Care On & Off Road: Tuson Sway Control’s Tips for Smart Parking

Caravanning in Aussie is all about adventure, freedom, and exploring the great outdoors. But just as you care for your caravan on the road, taking care of it when it’s parked is equally important.

Whether you’re setting up at a caravan park, a scenic off-the-grid spot, in your own driveway, or storing it for the off-season, these tips will help you keep your caravan safe, secure, and in top condition.

Parking Under Trees: Choose Safety Over Convenience

While parking or camping under trees might offer welcome shade on a hot day, it comes with significant risks.

Gum trees are particularly notorious for dropping branches or even toppling entirely without warning. Shallow roots, damage, or weather conditions can cause branches or entire trees to fall, leading to:

• Severe damage to your caravan, car, or camping setup
• Potential injuries to you and your family

Hazards from the tree itself aren’t the only issue when parking under trees – you’re also prone to tree sap and droppings from birds, possums, and bats when parked under trees.

Instead of prioritising shade from trees, look for open, clear spaces that are free of overhanging hazards. Or, if you do want to park under trees, avoid gum trees and look for any signs of rot or damage like dying branches or hollows in the trunk that might indicate higher risk of dropping branches – but we do recommend avoiding trees entirely! It might mean a little more sun exposure, but the peace of mind is worth it.

Campsite Parking Tips

When you’re parking up at your campsite, a bit of planning goes a long way to make your stay more enjoyable. Overall, consider others and follow the campsite rules, but here’s a couple of important things to keep in mind:

• Position for security: Face the jockey wheel away from the road or access points, so it’s harder for an opportunistic thief to hitch up your caravan and drive off. Wheel clamps and hitch locks can add an extra layer of security too.
• Respect the space of others: Leave at least 3 metres between you and other campers in caravan parks to prevent fire hazards and maintain privacy. It’s also important to consider how your parking position might affect someone else’s access to amenities, or even their view if you’re in a sought-after scenic spot!

Storing Your Caravan Long-Term

If your caravan will be sitting for a while during your off-season, taking a few simple steps can prevent problems down the track and keep your set up in great shape:

• Check the tyres: Make sure they’re properly inflated to avoid flat spots.
• Cover your caravan: If you’re parking outside, a breathable cover protects it from the weather, dirt, and UV rays.
• Drain the water system: This helps to avoids mould buildup and freezing issues, especially if it’s parked for a long time over the colder months.
• Park on level ground: Avoid spots where water pools or where branches could fall.
• Care for the battery: Disconnect it, or “trickle charge” to keep it healthy.
• Keep it ventilated: Open a window or vent slightly to stop mould and mildew.
• Check your servicing schedules: Make sure your Warrant of Fitness is up to date, and don’t forget to have your sway control serviced too.

Once you’re ready to hit the road again, be sure to check for any “friends” that might have hopped on board! Snakes like to hide in warm places like battery compartments, and it’s also a good idea to get use your preferred pest spray to avoid spiders and other creepy-crawlies ruining your next trip.

Emergency Preparedness While Parked

Unfortunately, emergencies can happen at any time, so being prepared when your caravan is parked is essential:

• Environmental safety: Monitor conditions, check for bush fire alerts, and relocate your caravan if severe weather threatens.
• Evacuation plan: Have a clear plan for quickly leaving the site in case of emergencies, and park with your exits in mind.
• Local emergency contacts: Know the nearest hospitals, towing companies, and other services in case of unexpected situations.

Protecting Your Caravan Off the Road

Taking care of your caravan when parked is just as important as looking after it on the road. A little effort can save you time, money, and stress later!

And when you’re ready to hit the road again, Tuson Sway Control is here to ensure smooth, safe travels every time.