Question 1

How do I get free caravan advice in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Caravan Compass provides free, independent caravan and motorhome advice for Australians. With over 20 years of hands-on industry experience, we offer guidance on buying a caravan, towing, warranty claims, insurance, off-road caravanning, grey nomad travel, and accessories. Submit your question through our Ask a Question page for personalised general advice.

Question 2

What should I look for when buying a caravan in Australia?

Accepted Answer

When buying a caravan in Australia, key things to consider include: setting a realistic budget (including setup costs), choosing the right caravan type (full-height, off-road, pop-top, fifth-wheeler, or camper trailer), checking your tow vehicle's towing capacity and GCM, getting an independent pre-purchase inspection for used caravans, understanding your rights under Australian Consumer Law, and knowing what the warranty covers. See our full caravan buying guide in our Tips & Guides section.

Question 3

What caravan shows and events are on in Australia in 2026 and 2027?

Accepted Answer

Caravan Compass maintains an up-to-date events calendar listing all major caravan, motorhome, and camping shows across Australia in 2026 and 2027, including events in NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA, TAS, NT and ACT. Visit our Events Calendar page for current listings.

Question 4

How do I make a caravan warranty claim in Australia?

Accepted Answer

To make a caravan warranty claim in Australia, document the defect with photos and video, contact your dealer in writing, and allow a reasonable time for repair. Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), your rights may extend beyond the manufacturer's warranty period. For major failures, you are entitled to choose a refund or replacement. Our Tips & Guides section has a full guide on caravan warranty rights in Australia.

Question 5

What are my rights under Australian Consumer Law when buying a caravan?

Accepted Answer

Under Australian Consumer Law (ACL), every caravan purchased from a dealer must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose, and match its description. These guarantees are automatic and cannot be removed by any contract clause. For major failures, you can choose a refund or replacement — not just a repair. The ACCC has confirmed that ACL rights may apply even after the manufacturer's warranty expires, because caravans are expensive goods expected to last for many years.

Question 6

How much solar power do I need for off-grid caravanning in Australia?

Accepted Answer

For off-grid caravanning in Australia, most couples travelling full-time need 400–600W of roof-mounted solar panels and 400–600Ah of lithium battery storage. A DC-DC charger charges your batteries while driving, and a backup inverter generator (such as the Honda EU22i) provides power during extended overcast periods. Our Tips & Guides section has a full off-grid power guide for caravanners.

Question 7

What towing capacity do I need to tow a caravan in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most modern full-height caravans have an ATM (Aggregate Trailer Mass) of 2,000–3,500kg. Your tow vehicle must have a braked towing capacity that meets or exceeds this. You must also stay within the vehicle's tow ball mass (TBM) limit and Gross Combined Mass (GCM). Popular tow vehicles in Australia include the Ford Ranger, Toyota LandCruiser, and Isuzu D-Max. Always refer to Australia's National Towing Guide for full weight calculation guidance.

Question 8

What is the best way to find reputable caravan dealers and repairers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

The best way to find reputable caravan dealers and repairers in Australia is through your state caravan industry association. Members are held to a code of conduct. National associations include the Caravan Industry Association of Australia. State associations exist for NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA, TAS, NT, and ACT. Our Resources page has a full directory of links.

Question 9

How do I lodge a caravan insurance claim in Australia?

Accepted Answer

To lodge a caravan insurance claim in Australia: ensure safety first, document all damage with photos and video, collect other party details if an accident is involved, notify your insurer promptly (within 24-72 hours), obtain a claim reference number, choose a specialist caravan repairer (not a general mechanic), and understand your excess and whether you have agreed value or market value cover. If your claim is rejected, escalate to AFCA (Australian Financial Complaints Authority) — a free, independent dispute resolution service.

Question 10

Where can I find caravan clubs in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Australia has many national and state-based caravan and motorhome clubs. The two largest national clubs are the Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) with over 70,000 members, and the Australian Caravan Club (ACC). Each state also has a peak body — such as the NSW Association of Caravan Clubs and Caravan Clubs of Queensland — with directories of local clubs. Our Resources page has links to all of them.