We’ve all been there: that itch to get on the road is strong, the kids are buckled in, and the dog is already waiting by the door. But a hurried pack-up is often where the trouble starts. Whether it’s a forgotten hatch or a safety chain that wasn’t quite right, those little “oops” moments can turn into big headaches once you’re on the highway.
To take the stress out of departure morning, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist we use ourselves. It’s about more than just checking boxes—it’s about ensuring that every time we pull out of a campsite, we’re doing it safely and with total peace of mind.
This is the most critical part of the process. It’s the handshake between your car and your caravan, and it needs to be firm.
- The Tow Hitch: Double-check that it’s truly locked onto the tow ball. Give it a visual and physical tug.
- Safety Chains: These should be attached and crossed over beneath the coupling (creating a “cradle”).
- The Electronics: Ensure your Electric Brakes, Anderson Plug, and Reverse Camera are all snug and working.
- Breakaway Cable: Make sure this is attached to the vehicle, not the tow bar.
- Jockey Wheel & Chocks: These need to be stowed and removed before you move an inch.
- Hand Brake: Don’t laugh—we’ve all tried to drive off with it on! Make sure it’s down.
2. Inside the Van: Securing Your Home
The Australian road can be bumpy, and a caravan interior can turn into a washing machine if things aren’t secured.
- The “Click” Check: Go through and ensure every cupboard and drawer is locked.
- Fridge & Shower: These doors need their travel latches engaged. There’s nothing worse than arriving to find the milk has done a lap of the kitchen!
- Utilities: Turn the water pump and all lights off.
- TV Safety: Ensure the TV is clicked firmly into its travel bracket.
Pro Tip: Do a quick “loose item” sweep. Put the kettle, the toaster, and even the pet bowls into a secure spot so they don’t become flying objects mid-transit.
3. Outside the Van: Stowing and Locking
Before we hit the bitumen, we do a full lap of the exterior to make sure everything is aerodynamic and tucked away.
- Gas Bottles: This is a big one. The regulator must be turned OFF at the bottle itself.
- Antenna & Vents: Make sure the TV antenna is down and all roof vents are closed tight.
- Legs & Steps: Ensure the stabiliser legs are up and the entry step is retracted and locked.
- Hoses & Cables: Disconnect the power, water, and sullage hoses, and stow them in their bags.
- Windows & Hatches: Ensure every window is latched and every external hatch is locked.
4. The Final Walk-Around
Before we put the car in gear, we always do one final “sanity lap.”
- Lights Test: One of us stands at the back while the other tests the brakes, indicators, and tail lights. It only takes 30 seconds but keeps you legal and safe.
- Mirror Check: Adjust your towing mirrors so you have a clear, unobstructed view of the road behind you.
- The “Leave No Trace” Check: Look back at your site. Have we left any pegs behind? Is the tap off? Are there any stray dog toys or rubbish? We want to leave every camp better than we found it.
Don't Rely on Memory—Rely on the List!
We’ve found that even after years of caravanning, it’s easy to get distracted—a neighbor stops to chat, or the dog decides to chase a scrub turkey right as you’re hitching up.
By taking five extra minutes to run through this list, you aren’t just protecting your van; you’re protecting your family. For those who want the technical deep-dive, we always recommend keeping a copy of the National Recreational Vehicle Towing Guide handy too.
Safe travels, and we’ll see you out there!
