Buying a new caravan is exciting. After months of researching layouts, comparing models and planning holidays, it’s tempting to pack your bags and head straight for that dream destination.
But before you tackle a thousand-kilometre road trip, there’s one thing every experienced caravanner recommends:
Take your caravan on a shakedown trip.
A shakedown trip is a short getaway – usually one or two nights close to home – designed to test every part of your caravan and tow vehicle in real-world conditions. It gives you the opportunity to discover any setup issues, warranty items or small faults before they become major problems far from home.
At AllBrand Caravan Services, we’ve seen countless caravans come into the workshop after their first trip with simple issues that could have been identified much earlier.
Use this checklist to make sure your first adventure is enjoyable, safe and stress-free.
☐ Check engine oil.
☐ Check coolant level.
☐ Check brake fluid.
☐ Check tyre pressures (including spare).
☐ Ensure mirrors provide a clear view down both sides of the caravan.
☐ Test headlights, brake lights and indicators.
☐ Confirm your tow rating is suitable.
☐ Check your vehicle service is up to date.
☐ Coupling fully engaged.
☐ Safety pin fitted.
☐ Chains crossed correctly.
☐ D shackles tightened.
☐ Breakaway cable attached correctly.
☐ Anderson plug connected.
☐ Trailer plug securely connected.
☐ Jockey wheel fully raised and locked.
☐ Handbrake released.
☐ Packed as you intend to travel.
☐ Heavy items stored low and near the axle.
☐ Water tanks filled (or empty) depending on your travel plan.
☐ Ball weight appears appropriate.
☐ Vehicle sits level.
☐ No obvious rear sag.
☐ Correct tyre pressures.
☐ Wheel nuts torqued.
☐ Spare tyre accessible.
☐ Tyres free from cuts or damage.
☐ Valve caps fitted.
☐ Suspension visually inspected.
☐ Shock absorbers secure.
☐ No loose bolts underneath.
☐ Corner steadies fully raised.
☐ No signs of damage beneath the van.
☐ Battery fully charged.
☐ Interior lights operating.
☐ USB and charging outlets tested.
☐ Breakaway battery charged.
☐ Solar controller displaying charging.
☐ Battery charging while parked in sunlight.
☐ Test every power point.
☐ RCD safety switch tested.
☐ Extension lead inspected.
☐ Power lead free from damage.
☐ Operates on 240V.
☐ Operates on 12V.
☐ Operates on gas (if applicable).
☐ Door locks securely for travel.
☐ Cooling correctly.
☐ Heating mode tested.
☐ Remote working.
☐ Produces hot water.
☐ No leaks.
☐ Pressure relief valve checked.
☐ Burners ignite properly.
☐ Oven lights correctly.
☐ Gas flame burns blue.
☐ Fresh water tanks filled.
☐ Every tap tested.
☐ Shower tested.
☐ Toilet flushed.
☐ Drain valves closed.
☐ No water leaks underneath.
☐ Water filter fitted correctly.
☐ Gas bottles secured.
☐ Gas bottles turned on.
☐ Regulator checked.
☐ Hoses in good condition.
☐ Gas detector operating.
☐ Carbon monoxide alarm tested.
☐ Smoke alarm tested.
☐ Fire extinguisher in date.
☐ Fire blanket accessible.
☐ Entry door locks correctly.
☐ Flyscreen functioning.
☐ All windows latch securely.
☐ Roof hatches close properly.
☐ Boot doors lock.
☐ External shower checked.
☐ Picnic table secure.
☐ Grab handles tight.
☐ Awning opens and retracts smoothly.
☐ Brake controller functioning.
☐ Reverse camera tested.
☐ UHF radio tested.
☐ Tow mirrors fitted correctly.
Once you’ve arrived, take the opportunity to use everything exactly as you would on a longer holiday.
☐ Set up the awning.
☐ Connect to power.
☐ Connect water.
☐ Test every appliance.
☐ Cook a meal.
☐ Run the hot water system.
☐ Use the shower.
☐ Flush the toilet.
☐ Sleep with the air conditioner running.
☐ Test every light.
☐ Charge devices.
☐ Check battery usage overnight.
☐ Listen for unusual noises.
☐ Look for rattles while towing.
☐ Watch for water leaks after using the shower.
☐ Make notes of anything that doesn’t seem quite right.
Before parking the caravan away, complete one final inspection.
☐ Inspect seals.
☐ Check cupboards for movement.
☐ Tighten any loose screws.
☐ Look underneath for signs of leaks.
☐ Wash the caravan.
☐ Recharge batteries.
☐ Empty waste tanks.
☐ Refill anything used.
☐ Create a list of warranty items.
☐ Book any repairs before your next trip.
Even brand-new caravans can develop minor issues once they’re exposed to real-world towing conditions.
During a shakedown trip, you may discover:
Finding these issues close to home is far easier than discovering them hundreds of kilometres away.
If you’d like complete peace of mind before your next adventure, the team at AllBrand Caravan Services can carry out a comprehensive inspection of your caravan’s safety systems, electrical components, brakes, suspension, water system and overall setup.
Whether it’s your very first trip or you’re preparing for a big lap around Australia, we’ll help ensure your caravan is ready for the road.
AllBrand Caravan Services
📞 Call us: 07 3869 2969
📍 Visit us: 101 Connaught Street, Sandgate Qld 4017
📧 Email: [email protected]
