Every caravanning adventure, no matter how long or short, begins with preparation. A hurried pack-up can easily result in forgotten safety measures, damaged goods, or even a serious road hazard.
To eliminate the guesswork and ensure you are towing safely every single time, we’ve broken down the ultimate Caravan Pre-Departure Checklist. Use this guide to streamline your pack-up routine!
This crucial first section is all about securing your van to your tow vehicle and ensuring all necessary safety and communication systems are operational.
- Tow Hitch: Must be locked onto the tow ball.
- Safety Chains: Must be attached and crossed over beneath the coupling.
- Electric Brakes: Must be connected and confirmed working.
- Anderson Plug & Camera: Must be connected (for charging and reversing visibility).
- Break Away: Must be attached and its cable secured.
- WDH Set: Weight Distribution Hitch must be set and secured (if using).
- Jockey Wheel: Must be stowed firmly and locked in its mount.
- Wheel Chocks: Must be removed and stowed safely.
Hand Brake: Ensure it is off before engaging the car’s gears.
2. Caravan Internal: Securing Your Home on Wheels
The road is bumpy! This step prevents a messy cleanup, stops breakages, and ensures nothing shifts mid-drive.
Utility & Appliances Off
- Lights Off: All internal lights must be switched off.
- Water Pump Off: Must be switched off at the control panel.
- TV Stowed: Must be secured firmly in its travel bracket.
Security & Stowing
- All Cupboards Locked: Check latches on overhead and under-bench cupboards are locked shut.
- Fridge Door Locked: Secured with the travel latch.
- Shower Door Locked: Secured to prevent movement.
Loose Item Check: All items (kettles, toasters, heavy objects) must be secured or placed in cupboards.
3. Caravan External: Stowing and Switching Off
Getting your van aerodynamic and road-ready means stowing anything that could catch the wind, drag, or fly away.
- Door & Hatches: Main door and all external service hatches must be locked.
- Stabiliser Legs: Must be fully stowed and secured.
- Cabin Step: Must be retracted or folded up and locked.
- Roof Vents: Must be closed and secured.
- TV Antennae: Must be lowered and stowed.
- Power Cable: Must be disconnected and stowed.
- Water & Sullage Hoses: Must be disconnected and stowed securely.
- Gas Bottle: Crucial: Regulator must be turned OFF at the bottle.
4. Pre-Drive Checks: Legal & Safety Essentials
This final section ensures you are legal, visible, and have clear control before leaving the campsite. This should always be performed with a spotter if possible.
- Brake & Tail Lights: Tested to ensure both are working.
- Indicator Lights: Tested left and right indicators on the van.
- Brake Controller: Tested to confirm function and correct setting.
- Test Emergency Brake: Perform a slow manual activation check of the tow vehicle’s manual brake control.
- Mirror Alignment: Adjust side mirrors and/or towing mirrors for optimal visibility.
- Walk Around Check: Perform a full perimeter check for tyre pressure and clearance.
Caravan Site Clear: Ensure you haven’t left any pegs, hoses, or rubbish behind.
Don't Leave Without It!
We all want a smooth and safe journey. By dedicating just five extra minutes to this detailed checklist, you drastically reduce the risk of a travel incident or property damage. Don’t rely on memory—rely on the list!
