New year, new adventure? If you’re planning to hit the road and tick up those kilometres in 2023, January is the time to sort out your vehicle and make sure it’s travel-ready. To help you get your motorhome, caravan or other recreational vehicles in safe, tip-top condition ahead of your next trip, we have put together this handy checklist.

Pre-trip checklist

1. Complete scheduled maintenance

Whether you’re heading bush or beach, it is important to ensure your motorhome, campervan, caravan or camper trailer has received all of its scheduled maintenance. You should also check that the oil and water levels and tyre pressure are adequate. Make sure you’ve got spare tyres and roadside safety equipment, in case of a flat or breakdown. A good wash can’t hurt either!

Importantly, what many avid travellers often forget before taking off are the gas struts. Depending on the type of strut, your gas struts may need to be replaced or regassed. Gas struts are used in car boots and bonnets, canopies, tents including rooftop tents, caravans, camper vans, tailgates, horizontal opening windows, the lids of heavy toolboxes and more. To avoid hassle during a long trip, we would recommend changing your old gas struts before taking off.

2. Make some improvements

From a slick new hinge to a sleek and shiny drawer latch, there are plenty of great products available on the ovesco website or in-store at Mayfield West to get your vehicle vacay-ready. We cater to the caravan industry and have thousands of hardware products in stock.

Check out some of our range from Southco.

Whatever hardware you require, we can source what you need.

3. Pack basic supplies

When the excitement of your pending adventures is on your mind, it’s very likely you’ll forget at least one of the ‘boring’ essentials! Here is an extensive (not by no means exhaustive) list:

• Driver’s license

• Motorhome and insurance documents

• Confirmation of any campground reservations

• Medications and first aid supplies

• Insect repellant, bug bite cream, and antihistamines

• Toilet paper

• Toiletries such as sunscreen, soap, deodorant, feminine products and shower gel

• Food and snacks, such as dried fruit and nuts

• Plates and cutlery

• Lots of water. It may be worth your while to invest in a new water tank. Shop now

• Extra clothing and rain gear

• Lighting/torches

• Camping table and chairs

• Laundry basket

• Pocket knife and basic tools

• Emergency phone numbers

• Board games, cards, a frisbee, kites, bikes or any other enjoyment items

To avoid forgetting any of the essentials, it is always best to make your own list and tick off items as you pack.

Time to hit the road

Now that you know more about what to pack and where to get your hardware, you’re ready to hit the road.

Need more advice about your campervan, caravan, or camper trailer? Contact us! Our friendly team of experts is available to help.