Road Safety Tips for Christmas RVing

1. Prepare Your Vehicle and Caravan

Before you set off, ensure your RV is road-ready:

• Vehicle Maintenance: Check your motorhome or car’s brakes, tyres, lights, battery, and fluid levels. Hot weather can put extra strain on your vehicle, so it’s important to be prepared.
• Caravan Check: If towing, inspect your caravan’s tyres, lights, and hitch. Make sure everything is securely packed inside the caravan to prevent items from shifting during travel. Carry essential equipment such as spare tyres, a jack, and basic tools. Be conscious of not overloading!

2. Check the Weather and Fire Conditions

Australia’s summer can bring extreme heat, storms, and bushfires. It’s important to:

• Monitor weather forecasts along your route, especially in regions prone to bushfires.
• Stay updated on fire danger ratings, especially if travelling through rural or bushland areas.
• Pack accordingly, including plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and light, breathable clothing for the heat.

3. Plan Your Route Carefully

With many Australians taking to the roads at Christmas, highways can be busy. Plan ahead:

• Avoid peak travel times to reduce time spent in traffic. Early morning or evening departures can help you beat the rush.
• Use navigation apps to monitor traffic and road conditions. Check for any roadworks, closures, or detours, especially in popular holiday spots.
• Schedule regular breaks to avoid driver fatigue. Rest stops are essential, especially on long-distance trips in the heat.

4. Towing Safety

Driving a motorhome or towing a caravan requires special attention, particularly on busy or rural roads:

• Adhere to speed limits and follow local towing regulations. Speeds can vary across the states, notably when towing in WA you cannot exceed 100km per hour and in NSW if your GVM or GCM exceeds 4500kg, you cannot exceed 100km per hour.
• Distribute weight evenly in your caravan to prevent swaying.
• Be cautious on hills and winding roads, especially in places like the Great Dividing Range. Use lower gears on steep descents.
• Allow extra braking distance and avoid sudden manoeuvres.

5. Know Local Road Laws

Each state and territory in Australia may have slightly different road rules for towing and holiday driving. Make sure you:

• Understand local regulations, including speed limits, lane restrictions, and caravan park rules.
• Limit distractions while driving. Stay focused on the road, and if you need to check a map or mobile phone, pull over safely.
• Watch for wildlife, particularly in rural or outback areas. Kangaroos and other animals can be active at dawn, dusk, and at night, so take extra caution during these times.

6. Stay Cool and Hydrated

Australian summer temperatures can soar, especially inland. Keep cool by:

• Carrying plenty of water for you and your passengers. Dehydration can affect your concentration and driving ability.
• Avoid driving during the hottest part of the day (usually from 11 am to 3 pm) to prevent overheating of both the vehicle and the passengers.

7. Be Prepared for Emergencies

While it’s unlikely you’ll encounter serious issues, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Ensure you:

• Carry a comprehensive emergency kit including water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a torch, and a basic toolkit.
• Have roadside assistance contact information readily available. Know the locations of nearby towns, fuel stations, and caravan parks.

8. Review Your Insurance

Ensure your vehicle and caravan insurance is up-to-date:

• Check your policy’s towing coverage to ensure you’re protected in the event of an accident or breakdown.
• Roadside assistance: Ensure your plan is current and covers your vehicle and trailer if towing.

9. Enjoy the Christmas Spirit, But Stay Safe

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the holidays, but safety must always come first:

• Don’t drink and drive. Alcohol consumption increases around Christmas but remember that driving under the influence is dangerous and illegal.
• Be patient and courteous on the roads. Everyone is eager to reach their destination, so avoid aggressive driving and road rage.
• Watch your speed. Holiday excitement or the desire to beat traffic can lead to speeding. Stick to the limits and drive cautiously, particularly in busy holiday areas.

Christmas RVing in Australia offers a fantastic way to enjoy the festive season while exploring the country’s beautiful landscapes. By following these road safety tips, you’ll ensure a safe and stress-free journey for you and your family. Remember, safety is the best gift you can give this Christmas – so take your time, stay vigilant, and enjoy the open road!