We’re a Campervan-Caravan Kind of Country!

Autumn is the traditional time for retirees to hit the road in the caravan or camper, and whether you’ve done it all before, or you’re a newbie to the game, there are always new tips to try. Check out ours, and if you have some of your own, be sure to post them to the Grownups Facebook page!

Early birds

Confidence comes with experience. If you’re new to driving a camper or towing a caravan, or if you haven’t been in the driver’s seat for a while, pack the day before and get on the road at the least busy time of the morning (before worker peak-travel time is ideal). By the time the roads busy-up, you’ll be feeling more confident.

Plan to picnic

Parking a camper, or with a caravan in tow, isn’t for the faint-hearted. Until you’re confident, take your refreshment breaks at out-of-town scenic spots, where the parking is easy. If you do have to go into town in the early days of your holiday, Google Earth ahead of time to spot parking spots easy to access. Or park on the edge of town, don a day pack, and get in your daily walk as you head to the cafe or supermarket.

Drive-time

When planning your route, don’t take driving times at face value. Driving a camper or towing a caravan is not the same as driving a car! Allow plenty of extra time for pulling over in safe places, occupying the slow lane, and stopping to chat to fellow travellers along the way.

Arrive early

As you drive into autumn, remember the days with be shortening. Plan your driving time so you arrive at your chosen camp spot with at least an hour of daylight to spare. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to park and set up, explore your surroundings, and suss out the facilities before it grows dark.

Two’s company

Remote camp sites can feel romantic when the sun’s still in the sky, but come nightfall, you may feel a little lonely – even vulnerable. Arrive early in the day, so if company doesn’t arrive, you still have plenty of time to head to a more social spot before dark.

Routine-rehearsal

Before you leave home, rehearse the basics such as backing, parking, levelling, removing and replacing the waste cannister, taking on-board fresh water, hitching up the gas and electrics, and changing a tyre road-side. Make all the mistakes you need to in privacy and on your own patch of turf so when you hit the road, you’re confident and prepared.

App-ready

Before you leave home, download essential touring apps such as Google Maps, Camper-mate, Rankers Camping NZ, and DOC Camping.

Help at hand

Keep your insurance details close at hand, and have your roadside rescue phone numbers stored on your mobile. If you want to play it safe, stick to routes where you know mobile coverage is always available on your phone.

Plan B

We don’t leave home with serious problems in mind, but it’s always reassuring to know you have a Plan B in the wings. Think through contingency plans for the likes of: how to get yourselves and your camper or caravan back home if the only driver in your party becomes incapacitated. Or: how to keep enjoying your holiday if your camper or caravan has to have repairs that will take more than a day or two.

Safety first

Campers and caravans take up a lot of roadside space should you break down or get a flat tyre. Be sure to pack hazard gear for these occasions, including high-viz vests with reflective strips, torches, glow in the dark sticks, and reflective triangles.

Camper and caravan holidays are to be looked forward to, especially as the days shorten and the roads grow quieter. When you head out on your next adventure, take our tips with you!