By Jeff from CHECK WEIGHT Mobile Caravan Weighing
Now the chill has gone, the rain has stopped and the days have started warming up, it’s a sure sign that caravan season is back! For many Aussies, spring and summer mean hitting the road, chasing the sun, and enjoying everything from beachside escapes to outback adventures.
But before you hook up the van and roll out, it’s worth taking a bit of time to get everything shipshape. A few hours of preparation can make the difference between a smooth holiday and a stressful one. Here are five key things every caravan owner should do before heading off this spring or summer.
1️⃣ Give Your Caravan a Proper Health Check
Start with a solid clean — inside, outside, and underneath. A good wash and vacuum aren’t just for looks; they help you spot leaks, loose fittings, cracks in the bodywork, or insect nests that might’ve appeared over winter.
Check all door and window seals for cracks or gaps. Make sure all your lights, indicators, and brake lights are working properly. If you’ve been off the road for a few months, it’s worth getting your bearings, brakes, and wheel nuts checked by a professional. A caravan service before the season begins is money well spent.
2️⃣ Inspect Your Tyres & Suspension
Tyres are your only contact with the road, so treat them like gold. Check the tread depth and look closely for sidewall cracks or bulges — especially if the van has been sitting for a while. Tyres can harden or flat-spot during storage, and that can cause blowouts when they heat up on summer bitumen.
Make sure pressures are correct according to the manufacturer’s specs and always check them cold before travelling. Don’t forget the spare!
While you’re underneath, inspect the suspension — look for worn or cracked bushes, sagging leaf springs, or any rust around mounting points. A dodgy suspension setup can make your van unstable and cause unnecessary wear on your tyres and chassis.
3️⃣ Test Gas & Electrical Systems
Before you start cooking up those camp breakfasts, check your gas and electrical systems are safe and in good nick.
Turn on your gas bottles and test for leaks using a spray bottle with soapy water. If you see bubbles, shut it off immediately and get it checked.
For your electricals, test the battery charge and make sure your solar panels are clean and working efficiently. Plug into mains power and check that all outlets, chargers, and appliances are functioning properly.
Also, make sure your smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, and fire extinguisher are all in date — simple things that could save your life.
4️⃣ Load Smart & Weigh It Right
We see it every year — vans that are overloaded or badly balanced. And it’s not just about being legal; it’s about being safe. Just like we “add” weight over winter, so most vans add weight. Maybe it’s the firewood, the firepit or just extra clothes
Even if you think you’re “about right,” you might be surprised once you get weighed. Many setups that “feel fine” are well over their limits.
A professional weigh-in gives you peace of mind and ensures your vehicle, van, and combination are all within legal and safe limits.
At CHECK WEIGHT, we not only give you the figures — we explain what they mean, where the weight is, and how to fix any balance issues.
👉 Book your weigh at www.checkweight.com.au before the holiday rush.
5️⃣ Stock Up & Plan Your Trip
The fun part! Make sure your pantry is stocked with non-perishables and your first-aid kit is refreshed — bandages, antiseptic, painkillers, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Double-check your insurance and rego are current, and keep digital copies of your documents in case you misplace them on the road.
If you’re travelling far, plan fuel stops, dog-friendly parks, and overnight spots ahead of time. Some of the best Aussie campgrounds book out months in advance, so a little forward planning helps.
And while you’re at it, check your towing gear — tow hitch, safety chains, D-shackles, and weight distribution system — to make sure everything’s in top condition.
Final Word from Jeff
A little maintenance and preparation before the season kicks off can save a world of trouble once you’re on the open road. Whether you’re heading up the coast, across the Nullarbor, or just to your favourite local park, a clean, serviced, and safely loaded caravan makes every trip smoother.
At CHECK WEIGHT, we’ve weighed thousands of caravans across NSW, and we’ve seen firsthand how a few simple checks can prevent major problems. Before you hitch up this summer — make sure your weights are right, your setup is safe, and your next adventure starts on the right track.
👉 Book your professional weigh at www.checkweight.com.au
Safe travels and happy camping!
