Caravanning is a great Aussie road trip tradition, offering the freedom to explore everything from sunburnt outback landscapes to coastal hideaways.
A getaway on wheels has long been a popular pastime in Australia, with recent statistics showing 15.3 million caravan and camping trips taken every year and a record 859,000 registered caravans and campervans down under.
But before you hitch up and hit the open road, it’s crucial to find a caravan built to handle Australia’s unique terrain and climate.
From scorching summer heat to torrential downpours and rough off-road tracks, a well-built caravan needs to be able to handle it all.
So whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading to something more rugged, here’s Build-it’s must-have guide on what to look for when choosing a caravan that will go the distance.
Build quality
It’s clear Aussies love the freedom of life on the road, which is why buying the right van is key to ensuring years of stress-free adventures.
But not all caravans are created equal, and the last thing you want is to invest in a van that isn’t built to handle Australia’s punishing climate and diverse landscapes.
Serge Valentino, founder and CEO of Aussie-made caravan manufacturer Crusader Caravans, says campers need to pay close attention before letting their hard-earned cash roll off the driveway.
A little research now will mean smooth sailing and even smoother towing down the track.
“Buying a caravan is a significant investment, so it’s not a decision people take lightly,” says Valentino.
“There’s a lot to consider, budget, size needs, features, their car’s towing capacity and whether they’re planning on going off-road.”
“Many buyers worry about making the wrong choice and want to ensure they’re getting real value and a product that will last.”
A van built specifically for the rugged Australian environment will easily handle outback roads, coastal winds and long-haul driving much better than those designed for overseas markets.
“We appreciate that purchasing a caravan is a significant decision for the entire family, and there’s lots to consider,” says Valentino.
“A caravan offers years of affordable holidays and strong resale value down the track if the right purchase decision is made.”
Material musts
A caravan built for Australian conditions should be designed and tested right here in Australia.
A well-designed caravan should be recognised for both its sun and water resistance, ensuring it won’t deteriorate under the Aussie sun and won’t leak when the heavens open.
High-quality materials are a must, and choosing a model with a one-piece roof, walls and floor will reduce the risk of weak points that can wear down over time.
Before buying, check whether the manufacturer:
- complies with the RVSA (Road Vehicle Safety Act)
- is RVMAP (Recreational Vehicle Manufacturing Accreditation Program) accredited
- uses 100% Australian steel for the chassis
Towing limits
A caravan might look perfect on the lot, but if your vehicle can’t tow it safely, you’re in for a rough ride.
Understanding your car’s towing capacity is one of the most important factors when making a purchase, as exceeding weight limits can lead to poor handling, increased fuel consumption and even mechanical damage.
Each car has a maximum braked towing capacity, tow ball weight limit and gross combined mass (GCM).
These numbers determine what size caravan your vehicle can safely tow without putting strain on the engine, transmission or suspension.
Before signing on the dotted line, check your vehicle’s manual or consult a professional to make sure your chosen caravan won’t be too heavy for your setup. Getting this right will not only protect your car but also ensure a smoother, safer drive.
Must have safety features
Towing a caravan is not the same as driving a standard car. With extra weight, longer braking distances and limited visibility, the right safety features can make all the difference between a smooth journey and a white-knuckle ride.
A well-equipped caravan means greater confidence on the road and a safer, more enjoyable trip. Taking the time to prioritise safety now will save you from potential headaches down the track.
Look for caravans equipped with:
- Electronic stability control (ESC) – helps prevent swaying at highway speeds
- Reversing cameras – makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier
- Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors – essential for safety inside the caravan
- Breakaway system – automatically applies the caravan’s brakes if it detaches from tow vehicle
