Travel & Product Tips

For the times when you don’t wish to store the caravan inside a garage, it is important to keep the caravan covered completely so that it is protected from external damage. If you think that the cover is not needed, then understand that the damage would then be directed at the paint and rubber components of the caravan. By using a good cover, you can protect the surface from unwanted dents and scrapping off of the paint.

Obviously, no cover is capable of delivering a lifetime worth of service. The longevity of usage depends on the quality of the materials used, the warranty provided with the product and the price range. Now you must be wondering about the inclusion of price range as an important factor. This is usually the most driving factors that people consider while making their purchase decision. So an average customer evaluates all the factors and then makes his mind about buying the product.

But just how does a person choose the right caravan cover? How can you decide whether a caravan cover is the right one for you? Here’s how you do it.

Getting the Size Just Right

A caravan is different than other RVs. For that matter, every RV is different in terms of dimensions, applications and storage requirements. For a caravan, the size needs to be measured by considering the front and back end. You need to be careful while taking the measurements as the values need to reflect end to end results. Check out the diagram below for a better idea of the measuring requirements.

It is considerable to keep a buffer for the measurements and opt for a larger size. At least this would allow the caravan to fit inside the cover. The covers for various RVs differ mostly in length and the width and height are almost similar for all. As a safe bet, measure your caravan from end to end and note the measurements. Check out the measuring units that are applicable for the covers and convert the values if required. This would help you to get the right cover size.

As a precaution, take all the measurements with the accessories installed in the caravan. Don’t leave out caravan awnings or any attached equipment while taking measurements. This would help you to cover the caravan completely with all of the attachments and thereby ensure greater protection to the RV.

Waterproofing Capabilities of the Cover

You cannot have a completely waterproof cover for caravans. The cover in itself needs to be breathable. The top portion of the cover can be waterproof to prevent water from seeping in from the top. However, you cannot have sealed seams as moisture can build up inside the cover and this can cause damage to the exterior of the caravan. Remember, the cover is meant to protect the caravan from damage in an open environment and it would not be effective if you park up right under a leaky roof or any place that has flowing water.

Does the Cover Affect the Windows?

Plastic/acrylic windows are susceptible to minor abrasions resulting from the rubbing or flapping of a caravan cover. However, this is not a big issue. You can clean the windows and ensure minimal damage to them due to the movement of the cover. Alternatively, you could also use adjustable straps to keep the cover in place and prevent it from moving around excessively. For those who are really anxious about the safety of the windows, you can use cling wrap on the windows to prevent any form of scratching or resulting damage.

Availability of Better Options

The fabric type may be similar across various product lines, but the gauge of the fabric differs on the basis of the price of the product and the specific design parameters. There is no need for a heavy gauge cover unless you plan on subjecting the caravan to some pretty rough environments. You should be able to manage well with an average gauge cover. If you are having problems getting a cover that fits well with your caravan, then consider getting one custom made with all the features that you desire.

There could be a myriad of reasons for changing the arms of the Fiamma F45 awning. Extended use, wear and tear, damage, rust, etc. are common causes which require the arm to be changed. Changing the arms does not require a lot of technical know how. With the right instructions and a little care, you can do it yourself. Obviously you won’t be able to do it on your own, so it is best if you have a friend along with you. 4 hands are definitely better than 2, and once the work is done, you can always treat your friend to a nice meal and a refreshing drink.

Here is a step by step guide for changing the arms of a Fiamma F45 awning.

• Use the provided level to fully extend the awning till the permissible length.
• Loosen the screws that hold the column in the front section. Once the screw is lose, you should be able to pull it out of the channel with a bit of initial effort.
• Remove the bolt from the dual shock absorber component.
• Loosen the bolt at the junction of the arm and the channel. This will make it easy to slide the arm out of the channel without much resistance.
• Now that the arm is free from the channel, fold it in half and insert the rubber ring to prevent it from straightening up again. Now move this folded arm towards the channel and keep it in place.
• Slowly move the arm out of the dual shock absorber and remove the spring. Be careful while handing the shock absorber component as mishandling can cause direct harm. With the spring removed, you should be able to free the arm from the component.
• Bring the new arm, place it in the dual shock absorber after inserting the spring. Tighten the bolt and remove the rubber ring to free the arm’s length completely.
• Insert the free end of the arm into the channel of the front section.
• Use the level to wind the awning in.
• Measure the distance of the arm’s junction in the channel and adjust accordingly in keeping with the distance in the main channel / rail. Once the adjustments have been done, tighten the screw / bolt on the arm and you should have a fully functional Fiamma F45 awning.

Check out the video below for a better understanding of the arms changing process.

If you have not bought a Fiamma F45 awning, then get one for yourself today. After all, you do deserve comfort on your road trips. Only the fortunate are able to carry the comfort of home along with them on their road trips.

Have you ever wanted the perfect combination of an awning and a caravan annexe? The Fiamma Zip Awning offers a great awning with your personal enclosure. Fiamma has come up with this amazing technology which allows the walls to be zipped to the fabric of the awning with the use of special zippers. So before you even know it, the enclosure would be ready in front of you with minimal effort being required for it.

The Fiamma Awning (ZIP) is ideal for motorhomes, caravans and van conversions. In terms of design, the ZIP awning is based on the Fiamma F45 model which serves as the base structure for the accommodation of the zipped side panels. This is a great addition to your RV as the entire enclosure can be set up within minutes.

For installing the ZIP awning correctly and ensuring smooth operation of the entire structure, follow these steps and you should be able to get things done without any hassle.

• Open out the awning by using the required level and extend it to its full length. Once done, you need to bring out the support arms and place them firmly on the ground.

• If this is your first time, then go through the instructions manual to get an understanding of the things that need to be attached to the awning to make it a complete enclosure.

• Fix the two sockets on either end of the awning rail and tighten them with the screws (provided) till they are firmly in place. Make sure you adjust the position so that everything is aligned perfectly.

• Put the foam columns inside the given space in the side panels. This will give some rigidity to one of the ends / edges of the side panels and it would allow them to be placed properly along with the awning.

• The poles would have been provided in disassembled parts. Join these parts to form long poles. There are adjusting screws on them so you need to set the height of the poles accordingly.

• Once the poles are assembled, insert them in the space provided in the side panels. The rods would have a protruding section at one end. This section needs to be inserted in the socket provided at the end of the awning rail (fixed earlier).

• The other end of the pole has a grooved socket type end which fits between the side panel and the fabric of the awning.

• If you take a good look at the front part of the awning, there would be a slot for sliding the front panel inside the entire section. So all you need to do here is to take the front panel (the one with the door / windows) and slide it in the slot.

• Here comes the interesting part. You would have been provided with 2 coiled rings. Take each ring and attach it to the hole / slot provided at the top part of the side panel. This will give you the initial position of the zipper. Just move the zipper up towards the rail and the side panels would have been zipped in to position.

• Repeat the same for the front panels. The mechanism is the same for both the side panels and the front panel.

• Now you need to attach the supporting poles at the back end of the enclosure. Once this is done, you need to strap the free end of the side panel at the back to the pole.

• This clears off the major work that had to be done while installing a ZIP awning. All that remains to be done is to use the pegs to pin down the flap / extra fabric at the end of each panel, to the ground.

The window sections in the panels are provided with grooves where you can fix curtains and make the space even more “homely”. So the next time you plan a road trip with your family or friends, don’t forget to take along the Fiamma Zip Awning for a truly spectacular and relaxing holiday.

During your caravan awning search, you might have come across Dometic Awnings. Now these awnings are not only of high quality, but also have state of the art design to provide convenient usage to the average caravanner. Every awning type is different in terms of basic structure, and it is important for you to know the correct way to setup the respective awning.

The following is a step by step description of the correct way to set up a Dometic Awning. Remember, this is not a guide to the installation of the awning, rather it refers to setting it up when required. This means that the caravan awning needs to be installed already on the caravan itself.

• Release the support arms by releasing it from the locking mechanism
• The clip (placed at the end of the roll / cylinder) needs to be flipped back in the reverse position as the roll would have to move in the opposite direction to release the awning fabric.
• Pull the awning out slightly so that the entire thing leans forward and both the support arms become free.
• Once this has been done, you need to carefully pull the support rope (at one end of the rolling cylinder) to bring out the awning completely. Now pull the support arms away from the caravan so that it snaps into place.
• Roll out the awning all the way till the entire fabric has been spread out properly.
• With the awning fabric in place, you need to move the tension arms and make sure the clip fits into the respective joint at the end of the cylinder’s head.
• You would also have to adjust the tension in the support arms and then lock it in place by applying the locking mechanism.
• Use the lever to release some length of the support arm. This is an important step because the releasing of the support arms helps to prepare it for final placement on the ground.
• When everything has been put in place with the right tension being maintained for each arm and segment, remove the safety clip (placed at the point of attachment of the support arms and the caravan) and bring the arms down on the ground. During this step, try to keep the pressure in the opposite direction of the caravan because the tension in the arms tends to bring it closer to the caravan, resulting in the caravan awning being rolled up again.
• Now that the arms are firmly placed on the ground, you can easily adjust the height. If you need to raise the height further, then increase it to the desired level and fix it in place by using the locking mechanism.
• Once everything has been set up, you will find some length of strap hanging from one end. Just wrap it around the support arm and tie it to prevent it from being an obstacle.

So that completes the steps required to set up the Dometic Awning. Make sure that you get it installed by professionals to avoid running into problems later. This particular awning is durable and is made from high quality materials, so it should serve you for quite a long time, if you can take good care of it.

Do share your experience / opinion about Dometic awnings if you have used one yourself.

Caravanning is fun, there is no doubt about that! But what makes it even more interesting is when you bring along your pets, specifically your dog. You wouldn’t want to leave behind your four-legged companion while you enjoy your road trip. But as soon as you think about a caravan holiday with pets, you realize that it may take quite a lot of efforts to take care of the pet and also ensure that the caravan remains clean.

Bringing along your pet might not be a daunting task after all. You only need to make sure that you have all the required resources with you. Here are some simple yet effective pet care tips that will make your road trip less tedious.

Things You Need

• Pet Food
• Food and water bowls
• Can opener for tinned canine food products
• Documents indicating proof of vaccination and other details.
• Pet grooming equipment
• Toys (Yes you read that correctly. Pets need to pass the time also.)
• Collar and leash
• Medication for the pet
• Plastic bags or scooper for keeping the area clean. (don’t be grossed out. It’s natural!)

Things to Check Before You Leave

• Make sure that the registration details of your dog are updated.
• Get the pet vaccinated if you have not done it already.
• Attach a tag to the pet’s collar and write the dog’s name and provide your contact details. In case the pet goes astray, it would be easy to trace him.
• Check whether you have all the required equipment for transporting the pet. You could get fancy kennels or cages to keep the pet in a safe enclosure and avoid getting the place dirty.

Things to Check While Travelling

• Make sure you take along enough water for your pet(s). You would not want them to get excessively thirsty.
• Dogs can pretty much lie around inside the caravan. So they are not a problem. However, if you have cats or birds, then it is advisable to cover their cage with a blanket or cloth. This should help them to remain calm throughout the journey. Dogs can get a bit stressed so make sure you understand the signs and calm them.
• Ensure the maintenance of proper environment for the pets. Too hot or too cold an environment could be a problem for the pet.
• The most important part of travelling with pets is that you need to take appropriate breaks to take out the pet for attending to nature’s call and to get a chance to flex its muscles.

Things to Take Care During Your Stay at a Caravan Park

• Before you even plan ahead for managing your pets at the caravan park, make sure you call in advance and find out whether the park allows pets. Even if they allow pets, you need to understand the conditions laid down for pets at the park. Most parks require the pets be kept on leash at all times and they are not permitted to enter the cabins. So come prepared.
• Never allow the pet to dominate the place and keep it away from other pets and guests. You wouldn't want it to become a nuisance.
• Keep your pet under control and within your sight at all times.

With a little care and some preparations, you and your pets can have the time of your lives on a really enjoyable caravan holiday. Follow these simple tips and save yourself from running into problems during the road trip.

How to decorate your caravan? Whether you have bought a new caravan or are just bored with your old new, our fabulous caravan renovation ideas are here to help you. It is your mobile home and it should reflect a part of your lifestyle. After all, you are the master of your living space. By decorating your caravan’s interiors, the least you could expect is that it would cheer you up on a gloomy day and save you from feeling excessively home-sick.

Here are 9 caravan interiors ideas that would help you to brighten up your caravans and breathe some life into your personal space.

1. Go Vintage

Whenever you think about caravan decor and renovations, the first thought that probably comes to your mind is to go retro. Now the retro theme is a popular and redundant theme, but sticking to the styling of the 1950s is a bit generic, don’t you think? Look beyond the generic constraints and come up with fresh ideas, even if you want to stick to vintage decor. There are so many vintage items (such as fabrics, frames, etc.) that you could add for giving the place a good ambiance.

2. Add Some Books

This may not be the “ideal” decorative item in anyone’s list, but trust me, these add a lot of vibe to your caravan’s interiors. If you think this is a bit far-fetched, just take a good look at your house the next time you go back from work, and you would find books there. Books can be an interesting addition not only because they add a certain appeal to the interiors, but books, in general, are enjoyable during journeys.

3. Go Minimalistic

Decorating a caravan’s interiors does not necessarily mean adding stuff and going over the top with your creativity. Sometimes, it can also mean removing things and going minimalistic to enjoy the sense of space that is only brought about by keeping minimal items. The best way to do this is to use inflatable furniture and use items that be stacked up together so as to minimize the need for excessive storage space. You should definitely try this out at least once and explore the options of going minimalistic.

4. Make the Floor Attractive

I am not sure why people often choose to overlook the fact that the floor of the caravan can be an important part of the interior decor. Even though you could end up spending a lot of time outside the caravan, you should definitely consider putting a good flooring. Before you consider your options, make sure that the material that you select is easy enough to clean and can withstand regular usage. Lino tiles are ideal and easy enough to keep clean. Since the caravan does not have a lot of floor space, your investments would not be quite a lot. During cold weather, you could add rugs to the floor to get some warmth.

5. Use the Celling to Hang Stuff

Have you ever considered the fact that you could make a lot of use of the caravan’s ceiling? You could hang stuff from it and also fix jars from the roof. This can be done by screwing the caps to the ceiling and then screwing on the jars after filling them with small items. You could come up with several ways of utilizing the ceiling such as hanging bags for storing items of daily usage and for hanging decorative components such as chimes.

6. Install Furniture with Hidden Spaces to Optimize Storage

If you have to install furniture such as couches or beds, then make sure you get the ones that have hidden space or open out into larger units. This will not only help you to optimize storage space, but it will also give you adequate scope to place them in different positions such that the entire appeal of the place is heightened.

7. Put Up A Pin Board for Pinning Photographs

I know that we all have digital cameras and smartphones where we can store our photos and videos on small memory cards. But have you thought about going back to the basics where memorable moments were captured with the help of film-based cameras? The fact that you can hold a photo and recollect the fond memories of the time when the picture was clicked, can be quite nostalgic.

You could take out pictures from a printer, but there is something special about taking a pic from a Polaroid camera. Install a pinboard to one of the walls of the caravan’s interior and pin photographs, handwritten notes, and just about anything. Let this be your personal memorabilia marking space.

8. Use Bold Colours for Painting / Repainting the Walls

Caravan walls do not have to follow a particular color scheme. Go wild and be bold with the usage of colors. If you are a party animal and really want to give an edge to your interiors, then use spray paints, glow-in-the-dark paints, and stencils to come up with some really unconventional painting textures and designs. Let your creative juices flow and involve your friends and family. Who knows what you could come up with?

9. Change the Fabric as Per Your Preferences

The fabrics used for the furniture and other decorations can have an impact on the visual appeal. You could change it to suit your mood or your preferences. Select simple yet rustic fabrics to give a vintage feel to the place. Select creative fabrics if you intend to make an outstanding impression and you plan on spending more time inside the caravan than outside.

There are countless options for fabrics that may be chosen. The best way to select one is to find out the ease with which they can be cleaned and maintained. After all, no one wants to spend their holiday cleaning up stuff.

At times you may come across the need to repair your caravan awning. The issue may be related to any component in the awning itself and is usually related to the frame. While you can repair it yourself, you should be very careful as there is a risk of injury due to the tension spring. The removal of this tension spring is a dangerous process and can even be fatal if adequate precautions are not taken for it. Also check 5 easy steps to clean caravan awnings to maintain it properly.

Before starting any procedure, always refer to your instructions manual for noting down any specific section and all the required details. This would keep you out of harm’s way. Now you would be needing tools to get the job done.

The required tools are:

• Rivet Fastener and Rivets
• Power Drill and Drill Bits
• Vice Grips
• WD40

The procedure that is described below will work for any awning but before you make any repairs, you need to detach it from your caravan or motorhome and put it on the ground so that you can access the components easily.

The awning repair process is as follows:

1. The locking mechanism for the awning is located on the right side of the structure so once you have detached the awning, make sure that this component is properly locked. You would have to work on the left side of the awning for executing any repair work.
2. When you remove the tension from the spring, just make sure that you count the number of times you have turned the spring. This is very important and you need to note down the revolutions that it took to completely remove the tension from the spring.
3. Once the tension is removed, you bore out the rivets and then remove the end cap.
4. Once the spring is removed, you might have to lubricate the cylinder with some WD40.
5. Now you need an MX54 component which is delivered as per the specifications of the cylinder in which the spring is encased. The Mx57 has grooves that fit in perfectly with that of the cylinder itself.
6. Use a 2x2 lumber piece to push the Mx57 and don’t forget to mark it so that you remember where and how deep the mx57 was inserted.
7. Now you need to reattach the end cap and then insert the rivets using the rivet fastener.
8. With that done, we need to wind the spring back up. Now be very careful to make the exact number of revolutions to the spring in the opposite direction as was made while removing the tension from the spring. The spring develops high tension and if you lose your concentration for even a second, the spring could come at you with a great force and cold cause fatal injury.
9. When you are done reviving the tension in the spring, you need to lock it in place with an appropriate component. Sometimes even a rivet would do.

And this brings us to the end of the repairing process. It is rather easy and you could do it in your own garage. But maintain extreme caution always. You could, however, use the mx57 prior to any issues with the awning as this component gives immense strength to the caravan awnings and it could prove to be an advantage when going on long caravan trips with your family and loved ones.

Contact us to get help with your caravan awning repairs or replacement.

Jayco led awning light Caravan awning lights can be pretty useful when you are parked up in a place that has minimal light. You can always extend the light source of your caravan to get some visibility, but it would not be as effective as getting a caravan awning light. By getting a light for your awning, you can get better visibility and it won’t drain your battery as the most preferred lights for such awnings are LEDs.

The reason behind replacing the lights could be due to natural reduction in efficiency of the existing lights, or the need to install better lights to minimize electrical consumption. Here is an easy way to replace a caravan awning light in 4 simple steps.

What Do You Need?

Before you actually replace the lights, you would need to check the following and ensure that all of this is prepared beforehand.

1. A New Set of LED Lights
2. Voltage Compatibility Check
3. Screws
4. Toolkit

Step 1: Detach the Existing Lights Carefully

Before you take down the lights, make sure you turn off the electricity or cut out electrical supply to the section where you need to attach the lights. Use a simple tool (screwdriver) to remove the screws and take out the mounting plugs. Once these are removed, you should be able to detach the lights without much trouble.

Step 2: Attach the New Light Array to the Car Battery

Now you need to attach the new lights to the caravan awning walls or the top section. Make sure you have some extra wires as the one coming out of the light could be short and may not be enough to connect to the main electrical supply system. When you are done wiring the light, attach the same to the battery. Remember, the power supply should be turned off till you have completely replaced the light to avoid electrical shock.

Step 3: Screw the Light in Place and Place the Mounting Plugs

Once you have secured the wiring of the light, you would have to screw it back in place and place the mounting plugs in the slots provided. Make sure you check the light after it is screwed so that it is confirmed to be intact. If it is screwed on loosely, then it could come off during a bumpy ride.

Step 4: Check the Light By Turning it On and Off Several Times

With the light screwed in place and connected to the battery, the only thing that remains is to check whether all the connections were made correctly. In order to check this, turn the light on and off several times and assure yourself of its efficiency. If you feel that it is not working as it should, then repeat these steps and try to find the fault.

Precautions!

Whenever you handle caravan accessories that run on electricity, make sure you gather proper knowledge of its features before you go around trying to fix it. If you do not possess a sound understanding, then you could end up damaging it instead of solving the issue. Moreover, you should always make it a point to disconnect any active power sources before you handle such components. A good approach would be to use rubber gloves and avoid direct contact with the ground when working with components that require electrical connection. With these precautions, you should be safe and you would be able to get your work done in a jiffy.

Did you have fun on your last caravan trip? The feeling is simply amazing and some of the best moments of your life are spent on the road. But what about its maintenance? Yes, these recreational vehicles need to be serviced regularly, especially when you are an infrequent traveller. Just because the caravan is standing in your garage for long periods, doesn’t mean that it cannot be subjected to damage.

The individual parts and components need to be checked thoroughly for signs of damage as these could cause major problems during your next trip. I am sure that you wouldn’t want anything to spoil your mood. Remember, it doesn’t take an expert to check the signs of damage on your caravan. You can do it yourself and it is important that the caravan be inspected periodically if you want to keep it in good operational condition.

Here are some of the key areas that you should inspect yourself. The slightest signs of damage or problem should be reported to a caravan servicing firm so that the required repairs may be conducted without delay.

External Check

This is the easiest stage in the inspection process. All you need to do is to inspect the exterior for visible signs of damage such as cracks or the spreading of moss (green colour substance). If these things are not taken care of, then they could reduce the durability of the caravan. If there has been a recent shower or a strong wind, then check whether water has accumulated anywhere. Also make sure to wipe it dry and remove any leaves that may be stuck in the creases.

Tyres

Tyres are the most important part of the caravan as the entire weight falls upon the tyres. There are two aspects that need to be checked – the ridges of the tyre and the side portion. The ridges need to be good enough without any cracks or excessive wear and tear.

Do not attempt to get it repaired if there are signs of damage. The best option is to replace it. The same is applicable if the side portion exhibits signs of cracks. It may not be visible instantly so you need to compress it slightly from the top for the cracks to get revealed.

The cracks in the side portion can occur as a result of the caravan standing in one place for long periods. The entire weight falls upon a small section of the tyre (the one that touches the ground) so there is a high risk of cracks developing in this portion.

A good way to avoid is this to move the caravan approximately 30 cm ahead or back so that various sections of the side portion get to bear the weight. This allows for gradual yet more or less uniform wear and tear.

Brakes

Unless the brakes are working properly, the caravan is at a risk of crashing into the towing vehicle when brakes are applied in it. You need a little expert help to inspect the brakes as the caravan needs to be lifted onto a platform so that the underside may be checked thoroughly.

First, you would have to disassemble the individual brakes so that the brake shoes and the compartment are visible. Check the brake shoe for damage. There should not be much damage ideally, but if cracks are visible, then get them replaced. Also the drum compartment needs to be inspected for any cracks or creases. The uneven surface can affect the braking efficiency which is not a desired at all. It would also be wise to check the braking system so that all the parts are confirmed to be in operational effectiveness.

Jockey Wheel

The jockey wheel is deployed when the caravan is detached from the towing vehicle. Its movement should be checked to see whether it is able to withstand the weight of the caravan when it is brought into place. Also, make sure you check the joint which attaches to the towing vehicle. If you feel that the joint is a bit shiny, then use a rough material to sand it down. This will help the clamps to have better grip as a result of increased friction.

Battery

The battery is the heart of the caravan and is responsible for powering all the appliances and equipment stored in it. Check the charge levels periodically and make sure that at least 50% charge is maintained. Never and I mean NEVER let the battery go dead. There is simply no other recourse except to replace the entire battery and this would burn a hole in your pocket, especially if those batteries are connected to an alternative power generation source such as solar panels.

Roof

Very few people consider inspecting the roof, but this is where the problem could be the most. Accumulated water, dust, debris or leaves could lead to damages. You should definitely check the rims of the roof window as moss could cause the interiors to become dank and damaged. Clean the roof, including the rims of the window and remove all debris.

Windows / Door

Check the windows for any cracks or water seepage. Sometimes, the condensation may occur between the layers of glass / plastic materials of the windows. If the condensation is on the exterior, then it can be taken care of easily. However, if the problem lies in between the layers, then the entire structure would have to be removed and checked thoroughly. The same is applicable for the door and its rim.

Water Systems

The water system in the caravan needs to be checked for efficiency and all taps should be kept in an open position when not in use as it helps to maintain proper ventilation in the systems. Occasionally, you would also have to clean the storage tanks along with the pipes so that no moss may develop in it. Also check the toilet / bathroom for any signs of moss or other possible signs of damage.

Beds / Couches

Beds and couches are one of the most expensive items in the caravan. It is obvious that you would invest in comfortable beds and couches when you have your own caravan and you are interested in taking your home’s comfort with you on your trips. If possible, take out the cushions and mattresses and keep them in a dry place that is not prone to condensation. If you cannot take them out, then use a central heater (preferably one that runs on oil) so that you may leave it on for hours and let the interiors become dry with minimal moisture.

Caravan Awnings / Annexe

Caravans often have awnings and annexes installed for added space and comfort. Whenever the caravan needs to stand for lengthy periods, make sure that you take out the fabrics and store them safely as per the specific instructions. Remove the supporting arms and the frames and store them separately in a dry place to prevent rusting.

Additionally, inspect the awning rail for signs of damage or the loss of components such as nuts or screws. These minor issues need to be addressed in time for ensuring proper functioning of the equipment. In the case of rollout awnings, check the rollout mechanism for smoothness in operation.

There are so many transport options in the world today with each mode having its own set of experiences. While travelling may be a wonderful experience in its own, there are some experiences that you get only during road trips. So make sure you take at least one road trip (even better if you have your friends / family with you) before you kick the bucket.

Copy below code and share this Infographic On Your Site

1. Say goodbye to schedules
   • You get to decide how many stops you make and how long these stops would be.
   • There is no fixed schedule and no passenger rush. It’s just you and your friends / family so chill out and take it easy.
   • You can even change the route if you feel so.
2. Interact with the locals and make new friends
   • Even if you have the best electronic gadgets in the world, you won’t be able to get as much information about some unmarked places that the locals know about.
   • During road trips you will always meet new people and befriend strangers. It is one of the best ways to get to know people and to find out about interesting regional locations.
   • You could also be invited to the homes of some locals who would love to share some stories and delicious refreshments.
3. You get to enjoy the company of whoever you wish to bring along (pets included)
   • Not every transport media allows you to being pets over. But on road trips, you are in charge and you can bring along anyone you like (including your 4 legged companions).
   • If you have your own caravan or motorhome, then you would only have to bear the cost of fuel. So you can bring along anyone you want – colleagues, neighbours, friends or other people in your circle.
4. Get up close and personal with nature
   • You have all the time in the world to make a stop at ponds or scenic locations just to take in the breath-taking view of the surrounding areas.
   • If there is a sudden downpour, then you can either go outside for enjoying the rains, or you could put up your awning and sit under the shade while sipping some tea or coffee.
5. Develop your management skills
   • If you thought that only institutes teach you management skills, then try handling a road trip yourself.
   • A road trip will help you to enhance your management skills as you would have to keep up with emergency situations, unexpected occurrences, mechanical failures (in vehicle / caravan) or just about any other situation.
6. Learn something new
   • Sometimes, you might have to do something that you never would have even tried in usual conditions. For example, trying to replace a punctured tyre or cooking up a meal (at least trying to).
   • All of us are now accustomed to electronic devices and technologies for various services. When it comes to navigating, we simply search Google and get the directions from the Google Map or other GPS services. Road trips offer ample opportunities to learn manual navigation by reading a map and asking around. This is one skill that you should learn if you love road trips.
7. Come out of your protective shell
   • Road trips are great for pulling people, especially introverts, out of their comfort zone and giving them the opportunity to experience some of the best moments of their life.
   • Life on the road is anything but easy because you have to do everything yourself. This will help you to become self-dependent and you will become better at handling things without supervision.
8. Explore new places that may not necessarily be on the map
   • Google may have mapped out most of the places, but there are still some spots that only the locals are aware of. Ask around and you would be amazed at the list of places that you would have with you.
   • Following a route is fine as long as you are on a tight schedule. But if you have the time and you are feeling a bit adventurous, then you could go off route and check out places that may not even be marked on the map.
9. There is always a surprise waiting for you around the bend.
   • No matter how much you prepare for the road trip, you can always expect the unexpected as you take that turn around the corner.
   • You might meet some interesting people, or you could come across an enchanting location. The possibilities are quite limitless.

When you are out on the road in your caravan, you tend to bring along a lot of stuff from your home to avoid running out of resources. Now the biggest challenge that a person faces during such trips is to keep things organized. It is not difficult to organize your things and keep them in place. All it takes is a little creativity and some research to find out simple hacks that could help you to optimize the utilization of space in your caravan.

1. Using Nesting Bowls and Spoons

Utensils like bowls and spoons are often in demand during trips but it becomes difficult to store them. A good way to manage them is to use bowls and spoons that nest into a single unit. This helps in storing more units in the space used by the largest container. Not only does this look really cool, but it also ensures that all of the components are kept together safely.

2. The "Dangling Jar" Effect

Did you know that you could use your old jars for storing common knick-knacks? Well, you can also hang them from the ceiling of your caravan with the "dangling jar" effect. This is not a magic trick. All you need to do is to screw the lids of the jars onto the ceiling and then you can stuff the jar with your things before you screw them into their respective lids. I must say that whoever came up with this idea has amazing creativity.

3. Fold Up Chairs Can Be Stored in Less Space

Ask any camper about the single most desired furniture during trips and you would get the same answer every time – collapsible chairs. These chairs are sturdy enough to hold the weight of an average-sized person, but it is constructed in such a way that it can be folded up into a small bundle. This is great for taking along on trips because you can get a good seating space without having to manage the bulk of a rigid chair.

4. Carry Your Air Mattress for Comfortable Sleeping

The air mattress has provided a space saving solution that goes beyond beds. This technology has been used for chairs, sofas and other furniture where you simply fill up the material with air (using a blower) and voila – you have a sturdy place to lie down or just relax. When you are done using it, you can deflate it and the entire thing can be rolled into a small bundle that can be stored in a small space. It is light enough to be carried around in your backpack.

5. Keep Your Stuff at One Place with a Bedside Caddy

The bedside caddy may appear to be a simple storage unit, but if you consider the extent of its application, then it would be easy to understand the versatility of this humble product. You can store anything from books and magazines to remote control units and mobile phones. The best part about this caddy is that you can hang it pretty much anywhere as it is not confined to your bedside. During a trip, you can organize all of your reading material, important documents and electronic gadgets in this amazing storage unit.

6. Roll Out Awnings Eliminate the Need to Store the Awning in the Caravan

Rollout Caravan awnings are great for using awnings but without having to store them inside the caravan itself. These are attached to the side portion and you just have to roll them out whenever you need them, and the entire structure can be fixed by using the support arms. Other annexes and awnings require you to disassemble them and store them inside the caravan, and this consumes a lot of space. It is also tedious to assemble and disassemble them every time you need some extra space when the vehicle is parked. So the rollout awnings come as a life saver where you not only minimize storage space, but you also increase your personal living space.

The most difficult thing in the world as perceived by people is to choose a gift for someone else. People find this difficult because they want to give a gift that would not only be useful, but it would be something that the person really wants. A good way to go about this is to find out his interests. If you are planning on giving a gift to a caravanner, then you need to understand a regular road trip and you need to know what your friend does not have. With the holiday season not too far away, it would be good time now to start planning for that special gift for your caravanner friend.

The following is a list of 6 amazing gift ideas that every caravanner / camper will absolutely fall in love with.

12v Car Fridge

This is a small fridge suited for the caravan or a motorhome which has a voltage requirement of 12 V and comes in pretty handy when you need a cold drink or some sandwich during while travelling. This also helps to keep food from getting spoilt so you can bring along some home cooked food with you to last the journey. The best part about this fridge is that it does not use up a lot of space. This is one gift that every caravanner would love to get.

Portable Induction Cooker

Unless you have a portable stove or a portable kitchen your caravan, freshly cooked food during camping trips would usually involve cooking over an open fire. This is tedious work and can take some time before the fire is started. This is where the portable induction cooker saves the day. The caravan itself has some electrical backup for powering an induction cooker. If you need to cook at site, then most caravan parks have electrical supply points and all you need to do is to hook up to one of them. The biggest advantage of induction cookers is that food takes significantly less time to cook as compared to cooking it in a stove or an open fire.

Coleman Quad Torch

The most common utility tool during trips is a flashlight. Imagine getting the benefit of four powerful torches in one. This is exactly what the Coleman Quad Torch has been designed to do. It has an illuminating power of 190 ultra-bright lumens that can last up to 75 hours. If you need a personal torch, then just unhook one of the 4 individual units and you can get your very own light source. The LEDs in the lantern are designed to last a lifetime so you can forget about any replacement requirements. Moreover, the lantern is pretty cool to touch, even after it has been turned on for hours. This makes it kid-friendly as well.

Caravan Park Membership

There are so many caravan parks out there that offer good services which are designed for caravanners. Most of these parks provide discounts and gift certificates. You can always buy these gift certificates or even get a park membership for gifting to your friends and close ones. Trust me, nothing comes close to this valuable gift as the person receiving this gift would be able to use the services of the park during his trips. This is a convenient and comfortable alternative to camping out in the open.

Car Boot Organiser

Road trips and caravan holidays usually involve a lot of luggage which is more than often left in a mess. Due to this, people spend a lot of time trying to organize things so that they can find what they are looking for. For such disorganized travellers, the best gift would be a car boot organizer. This comes with a cooler section and a collapsible unit which can be assembled into a proper storage container. You can store your stuff here and be assured that things will remain in place. When the purpose of this storage unit has been fulfilled, you can simple collapse the different sections into a single unit and then store it safely.

Caravan Awnings and Annexes

A caravan awning and annexe may not be the usual gifts that one gives, but these are the most beneficial and useful products that any caravanner can get. An annexe or an awning offers personal space to a caravanner during his trips and this comfort is second only to the comfort of home. However, just don’t go and buy any awning. Try to find the exact measurements of the caravan before you can get a good awning or annexe for your friend. A good way to do this would be to either take the measurements yourself or involve the person receiving the gift as a properly fitted awning would be better than one that does not fit in perfectly.