A
ABS Sensor: A device that monitors wheel speed and prevents wheel lock-up by interacting with the caravan’s braking system.
Accessory Socket: A 12V socket in the caravan, often used for charging or powering portable devices.
Active Suspension: A dynamic suspension system that adjusts in real-time to road conditions for smoother towing.
Adjustable Towbar: A towbar that can be adjusted for height to align the caravan and tow vehicle.
Air Deflectors: Aerodynamic devices installed on the tow vehicle to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency when towing.
Air Suspension: An adjustable suspension system that uses air springs to maintain a level ride, ideal for caravans carrying heavy loads.
Airbags: Inflatable components in suspension systems to assist with levelling and handling heavy loads.
A-Frame: The triangular section at the front of a caravan where the hitch is attached, supporting the tow coupling.
A-Frame Coupling Lock: A security device used to prevent unauthorised towing of the caravan.
Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM): The total permissible weight of the caravan when fully loaded, including payload and unhitched weight.
Aluminium Cladding: A lightweight and durable exterior material commonly used in caravans for its weather-resistant properties.
Alloy Wheels: Lightweight, durable wheels commonly fitted to caravans for enhanced performance and aesthetics.
Anderson Plug: A high-current plug used for connecting the tow vehicle’s electrical system to the caravan, commonly for charging batteries.
Anderson Plug Bracket: A mounting accessory to secure an Anderson plug on the caravan or tow vehicle.
Annexe: A tent-like structure that attaches to a caravan’s awning, providing additional enclosed living space.
Anti-Rattle Hitch Clamp: A device that minimises noise and movement in the caravan’s hitch connection.
Anti-Sway Bars: Bars attached to the caravan hitch to minimise sway caused by wind or passing vehicles.
Aquaroll: A portable, cylindrical water container that rolls for ease of use, commonly used to transport fresh water to the caravan.
Awning: A roof-like structure attached to the side of a caravan, providing shelter and shade when extended.
Awning Tensioner: A tool used to tighten and secure caravan awnings in place.
B
Ball Coupling: A common tow hitch design in Australia that connects the caravan to the tow vehicle via a ball and socket joint.
Battery Isolator Switch: A switch that disconnects the battery to prevent power drain when the caravan is not in use.
Battery Management System (BMS): A system that monitors and optimises the performance of the caravan’s batteries.
Bed Conversion: A seating area in a caravan that can be converted into a bed for additional sleeping space.
Bespoke Layout: A custom interior design tailored to a caravan owner’s specific needs.
Bi-Fold Doors: Doors that fold in half to save space in caravan interiors.
Bike Rack Mount: A fixture on the back or A-frame of a caravan designed to carry bicycles securely.
Black Water Tank: A holding tank for wastewater from the caravan’s toilet system.
Blue Water Tank: A freshwater storage tank, often labelled blue to differentiate it from grey and black water tanks.
Body Lift: A modification that raises the caravan body for increased ground clearance, often used for off-road caravans.
Bonded Windows: Windows fixed using adhesive rather than screws, offering a sleek finish and improved insulation.
Brake Away: A safety feature that automatically activates the caravan brakes if it becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle.
Breakaway System: A safety mechanism that applies the caravan’s brakes if it becomes detached from the towing vehicle.
Breakaway Switch: A safety device that activates the caravan’s brakes if the connection to the tow vehicle is lost.
Bush Shower: A portable shower system often used for outdoor bathing in remote areas.
Bulkhead: A partition wall within the caravan, separating living areas for functionality and privacy.
Bogie Axle: A dual-axle setup in caravans designed to distribute weight more evenly and provide better stability.
C
Cam Lock: A locking mechanism commonly used for caravan storage compartments.
Caravan Club: A community or organisation of caravan enthusiasts offering resources, events, and networking opportunities.
Caravan Park: A dedicated area with facilities for caravans, including power, water, and waste disposal.
Cargo Nets: Elastic nets used to secure loose items inside or on top of caravans.
Canvas Cleaner: A specialised solution for cleaning pop-top or annexe canvas materials.
Chassis: The metal frame that supports the body of the caravan, providing structural integrity.
Checker Plate: A textured metal plate added to caravan exteriors for extra protection, especially on off-road models.
Circuit Breaker: An electrical safety device that cuts off power in the event of an overload or fault.
Coaxial Cable: A cable used to connect the caravan’s television antenna to the TV.
Composite Panels: Caravan walls made of layered materials like fibreglass and foam for lightweight strength and insulation.
Composting Toilet: A self-contained, eco-friendly toilet system that uses natural processes to break down human waste into compost. It requires no connection to water or sewage systems, relying on materials like peat moss or sawdust to facilitate decomposition and control odours. Commonly used in caravans for off-grid living, it reduces environmental impact and water usage.Commonly used in caravans for off-grid living, it reduces environmental impact and water usage.
Corner Light: Exterior lights mounted on caravan corners to improve visibility and safety.
Corner Steadies: Adjustable supports on the caravan corners that stabilise it when parked.
Cross Flow Ventilation: A design feature in caravans allowing airflow from one side to another for cooling.
Crossover Caravan: A hybrid caravan designed for both on-road and off-road use, offering rugged durability.
Coupling: The device used to connect the tow vehicle to the caravan, such as a ball coupling or hitch.
Curved Roof Design: A roofing style that prevents water pooling by directing it off the sides of the caravan.
D
Diesel Cooker: A cooking system in caravans powered by diesel fuel, known for efficiency and reliability.
Diesel Heater: A heating system powered by diesel fuel, commonly used for warmth in caravans during colder months.
Digital Battery Monitor: A device that displays real-time battery levels and usage in the caravan.
Double Din Head Unit: A larger in-dash unit used for multimedia and navigation in caravans or tow vehicles.
Double Glazed Windows: Windows with two layers of glass, providing better insulation and soundproofing.
Drawbar: The forward extension of the chassis that holds the coupling and connects to the tow vehicle.
Drop Beds: Beds that can be raised or lowered to maximise space in compact caravan layouts.
Drop-Down Stabilisers: Retractable legs fitted under the caravan to stabilise it when parked.
Dry Camping: Camping without access to external power, water, or waste facilities, relying on the caravan’s self-contained systems.
Dry Weight: The weight of a caravan without any cargo, passengers, water, or gas.
Ducted Air Conditioning: An air conditioning system that evenly distributes cool or warm air throughout the caravan.
Dust Seals: Seals installed on caravan doors and windows to keep out dust, especially during off-road travel.
E
Earth Leakage Device: A safety device that detects electrical faults and prevents shock hazards in caravan electrical systems.
Egress Window: An emergency exit window, typically larger and easy to open from inside the caravan.Electric Brake Controller: A device installed in a tow vehicle to control a trailer’s electric brakes, ensuring synchronized braking for improved safety and stability while towing.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): A system that detects and reduces caravan sway by applying the brakes on individual wheels.
Energy Meter: A device that monitors and displays energy consumption in the caravan, often integrated with solar setups.
Expandable Caravan: A caravan with extendable sections to provide additional living space.
External BBQ Point: A gas connection point on the caravan exterior for barbecues.
External Fridge Slide: A sliding mechanism for storing and accessing a portable fridge outside the caravan.
External Shower: A shower unit mounted on the exterior of a caravan for outdoor use.
Extension Mirrors: Mirrors added to the tow vehicle to improve visibility when towing a caravan.
F
Fan-Tastic Vent: A brand of high-efficiency ventilation fans often installed in caravan roofs.
Fifth-Wheel Caravan: A type of caravan hitched to a special coupling located over the rear axle of a tow vehicle, providing better stability and manoeuvrability.
Fire Extinguisher: A portable device designed to suppress small fires, an essential safety item in every caravan.
Fireproof Seals: Heat-resistant seals installed around caravan doors and windows for fire safety.
Flat Plate Solar Panel: A type of solar panel with a slim design, ideal for mounting on caravan roofs.
Fly Screens: Mesh screens fitted over windows and doors to keep insects out while allowing ventilation.
Foam Mattress Toppers: Additional padding placed on caravan mattresses for enhanced comfort.
Folding Steps: Collapsible steps attached to the caravan’s entrance for easy storage when travelling.
Full En-Suite Caravan: A caravan equipped with a dedicated bathroom, including a shower, toilet, and sink.
Full Height Caravan: A caravan with full-height walls, providing maximum internal space and comfort.
Friction Coupling: A coupling system that incorporates friction pads to reduce sway during towing.
G
Galley Kitchen: A narrow kitchen layout commonly found in smaller caravans, maximising use of space.
Galvanised Chassis: A chassis coated with zinc to prevent rust and corrosion, ideal for Australian coastal conditions.
Gas Bayonet Connection: A fitting allowing quick and secure attachment of gas appliances to the caravan’s gas system.
Gas Bottle Cradle: A secure holder for gas bottles on the A-frame or rear of a caravan.
Gas Compliance Certificate: A document certifying that the caravan’s gas system meets Australian safety standards.
Gelcoat: A protective outer layer applied to fibreglass surfaces for durability and shine.
Generator Box: A storage compartment specifically designed to house a portable generator.
Gravity Fill Inlet: A water filling point that relies on gravity to feed water into the caravan tank.
Grey Water Tank: A tank for storing wastewater from sinks and showers in the caravan.
Ground Clearance: The distance between the caravan’s lowest point and the ground, crucial for off-road use.
Guide Poles: Poles installed at the rear of the tow vehicle to assist with reversing and hitch alignment.
H
Hail Damage Repair: Specialised repair services for caravans damaged during hailstorms, restoring bodywork and structural integrity.
Hail Shield: A protective cover for caravans designed to minimise damage from hailstorms.
Hand Pump: A manual pump used to draw water from the caravan’s tank when power is unavailable.
Hard Floor Camper: A type of camper with a solid floor, offering durability and easier cleaning than soft floors.
Heat Exchanger: A device that transfers heat from the engine or solar panels to the caravan’s water heating system.
Hydraulic Brakes: A braking system that uses hydraulic fluid for more efficient stopping power.
Hydraulic Jack: A tool used to lift a caravan for wheel changes or maintenance.
Hydronic Heating System: A water-based heating system providing quiet and efficient warmth throughout the caravan.
Hybrid Caravan: A cross between a caravan and camper trailer, featuring a solid structure with pop-up or fold-out sections.
Hybrid Solar System: A power system combining solar panels with traditional battery storage for caravans.
I
Impact Driver: A power tool used for driving screws or bolts into tough materials, commonly found in caravan toolkits.
Independent Suspension: A suspension system where each wheel moves independently, providing a smoother ride on uneven terrain.
Induction Cooktop: A stovetop that uses electromagnetic energy to heat pots and pans directly, reducing heat in the caravan interior.
Inflatable Annexe: An annexe with inflatable poles, making it quicker and easier to set up than traditional designs.
Instant Hot Water System: A water heater that provides hot water on demand without a storage tank.
Insulated Roof Panels: Roof panels with built-in insulation to improve temperature control and energy efficiency.
Insulated Water Pipes: Pipes with added insulation to prevent freezing or overheating in extreme weather.
Integrated Towing Cameras: Cameras built into the caravan to assist with reversing and monitoring during travel.
In-Line Water Filter: A filter placed along the caravan’s water line to purify incoming water.
Internal Shower: A shower unit installed inside the caravan, offering convenience and privacy.
J
Jack Knife Sofa Bed: A space-saving sofa that folds flat to create a bed.
Jack Stands: Tools used to stabilise and lift the caravan during maintenance.
Jockey Leg: An adjustable version of the jockey wheel, providing more stability for heavy caravans.
Jockey Wheel: A retractable wheel attached to the caravan’s drawbar, used to manoeuvre and stabilise the caravan when unhitched.
JetBoil Stove: A compact camping stove known for rapid boiling times, popular among caravanners.
Jerry Can Holder: A rack or frame on the caravan for safely transporting additional fuel or water.
Jump Starter Pack: A portable battery pack used to jump-start the tow vehicle or power small appliances.
K
Kevlar Reinforced Tyres: Tyres reinforced with Kevlar for greater durability on rough terrain.
Key Alike System: A locking system allowing all caravan locks to be opened with a single key.
Kickplate: A protective plate at the base of caravan walls to prevent scuffing and damage.
Kingpin: The pivot point for a fifth-wheel caravan, connecting it to the tow vehicle’s hitch.
Kitchen Extension Leaf: A fold-out section of the kitchen bench for added preparation space.
Kitchen Slide-Out: An extendable kitchen unit that slides out from the side of the caravan for outdoor use.
Kitchenette: A compact kitchen area in a caravan, including basic appliances and storage.
L
LED Lighting: Energy-efficient lighting commonly installed in caravans for interior and exterior use.
LED Strip Lighting: Flexible, energy-efficient lighting strips used under cabinets or along ceilings in caravans.
Level Indicators: Devices or spirit levels installed on caravans to assist with proper levelling during setup.
Lithium Battery: A lightweight and long-lasting battery option for caravans, ideal for powering off-grid setups.
Lithium-Ion Battery Charger: A charger specifically designed to optimise the performance and lifespan of lithium caravan batteries.
Load Bars: Heavy-duty bars on the caravan roof for securing items like kayaks or storage boxes.
Load Capacity: The maximum weight a caravan can safely carry, including passengers, water, and gear.
Load Sharing Suspension: A suspension system that evenly distributes weight between caravan axles for smoother towing.
Low Profile Caravan: A caravan with a lower roofline for improved aerodynamics and easier towing.
LPG Detector: A safety device that monitors and alerts users to gas leaks in the caravan.
M
Magnetic Door Stop: A door stop that uses magnets to hold the caravan door open securely.
Manual Wind-Up Antenna: A manually operated TV antenna that can be raised or lowered as needed.
Marine Grade Wiring: Durable wiring resistant to saltwater corrosion, often used in caravans with marine equipment.
Mattress Toppers: Additional layers of padding placed on caravan mattresses for enhanced comfort during sleep.
Maximum Payload: The maximum allowable weight of all items carried inside the caravan, including water, gas, and personal belongings.
Maximum Towing Capacity: The highest weight that a tow vehicle can legally and safely tow, specified by the manufacturer.
Mobile Signal Booster: A device installed in caravans to amplify mobile phone signals in remote areas.
Modular Furniture: Caravan furniture designed for easy reconfiguration or replacement.
Multi-Axle Caravan: A caravan with three or more axles for better weight distribution and stability.
Multi-Terrain Tyres: Tyres designed for both on-road and off-road conditions, ensuring a versatile towing experience.
Mud Flaps: Protective flaps fitted behind the caravan wheels to reduce damage from rocks and debris.
Mud Terrain Tyres: Specialised tyres for off-road caravanning, offering superior traction on loose surfaces.
N
Nano-Ceramic Coating: A protective layer applied to caravan exteriors to resist dirt, scratches, and UV damage.
Nestable Cookware: Space-saving pots and pans designed to stack inside each other for compact storage.
Nitrogen Suspension System: A high-performance suspension system that uses nitrogen-filled shocks for better off-road handling.
Nitrogen-Filled Tyres: Tyres filled with nitrogen instead of air to maintain more consistent pressure.
Non-Corrosive Fasteners: Screws and bolts made from materials like stainless steel to resist rusting.
Non-Potable Water: Water that is not safe for drinking, typically used for flushing or cleaning in caravans.
Noseweight (Tow Ball Weight): The downward force exerted on the tow ball by the caravan’s hitch, crucial for safe towing.
O
Off-Grid Power System: A setup in caravans equipped with solar panels, batteries, and inverters to operate without external hookups.
Off-Road Coupling: A heavy-duty coupling designed to handle the greater stresses of off-road towing.
Off-Road Hitch Receiver: A reinforced hitch specifically designed for towing caravans on rough terrain.
Off-Road Suspension: A heavy-duty suspension system designed for rugged terrain and off-road conditions.
Outdoor Kitchen: A kitchen setup attached to the exterior of a caravan for alfresco dining.
Overhead Fans: Ceiling-mounted fans for increased air circulation inside the caravan.
Overhead Storage: Cabinets or compartments installed above eye level for storing lightweight items in the caravan.
Oversized Caravan Mirrors: Extended mirrors fitted to the tow vehicle for improved visibility while towing wide caravans.
P
Payload: The total weight of all additional items in the caravan, including water, luggage, and equipment.
Pin Weight: The weight placed on the hitch of a fifth-wheel caravan, critical for safe towing.
Pop-Top Caravan: A caravan with a roof that can be raised for additional headroom and lowered for towing.
Portable Fridge: A fridge designed for travel, powered by 12V, gas, or mains electricity.
Portable Solar Panel: A solar panel that can be moved and positioned to maximise sun exposure, ideal for off-grid caravans.
Portable Waste Tank: A movable tank for storing grey or black water until it can be properly disposed of.
Powered Campsite: A campsite equipped with electrical outlets for powering caravans and appliances.
Privacy Screen: An accessory for caravan awnings that provides shade and privacy from neighbours.
Propane Detector: A device that monitors for propane leaks, providing an additional safety measure in caravans.
Pull-Out Pantry: A sliding pantry unit for easy access to stored food and supplies.
Protective Wheel Covers: Covers placed over caravan wheels to protect them from UV damage when parked.
Q
Quad Lock Bracket: A secure mounting system for devices like phones or GPS units in the caravan.
Quick Connect Coupling: A system that allows fast and easy attachment or detachment of caravan hoses or gas lines.
Quick-Drain System: A system for rapidly emptying water tanks, particularly useful in off-grid settings.
Quick-Release Awning Legs: Awning legs that can be detached quickly for easier setup or pack-down.
Quiet Generator: A low-noise generator ideal for caravanning, minimising disruption to nearby campers.
R
Rain Sensor: A device that automatically closes caravan roof hatches or windows during rain.
Rear Entry Caravan: A caravan with a main entry door located at the rear, offering a unique layout.
Recessed LED Lighting: Lighting built flush into the caravan ceiling or walls for a sleek and modern appearance.
Reinforced A-Frame: An A-frame with additional structural support for towing heavy or off-road caravans.
Remote Brake Control: A wireless system for controlling caravan brakes from the tow vehicle.
Reverse Camera: A camera system installed at the rear of a caravan to assist with reversing and parking.
Road Train Compatible: Caravans designed to meet specific dimensions for safe travel alongside large road trains in Australia.
Roof Hatch: A hinged opening in the caravan roof, allowing for ventilation and natural light.
Roof-Top Air Conditioner: An air conditioning unit mounted on the caravan roof, providing efficient cooling.
Roof-Top Solar Panels: Solar panels installed on the roof of a caravan for charging batteries and powering appliances.
Rooftop Satellite Dish: A dish installed on the caravan roof for receiving TV and internet signals.
Roll-Out Awning: A retractable awning that rolls out from the side of the caravan for quick setup and pack-down.
Roll-Out Window Shades: Exterior shades that roll out to block sunlight and reduce heat inside the caravan.
Rustproof Coating: A protective layer applied to metal parts of a caravan to prevent rust and corrosion.
S
Safety Chains: Chains that connect the caravan to the tow vehicle as a secondary safety measure in case of hitch failure.
Satellite TV Receiver: A system for receiving satellite TV signals, often used in remote camping locations.
Self-Levelling Jacks: Jacks with automatic levelling functionality for easier setup on uneven terrain.
Shock Absorber Mounts: The brackets holding the shock absorbers in place, critical for off-road caravans.
Side Marker Lights: Small lights installed on the caravan sides to improve visibility during night travel.
Slide-Out: A section of a caravan that extends outward to increase living space.
Slide-Out Kitchen: A fully equipped kitchen that slides out from the caravan’s body for outdoor cooking.
Solar Blanket: A flexible, foldable solar panel used to charge batteries or power appliances in caravans.
Solar Charge Controller: A device that regulates the power coming from solar panels to prevent battery overcharging.
Solar Panels: Panels installed on the caravan roof to harness solar energy for powering batteries and appliances.
Stabiliser Legs: Adjustable legs that extend from the caravan to provide stability when parked.
Starlink: A satellite internet system designed for high-speed connectivity in remote locations, commonly installed in caravans.
Stone Guard: A protective barrier at the front of the caravan to deflect stones and debris during travel.
Storage Pod: A large storage compartment mounted on the roof or rear of a caravan for additional cargo space.
Swivel Jockey Wheel: A jockey wheel that can rotate 360 degrees, making it easier to manoeuvre a caravan.
T
Tandem Axle: A caravan with two axles positioned closely together, providing better weight distribution and stability.
Telescopic Ladder: A collapsible ladder used for accessing roof storage or maintenance areas on a caravan.
Thermal Curtains: Thick curtains designed to retain heat during winter or block heat in summer.
Tow Ball: A spherical ball attached to the tow vehicle’s towbar, connecting it to the caravan coupling.
Tow Hitch Lock: A security device used to prevent unauthorised towing of the caravan.
Tow-Pro Elite: A popular electric brake controller brand in Australia, known for reliability and performance.
Tow Vehicle: The vehicle used to pull a caravan, often equipped with a towbar and other towing accessories.
Traction Control System (TCS): A feature that prevents wheel slippage during towing, improving stability.
Trail-A-Mate Jack: A hydraulic jockey wheel and jack combination, commonly used in Australian caravans.
Triple-Axle Caravan: A caravan with three axles, designed for heavy loads and improved stability.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): A system that monitors caravan tyre pressure and alerts the driver to any issues.
U
Underbody Armour: Protective panels installed under the caravan to shield it from rocks and debris during off-road travel.
Underfloor Heating: A heating system installed beneath the caravan floor for enhanced comfort in cold weather.
Underslung Axles: Axles mounted under the leaf springs to provide additional ground clearance.
Universal Coupling: A versatile hitch system that can connect to a variety of tow vehicles.
USB Charging Station: Multiple USB outlets installed in a caravan for charging devices.
UHF Radio: A two-way communication system used for road safety and convoy coordination among caravanners.
Ultra-Lightweight Frame: A caravan chassis made from advanced materials to reduce weight without compromising strength.
V
Vacuum Bonded Panels: Caravan panels constructed using a vacuum bonding process for added strength and insulation.
Van Conversion: A modified van outfitted with living amenities similar to a caravan.
Vanity Unit: A compact bathroom unit in a caravan, combining a sink, mirror, and storage space.
Vent Blockers: Accessories used to temporarily block vents to improve heating or cooling efficiency.
Ventilation Fan: A powered fan installed in caravan roofs or walls to improve airflow.
Vinyl Flooring: Durable, easy-to-clean flooring material commonly used in caravans.
Vinyl Skirting: Detachable panels that hang from the caravan base to provide extra insulation or privacy.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): A unique code assigned to each caravan for identification and registration.
W
Water Filter: A device installed in a caravan to purify water from external sources before use.
Water Hose Reel: A reel system for storing and managing caravan water hoses.
Water Level Indicator: A gauge that shows the remaining water in the caravan’s tanks.
Water Pump: A pump that supplies water to the taps and shower in the caravan from an onboard tank.
Weatherproof Antenna: An antenna designed to resist damage from rain, wind, and other environmental factors.
Wheel Bearings: Components that allow the caravan wheels to rotate smoothly, requiring regular maintenance to avoid failure.
Wheel Chocks: Wedges placed under caravan wheels to prevent movement while parked.
Wheel Lock: A locking device attached to caravan wheels to prevent theft.
Wi-Fi Extender: A device that boosts the caravan’s internet signal for better connectivity in remote areas.
Window Tinting: A film applied to caravan windows to reduce glare and improve temperature control.
Wind-Out Awning: A manual awning that winds out from the caravan for quick and easy setup.
Z
Zero Clearance Slide-Out: A slide-out system that operates flush with the caravan body, maximising internal space.
Zero Friction Towing Ball: A specially designed towing ball that reduces friction for smoother towing.
Zinc-Coated Fasteners: Screws and bolts coated with zinc to prevent rusting and improve durability in harsh conditions.
Zonal Lighting: Lighting systems in caravans that allow independent control of specific areas.