Ten Essentials For Your New Caravan
If you're new to caravanning or have gleefully received delivery of a new model, now's a great time to make sure you have the Top Ten caravan accessories packed and ready to go!
Modern caravans come highly equipped, but there are some essential articles you might need to buy for when you take delivery, whether you’re buying a new or used caravan.
Some articles, such as security devices, are not always offered as standard and in the case of used caravans the seller might well retain some essential bits and pieces if they’re moving on to another model themselves.
If you’re new to caravanning, there’s a lot to take in, so here’s a checklist you can use to discuss what’s included with the dealer or seller, and to decide what you might need to buy.
1. Security Devices
Insurance companies require you to fit security devices such as hitch locks and wheel clamps to your caravan as a policy condition. Check the wording carefully to see what’s required as this does vary from company to company (some will list approved products).
As a minimum you’ll need a hitch lock, which makes it more difficult for thieves to hitch up your van and go. Many policies require a second device and the Milenco wheel lock is an excellent option that’s quick and easy to fit.
2. Aqua Roll Fresh Water Container
Many owners will hang on to their water containers, so if your caravan requires an external supply, we can highly recommend the Aqua roll fresh water container. This will give you 40L (that’s 40KG!) of water on tap and as the name implies, you can wheel it to and from the campsite supply.
3. Caravan Or Motorhome Step
A step makes life a lot simpler when you’re camping – and it’s amazing how often you’ll find yourself going in and out of the van. The Milenco MGI Giant Caravan Step has a nice large platform for when you’re balancing the Sunday lunch in both arms and heading to the awning.
4. Tyrepal Tyre Sensors
Blown tyres are one of the biggest causes of caravan accidents, but often tyres will deflate gradually before they finally burst. Easy-to-fit, wireless Tyrepal monitors will warn you about tyre pressure and temperature changes, so you can pull over and avoid a major blow-out.
Many insurers will also give you a discount if you fit the system. Find out more about what to look out for when buying a Tyrepal in our 'Tyre Pressure Monitors Guide'.
5. Levelling Ramps and Chocks
Many campsites have sloping pitches, so it’s a good idea to be prepared with a set of Milenco levelling ramps and chocks . You can use these to level your caravan or motorhome, for comfort and to ensure fridges and plumbing systems operate properly. You’ll need a spirit level as well or a mobile levelling app – and it’s not a bad idea to view some levelling tutorials online, such as this ‘How To Level A Caravan’ guide from You Tube channel, Meet The Trudgians.
6. Awning
On that very subject, an awning is a fantastic addition to any caravan or motorhome, giving you valuable extra space for entertaining, sleeping, and storage. Read our previous article on '7 Unique Ways To Use and Accessorise Your Caravan Awning' for ideas on effectively using extra awning space.
Our own-brand Prima Air awnings are especially easy to live with, as there are no poles, just pump it up. It takes a matter of minutes and they’re rock solid when inflated. With a great offering of awnings online, you can find an awning suitable for you and your journey.
7. Spare Awning Pegs
If you’re buying a used van with the awning thrown in, it’s worth checking that it came with the pegs before you go on tour. Pegs are easily mislaid, but you can get replacements – such as our own Prima Secure Hold tent pegs. or Groundsheet Pegs and even pegs designed for hard ground
8. Caravan Fire Extinguisher
Fires can be especially devastating in caravans and on campsites, so take precautions and keep a decent extinguisher installed in your van.
We especially like this lightweight, motorhome and caravan fire extinguisher NCC verified and suitable for all types of fire, including solid material (wood, paper, textiles), liquids (petrol, oil), and gases (methane, propane), all packed into a lightweight, aluminium package.
There's also the 8-litre Colapz fire bucket that collapses down to a compact size for convenient storage.
9. CO Detector and Smoke Alarm
These are essential safety items for caravans. We stock the excellent Fire Angel Smoke alarm and CO detector in our store.
We could of course go on when it comes to accessories for your caravan or motorhome. We stock over 10,000 different items in the Prima Leisure online store, many of which are available for next day delivery.
10. Caravan Shampoo
Keep your van squeaky clean by using the Dry Sparkle range of caravan cleaners, which is designed for use on the body of a caravan as standard car products may well be too abrasive and damage your bodywork. There's both a Caravan Cleaner and Motorhome Cleaner available.
Both follow a quick and easy waterless wash fully tested and endorsed by Bailey. These are key items to have in your kit of essentials as it is great for removing algae, moss, black streaks, and stubborn stains that accumulate during the use of your caravan or motorhome.
With these ten essentials for your new caravan, you will be able to set up camp safely and enjoy your time away.
Happy touring!