Apr
Australia is a paradise for those who love camping, and camper trailers offer the comfort and convenience to fully enjoy the vast expanses of this beautiful continent. For a seamless camping experience, proper setup and levelling of your camper trailer are crucial. Here are some essential pointers that will help you ensure a well-equipped, stable, and safe campsite.
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Levelling and Stabilising Your Camper Trailer
First things first – upon arriving at your camping spot, it is essential to level and stabilise your camper trailer. Unleveled trailers can lead to numerous problems such as inefficient refrigeration and discomfort while moving around or sleeping. Stabilising prevents any excessive movement that can cause wear and tear on the trailer’s structure.
You can use levelling blocks to help achieve a flat base. These blocks are placed under the wheels on the lower side of the camper to level it out. The camper trailer does not need to be perfectly level, as long as you are comfortable moving around and sleeping.
Stabiliser legs, on the other hand, are used to provide stability and prevent the trailer from rocking. Position the legs in all four corners of the trailer and engage them until they’re firm. Always ensure your camper rests on a solid and stable foundation, clear from rocks or other objects that could destabilise it. Read more tips on camper trailer safety.
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Setting Up Campsite Utilities
When you’ve levelled and stabilised your camper, it’s time to connect to the campsite utilities. First, plug your power cord into the electrical hookup, ensuring the supply is switched off before connecting. It’s a good idea to use a surge protector to guard against voltage spikes.
For water hookups, connect one end of your drinking water hose to the campsite tap and the other to your camper’s water inlet. Use a pressure regulator to prevent damage from high water pressure.
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Awning and Outdoor Setup
A well-set-up awning can provide a pleasant and shaded outdoor living space. When setting up your awning, check the weather. If wind speeds are high or heavy rain predicted, it might be better to skip the awning setup, as strong winds and pooling water can damage it.
Patio mats can be a great addition under the awning, making the outdoor space feel like a homely living room. Consider investing in lightweight, foldable outdoor furniture that’s easy to store when not in use. Keep the setup simple and functional, with comfort being the ultimate goal.
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Interior Setup and Organisation
Inside your camper trailer, efficient organisation is key. Optimise storage by using containers, shelves, or hooks. Make the best use of vertical space, especially in small trailers. Regularly used items should be easily accessible, and heavier items should be stored low and towards the centre of the trailer to maintain stability.
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Safety and Security Measures
Safety and security should be your top priority when setting up your camper trailer. Secure your awning and outdoor equipment to prevent accidents, especially in windy conditions. Regularly check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working correctly.
Before leaving for your camping adventure, confirm that your camper trailer is properly hitched and your towing connections are secure. On arrival, double-check these connections before detaching your vehicle from the camper trailer.
To increase security, consider investing in a wheel lock or a hitch lock to protect your camper from theft when unattended.
In conclusion, setting up a camper trailer involves careful planning and execution. With these tips in mind, your camping trips around the great Australian outdoors will be a breeze. Happy camping!