5 Things You Should Do Before Heading to a Camping and Caravan Expo

Heading to a caravan expo? These five practical checks will help you dodge costly mistakes, size up campers with confidence, and make the most of every adventure-ready deal on show day.

Camping expos are a fantastic way to see the latest campers, caravans, and outdoor gear all in one place. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting to plan your off-grid escapes, hitting a show can be exciting. But there’s a bit of prep worth doing first. To help you make the most of your visit, here are five things to tick off your list before you head to the expo.

1. Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity

Before you even step foot on the show floor, make sure your vehicle can safely tow the camper or caravan you’re interested in. It’s easy to get carried away by features and clever layouts, but your SUV, 4WD, or ute has a maximum towing limit for a reason. Overloading your vehicle isn’t just dangerous, it can also affect insurance and warranty.

Take a few minutes to check your vehicle handbook or manufacturer specs. Knowing your towing limit ahead of time will save you from falling in love with something that simply isn’t the right fit for your setup.

2. Research the Weights of the Camper or Caravan You’re Looking At

Camper and caravan weights aren’t always obvious at first glance. You’ll need to consider tare weight, ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass), ball weight, and sometimes optional extras that can quickly tip the scales. Doing a bit of homework online before the expo means you’ll be able to ask the right questions and compare models with confidence.

If you’re weighing up lighter hybrid campers like the Talawana 11LT versus heavier off-road caravans, search for companies that have free online brochures and see how the numbers stack up against your towing capacity. This can help narrow down your shortlist before you even arrive at the show.

3. Know Your Car Setup

It’s not just about towing capacity. Your vehicle also needs the right setup. Check your tow ball, brake controller, and any other towing accessories you’re running. A quick once-over ensures that when you find a camper you like, you can immediately tell whether it’s compatible with your vehicle.

If something doesn’t quite line up, it’s much easier to organise upgrades beforehand rather than after you’ve committed to a purchase. Being prepared also helps showroom staff give you accurate advice without needing to guess your setup.

4. Ring Your Local Showroom for a Pre-Show Special

A camping expo isn’t just a place to wander and dream, it’s also where some great deals can be found. Before you go, give your local showroom a call to see if they’re offering any pre-show specials or incentives. Some dealers run exclusive offers for customers who reserve a model ahead of a local show.

They should also be able to tell you whether there will be show-only deals, so you can arrive informed and ready. This step can save both time and money, and it gives you a good sense of the service you can expect if you decide to move forward.

5. Decide When You Need the Camper or Caravan By

Finally, think about your timing. Are you planning to hit the road in a few months, or is this a longer-term goal you’re starting to plan? Your timeframe can affect availability, especially if you’re looking at popular models or need to preorder a new release.

Knowing when you want to roll out will help you focus on options that fit your schedule and avoid disappointment later. It also means you’re walking away from the expo with a plan, not just ideas.

Ready to Hit the Show Floor?

A little preparation goes a long way. Check your vehicle, know your weights, make sure your car is set up properly, call the showroom, and think about your timeline. Then you’re ready to make the most of the expo.

With the right prep, you’ll spend your day exploring layouts, comparing options, asking questions, and picturing your next adventure, without the stress of realising too late that something doesn’t quite add up.

Camping expos are a chance to dream big, see what’s possible, and maybe even leave with a camper that becomes part of your adventures for years to come.