Hit the Road with Confidence This School Holidays

With only days away until school holidays, the excitement is building. Families are packing the car, giving the van a quick check, and talking about where the road might take them – maybe back to a favourite spot, or somewhere new they’ve always wanted to try. The warmer weather makes it the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy South Australia at its best.

But before you hit the road, a quick safety check is one of the best investments you can make. It doesn’t take long, and it can mean the difference between smooth sailing and unexpected stress on the side of the road. A little prep now keeps your adventures focused on what matters most… fun, freedom and family.

Why Prep Matters

Caravanning and camping is all about freedom, the ability to choose the destination, the pace, and the memories you want to make. But freedom feels a whole lot better when you know your gear is reliable.

Think of it like packing for the kids! When you have the snacks, games and sunscreen sorted, you’ll have a much happier trip. The same goes for your setup: check the essentials now and avoid dramas later. That’s the Wanderer way.

School Holiday Safety & Prep Checklist

1. Tyres & Pressure – Check the tow vehicle and van for cracks, worn tread, and correct pressure. Don’t forget the spare, and make sure wheel nuts are tight.
2. Brakes & Lights – Do a buddy check: one in the driver’s seat, one out the back. Test brakes, indicators and tail lights before you set off. Confirm wiring is secure.
3. Solar & Batteries – For off-grid trips, clean your solar panels, charge batteries, and make sure they hold power overnight.
4. Gas & Water – Inspect hoses, regulators and bottles. Flush your tanks and test pumps so you know you’ve got safe drinking water and working systems.
5. Hitching & Towing – Lock in the towbar, secure safety chains, adjust mirrors. Balance your load so your van tows smoothly.
6. Weight & Load Distribution – Pack safely: heavy items low and over or just behind the axle, lighter items forward or up. Don’t exceed your vehicle’s or caravan’s payload capacity.
7. Legal & Compliance Checks – Ensure your registration, towing hitch, braking system, and lighting meet the legal requirements for your areas of travel. Know your load limits.
8. Towing Behaviour & Speed – Give yourself extra braking distance, reduce speed on curves or downhill. Accelerate gently and be mindful of wind gusts.
9. Driving Technique & Fatigue – Plan for rest breaks, avoid driving late if possible. Take time to get familiar with how your caravan or trailer behaves (turning, braking, reversing) before long road trips.

There’s plenty to think about when it comes to safety and prep, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our members are always just a call or visit away if you need advice, and our Think! Road Safety resources are packed with practical tips. One guide that Wanderers across Australia find especially useful is the National Towing Guide.

Tips for Travelling with Little Wanderers

With Little Wanderers on board these school holidays, a bit of preparation goes a long way.

• Keep meals simple. Pack easy meals and plenty of snacks that don’t require much fuss. A container of fruit, wraps, or a batch of muffins can keep hunger at bay without constant stops.
• Entertainment on the go. Long stretches of road are easier with games, audiobooks, or a tablet loaded with favourite shows. Don’t underestimate the power of classic car games like I Spy or Spotto – they’re still winners.
• Plan your breaks. Schedule regular stops to let kids stretch, play, and burn off energy. It’s good for them and it gives drivers a chance to recharge too.
• Create little traditions. Whether it’s letting the kids choose the first campsite activity, picking a special snack for the trip, or stopping at the same servo for ice creams, small rituals make the holiday feel special.

Camping with Little Wanderers is all about those simple moments: playing cards in the annex, chasing sunsets, or toasting marshmallows under the stars. With a little planning, those everyday experiences become the memories your family talks about long after the trip is over.

The Spring Touch-Up

A new season is the perfect excuse to give your gear a once-over. More Wanderers on the road, longer days exploring, and warmer weather mean more opportunities for adventure. A seasonal check keeps everything in top shape and ready for weekends away and the big summer holiday ahead.

Need a Hand Before You Hit the Road?

Our Service & Repair members can give your caravan, camper or motorhome a professional once over before the holidays. From pre-trip safety checks to servicing and repairs, they know vans and tow setups inside out, so you can travel with confidence.

Ready to Roll?

Get road trip ready with the National Towing Guide full of practical tips to help Wanderers tow with confidence and keep their adventures safe.

So, with only days until the holidays kick off, give your caravan, camper or motorhome a little TLC. A quick check now means less time worrying and more time making memories where it matters most.

Safe travels, Wanderers. See you and your Little Wanderers out there this school holidays.

Latest Posts