Caravan Road Trip Checklist

If you're caravanning for an extended period of time — or gearing up for the ultimate road trip around Australia known as the Big Lap — packing the right gear can make or break your journey. Whether you're travelling for six weeks or six months, being prepared means more than just remembering your toothbrush.

From fuel and water to power, safety equipment, and off-grid essentials, there’s a lot to think about when your caravan becomes your home on wheels. This comprehensive checklist covers everything you'll need to stay safe, self-sufficient, and comfortable — no matter how remote the next stop is.

Before you hit the road, run through this list to make sure you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

✅ Vehicle & Caravan Essentials

☐ Vehicle towing capacity meets caravan weight (Tare/ATM/GTM)

☐ Caravan fully serviced and roadworthy

☐ Electric brake controller fitted

☐ Weight distribution hitch installed (if needed)

☐ Spare tyres for both vehicle and caravan

☐ Jack, wheel brace, and tyre repair kit

☐ Roadside assistance membership

☐ Vehicle and caravan insurance (includes remote/off-road travel)

🔋 Power & Off-Grid Capability

☐ 12V battery system or lithium battery setup

☐ Solar panels and regulator

☐ Inverter (if using 240V appliances)

☐ Battery monitor/management system

☐ Backup generator or alternate charging option

🚿 Water & Waste

☐ At least 100L of onboard water storage

☐ Additional water jerry cans or bladders

☐ Drinking water filtration system

☐ Grey water tank or portable solution

☐ Eco-friendly cleaning and hygiene products

🍳 Food & Cooking

☐ 12V fridge/freezer

☐ Long-life pantry staples

☐ Cooking equipment (gas BBQ, stove, etc.)

☐ Reusable cutlery, crockery, and cookware

☐ Food-safe storage containers

🧰 Tools & Emergency Gear

☐ Basic tool kit (spanners, screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape)

☐ Spare fuses, hoses, fan belts

☐ Fire extinguisher and smoke alarm

☐ First aid kit

☐ UHF radio

☐ Recovery gear (snatch strap, shovel, traction boards if 4WDing)

🗺️ Navigation & Trip Planning

☐ Printed maps and/or Hema digital maps

☐ WikiCamps / CamperMate / Fuel Map apps

☐ Itinerary plan with flexible stops

☐ Downloaded offline maps (for reception-free zones)

☐ Emergency contact plan (including check-ins with family)

👕 Lifestyle & Comfort

☐ Foldable chairs and table

☐ Awning or shade setup

☐ Laundry gear (portable washer or tub)

☐ Clothesline and pegs

☐ Wet weather gear and layered clothing

☐ Entertainment (books, games, board games)