We have compiled a list of the things to check before you hitch up and hit the road!
1)Tyres – Obviously pressures are paramount, but having a tyre sit for extended periods especially if exposed can create issues like flat spots, rubber deterioration and hardening which could cause a blowout. Make sure you have inspected your tyres and if in doubt get a professional to take a look. Change your tyres once every 5 years regardless of tread wear.
2)Bearings – the core of many issues for all trailer owners – your wheel bearings are a critical component to keeping your wheel on its hub. They should be checked at least annually but if you use your trailer often, check them more regularly. Jacking the trailer up and checking for lateral movement in the wheel is a good gauge. Any movement should be remediated before you hit the road. We’ve had many a significant, holiday ending claim result from a wheel falling off!
3)Seals and canvas – If you have a pop top, or even a retractable awning, make sure they’re serviceable and in good condition. Also check all your seals for damage, the last thing you want is to find out that they’re weathered and leaking when you pull up to your favourite campsite, hundreds of kilometres away from home.
4)Electricals – your trailer is your home away from home, as such you do become reliant on it as a power source. Check that your batteries are holding charge and that your solar panels and chargers are all working. The last thing you want is a fridge full of rotting food when remote!
5)Connections with the Tow tug – make sure your hitch is operational and not damaged. Check any electrical couplings for damage or wear in the wiring or connection terminals – anything less than perfect should be rectified before you hit the road. Check that all lights are functioning appropriately across the tow tug and the trailer.
6)Brakes – if your trailer has a braking system – ensure you have the appropriate brake controller fitted and understand how to use it! Whilst many of these have sophisticated automated functions, there is nothing smarter that what’s in the noggin of the driver!
7)Training – I don’t know about you, but for me even a $5,000 basic trailer is a lot of coin. Then there are the occupants of your tow vehicle, who become more susceptible to risk given the combined mass of a tow vehicle and trailer hurtling down the road at 110 kilometres per hour. Ultimately you made an investment to go and see special parts of this beautiful land and create memories – a few hundred more on an accredited training course will be the best first step you can take to ensure you get there and back in one piece.
Feel free to add in any other tips you have for safely enjoying your camper trailer and leave us a comment below to share them with us.
Happy Touring
Kalen Ziflian
