an enhanced camping experience. Most awnings come with built-in LED attachment points for easy installation, allowing you to spend more time outdoors when it gets dark.

Whether you use a 180 awning for a quick set-up or invest in a 270 awning for better protection, you can enjoy a more comfortable camping experience by having a designated space to relax, eat, and socialise. Follow our guide with key points to consider and you can’t go wrong.

Need the perfect camping chair? Check out our Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Perfect Camping Chair.
January 30, 2024
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Perfect Camping Chair
If you’re planning on going camping or venturing in your caravan, there are a few essential camping accessories that you should have with you. After all, there’s nothing worse than getting to your destination and not having a comfortable chair to sit in.
While camping chairs may seem a dime a dozen, there’s actually great variety between them. Today, we’re here to help you determine what the most important factors are to consider when choosing camp chairs. Let’s get to it and figure out how to choose the best camping chair for you.
Different Types of Camping Chairs
You also need to consider that there are different types of camping chairs. These include, but are not limited to, folding camping chairs, beach-style chairs, backpacking chairs, hammock-style chairs, and in rare cases, rocking camping chairs too! You’ll want to consider the pros and cons of each before making a choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Camping Chairs
There are several important factors to consider before choosing your camping chairs. To make things easy, we’ve outlined these considerations below.
Size
One of the primary factors to consider when purchasing camping gear like camping chairs is how large they are. First, consider the size of the chair in relation to your own size. What are the dimensions of the chair like?
Is the chair big enough to fit your frame, or is it too small? You certainly don’t want a camping chair that you won’t comfortably fit into. That said, don’t get something so large that it becomes unmanageable.
You should also consider how much room the chairs take up as you want to make sure that they fit when you store them in your caravan or camper boot. Be sure to measure the dimensions of the chair to ensure that you can store it easily when travelling.
Weight
Weight is another factor to consider, especially when it comes to portability. You don’t want a heavy camp chair, because carrying it from one spot to another, or even storing it in your caravan or camper trailer can become a real hassle.
However, make sure that the camp chair is sturdy enough to support you so that it lasts for many years to come. There is a bit of a tradeoff to consider here, which brings us to our next point.
Weight Capacity
The next factor to consider when choosing from the long list of camping chairs available is what the weight capacity is like. Some smaller or weaker camping chairs may only be able to hold between 50 and 80 kilograms (suitable for children), whereas others may potentially be able to hold hundreds of kilograms. For instance, the Dometic GO Compact Camp Chair can hold up to 130 kg.
You, therefore, need to consider your size and weight before purchasing any such camping equipment. We recommend choosing a camping chair that has a higher weight capacity than your own weight.
Materials and Overall Durability
You don’t want to purchase a chair, just to have the frame bend or the fabric tear the first time you sit in it. For sturdy and durable frame with a high weight capacity, go for materials such as steel and aluminium. For the record, steel is a bit tougher than aluminium, but also heavier.
You should also consider the fabric or material that is spanned around the frame, which includes the fabric that forms the seat and backrest of the camping chair. No matter the camping accessories you choose, they should always be durable. Something weatherproof is ideal for this purpose.

Overall Comfort
You also want to pay attention to comfort features. How wide is the seat? How high is the backrest? Is there a headrest? Are there armrests, and if so, how do they feel? Comfort is always a key to consider when choosing a chair for camping. This Spinifex Comfort Camping Chair, for example, has padded cushioning which is ideal if you’re planning to sit on it for long periods.

Stability Features
Camping chairs can be notoriously unstable. Therefore, you should look for a model that has a relatively wide base, along with large feet. This will allow you to remain more stable, even on uneven or bumpy terrain.
Extras and Accessories
You may also want to consider if the camping chair in question comes with any extras, such as cup holders, phone holders, and even footrests. Although not all that common, these are extras that some higher-end models may feature. The Oztrail Clip-On-Chair Umbrella is an example of an accessory that you can clip to your camping chair.

The Ultimate Camping Chair As Voted by Caravan and Camping Guide
We are a sucker for camping chairs. You name the design/style and we probably have it! Our favourite however is hands down the Navigator Nowhere Chair with matching Navigator Nowhere Flip Stool. These chairs are the perfect combination of a lounging chair for afternoon drinks and a dining chair to sit up at the table to eat. These chairs are also available in kids sizes and can be sold separately or in a bundle for the whole family.
Conclusion
Now that you know exactly how to choose from the long list of camping chairs out there, you can make your caravanning and camping experience much more enjoyable. Remember, what it really all comes down to is comfort!

January 30, 2024
New Swag Buyer’s Guide
The best swags offer all-in-one camping convenience without sacrificing comfort, quality, or durability. It’s a heavy-duty tent, with a bed mattress and other creature comforts, all in one package that you can roll up to stow on your roof rack.

Of course, not all swags are created equal. The size of the tent, the material it’s made from, and the thickness of the mattress pad are all critical factors. Some swags can be customized to give you all the comforts of home.

To find the best swag you need to understand all your options. Luckily, we’ve broken all of that down for you and reviewed some of the best of the best swag out there in our article: The Swag You’re Looking for is Right Here – Unbiased Swag Reviews You Can Trust.
What To Look for in a Swag Tent
There are several important criteria to keep in mind when searching for the best swag to meet your needs. The type of fabric the tent body is made from, the type of structure that supports the thickness of the swag mattress pad, the mesh netting, and the floor design are all important factors.

The Type of Swag Tent: Traditional vs Free-Standing
Traditional swags are a little bit smaller and lighter, which makes them attractive if you have limited storage space. They also tend to be a little faster to set up. The biggest drawback with a traditional swag tent is the small amount of interior space. Some feel like you’re in a canvas kid’s blanket fort. They also don’t have as much interior space for creature comforts.

A free-standing swag usually has structural poles, and guy lines that you need to stake down. This adds to the weight and size, but you get a lot more interior sleeping space. It’s also easier to customize a free-standing swag with hanging fans and lights. Some even take advantage of the additional structure to secure awnings and other exterior swag accessories.

If storage space isn’t a problem or you need to sleep more than one person, then a free-standing swag tent is usually the best way to go. If you need to travel as light as possible, to hike or bike into your campsite, then a traditional swag is the better way to go.
Swag Size
A single swag is just fine for one person. This is the common size for nearly all traditional swag tents. If you want to sleep with a partner or co-sleep with a young child, the wise move is to get a free-standing double swag tent.
Tent Material
When choosing a swag tent, you want waterproof material, and it has a reputation for not leaking at the zippers and seams. Bonus points should be given to a swag tent that has storm flaps, as they let you get a little air even if it’s raining out.

Canvas
For canvas swags, you want to look at the GSM (Grams per square meter) which tells you how thick it is. You want a GSM of at least 280, but 400+ is even better. A lot of canvas swag tents need to be “Seasoned” to the manufacturer’s specs for them to be properly waterproof.
Ripstop Polyester or Polycotton
Ripstop materials are engineered to be durable and breathable. They often come imbued with waterproof treatment, which reduces some of the seasoning requirements.
Tent Floor
The best swags have a waterproof tub floor that comes up at least 10cm. The best floors are made from PVC fabric or treated with a PCV coating. Not only does this help keep your swag mattress and bedding dry if it rains. It can also help reduce heat loss to the ground, which is a bigger factor if you’re camping in cooler weather.
Mattress Type & Thickness
Swag mattresses come in many forms and thicknesses. There’s a definite tradeoff here, as a thicker mattress pad will be more comfortable, but the swag will be bulkier when it’s rolled up for storage.When choosing a swag mattress, you need to think about your camping style. If you always stick to caravan parks with smooth surfaces, you can get away with a 50mm mattress pad. If you go camping in the bush or at rustic caravan sites with rough ground, then you a thicker mattress of up to 200mm
PRO TIP:
IF STORAGE SPACE IS AT A PREMIUM, YOU MIGHT WANT TO LOOK FOR A SWAG WITH AN EXTRA INFLATABLE MATTRESS. THE SWAG MATTRESS ITSELF CAN BE THIN, TO REDUCE THE SPACE IT TAKES UP WHEN ROLLED. WHEN IT’S TIME TO SET UP YOUR SWAG, YOU INFLATE IT TO GIVE YOU MORE CUSHION WHEN YOU NEED IT. THIS COMPACT STRATEGY MAXIMIZES WHERE AND HOW YOU CAN USE YOUR SWAG WHEN SPACE AND WEIGHT ARE AT A PREMIUM.

Best Swag Camping Accessories
A waterproof swag bag is a must-have accessory if you’re planning to transport your swag on the roof rack. It keeps it safe from rain, dust, and damage from road debris. Most popular models have a companion swag bag that’s big enough for the swag and your bedding.
An Exterior Tarp Floor
A mesh tarp gives you a waterproof, puncture-resistant base that comes in handy. The tarp gives you a clean place to take off your shoes. It also lets you crawl in and out of your swag without touching the bare ground!
A Swag Stretcher
A swag stretcher gets you up off the ground. This helps with heat loss through the mattress pad as well as letting you sit up when you get out. It’s a must-have item for anyone with mobility issues who still loves swag camping.

Just check the swag stretcher’s weight rating. You want to add the weight of the swag and the honest weight of the person sleeping in it. The rule of thumb is for that total to the 80% of the swag stretcher’s maximum.
An Awning Accessory
An additional awning flap on your swag gives you a little bit of an exterior roof without having to invest in a second structure. It’s great for bush camping where saving space and weight matters most. The accessory awning gives you a sunshade for times when you want to lounge in your swag. It can even give you a little protection against light rain on a hot day when you want to leave your screens open.
A Portable Canopy, or Tarp
A portable canopy gives you an additional roof to protect your swag from the rain and sun. Even the best swag zippers that are supposed to be “Waterproof” will eventually leak in heavy rain.

Having an extra surface above you prevent this common problem. It also gives you a little bit of a shaded spot to sit out and lounge when you don’t want to lay around in your swag.
PRO TIP:
IF YOU’RE CAMPING IN THE BUSH OR A HIKE-IN CAMPSITE, YOU CAN USE A TARP AND SOME BUNGEE CORDS TO CREATE A SEPARATE WATERPROOF ROOF OVER YOUR SWAG. IT’S A LOT LIGHTER THAN A POPUP PAVILION, BUT YOU MIGHT HAVE TO GET CREATIVE IF THERE AREN’T ANY TREES AROUND TO ANCHOR THE BUNGEES.
Portable Fans
A clip-on fan is a great camping accessory to add to your swag kit. Not only does it help keep cool on warm nights, but it can also help keep bugs off your face if one gets in when you do. It’s a must-have accessory if you’re the type of person who likes to sleep with a fan running at night.
Portable Lights
Clip-on lights come in handy when you want to see something quickly without searching for your phone or your flashlight. It also gives you a convenient reading light on rainy days. A portable camping light with LED fixtures is the most energy-efficient option to make the most out of your batteries. Some even run on USB rechargeable batteries.
Conclusion
A free-standing swag is likely the best option if you’re blessed with plenty of storage space in your car, and you camp at caravan parks with drive-up campsites. If you need to sleep with a child or a partner with you, then a double swag is always nice. If you do a fair bit of bush camping, or you need to travel as light as possible, then a traditional swag is going to be your best option. They’re easy to pack on your back or on a motorbike, and you can set them up quickly. However, they’re only really suitable for one person.

Whatever type of swag you choose, make sure to consider the mattress thickness. The thicker the swag mattress the more comfortable you’ll be, but the more space it will take up when rolled. In a pinch, an inflatable mattress adds a little extra comfort.

Ready to buy a new swag? Check out our article: The Swag You’re Looking for is Right Here – Unbiased Swag Reviews You Can Trust

January 28, 2024
The Swag You’re Looking for is Right Here – Unbiased Swag Reviews You Can Trust
Finding the best swag starts with considering your preferred style of camping. A free-standing swag is usually the best way to go if you like to stay at caravan parks, internal space is important and storage space isn’t a problem in your car. A traditional swag makes more sense if you camp in the bush, or hike into your campsite. As they’re smaller, lighter, and quick to set up.

Need help deciding which type of swag to buy and what to look for? Checkout out our New Swag Buyer’s Guide for all of the details.

Already know what you are looing for? This article will help you weed through many options out there to find the best swag for your camping style.
Adventure Kings Swags
Adventure Kings swags are a marriage of durability and comfort at a friendly price. Their lineup includes some free-standing swags, and traditional single swags to match just about any camping style.

Kings Daddy Deluxe
The Kings Daddy Deluxe is their largest free-standing double swag. At 16.9kg it’s a little heavy, but that’s to be expected with a double swag tent. It’s made from 400 GSM Ripstop polycotton canvas with a 450 GSM PVC bucket floor.

The Kings Daddy Deluxe measures 2.15m L x 1.55m W x 1m H and comes with a 70mm mattress. This gives it enough space to comfortably sleep two people. However, you might want to upgrade the thickness of the mattress or get a self-inflating mattress if you’re going camping in the bush.
Kings Escape Single Swag
The Kings Deluxe Escape Single Swag is made from the 400 GSM Ripstop polycotton canvas with a 450 GSM PVC bucket floor that you see in the Kings Daddy Deluxe. At 2.1m L x 900mm W x 800mm H, it offers the perfect amount of space for one person, and some essential camping accessories.

The Kings Deluxe Escape Single Swag even comes with a 2-in-1 LED light and fan combo, with a perfect spot to hang it inside. There’s also enough room to hang an additional fan or other accessories at the foot of the swag.

If there’s a complaint with this single swag, it’s that the 50mm mattress is a little thin. If you like to do a little bush camping, you might want to upgrade to a thicker mattress pad or invest in an extra inflatable mattress.
Darche Swags
Darche offers a wide range of swag tents and awnings. They embrace innovation, by adding special features into some of their popular models like a built-in hutch for storage, innovative storage pockets, and awnings.

They’ve even started pioneering instant inflatable “Air-Volution” swag tents that set themselves up in seconds. All you need is a hand pump or an inflation point.

Darche swags use a lot of premium materials like 420GSM ripstop polycotton canvas or 280GSM ripstop polyester premium with a superior waterhead rating. Most of their models come with 600GSM PVC bucket floors.

Standard model Darche swag tents come with a 70 mm mattress. This can be a little thin if you’re bush camping but will work just fine in a caravan park.

Darche Dusk to Dawn 1100 Swag
The Darche Dusk to Dawn 1100 is a free-standing single swag that’s been named Australia’s Best Swag several years in a row. It weighs 14.1kg it comes with two storm flaps, and you can repurpose the storm cover as an awning, but you’ll have to buy the accessory poles separately.

The Darche Dusk to Dawn 110 has all the hallmark material construction shared by the rest of their line. It also integrates easily with many of Darche’s popular accessories like the Hutch™ or Hitch Lite™ which boosts the storage space and functionality.

Darche Ranger Solo+ Swag
The Darche Ranger Solo+ is a traditional single swag that’s lightweight and easy to set up. It only weighs 6.5kg and when rolled up tight it’s just 500mm L with a diameter of 350mm. This makes it a top option for packing on the back of a bike or hiking into a bush campsite.

This single swag is made from lightweight 320GSM ripstop poly-cotton canvas with a full-length 600GSM welded PVC bucket floor. You can also pair it with Darche’s Hutch R to boost the storage space for your shoes and other sundry items.

If there’s a small complaint with the Darche Ranger Solo+ it’s that it only comes with a 50mm mattress. This is a little too thin for bush camping, where this swag truly shines. You can get around this by adding an inflatable mattress.
Oztrail Swag
Oztrail Swag hangs its hat on the quality of its lineup. While many of their swag tents have a higher price point than their competitors, you also get thicker mattresses, high GSM tent canvas, and heavy-duty bucket floors.

Their standard swag mattress starts at 70mm thick. Most of their swag tents have 400 to 480GSM Ripstop polycotton canvas, with a 480GSM PVC bucket floor.

Oztrail Swag also offers a wide lineup of traditional and free-standing swag tents, in double swag and single swag sizes. Many have features built into them that make it easy to add accessories like LED lights and clip-on fans.

They also offer accessories designed to pair perfectly with their swag tents. This includes swag stretchers, awnings, and waterproof swag bags.
4×4 Equip Dual Cab Double Swag
The Oztrail 4×4 Equip Dual Cab is a spacious double swag with a very friendly price built with Oztrail’s high-end material build quality. This swag literally hangs its hat on being a full meter tall, which gives you tons of interior living space for a couple.

It has dual storm flaps and large sandfly-proof mesh screening. If you invest in two cheap awning poles you can turn the entry door canvas into a nice sunshade awning.

The swag mattress in the Oztrail 4×4 Equip Dual Cab is 70mm thick, which is just fine on a smooth surface in a caravan park. If you’re going to take it bush camping, you’ll want to either upgrade the mattress pad or add an inflatable mattress.
Crashpad Swag
Crashpad offers a small, but quality lineup of free-standing single swags at friendly prices. Their swags are available in a wide range of colours including Outback brown, Storm Grey, Forest green, Desert beige, Steal black and Blaze orange for hunting season.

Each swag is made from 410GSM waterproofed canvas, with a 600gsm PVC bucket floor. Their tents are built with fine mesh screens, storm flaps, and dual internal pockets.

Crashpad’s standard swag mattress is 70mm thick, and there’s enough vertical room inside their swags for you to add an inflatable mattress.

If there’s a complaint to be found with Crashpad’s lineup, it’s that they don’t seem to sell any true double swag tents. They’re more like over-sized single swags, that are big enough to sleep a parent and a child. Yet a bit too cramped to comfortably sleep a couple.
Conclusion
Finding the best swag for the money can feel daunting, but you can trust the swags on this list to take care of you. If you’re price-conscious, then the Oztrail 4×4 Equip Dual Cab Double Swag and the Kings Deluxe Escape Single Swag should be at the top of your list. Both have good material build quality at a friendly price tag.

If you’ve got a little more budget to work with, and customizing the swag is a top priority, the Darche Dusk to Dawn 1100m, and the Darche Ranger Solo+ Swag are the top contenders. Both boast Darche’s impressive material engineering and are compatible with their lineup of hutch accessories.

Whatever your needs and camping style are, chances are good the best swag for you is somewhere on this list.

Want more information on deciding which type of swag to buy and what to look for? Checkout out our New Swag Buyer’s Guide for all of the details.

January 23, 2024
The Road Trip Survival Guide: How to Keep Your Kids Happy Campers
Having a plan for keeping your kids entertained and to avoid hearing the dreaded phrase “Are we there yet?” saves your sanity. If you don’t want your kids binging on screen time, you need to keep things fresh with different games and activities, or even a few properly timed podcasts.
Stick to the Familiar
The long drive is not the time to introduce your kids to new technology and complicated games. Especially if you have young children who are likely to need help.
If you do want your kids to try out a new device or get into a new website, it’s best to give it to them days before they have to cram into the car so you’re not answering tech questions while trying to change lanes, at speed while towing a caravan!
Provide Kids with Quality Content
A growing body of research suggests that providing kids with quality content reduces the potentially negative side effects of excess screen time. If the best way to keep your kid entertained on a long drive is to hand them a digital device, you might want to encourage some of the following websites and podcasts.
Busy Bodies with Mr. Snotbottom
This podcast puts a humorous spin on the human body that kids will find entertaining, as well as educational. It’s great for kids 4+ into the primary school years.
Family Road Trip Trivia podcast
This podcast introduces trivia in an entertaining way that kids will engage in while learning something. It’s something fun for the whole family to play, and you might even find some of the questions stump you too!
PBS Kids
PBS Kid’s games tap into favorite characters with a staggering assortment of educational games and creative apps. It’s great for children in preschool through primary school.
ABC Mouse
ABC Mouse is a vanguard educational website with games and activities for children in preschool and early primary school years. They do a great job of entertaining kids while they learn basics like the alphabet, numbers, and colors.
Adventure Academy
Adventure Academy is the next step up in the ABC Mouse platform. It makes language arts, math, and science entertaining to learn about. It’s a great way to help your kids keep up with their learning while they aren’t in school.

Pack Wisely
When you’re packing all the camping supplies into the car, be sure to leave your kids’ bags where you can quickly get at them. A kid who spills something on themselves or gets car sick will become exponentially more upset with every minute you spend rifling through camping equipment just to find a change of clothes.
Pack Smart Snacks
Just like adults, kids like to eat when they’re bored. Keeping healthy snacks close at hand, let you feed them on the long drive to the caravan park. It’s okay to offer a small bag of chips or some other favorite comfort foods in the mix. You just don’t want them eating junk all day long.
Where you pack the snacks is also important. When you’re loading the car with camping supplies, make sure to keep the snacks in a cooler or tote bag that’s easy to grab. If your kids are little you want to keep the snacks up front, so they don’t just help themselves.
Give Your Kids a Portable Lap Desk
Providing your kids with a proper writing surface is one of the best ways to keep them entertained on a long drive, without letting them binge out on screen time. It’s great for kids who like to draw and write. It also gives them a place to store their entertainment items along with phones, tablets, and laptops.
There are plenty of lap desk options out there, catering to kids of all ages. Amazon.com.au and Amazon.com have many great options for folable lap desks. My children use the Nouram Genion Folable Table which sits up higher and stops them slouching over. They don’t seem to complain about headached as much during a long trip.
Plan Entertaining Stops
Even if you’re content to drive non-stop, your kids are going to be happier campers if you make a few timely stops along the way. It’s not enough to pull into a roadside rest area now and then. Try to find things that your kids will find entertaining, or at least new enough to catch their interest.
This might be stopping at a scenic overlook to take in a majestic view or carving out two hours to tour a museum that’s not quite on the way to the camping spot. The goal is to cultivate a mindset that makes the journey just as important as the destination.
Put a Twist on Classic Road Trip Games
I-Spy and 20-Questions are classic road trip games that every kid knows as a great way to pass time on a long drive. You can use some of the following games to keep your kids entertained on a long drive.

I Spy
I Spy starts with one person saying, “I spy with my little eye,” and then they offer a clue. Everyone else tries to guess what it is. You can spice it up by saying “I spy something that rhymes with,” rather than using a literal description.
20 Questions
20 questions start with the player thinking of something and offering a basic clue. The players can then ask up to 20 questions to try to determine what the thing is. If they can’t figure it out, the player gets a point, and the next person gets their turn.
I Packed My Bag
This is a memory game that can keep everyone in the family entertained. The first person says “I packed my bag and I put in…” They name something, and the next person must recite the line. They add another item to the list, and the next person recites it, adding their own item to the list.
The first person who gets it wrong is out. The game keeps going until only one person can remember the entire sequence of items correctly.
For many other ideas for games and activites on your next road trip check out Adventure Awaits for heaps of activity and games options for a long road trip.
Wrapping up
With proper preparation, keeping your kids entertained on a long road trip doesn’t have to be hard. We hope this guide will help to you to make your next camping trip away a breeze.

January 11, 2024
Expert-Approved Caravan Essentials You Need in 2025
Are you tired of the bland and uninspiring interior of your caravan? Do you dream about your caravan having dedicated storage with subtle touches to reflect your adventurous personality? Well, we have curated a list of the top 5 caravan essentials for 2024 that will not only add style to your space but also make your life on the road easier and more enjoyable.
Klipsta Hat Clips – Keeping Track of Style and Functionality
Is there anything more annoying when camping than everyone’s hats constantly getting lost and mixed up? You buy nice hats to protect the family from the sun, only to spend half the trip searching for them. Those days are over with the handy invention that is Klipsta Hat Clips.

These ingenious magnetic clips put an end to the infuriating hat hunt by giving every family member a designated spot to store their caps, sun hats, beanies and more. Just wrap them around any hanging space in your caravan or tent – roof bars, rails, poles, wherever – and your hats stay put always within arm’s reach.

Designed by an Aussie mum fed up of her kid’s hats always going missing, Klipsta Hat Clips are a game-changing caravan hack. Their industrial-strength magnets hold firmly so even hats won’t fall while travelling on bumpy roads. No more crushed Akubras in the car either thanks to always having a secure spot.

The clips come in fun, stylish colours to coordinate with your decor. Use them in the bunks, bathroom, kitchen – every room can benefit from being a little more organized. For caravanners, it solves the problem of limited storage and clutter that comes with small living spaces. Take them outside too – clip hats to your beach bag rather than leaving them in the sand or use to hang towels, scarves, even headphones!

Klipsta Hat Clips are a simple but genius invention that takes the stress out of family camping. No more wasted vacation time hunting for hats. Just grab and go while keeping them neat, organised and easy to find!

Fusion-Loc – Revolutionizing Storage Solutions
When it comes to storage in a caravan, functionality is key. That’s where Fusion-Loc comes in. With its revolutionary Vacuum Fusion Suction technology, Fusion-Loc offers a range of products including shelves, caddies, towel rails, robe hooks, and soap dispenser holders.

Tested and trusted by seasoned caravanners, these accessories provide unmatched performance and durability. Available in chrome and matte black finishes, Fusion-Loc products adhere securely to your caravan’s walls, adding extra storage without the need for drilling. Just make sure your walls have the right finish for optimal sticking.

Whether it’s organizing spices in the kitchen or managing shower products in the bathroom, Fusion-Loc is your go-to solution. These accessories have been tried and tested by many seasoned caravanners with only positive results withstanding the roughest roads, making them the perfect addition to your caravan. You can also find Fusion-Loc at your local Bunnings Store.

Macrame Fruit Hanger – Keeping Healthy Snacks Within Reach
Finding a balance between healthy snacks and tempting treats can be a challenge, especially when traveling with kids. Enter the macrame fruit hanger. These simple yet stylish hangers keep your fruit safe and easily accessible, ensuring that your family reaches for nutritious snacks on the road. Opt for the sling or hammock version, as they move less during transit, saving you the hassle of removing them every time you hook up.

Many talented individuals offer these hangers-on platforms like Facebook. Check out Hang Me Up and Knots of Gifts for some great options. With a macrame fruit hanger, healthy snacking becomes a breeze during your caravan adventures.
Al.ive Kitchen Duos – Elevating Your Daily Routine
Good hygiene and a touch of luxury go hand in hand with Al.ive Kitchen Duos. These non-negotiable essentials offer lightweight, visually appealing soap dispensers that won’t dry out your skin.

With 300ml capacity bottles made from recyclable HDPE plastic and durable ABS plastic trays, Al.ive Kitchen Duos
are designed for longevity and sustainability. Choose from duos with dishwashing liquid and hand soap or trios that include a bench spray. Refill packs are also available.

These Australian-made products come in various colors to match any color scheme. In your caravan, these duos fit perfectly between the sink and the wall, staying secure during transit. You can even use double-sided tape for added stability.

Indulge in the luxurious feel and captivating scents of Al.ive Kitchen Duos – your hands deserve it.
Wondermade Decals – Turning Your Caravan into a Work of Art
Add a touch of personalisation and creativity to your caravan with Wondermade Decals. These game-changing, lightweight decals are perfect for adding low-cost artwork that won’t fall off the walls during transit.

Choose from their extensive range of designs or have your own personal photos printed onto a decal. Capture your favourite memories from your travel adventures or create a gallery right in your caravan. Wondermade Decals also offers themed options for kids’ bunk areas, including educational decals like times tables, periodic tables, and the alphabet.

Designed to be easily moved and restuck without losing their adhesive power, these Australian-made decals are safe for painted walls and smooth surfaces. Let your caravan reflect your style with Wondermade Decals.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re a full-time traveller, a weekend adventurer, or simply someone with a passion for exploration, these ingenious products are your creative solutions to declutter and maximize your caravan’s potential. They offer practical innovation, custom-tailored for caravan living, making your space work for you.

These caravan essentials not only uplift your caravan’s interior but also elevate your home away from home to reflect your style and personality.

Need help on choosing the best mattress for your rooftop tent? We have the guide for you: How To Choose The Best Camping Mattress
Looking fora Rooftop Tent? We have the guide for you: How To Choose the Best Rooftop Tent
December 5, 2023
How To Choose the Best Rooftop Tent
Imagine yourself lying in the comfort of a rooftop tent on top your vehicle in the prime position for gazing at the stars. This is just part of the magic of one of the must have camping accessories – the roof top tent! But with so many options on the market, how do you ensure choosing the one that will turn your getaways into unforgettable experiences?

Hold on tight, the adventure begins! We explore the key features that will make your rooftop tent the stargazing sanctuary you’ve always dreamed of.
1. Streamlined Set-Up and Take-Down: Look for a quick and easy setup
A fast and frustration-free setup can make or break your camping experience. You want to spend your precious leisure time enjoying sunsets and stargazing, not sweating and struggling with tent instructions and poles. So prioritise roof top tents with innovative hassle-free designs to get camp running smoothly and let you enjoy your camping adventure sooner.

Opt for a model with a quick 1-2 minute deployment thanks to an intuitive sliding system. Telescoping ladders and pop-up poles make set-up a breeze. Look for self-deploying tents that open up into position at the touch of a button. An almost instant campsite! An easy tent to take down and pack up will have you resume your journey in no time! A focus on quick and easy set up is key.

Don’t shy away from splurging on hydraulic or electric systems if it guarantees carefree set up and pack down. Clever fold-out systems mean you rooftop tent can be set up in minutes with the touch of a button. Just extend the built-in ladder and enjoy.

Equally, packing down needs to be headache-free, especially when you need to hit the road early. Any quality roof top tent will fold neatly into compact storage mode in under 5 minutes.

Useful tip: If the tent does not have build in poles, number poles and ladder rungs during initial setup so disassembly always goes smoothly. Effortless setup means more time relaxing under the stars!

2. Weathering the Elements: Ruggedness and Waterproofing
Your home under the stars will be exposed to all sorts of weather conditions. Choose a roof top tent with heat-sealed seams, guaranteed waterproof to keep rain and moisture out. Ruggedness is also key to withstand high winds and blazing sun. Ripstop nylon or breathable canvas? Doesn’t matter, as long as it provides comfort and protection for camping in any season. Simple pleasures, whatever the weather’s whims.

Take some time to consider which fabrics and coatings will optimize weather resistance and ventilation. Synthetic fabrics like ripstop polyester resist moisture, wind, and UV rays while breathing to minimize interior condensation. For ultimate waterproofing, look for PU or acrylic coatings rated over 3000mm. And don’t forget reinforced stress points – quality stitching and durable fabrics prevent tears that would ruin your adventure.

If camping in extreme climates from snowy mountains to scorching deserts, hardcore materials are a must. Military-grade canvas stands up to months of exposure while insulating impressively. And aluminum panels or composite sidewalls maintain livable temperatures in both cold snaps and heatwaves.

Weather resistance doesn’t have to mean claustrophobia-inducing confinement. Clever rooftop tent designs allow you to bask in the outdoors even during storms. Convertible clamshell openings fully roll up when skies are clear. And covered side awnings keep views unblocked while sheltering from surprise showers. Choose durable, well-designed materials and openings to enjoy nature’s spectacle safely when camping.

3. Maximizing Interior Space: Plenty of room to relax
Before choosing, verify both sleeping capacity and interior height to allow freedom of movement in your roof top tent. You’ll appreciate unwinding in a spacious interior after an adventurous day. And what could be better than a real mattress to ensure the restful sleep? When snuggling up in your roof top sanctuary, dimensions definitely matter. Just remember to account for sleeping bags and pillows when calculating capacity. Height is equally important – low peak tents around 3 feet feel very cramped. Stand height models make extended trips much comfier.

Built-in storage pockets provide space for camping supplies like flashlights, maps, and other camping gear you want close at hand.

Go for extras that make rooftop living a delight like plush mattresses, skylights, and USB ports for your assorted camping equipment. The luxury of a rooftop tent is the ability to enjoy creature comforts even in remote locations.

4. Adaptable Viewing Options
Waking up to a vista of rolling hills or a secluded valley from your tent is priceless. Choose rooftop models designed to optimize outdoor views. Wrap-around windows with fine mesh screens provide for panoramic views and stellar stargazing. Some tents offer removable wall panels to fully open your shelter. Popup sunroofs are also a premium option giving you uninterrupted views. Side awnings shade the interior while letting breezes flow through. Be sure to select adaptable tents that allow you to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort.
5. Hassle-Free Mounting System
How your rooftop tent attaches to your vehicle is critical for safe, simple setup. Look for turnkey mounting systems with universal hardware that fits most roof racks without extensive adjustments. The best systems allow rapid tent attachment/detachment and even swing away designs to keep the tent in place while driving.

Low-profile mounts preserve aerodynamics and not cause excess resistance to increase fuel consumption. And most importantly, ensure mount weight ratings safely accommodate your fully loaded tent. The last thing you want is a complicated, unwieldy attachment process that leaves you frustrated before you leave the house. Prioritise secure, user-friendly mounting solutions for your camping equipment.

When exploring the wealth of rooftop tents available, keeping these key considerations in mind will ensure you select the ideal model for any adventure. Follow these guidelines and you’ll be ready to camp in comfort from the heights of your vehicle and awake each morning to a spectacular outdoor panorama. Happy travels under the stars with your perfect roof top tent in tow to enjoy a new world of camping adventures!

Ready to start shopping? Check out our Top 4 Rooftop Tents for 2024.

Need help on choosing the best mattress for your rooftop tent? We have the guide for you: How To Choose The Best Camping Mattress

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December 5, 2023