How to Protect Your Off-Road Caravan: Simple Steps That Save You Big Time

A guest blog from AOE RV Service Centre

When you’re chasing red dirt, coastal tracks and outback sunsets, your camper earns its scars. Even tough builds like the Austrack Campers’ Telegraph X or Tanami X13 deserve a bit of TLC to stay trip-ready.

The good news? A few simple checks before, during, and after your adventure can stop minor wear from turning into major repairs. 

Let’s break down how to keep your camper in peak condition, without the guesswork.

Why Protection Matters (More Than You Might Think)

Even the strongest builds can wear prematurely without proper care. Protecting your camper or caravan isn’t just about looks. It’s about safety, performance and keeping that resale value strong.

A well-maintained caravan lasts longer, drives better and gives you fewer surprises when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.

Before You Hit the Road

1. Take a Minute to Check the Structure

Check for rust, cracks or loose joints (even if it’s built tough like the Austrack Camper’s hot-dipped galvanised chassis and aluminium frame), it’s always a good idea to run your eyes over the chassis, welds and underbody.

Don’t forget the hitch, uni-joints, and shocks also. Austrack Campers come with McHitch and Pedders shocks, but it’s always a good rule of thumb that if it looks loose, cracked or tired, then tighten it, replace it, or book it in.

2. Don’t Skip Tyres, Bearings and Brakes

Good tyres save holidays. Bad tyres ruin them. Be sure to check your tread depth, sidewall cracking, tyre pressure and greased bearings. Austrack Campers’ heavy-duty electric brakes and 4×4 hubs are designed for remote touring, so keep them serviced, and they’ll treat you well.

3. Add Some Armour

You wouldn’t tackle a rocky track without boots …and your caravan shouldn’t either.

Consider Investing in:

•         Rock Tamers
•         Stone nets
•         Quality mud flaps

These won’t protect your full underbody, but their main job is to stop stones from flicking up and smacking the front of your camper or the rear of your tow vehicle, preventing dents, scratches and even the occasional cracked window. These are still very important, especially on gravel and corrugated roads.

If you’re looking for underbody protection, then that’s where bash plates come in. Luckily, Austrack Campers fits bash plates to all their water tanks as standard, giving you extra peace of mind when the terrain turns rough.

Note: Check that your off-road coupling and chains are ADR-approved and fitted properly. 

While You’re on the Track

1. Drive Smart

Smooth and steady wins the outback race!
Adjust your speed to road/track conditions, especially corrugations. It reduces shaking and protects suspension, cabinetry and electricals.          

Avoid sharp turns or sudden braking, particularly with taller camper models.

2. Keep an Eye on Tyres & Suspension

A TPMS is your best mate on long trips. Instant alerts mean no nasty tyre surprises.
After rough patches, quickly check your tyres and suspension. Even the toughest gear needs a breather!

3. Work With the Weather

Heat, rain and river crossings all take their toll.

•         Use shade screens to reduce heat load.
•         After water crossings or heavy rain, check seals and underbody areas.
•         Caravans with sealed cabinetry and underfloor systems are built for splash zones, but simple checks can help extend the life of any caravan or camper.

After the Adventure

1. Clean It Properly

We had a customer come to see us after travelling through red dirt country. Unfortunately, they hadn’t checked over their caravan before travel, and the interior was covered in red dust. It was over the floor, the walls, the mattress, everything was coated!

Dust, mud and sand can creep into everything and are the silent killers! Wash the underbody, wheel arches, and seals to prevent grime from accelerating the wear of your camper. Then inspect the seals on windows, hatches, annex points, door vent covers and cabinetry and be sure to fix anything cracked or loose ASAP!

2. Add Protective Coatings

Even with a galvanised chassis, extra rust protection is never a bad idea. Spray exposed metal, bolts and vulnerable areas. You can also use UV-protective coatings on composite panels and cabinetry to keep them looking fresh.

Long-Term Care (The Boring Stuff That Actually Matters)

Consistency is key!

Follow this simple servicing rhythm:

•         First service: the first 1,000 km or 3 months of owning it (whichever comes first)
•         Ongoing (primarily on-road use): every 5,000km or 6 months (whichever comes first)
•         Ongoing (heavy off-road use): every 2,500km or 3 months (whichever comes first)

Even if your caravan spends time parked, the seals can age, lubricants can dry out, and components can settle, so don’t skip it!

We recommend storing your caravan undercover or with a UV cover to keep exterior seals, paint, and finishes in top shape.

Keeping Your Caravan Adventure-Ready

Prevention doesn’t take long, and in return, it’ll save you money, protect your investment, and keep every trip stress-free.

With the right care, your caravan will stay ready for whatever tracks you point it toward next.

Want some reassurance on your camper? Visit AOE RV Service Centres. Our team of experts are here to keep you safer and happier for your next adventure.