That reverse looked good. Well done. Two tips for leveling the caravan. If you don't have a spirit level, open a curtain/blind, and put a glass of water on the cupboard inside. You can easily see whether things are straight. When you get a chance buy a small spirit level in the shape of a T and place or fix it on the cupboard inside the caravan, where you can see it from the jockey wheel. Don't worry about the setting up. You will soon get the routine done quickly. We would travel with the kettle half full of water. When we arrived on site, as soon as the rear legs were down, we turned the gas on. My wife would make cups of tea, while I levelled things up, collected water and made the connections. Within a few minutes we were sitting down enjoying a nice cuppa. Everything sorted! Enjoy your caravaning!
Thanks for putting all this content (warts and all) out there. We're newbies - just bought our first caravan. You 2 have helped us so much with these vlogs. All the stuff you need know (that everyone else seems to know! ) but we're afraid to ask. Keep up the great work
Thank you for your lovely comment ☺️ I am sure like us after a few times out in your caravan your be setting up in no time! Just take it slow and go somewhere close to home on your 1st trip if you can, if you get stuck there is always someone around to help you (it happen to us and we asked a warden on site and he help us out no problem) if you have any questions you can always ask us and we try and help you out👍 now go out there and enjoy yourself happy caravanning
Just a little tip mate. When your van is in storage, make sure all the taps are open. It lets water run out and drain. When we started out caravaning, we made loads of mistakes but its all part of the fun. Enjoy it mate and happy caravaning 👍 P.S. never be afraid of asking someone for advice, because it makes things easier and also friends are made that way.
Good to see another taking the plunge and buying a caravan you will not regret it. A few pointers one with the waste pipe where it is leaking wrap a small amount of insulating tape around the fitting before you push it in, should stop the leak and if I were you I would make up the rear dinette into the bed and leave it made up ideal if its just the two of you going away. Other than that all you will need is plenty of booze and away you go. Enjoy
When you have gone on away on a few trips and everything setting up comes naturally, you will look back at this video and laugh your head off, but well done!
So exciting ,getting a caravan ,new or old .Dan Trudgian and Andrew Ditton .they have lots posts about starting off in a caravan .looks a lovely caravan you have bought .Enjoy 😀
Hi Only just come across your channel , We were new to caravanning in 2020 , Started with a Swift Accorrd 2001 . Loved it , bought a newer one though now . We’re still learning and picking up tips . Enjoy every min , you won’t regret it Safe travels from Gill & Mark in Leeds x
Thanks Gill & Mark we thought we would start with an older van for a few years see how we get on and if we are going to like it but already we do lol can’t wait till the spring to get out and about.
Hi thought you did brilliant for first time pleased everything worked for you I still make daft mistakes after 7yrs but that's what it's all about hope you both have as much fun as we have had John
Good to see how you are getting on. We learnt everything about setting up a caravan from the university of RUclips. Even made us set up a channel of our own 😀
Yes we are getting there it’s been really interesting watching other caravan channels we have set up the caravan 3 times since this video and it is getting easier also thought why not make a channel and share our experience 😁
Don’t worry about what others think of you-we’ve all been there! Watch what tricks/ideas other campers have that you can copy. A list as you go for things you need on your phone is a good idea. We have a check list that we use for every trip. It does get easier and more enjoyable the more you get out and about and fellow campers will always help you if you’re really stuck! Ps. We only use Elsan Green which can go in cassette and flush and more sites are now only accepting ‘green/eco’ toilet fluid.
Thanks for the tips yes I think I will be changing the chemicals for the toilet to the eco one as I have seen a few videos says some sites only except Eco chemicals now
Wouldn’t worry there will always be someone around to help if you get stuck. It gets lot easier more trips you do it only takes us 45 minutes to set everything up now
Great video. Love the armature caravan I g vids. I’ve just got my first van, so I’m exactly the same as you. I’ll be learning as I go along. Keep the videos coming as nice to follow another beginner. 👍
we go to fetch our van at the weekend, not towed a caravan for about 15 years when the kids were little. nervous but cant wait at the same time. great video by the way. Thanks.
I bet you are excited we will be! Nerves are good. Keep you on your toes but as you have towed before I am sure it will come back to you bit like riding a bike you never forget enjoy and happy caravanning. Glad you liked the video 👍
Love your video. I just bought my first caravan, an old 1997 Elddis Whirlwind, and I am looking forward to my first trip in 2 weeks. I have been watching other videos for tips, and you can use an electric drill with attachment to unwind the levelling feet. Also, use a pice of pvc pipe to fill the aqua roll
Thank you, I bet you can’t wait to go away in it! I hope you have a lovely time and it goes smoothly when we 1st went away like you can see in the video we did forget a few things and have learnt a lot in the last 9 months and them bits you said about will make your life a lot easier hope you have a wonderful 😁
I just stumbled across your channel today. We just purchased our 1st caravan a few months ago but not been out yet. We're going putting our own we personal touches on it. Im dreading our 1st set up. Unlike yourself i wasnt blessed with patients. A lot of very useful comments here. I guess we should do a dummy run, set it up and take notes. Best of luck with it 👍🏻
Hi I would 100% do a few nights/trips close to home if you can it does really help, the 1st 2 runs we did I didn’t even have the fridge plug in 🫣 it was kinda embarrassing when I thought it was broken 😂. But on the other hand if I had booked a week away then I would have been in more trouble. Don’t dread it enjoy it, it’s good when you get everything sorted and have a routine. There are always people that are around and willing to help. Hope your 1st outing goes well 👍
I’m thinking of getting a caravan & your video has given me more confidence. Think you need one of those water carriers with the pulling handles & a bit of pipe to connect to tap! Some sites have water on each pitch & you can connect directly so you don’t need to keep hauling it around…… is that switch the awning light possibly?
You should definitely get one they are a lot of fun, I had a handle I was just to lazy to use it lol I have now invested in some food grade hose to connect straight to the Aqua roll, the switch was actually for the toilet light a bit of a funny place to put it lol
Great video , we have just bought our first Caravan similar age to yours (not even picked it up yet). So glad you included everything in your video because we will be just the same trying to work stuff out as we go.
Thank you glad the video helped one good bit of advice if you can try and do a few nights close to home at a local campsite if you can just in case you run into any problems if you seen some of our other videos you know the biggest problem we had is that we didn’t think the fridge was working for two nights hope you have some fantastic adventures
Do it! We have loved it so far it’s nice just to get away when ever you like if you have a few spare days and there is always someone about to help if you need it. Enjoy and good luck
Just come across your channel so thought I would watch your first setting up vlog, think you did ok really, made me think about our first time out many years ago now, but still forget things now and then. If you don't make mistakes you don't learn anything, it does get a lot easier. we started our with a 1994 Abbey solitaire which we bought in 2009 and absolutely loved it. Happy caravanning.
We are off for a few nights this weekend just to get some more practice in I am sure there be some more mistakes lol thank you for the comment roll on the summer
Glad set up mate. We are also new to caravanning and are actually going away for a test run tomorrow before our big trip to the Netherlands later on in the year.
Wow that will be some adventure hope your trial goes well and you enjoy it it gets easier more you do it it only takes us about 45 minutes now to set everything up
We’ve just bought our first van too. Went to our local site for 2 nights and loved it. Can’t wait for the spring. Join the caravan club if you haven’t done already - it’s very helpful and great discounts too.
Definitely good to do a local trip first we really enjoyed it and that was in November so in the summer it should be awesome. Yes good idea I will join up in the spring
@CaravanTrails Yeh, you will do setting up. Will become a doddle, just being able to hitch up on a wk end or whenever you want & get away is class you'll love it come summer 👌🏾💯
Hi we were the same last weekend. First time taking our 5 berth caravan out and took ages to set up. Think I will be ok next time but really enjoyed it. Looks like the same layout as yours 👍
Hi yeah it took us a long time to and we didn’t even put the awning up on our first time round but now it only takes us about 45 minutes to set up everything. It gets a lot easier and quicker the more you do it, hope you enjoy your caravanning best time of year to be doing it as well 👍
Great stuff, brings back memories but with far better language. Make a list and write it down as it occurs to you otherwise the next time you remember is when you are away again. Good luck, it's a great thing to do.
Well done for your first time nextime attach a hose to your fresh water and fill your water butt up no carrying involved. If you can use the back area for sleeping in make up that area as a fixed bed, it’s great to just climb into bed without moving cushions all the time.We purchased a light weight memory foam topper bliss.
ive had a van for a year and only recently been tokd to NOT use the steadies/legs for levelling else too much pressure on them can damage my floor. i watched lots of new caravanner videos but was told this by a neighbour on site
Yes you are completely right don’t use the steadies to level the caravan we have ramps to level the van side to side and up and down you just use the jockey wheel. You will end up damaging your steadies 👍
fantastic video you done extremely well for the first time and have done the wise thing and not travelling far for your first trip. I've subscribed and am looking forward to seeing your next videos
Only use the blue liquid. The pink liquid is known to produce black stuff and will block the pump. Just use water and a bit of zoflora. Note when in storage keep the fridge door slightly open otherwise it will smell bad.
I used to help my mum set up the caravan when we were on holidays, but tbh the though terrifies me. I'm going smaller and getting a trailer tent once I get my tow bar attached. Although I think I will need to get a 7 pin to 13 pin adapter as most trailer tents and caravans have 13 pin to attached to the car (my tow bar will only have 7 pin electrics)
I drive trucks for a living so pulling a caravan is pretty easy for me but if your not used to it I can see why some people would prefer to go with something more easy to tow and reverse. If you haven't got your tow bar fitted yet I would see if you can get a 13 pin socket fitted instead of a 7 pin would make life bit easier for you. hope everything goes well and I am sure your really enjoy it when you get everything sorted.
Well done on your 1st trip. I’m sure we made lots of mistakes when we first started and still do lol years later). I hope you have many happy times ahead in your caravan . Enjoy 😊
There is a bit to learn but that’s what the channel is about don’t for get to subscribe and hopefully we can recommend each other to some awesome campsites to visit roll on the spring hope you enjoy your new caravan 😄
Hi there, you've a lot to learn but you'll get there. I was just the same when I started caravanning. I probably knew less than you and the van was a lot older, hope you enjoy yourself.
We are really excited for the spring to get here and yes a lot to learn but there are always good people to give you tips and advice this is why we have started our channel thank you for your nice comment
Yes mate we have just done an other video on our new tow car that one was a friends car just to move it around site but definitely to small to pull the van! 👍
Hi thanks glad you enjoyed the video, I would start by looking at your car and checking maximum towing capacity, once you have done that your have an idea of how big of a caravan you can get, then you will need to look at lay outs I.e fix bed separate shower and toilet etc they are so manny different lay outs you can get and this really depends on you and what works best for you, obviously you would have a budget in mind then it’s just a matter of going and having a look at sum if your buying secondhand ideally something that has recently been serviced and has a damp report because that’s going be the biggest thing to look out for making sure they are no signs of damp this can be very tricky, if you’re spending a fair bit of money, I will probably recommend getting the engineer to look over it and give you a report hope this helps there are a lot of videos on RUclips about what to look out for etc when buying a caravan, hope it works out for you it’s worth it in the end 😊
Really nice vlog we all started the same .there is always someone around on caravan sites who will always help caravaners are lovely helpfully people all the best in your travels and enjoy we all make mistakes I still do ha terry emm
I use my spirit level on the sill of the caravan door to level it front to rear. I sometimes use a 10 litre plastic Jerry can to fill up the water container without having to lug it to the tap and back. The first lid you unscrewed on the waste water container was the level indicator. They end up rusting away. I've used the same grey fixed pipes on my waste water outlets. I'll need to get some new ones for my recently acquired 2002 Sterling Eccles Sapphire. You'll need to open all the taps to get the air out when you fill up the water. Did the caravan come with a handbook? It should have all the information you need.
I did buy some little spirit levels which should help in future, the waste water container I did have it the wrong way round so in future i will make sure the pipes for the wastewater goes into the other end of the container and I do have the handbook which has come in handy.
Exciting! Hope everything goes well for you and don’t forget if you ever get stuck with anything there are lots of people to reach out to. Bet you can’t wait for your first trip away. Thank you so much for subscribing👍
GOod tip when buying something like this, get the owners to show you how everything works. Get a battery hand drill for putting the legs down. Also blocks of wood for under the feet to spread the load. A glass of water on a cabinet makes a great spirit level.
Have you checked the age of the tyre's, they should be changed after 5 years or if there's signs of cracking on the tyre walls. The date of manufacture is stamped on the side wall, 4 didgets what week in the year and the year. As caravans spend a lot of time standing on the tyre's, it's best to keep a eye on them and keep the pressures up to the right pressure and a little higher while left in storage for long time, correct pressure before using caravan. Remove the water filter in winter or it could freeze. Hope you have many happy outings.
Yes the tyres are very old I believe they are older than the caravan!! They are getting changed this Sunday I haven’t been out on the road with them our caravan is stored on a campsite so only had to drive it around the campsite. Thanks for the tip about the water filter I will be removing this from now on 👍
Hi mate I have exactly the same van but is called a compass omega 505 i believe eldis built both. I was the same as you didnt have a clue. I am on a seasonal pitch in the peak district its great in the summer. I love the layout i have an isabella owning fully kitted out so i leave the back area up and use it as a fixed bed. Good look on your travels.
my water splurts out ..where u connect the water to side of caravan. bought new filters and pipes etc . adjusted the water switch in van. nothing works😢. 50%water goes into van 50% splurts out side of van. oh the joys 😅
I have a bit of a leak as well I think it’s the O ring on the filter so going to try a new one. You might have to get it look at by a professional it could be the connector on the caravan hope you get it sorted 👍
You had mains water so you put your hose in the side of your aquaroll and use a ball valve that designed for the aquaroll. Unless there's just one mains outlet for the two caravans then your all good
This was painful to watch but we have all been here, keep going you’ll enjoy it. Are you sure that car is legal to tow that van. ? You need to water hose for the tap! You need waste drain hoses, that adaptor you fitted is for draining waste . Tbf I let it drain into the grass anyway . Get some puriclean to clean the water system
Haha thanks I think, hopefully next time it won’t be so painful but it does show that it was really our first time. That car isn’t the car I am using to tow the caravan mine was in for MOT so just used this to move it around the campsite didn’t go on a public Road. Have got a water hose hopefully that be lot easier next time! Thanks for your comment
Hi this isn’t my car I only used it to move the caravan across the campsite from storage to the pitch didn’t go on no public roads my van was in for mot wanted to get a night in the caravan before the weather turned.
Buy a longer cable or another to add to what you have as some sites, the power is a long distance, also a short length of hose and screw connector for the water makes life easier and definitely a roller as again, some water taps are a long way from your van
Thanks for the tips yes I have purchased 25m cable and that is a good idea with the hose I will definitely be doing that I do have a roller handle for the water but I was just being lazy 😂
Hi, we are newbies and have yet to use our caravan which we bought in November 23. We would be interested in watching your camp site reviews. BTW lovely caravan 👍
Hi thank you I am sure your really enjoy your caravan this year little tip if you have a campsite near you try and do a night or 2 there before for you go miles away just in case of any problems and you will always forget something. Don’t for get to subscribe we will be doing lots of campsite reviews this year 👍
If you look on you v5 logbook for your car there is a section that gives your weights for your cars kerb weight also what your braked weight of your car is. I'm not sure what your cars engine is and it's towing capability . Near the habitation door on your van there will be a metal plate , showing your unladen weight (miro). Also your mtplm (maximum technical permissable laden weight) This is the most important weight . If your cars max towing weight is less that the caravans mtplm , then your towing illegal. If you get stopped by any enforcement agency ie , police , traffic officer or dvsa you will be in serious trouble . There are huge huge fine for towing overweight vehicles. On another note we've bought our first van a swift challenger 530 2006 4 berth perfect for my missus , myself and our dog. We did it all about face and only bought our tow car yesterday. A AWD kia sportage 2015 2.0 crdi , its max towing weight is 1600kg and the mtplm of the van is 1565kg. We are going to run the van 100 kg under the max weight and put some of the heavier items in the car as there's only 2 of us and the dog in the car. I hope this helps anyone . Yes we a first time caravaners . My.dad bless him towed caravans for 20 + years . He's coming out with us as the missus might need a bit of help. Could I add as this is our first video we've watched from you . Everyone makes mistakes it's a learning curve and all caravaners are there to help each other. Did you sort out your grey waste pipes. We have 2 x flexible pipes with a 2 in 1 pipe and a small flexible pipe which goes into the waste master
Thank you for taking the time to write a really in depth comment as for the tow vehicle the car in the video was a friends car and we just used it to move the caravan from one end of the campsite to the other at the moment I have a van that I am using when towing on the road. Thanks for all the info in your comment happy caravaning
We are about to start out on our caravan journey soon so I'm glad I found your channel. This may be a stupid question but is that water and waste water setup needed all the time as I thought water tanks and waste water tanks were built in to caravans? We haven't bought yet but will have around £10000 and I've got a golf estate! Tried matching a few caravans but all go above the 85% thing... Is it ok if it's at 100% as I've read it can affect insurance! Apologies for noob questions but I'm sure you've looked into this a bit more than I have 👍🏻
Hi thanks for your comment,don’t worry there is no stupid questions on this channel 👍 some caravans do have a built in water tank to hold freshwater that will depend on what caravan you are getting but you can get Mains Water Adaptor for Aquarol for when your on a fully serviced pitch usually they are abit more money, but well worth it if you’re staying for a long period of time as you will never have to fill it up I am going to do a video on that soon. as for the waste as far as I know all caravans need a waste master out side to collect waste water. The 85% isn’t law but you don’t have an room to play with so loading your caravan up with personal items would push it over weight then if you do get pulled by the police or have an accident this could invalidate your insurance and could be fined and points for being overweight.
@@CaravanTrails thanks mate yeah today has opened my eyes on the weight thing and matching but hopefully I'll be ok. Need a towbar fitting too lol so actually been looking at bigger cars with towbar fitted but mine can tow 1500kg and as long as the max in van is no more than that should be all good! Keep up the vids mate and look forward to following your journey 👍🏻
Hi you can get 2 in one plastic waste pipes one pipe in one hole one in next hole long pipe straight into the waste easy happy caravan journeys from chas
Just watched the vid pal. We got our first caravan this year and love it. To make your life easier with the water. Get a mains hose. It connects from the tap to the aqua roll. It’s got float that keeps the water topped up as you are on a serviced pitch. So will save you having to keep topping up the aqua roll
Stupid question again sorry but do camp sites offer storage? We are in Canterbury and just trying to figure storage out before taking next step! Storage on a pitch would be good for us I think but sounds like it could get expensive. Any words of wisdom appreciated 👍
@@AliSim2103 some campsites offer storage if they have a storage yard ours is at a campsite and they have 2 storage yards but it’s not on a pitch as for price it can vary depending where you store it some farms do storage, which would be cheaper, but generally not a secure you be looking around £600 to £800 per year
Thanks for the replies mate yeah just taking a deep dive and been out viewing today and looking into storage. RUclips helps a lot and your answers have been very helpful! Thanks mate 👍🏻
You need 50cm of white waste pipe and put one end in water barrel and other end up to the tap outlet. This way you leave barrel on floor and fill. Enjoy
You will it will come naturally just always remember pull the jockey wheel up before you pull and brackaway cable check ya lights are working and tv aerial is down sky lights down. every thing on the ground over wheels best you can and legs up and towing mirrors 3 points a mirror if you get a cop that what's to do you or and hand brake off good to go man lol 😮 lots to remember but you will check happy camping man it's great carvaning ya best horning isebella🎉 mint and strong as
Haven't forgot the jockey wheel yet lol got a new break away cable and have fitted that also thinking of changing the lights inside the caravan to some LED ones, got to get some mirrors before the end of march as that is when we are taking it away for our fist proper weekend away. thanks for all the tips much appreciated!
My first van was £550.00 a 1989 van think someone had ripped the heat source out Abbey Stafford.. I dumped that van in a barn forgot all about it.. My next van I paid just £100 pound for Again A well lived in van And I decided to take for a bank holiday break instead of staying in Wales I was adventurous to my cost and tried taking it down Brighton ha ha ha.. I made it as far as M4 and just after Leigh Delamar where carnage happened Funny as fuck Id checked tyres which seemed ok. But a couple miles on I felt the caravan swerving a bit I had only had a tyre blow on caravan Bummer.. I was clueless how to change wheel so I quietly dragged it down hard shoulder (not a good idea) it mad the Axle snap or hub wheel sits on.. Omg Traffic officers followed by recovery truck and a immediate payment of £164 to get me off motorway and into storage yard at £25 per day.. We try our best and nothing really goes right I cleared my stuff out of the van things Id put in there.. And headed back home I chucked it on Gumtree free to collect within 24 hours About a week past and whoever collected the wreckage had sorted the hub a did light repairs and cleaned and advertised for £900.. I am sorry to be negative but a caravan you can use as a home happily if the field is mega cheap but otherwise its an expensive holiday get away a caravan will take extra fuel because of weight.. I've always fancied another if I only tow it within 60 miles of nice camp site.. I am two caravans down my first I had a roof over my head prior to being homeless and paying £40 a week to site van..it was an experience but I think Id enjoy the YHA as affordable temp holiday accommodation meet new people enjoy cooking and clean rooms. Cool reversing for first time..
Level using a phone app spirit level. Always drive a bit forward with your caravan when you have reversed to release spring on stabiliser I would check the legality of towing that size van with an Astra. Even unladen. Good luck. You will get pulled up. Just looked at the data your Astra based your reg has a kerb weight 1453kg and max towing weight 1500kg Your van mas in running order is 1275kg and max permissible weight 1475kh. Personally I would go 80% of your car weigh. Load up your car not your van. And drive carefully.
Thanks for your comment and the detailed information. This was my friend’s car and I only used it to move it 300yds from where it is stored to the pitch, it didn’t go on a public road I have a vauxhall vivaro van at the moment which I am using to move the caravan but it was in for an MOT when this video was filmed hopefully this will be getting changed to a suv after Christmas
This might be a useful place to start ruclips.net/video/qYEDuXMQD10/видео.htmlsi=mHMD6WOdEMWO_Cai The Trudgians have so many useful how to videos. When you fill the water there’s usually a piece of pipe to insert into the barrel. It looked like there was a piece clipped to the stand. You might want to get a foot for the steady that doesn’t have one. If it gets muddy they are useful. Always better to use proper chemicals for a caravan and not bleach where you can. For a first time you did so well.
Hey thanks for your comment we have got toilet chemicals but we had some black algae in the toilet apparently from the pink chemical from the last owner so I just used bleach to clean it and wash it through then topped it up with the pink chemical also I did get a piece of hose and a tap connecter
@@CaravanTrails Yes, I do get that it's just personal choice, and caravans are MUCH cheaper than campers, plus there is always the worry that the engine may need repairs, and then you are stuck with towing to the nearest garage ... 🤨 Anyway, good video 👍👍✔️
@@CaravanTrailsno idea. Is it to store it in the unit when you are filling from that end. Usually they have plastic loops so they don’t get lost. Enjoy You can also buy flexi hose adapters so it’s easier to put into the wastemaster
Hi it is recommended you should keep the fully laden weight of the caravan no heavier than 85% of the kerbweight of the tow car To calculate this, you need to know the kerbweight of the car and the maximum mass of the caravan (MTPLM) If the mass of the caravan is 85% or less of the car’s kerbweight, the car will tow it with ease kerbweight you can find on your V5 and The weight of the caravan is usually listed on a plate near the door frame Bear in mind that it is a guide and not legally enforceable hope this helps Astra was to small I don’t no the weight of the Astra as it wasn’t my car I have a van at the moment to pull the caravan but am looking to get a car so I will be looking at something like an suv seat Ateca
I thought we did ok to be honest for our very first time not perfect but everyone has to start somewhere. Wasn’t our aim to give fellow caravaners a bad name.
That reverse looked good. Well done.
Two tips for leveling the caravan. If you don't have a spirit level, open a curtain/blind, and put a glass of water on the cupboard inside. You can easily see whether things are straight. When you get a chance buy a small spirit level in the shape of a T and place or fix it on the cupboard inside the caravan, where you can see it from the jockey wheel.
Don't worry about the setting up. You will soon get the routine done quickly. We would travel with the kettle half full of water. When we arrived on site, as soon as the rear legs were down, we turned the gas on. My wife would make cups of tea, while I levelled things up, collected water and made the connections. Within a few minutes we were sitting down enjoying a nice cuppa. Everything sorted!
Enjoy your caravaning!
Some good tips there thank you I have got my self a little spirit level same as the one you described in the comments
Thanks for putting all this content (warts and all) out there. We're newbies - just bought our first caravan. You 2 have helped us so much with these vlogs. All the stuff you need know (that everyone else seems to know! ) but we're afraid to ask. Keep up the great work
Thank you for your lovely comment ☺️ I am sure like us after a few times out in your caravan your be setting up in no time! Just take it slow and go somewhere close to home on your 1st trip if you can, if you get stuck there is always someone around to help you (it happen to us and we asked a warden on site and he help us out no problem) if you have any questions you can always ask us and we try and help you out👍 now go out there and enjoy yourself happy caravanning
Just a little tip mate. When your van is in storage, make sure all the taps are open. It lets water run out and drain. When we started out caravaning, we made loads of mistakes but its all part of the fun. Enjoy it mate and happy caravaning 👍
P.S. never be afraid of asking someone for advice, because it makes things easier and also friends are made that way.
Thanks for the tip we are off for a night stay this weekend just to get some more practice in we will keep your comment in mind when packing up
There is a push fit hose you can get to make filling the barrel easier. Looked to be one on the post next to the tap.
I just bought a caravan too yesterday. First time ever. Nervous but so excited
Your love it! Once you get the hang of it hope you have some fantastic adventures👍
Good to see another taking the plunge and buying a caravan you will not regret it. A few pointers one with the waste pipe where it is leaking wrap a small amount of insulating tape around the fitting before you push it in, should stop the leak and if I were you I would make up the rear dinette into the bed and leave it made up ideal if its just the two of you going away. Other than that all you will need is plenty of booze and away you go. Enjoy
good vid mate, looking forward to following your journey, keep up the good work
thank you 😊
When you have gone on away on a few trips and everything setting up comes naturally, you will look back at this video and laugh your head off, but well done!
Thanks yeah I am sure we will I might even rewatch the video at the end of the season lol
So exciting ,getting a caravan ,new or old .Dan Trudgian and Andrew Ditton .they have lots posts about starting off in a caravan .looks a lovely caravan you have bought .Enjoy 😀
Thank you for your lovely comment we are really excited to get out and about once spring comes
Hi
Only just come across your channel ,
We were new to caravanning in 2020 ,
Started with a Swift Accorrd 2001 .
Loved it , bought a newer one though now .
We’re still learning and picking up tips .
Enjoy every min , you won’t regret it
Safe travels from Gill & Mark in Leeds x
Thanks Gill & Mark we thought we would start with an older van for a few years see how we get on and if we are going to like it but already we do lol can’t wait till the spring to get out and about.
Hi thought you did brilliant for first time pleased everything worked for you I still make daft mistakes after 7yrs but that's what it's all about hope you both have as much fun as we have had John
Thank you for your lovely comment we are really excited for the spring to come so we can get out and start exploring some great places
You have a beautiful caravan, and to say you have never owned one you were very methodical and set it up great 👍
Should be proud of yourself 👍
Thank you for such a nice comment 😊
Good to see how you are getting on. We learnt everything about setting up a caravan from the university of RUclips. Even made us set up a channel of our own 😀
Yes we are getting there it’s been really interesting watching other caravan channels we have set up the caravan 3 times since this video and it is getting easier also thought why not make a channel and share our experience 😁
@@CaravanTrails yeah, was a good watch!
Don’t worry about what others think of you-we’ve all been there! Watch what tricks/ideas other campers have that you can copy. A list as you go for things you need on your phone is a good idea. We have a check list that we use for every trip. It does get easier and more enjoyable the more you get out and about and fellow campers will always help you if you’re really stuck! Ps. We only use Elsan Green which can go in cassette and flush and more sites are now only accepting ‘green/eco’ toilet fluid.
Thanks for the tips yes I think I will be changing the chemicals for the toilet to the eco one as I have seen a few videos says some sites only except Eco chemicals now
Thanks for the video. I was worried about the setup but you made this look easy.
Wouldn’t worry there will always be someone around to help if you get stuck. It gets lot easier more trips you do it only takes us 45 minutes to set everything up now
Great video. Love the armature caravan I g vids. I’ve just got my first van, so I’m exactly the same as you. I’ll be learning as I go along. Keep the videos coming as nice to follow another beginner. 👍
we go to fetch our van at the weekend, not towed a caravan for about 15 years when the kids were little. nervous but cant wait at the same time. great video by the way. Thanks.
I bet you are excited we will be! Nerves are good. Keep you on your toes but as you have towed before I am sure it will come back to you bit like riding a bike you never forget enjoy and happy caravanning. Glad you liked the video 👍
Love your video. I just bought my first caravan, an old 1997 Elddis Whirlwind, and I am looking forward to my first trip in 2 weeks. I have been watching other videos for tips, and you can use an electric drill with attachment to unwind the levelling feet. Also, use a pice of pvc pipe to fill the aqua roll
Thank you, I bet you can’t wait to go away in it! I hope you have a lovely time and it goes smoothly when we 1st went away like you can see in the video we did forget a few things and have learnt a lot in the last 9 months and them bits you said about will make your life a lot easier hope you have a wonderful 😁
I just stumbled across your channel today. We just purchased our 1st caravan a few months ago but not been out yet. We're going putting our own we personal touches on it. Im dreading our 1st set up. Unlike yourself i wasnt blessed with patients. A lot of very useful comments here. I guess we should do a dummy run, set it up and take notes. Best of luck with it 👍🏻
Hi I would 100% do a few nights/trips close to home if you can it does really help, the 1st 2 runs we did I didn’t even have the fridge plug in 🫣 it was kinda embarrassing when I thought it was broken 😂. But on the other hand if I had booked a week away then I would have been in more trouble. Don’t dread it enjoy it, it’s good when you get everything sorted and have a routine. There are always people that are around and willing to help. Hope your 1st outing goes well 👍
I’m thinking of getting a caravan & your video has given me more confidence. Think you need one of those water carriers with the pulling handles & a bit of pipe to connect to tap! Some sites have water on each pitch & you can connect directly so you don’t need to keep hauling it around…… is that switch the awning light possibly?
You should definitely get one they are a lot of fun, I had a handle I was just to lazy to use it lol I have now invested in some food grade hose to connect straight to the Aqua roll, the switch was actually for the toilet light a bit of a funny place to put it lol
Good job mate👏👏
Thanks 👍
Great video , we have just bought our first Caravan similar age to yours (not even picked it up yet). So glad you included everything in your video because we will be just the same trying to work stuff out as we go.
Thank you glad the video helped one good bit of advice if you can try and do a few nights close to home at a local campsite if you can just in case you run into any problems if you seen some of our other videos you know the biggest problem we had is that we didn’t think the fridge was working for two nights hope you have some fantastic adventures
@@CaravanTrails yes I just watched that video, yes we plan on going somewhere local first.
You can get aqua rolls with handle and get water pipes
Love your video. We're about to embark on same process so great to see your efforts!
Do it! We have loved it so far it’s nice just to get away when ever you like if you have a few spare days and there is always someone about to help if you need it. Enjoy and good luck
What a beautiful caravan . I hope that you and your family have many happy memories of travelling in it ❤
Just come across your channel so thought I would watch your first setting up vlog, think you did ok really, made me think about our first time out many years ago now, but still forget things now and then. If you don't make mistakes you don't learn anything, it does get a lot easier. we started our with a 1994 Abbey solitaire which we bought in 2009 and absolutely loved it. Happy caravanning.
We are off for a few nights this weekend just to get some more practice in I am sure there be some more mistakes lol thank you for the comment roll on the summer
Glad set up mate. We are also new to caravanning and are actually going away for a test run tomorrow before our big trip to the Netherlands later on in the year.
Wow that will be some adventure hope your trial goes well and you enjoy it it gets easier more you do it it only takes us about 45 minutes now to set everything up
We’ve just bought our first van too. Went to our local site for 2 nights and loved it. Can’t wait for the spring. Join the caravan club if you haven’t done already - it’s very helpful and great discounts too.
Definitely good to do a local trip first we really enjoyed it and that was in November so in the summer it should be awesome. Yes good idea I will join up in the spring
Looks a nice caravan thought you did good for a first time.enjoy your caravan never rush anything ,you are going to love it.
Thank you. Yeah we are really looking forward to the spring
Done well for your 1st van 😎👌🏾 We love ours you will get used to it all in no time 👌🏾🤘🏽
Thanks hopefully once warmer weather comes and we get get out in it more we will get use to it
@CaravanTrails Yeh, you will do setting up. Will become a doddle, just being able to hitch up on a wk end or whenever you want & get away is class you'll love it come summer 👌🏾💯
Great video we all had to start somewhere you will get better next time there are alot of things to learn. Best of luck
Thanks 👍
Hi we were the same last weekend. First time taking our 5 berth caravan out and took ages to set up. Think I will be ok next time but really enjoyed it. Looks like the same layout as yours 👍
Hi yeah it took us a long time to and we didn’t even put the awning up on our first time round but now it only takes us about 45 minutes to set up everything. It gets a lot easier and quicker the more you do it, hope you enjoy your caravanning best time of year to be doing it as well 👍
Great stuff, brings back memories but with far better language. Make a list and write it down as it occurs to you otherwise the next time you remember is when you are away again. Good luck, it's a great thing to do.
Thank you yes we have about 5 different list going on 😂 but I am sure we will still forget something!
Good luck in your van. The learning is all part of the fun. Tip: make sure your tow electrics cable doesn't drag on floor .
Thank you yes the fun and learning begins. I do need to look at the cables as there do need seems little long lol
@@CaravanTrails happened to us so now use a cable tie
Well done for your first time nextime attach a hose to your fresh water and fill your water butt up no carrying involved. If you can use the back area for sleeping in make up that area as a fixed bed, it’s great to just climb into bed without moving cushions all the time.We purchased a light weight memory foam topper bliss.
Well done,you have to start some where, and this is from someone who has only caravanned in a static.
ive had a van for a year and only recently been tokd to NOT use the steadies/legs for levelling else too much pressure on them can damage my floor. i watched lots of new caravanner videos but was told this by a neighbour on site
Yes you are completely right don’t use the steadies to level the caravan we have ramps to level the van side to side and up and down you just use the jockey wheel. You will end up damaging your steadies 👍
fantastic video you done extremely well for the first time and have done the wise thing and not travelling far for your first trip. I've subscribed and am looking forward to seeing your next videos
Thank you for subscribing we are away at the moment and have gone a little further and so far so good
@CaravanTrails ah fantastic buddy you'll not regret buying I'm at it around 4 years and still learning any tip you need let me know
Only use the blue liquid. The pink liquid is known to produce black stuff and will block the pump. Just use water and a bit of zoflora. Note when in storage keep the fridge door slightly open otherwise it will smell bad.
Thank you for the tips 👍 specially the fridge door as it is currently closed other trip to the storage yard 😂
how do you do this when a caravan is towed back into storafe by the park?
I used to help my mum set up the caravan when we were on holidays, but tbh the though terrifies me. I'm going smaller and getting a trailer tent once I get my tow bar attached. Although I think I will need to get a 7 pin to 13 pin adapter as most trailer tents and caravans have 13 pin to attached to the car (my tow bar will only have 7 pin electrics)
I drive trucks for a living so pulling a caravan is pretty easy for me but if your not used to it I can see why some people would prefer to go with something more easy to tow and reverse. If you haven't got your tow bar fitted yet I would see if you can get a 13 pin socket fitted instead of a 7 pin would make life bit easier for you. hope everything goes well and I am sure your really enjoy it when you get everything sorted.
Well done on your 1st trip. I’m sure we made lots of mistakes when we first started and still do lol years later). I hope you have many happy times ahead in your caravan . Enjoy 😊
Thanks so much! 😊
We have just bought one, first time ever 🙈 haven't got a clue so luckily found your video, maybe we can both learn together 😁
There is a bit to learn but that’s what the channel is about don’t for get to subscribe and hopefully we can recommend each other to some awesome campsites to visit roll on the spring hope you enjoy your new caravan 😄
Hi there, you've a lot to learn but you'll get there. I was just the same when I started caravanning. I probably knew less than you and the van was a lot older, hope you enjoy yourself.
We are really excited for the spring to get here and yes a lot to learn but there are always good people to give you tips and advice this is why we have started our channel thank you for your nice comment
Just a thought, your car might struggle towing that van , look in your cars handbook and check if it's big enough to tow it , 😁👍
Yes mate we have just done an other video on our new tow car that one was a friends car just to move it around site but definitely to small to pull the van! 👍
Great video :)
I have no idea where to begin - any advice before I buy one?
Hi thanks glad you enjoyed the video, I would start by looking at your car and checking maximum towing capacity, once you have done that your have an idea of how big of a caravan you can get, then you will need to look at lay outs I.e fix bed separate shower and toilet etc they are so manny different lay outs you can get and this really depends on you and what works best for you, obviously you would have a budget in mind then it’s just a matter of going and having a look at sum if your buying secondhand ideally something that has recently been serviced and has a damp report because that’s going be the biggest thing to look out for making sure they are no signs of damp this can be very tricky, if you’re spending a fair bit of money, I will probably recommend getting the engineer to look over it and give you a report hope this helps there are a lot of videos on RUclips about what to look out for etc when buying a caravan, hope it works out for you it’s worth it in the end 😊
Enjoy you will love it.practise reversing while your there.good luck
Thank you, I will
We carried a small length of hose about 6ft long to put on tap to fill water container.
Really nice vlog we all started the same .there is always someone around on caravan sites who will always help caravaners are lovely helpfully people all the best in your travels and enjoy we all make mistakes I still do ha terry emm
Appreciate the positive comment I think the first season is always going to be a bit rough, but hopefully we will improve with time thanks again
You need a hose for the water
We got one after that trip been so much easier ever since lol
I use my spirit level on the sill of the caravan door to level it front to rear. I sometimes use a 10 litre plastic Jerry can to fill up the water container without having to lug it to the tap and back. The first lid you unscrewed on the waste water container was the level indicator. They end up rusting away. I've used the same grey fixed pipes on my waste water outlets. I'll need to get some new ones for my recently acquired 2002 Sterling Eccles Sapphire. You'll need to open all the taps to get the air out when you fill up the water. Did the caravan come with a handbook? It should have all the information you need.
I did buy some little spirit levels which should help in future, the waste water container I did have it the wrong way round so in future i will make sure the pipes for the wastewater goes into the other end of the container and I do have the handbook which has come in handy.
" people doing their nut" - Yep.
haha
I think the hooking up to the car process was scary haha. Goes to show how much the B+E i think helped people.
Just about to buy our first secondhand caravan so going to subscribe to you !
Exciting! Hope everything goes well for you and don’t forget if you ever get stuck with anything there are lots of people to reach out to. Bet you can’t wait for your first trip away. Thank you so much for subscribing👍
For the tap buy a food grade water hose to make filling the water tank up easier
Great video. We bought our first caravan late last summer and absolutely love it. Im sure you will as well.
Look forward to more videos.
We are looking forward to the spring can’t wait there will be plenty of videos hehe
GOod tip when buying something like this, get the owners to show you how everything works. Get a battery hand drill for putting the legs down. Also blocks of wood for under the feet to spread the load. A glass of water on a cabinet makes a great spirit level.
Some great tips thank you
I have a Winterhoff hitch to release do not put any pressure on it before lifting handle up full, I found out the hard way.
Oh ok thanks for the tip
Lol brings back memories I've been there pal you will get there 😂
we have set up other 3 times since this video and it’s getting easier so hopefully by the end of the season we will have it down to fine art 😂
Well done hopefully I will be doing this this year just got my first van
That’s great your love it we already do, one tip if you have a campsite nearby do a night or two there first enjoy
Have you checked the age of the tyre's, they should be changed after 5 years or if there's signs of cracking on the tyre walls. The date of manufacture is stamped on the side wall, 4 didgets what week in the year and the year. As caravans spend a lot of time standing on the tyre's, it's best to keep a eye on them and keep the pressures up to the right pressure and a little higher while left in storage for long time, correct pressure before using caravan. Remove the water filter in winter or it could freeze. Hope you have many happy outings.
Yes the tyres are very old I believe they are older than the caravan!! They are getting changed this Sunday I haven’t been out on the road with them our caravan is stored on a campsite so only had to drive it around the campsite. Thanks for the tip about the water filter I will be removing this from now on 👍
Hi mate
I have exactly the same van but is called a compass omega 505 i believe eldis built both. I was the same as you didnt have a clue. I am on a seasonal pitch in the peak district its great in the summer. I love the layout i have an isabella owning fully kitted out so i leave the back area up and use it as a fixed bed. Good look on your travels.
Thank you we are looking forward to spring
my water splurts out ..where u connect the water to side of caravan. bought new filters and pipes etc . adjusted the water switch in van. nothing works😢. 50%water goes into van 50% splurts out side of van. oh the joys 😅
I have a bit of a leak as well I think it’s the O ring on the filter so going to try a new one. You might have to get it look at by a professional it could be the connector on the caravan hope you get it sorted 👍
Tip when filling the water butt use a length of plastic pipe to go between tap and water container
You had mains water so you put your hose in the side of your aquaroll and use a ball valve that designed for the aquaroll. Unless there's just one mains outlet for the two caravans then your all good
At the time I didn’t have the ball valve just the aquaroll but I have now got one and it’s so much easier 👍
This was painful to watch but we have all been here, keep going you’ll enjoy it.
Are you sure that car is legal to tow that van. ?
You need to water hose for the tap!
You need waste drain hoses, that adaptor you fitted is for draining waste . Tbf I let it drain into the grass anyway .
Get some puriclean to clean the water system
Haha thanks I think, hopefully next time it won’t be so painful but it does show that it was really our first time. That car isn’t the car I am using to tow the caravan mine was in for MOT so just used this to move it around the campsite didn’t go on a public Road. Have got a water hose hopefully that be lot easier next time! Thanks for your comment
Hi you got a new subscriber 😊
Thank you! Appreciate the support 😊
Your going to need a bigger car mate
Hi this isn’t my car I only used it to move the caravan across the campsite from storage to the pitch didn’t go on no public roads my van was in for mot wanted to get a night in the caravan before the weather turned.
That car will tow that not ideal but it will do the job I see small cars towing 2 berths all the time
I think you did very well the more you use it the better you will get 💯💯
Buy a longer cable or another to add to what you have as some sites, the power is a long distance, also a short length of hose and screw connector for the water makes life easier and definitely a roller as again, some water taps are a long way from your van
Thanks for the tips yes I have purchased 25m cable and that is a good idea with the hose I will definitely be doing that I do have a roller handle for the water but I was just being lazy 😂
Hi, we are newbies and have yet to use our caravan which we bought in November 23. We would be interested in watching your camp site reviews. BTW lovely caravan 👍
Hi thank you I am sure your really enjoy your caravan this year little tip if you have a campsite near you try and do a night or 2 there before for you go miles away just in case of any problems and you will always forget something. Don’t for get to subscribe we will be doing lots of campsite reviews this year 👍
@@CaravanTrailsthanks for your reply and good advice, have now subscribed 👍
Blue pipe at the tap goes in the water container to fill up and leave the container on the ground.
@@Jimmyspangle just watched the video again and you are correct, sorry l didn’t realise that was the main pipe.
For your 1st time you did ok ❤❤
Thanks you 😊 got a bit quicker now we have done it a few more times 😂
@Caravan Trails use a garden hoose with a screw attachment on the water faucet, its just common sense but thought puting it out there...
I wouldn’t of thought of that so thank you
Looks good
If you look on you v5 logbook for your car there is a section that gives your weights for your cars kerb weight also what your braked weight of your car is.
I'm not sure what your cars engine is and it's towing capability .
Near the habitation door on your van there will be a metal plate , showing your unladen weight (miro).
Also your mtplm (maximum technical permissable laden weight)
This is the most important weight .
If your cars max towing weight is less that the caravans mtplm , then your towing illegal.
If you get stopped by any enforcement agency ie , police , traffic officer or dvsa you will be in serious trouble .
There are huge huge fine for towing overweight vehicles.
On another note we've bought our first van a swift challenger 530 2006 4 berth perfect for my missus , myself and our dog.
We did it all about face and only bought our tow car yesterday.
A AWD kia sportage 2015 2.0 crdi , its max towing weight is 1600kg and the mtplm of the van is 1565kg.
We are going to run the van 100 kg under the max weight and put some of the heavier items in the car as there's only 2 of us and the dog in the car.
I hope this helps anyone .
Yes we a first time caravaners .
My.dad bless him towed caravans for 20 + years .
He's coming out with us as the missus might need a bit of help.
Could I add as this is our first video we've watched from you .
Everyone makes mistakes it's a learning curve and all caravaners are there to help each other.
Did you sort out your grey waste pipes.
We have 2 x flexible pipes with a 2 in 1 pipe and a small flexible pipe which goes into the waste master
Thank you for taking the time to write a really in depth comment as for the tow vehicle the car in the video was a friends car and we just used it to move the caravan from one end of the campsite to the other at the moment I have a van that I am using when towing on the road. Thanks for all the info in your comment happy caravaning
We are about to start out on our caravan journey soon so I'm glad I found your channel. This may be a stupid question but is that water and waste water setup needed all the time as I thought water tanks and waste water tanks were built in to caravans?
We haven't bought yet but will have around £10000 and I've got a golf estate! Tried matching a few caravans but all go above the 85% thing... Is it ok if it's at 100% as I've read it can affect insurance! Apologies for noob questions but I'm sure you've looked into this a bit more than I have 👍🏻
Hi thanks for your comment,don’t worry there is no stupid questions on this channel 👍 some caravans do have a built in water tank to hold freshwater that will depend on what caravan you are getting but you can get Mains Water Adaptor for Aquarol for when your on a fully serviced pitch usually they are abit more money, but well worth it if you’re staying for a long period of time as you will never have to fill it up I am going to do a video on that soon. as for the waste as far as I know all caravans need a waste master out side to collect waste water. The 85% isn’t law but you don’t have an room to play with so loading your caravan up with personal items would push it over weight then if you do get pulled by the police or have an accident this could invalidate your insurance and could be fined and points for being overweight.
@@CaravanTrails thanks mate yeah today has opened my eyes on the weight thing and matching but hopefully I'll be ok. Need a towbar fitting too lol so actually been looking at bigger cars with towbar fitted but mine can tow 1500kg and as long as the max in van is no more than that should be all good! Keep up the vids mate and look forward to following your journey 👍🏻
@@AliSim2103 hope you have a very successful and enjoyable journey yourself and thanks for watching 👍
Hi you can get 2 in one plastic waste pipes one pipe in one hole one in next hole long pipe straight into the waste easy happy caravan journeys from chas
Just watched the vid pal. We got our first caravan this year and love it. To make your life easier with the water. Get a mains hose. It connects from the tap to the aqua roll. It’s got float that keeps the water topped up as you are on a serviced pitch. So will save you having to keep topping up the aqua roll
Yeah I was surprised how much I had to fill that water up a service pitch would be a lot better it’s on the list of things to get lol
Stupid question again sorry but do camp sites offer storage? We are in Canterbury and just trying to figure storage out before taking next step! Storage on a pitch would be good for us I think but sounds like it could get expensive. Any words of wisdom appreciated 👍
@@AliSim2103 some campsites offer storage if they have a storage yard ours is at a campsite and they have 2 storage yards but it’s not on a pitch as for price it can vary depending where you store it some farms do storage, which would be cheaper, but generally not a secure you be looking around £600 to £800 per year
Thanks for the replies mate yeah just taking a deep dive and been out viewing today and looking into storage. RUclips helps a lot and your answers have been very helpful! Thanks mate 👍🏻
😊
great video tip get the wife to help next time lol
😂 had to get her to hold the camera but we have got a tripod now so no excuses next time 👍
Weve just subscribed
Thank you so much will be a lot more content once the spring comes and we can get out and about
Do you know the price of a new caravan single axle ?
A new caravan starts at around 20k but it really depends on make layout Fittings etc
@@CaravanTrails
OK thank you 😊
Is “B” category license good to tow this size caravan?
Hi yes the B+E licence will allow you to drive upto a combined towing weight of 7 tonne.
You need 50cm of white waste pipe and put one end in water barrel and other end up to the tap outlet. This way you leave barrel on floor and fill. Enjoy
We have been doing that now, so much easier lol thanks for the comment
You will it will come naturally just always remember pull the jockey wheel up before you pull and brackaway cable check ya lights are working and tv aerial is down sky lights down. every thing on the ground over wheels best you can and legs up and towing mirrors 3 points a mirror if you get a cop that what's to do you or and hand brake off good to go man lol 😮 lots to remember but you will check happy camping man it's great carvaning ya best horning isebella🎉 mint and strong as
Haven't forgot the jockey wheel yet lol got a new break away cable and have fitted that also thinking of changing the lights inside the caravan to some LED ones, got to get some mirrors before the end of march as that is when we are taking it away for our fist proper weekend away. thanks for all the tips much appreciated!
Can't see car kerb weight being more than fully laden of van ??
I only used the car to move the caravan around the site this isn’t my tow car
My first van was £550.00 a 1989 van think someone had ripped the heat source out Abbey Stafford..
I dumped that van in a barn forgot all about it..
My next van I paid just £100 pound for Again A well lived in van And I decided to take for a bank holiday break instead of staying in Wales I was adventurous to my cost and tried taking it down Brighton ha ha ha.. I made it as far as M4 and just after Leigh Delamar where carnage happened Funny as fuck Id checked tyres which seemed ok. But a couple miles on I felt the caravan swerving a bit I had only had a tyre blow on caravan Bummer.. I was clueless how to change wheel so I quietly dragged it down hard shoulder (not a good idea) it mad the Axle snap or hub wheel sits on..
Omg Traffic officers followed by recovery truck and a immediate payment of £164 to get me off motorway and into storage yard at £25 per day..
We try our best and nothing really goes right I cleared my stuff out of the van things Id put in there.. And headed back home I chucked it on Gumtree free to collect within 24 hours About a week past and whoever collected the wreckage had sorted the hub a did light repairs and cleaned and advertised for £900..
I am sorry to be negative but a caravan you can use as a home happily if the field is mega cheap but otherwise its an expensive holiday get away a caravan will take extra fuel because of weight..
I've always fancied another if I only tow it within 60 miles of nice camp site.. I am two caravans down my first I had a roof over my head prior to being homeless and paying £40 a week to site van..it was an experience but I think Id enjoy the YHA as affordable temp holiday accommodation meet new people enjoy cooking and clean rooms.
Cool reversing for first time..
Level using a phone app spirit level.
Always drive a bit forward with your caravan when you have reversed to release spring on stabiliser
I would check the legality of towing that size van with an Astra. Even unladen. Good luck. You will get pulled up.
Just looked at the data your Astra based your reg has a kerb weight 1453kg and max towing weight 1500kg
Your van mas in running order is 1275kg and max permissible weight 1475kh. Personally I would go 80% of your car weigh. Load up your car not your van. And drive carefully.
Thanks for your comment and the detailed information. This was my friend’s car and I only used it to move it 300yds from where it is stored to the pitch, it didn’t go on a public road I have a vauxhall vivaro van at the moment which I am using to move the caravan but it was in for an MOT when this video was filmed hopefully this will be getting changed to a suv after Christmas
@@CaravanTrails ok. Happy caravaning.
Get a hose pipe
Yes we did 1st thing I did when we got home 🙂
This might be a useful place to start ruclips.net/video/qYEDuXMQD10/видео.htmlsi=mHMD6WOdEMWO_Cai The Trudgians have so many useful how to videos. When you fill the water there’s usually a piece of pipe to insert into the barrel. It looked like there was a piece clipped to the stand. You might want to get a foot for the steady that doesn’t have one. If it gets muddy they are useful. Always better to use proper chemicals for a caravan and not bleach where you can. For a first time you did so well.
Hey thanks for your comment we have got toilet chemicals but we had some black algae in the toilet apparently from the pink chemical from the last owner so I just used bleach to clean it and wash it through then topped it up with the pink chemical also I did get a piece of hose and a tap connecter
Don't use pink stuff in flush as you seen just makes algae use zaflora
Hi yes we have changed to that now thanks for the tip
Wot a pallaver ‼️😳😳 Get a camper van - drive up, park it - DONE ‼️
I simply cannot understand the caravanners angle ❓❓❓
each to there own, this video was when we first got the caravan its much quicker now 30 to 40 mins and I am sitting down with a beer👍
@@CaravanTrails Yes, I do get that it's just personal choice, and caravans are MUCH cheaper than campers, plus there is always the worry that the engine may need repairs, and then you are stuck with towing to the nearest garage ... 🤨 Anyway, good video 👍👍✔️
Your waste needs to enter the wastemaster at the other end otherwise it will only partially fill
Oh really thanks for the info so what is the metal bit on the end of the cap for?
@@CaravanTrailsno idea. Is it to store it in the unit when you are filling from that end. Usually they have plastic loops so they don’t get lost. Enjoy
You can also buy flexi hose adapters so it’s easier to put into the wastemaster
@@CaravanTrails or maybe the wrong cap. Or maybe to stop it going down the drain by mistake when emptying. Not sure
@@CaravanTrails Its a float to tell you how full it is.
Hi, im a complete novice,is the astra too small? I was thinking of buying a 4 berth, would a audi a3 be too small?
Hi it is recommended you should keep the fully laden weight of the caravan no heavier than 85% of the kerbweight of the tow car To calculate this, you need to know the kerbweight of the car and the maximum mass of the caravan (MTPLM) If the mass of the caravan is 85% or less of the car’s kerbweight, the car will tow it with ease kerbweight you can find on your V5 and The weight of the caravan is usually listed on a plate near the door frame Bear in mind that it is a guide and not legally enforceable hope this helps Astra was to small I don’t no the weight of the Astra as it wasn’t my car I have a van at the moment to pull the caravan but am looking to get a car so I will be looking at something like an suv seat Ateca
Get yourself at house
We do this is just for going away in 👍
Shocking attitude to set up. Should have checked out a few videos first. This is what gives caravanners a bad name!
What was wrong with the video I thought it was good
I thought we did ok to be honest for our very first time not perfect but everyone has to start somewhere. Wasn’t our aim to give fellow caravaners a bad name.
Bit over the top, calm down. He did well for first time.
practice makes perfect and faster