Avoiding common mistakes
Although in some countries it is a well-established form of travel, in many others the end of the pandemic reactivated its use. Even so, there is always a first time for everything and thinking about a trip in a motorhome requires planning. If you are a novice in the handling of this vehicle, here are some tips to keep in mind to avoid common mistakes.
Lightweight luggage
It is better not to overload the vehicle and, in addition, you must take into account that caravans have a maximum weight that cannot be exceeded. Eliminate from your list everything that is not necessary for your trip and replace, whenever possible, heavy materials with lighter ones, such as plates, glasses or cutlery.
Weight distribution and load securing
Do not accumulate the luggage and the rest of the objects in the same place but spread throughout the caravan to avoid that it can be unbalanced and have problems when driving. It is also important that everything is in its proper compartment and, what can not be stored, travel secured and tied. You will avoid more than one problem if nothing flies out or falls suddenly.
Do not fill the water tank to the maximum
A completely filled water tank ensures greater autonomy, but it has its disadvantages: the weight and fuel consumption it entails; the movement, which can cause it to leak. Although it is a must, the truth is that it can be refilled as needed at service stations or campsites and it is not necessary to go out with it at full capacity.
Check tires
Of course, tires should be checked before every trip, but it’s not a bad idea to check them regularly to make sure they have the right pressure. Weight, aggressive driving or an unsuitable road surface can accentuate tire wear.
Tank maintenance
The caravan collects shower and sink water (gray water) and sewage (black water). Both must be disposed of in the indicated places and not just anywhere. But it is also important to care for and maintain them to prevent the tanks from clogging. It is recommended to use fast-dissolving toilet paper and to prevent food, hair or other solid objects from falling into the drains.
Do not get up while moving
Passengers must ride in their seats and use seat belts. Getting up is dangerous when the caravan is in motion, even if only for a second. Braking or an unexpected maneuver could result in a serious accident.
Parking calmly and with help
When you are a novice caravan driver one of the most stressful moments is parking. The ideal place, the appropriate dimensions and the necessary maneuvers. It is a good idea to have some external help when parking the vehicle to avoid any unnecessary friction or other scares.
Check the weather
Both when driving and when parking. It is not pleasant to be surprised by strong winds, fog or hail while driving, so it is not superfluous to check the weather on the route we have planned. But also keep in mind that inside a caravan the temperature varies during the day and night more than in a car. Parking in the sun can make the interior unbearable without air conditioning and a mild night can make you cold. Try to park in the shade and always carry sleeping bags.
Don’t forget the mosquito nets!
Although most caravans already have mosquito nets on each window, it is worth checking that they are in good condition and that we do not forget to close them at bedtime. A forgetfulness in the middle of nature can lead us to wake up with many and annoying bites. Besides, this way we avoid the visit of any other unexpected visitor.
Leaving windows and doors open
When driving around, it is best to keep windows and doors closed to prevent wind and movement from breaking or knocking something over. But it is also important not to leave the roof ventilation open, especially if it starts to rain.
