Camping is a popular activity in Australia, and if you want to really enjoy the experience, it is advisable to go with a caravan.
You will come across a wide variety of caravans on sale and for rent and if you’ve never hired one before, you can easily make a wrong choice.
Off-road caravans are a popular choice however, most people don’t understand what makes them so unique. Therefore, in this article, we will look at the structure of an off-road caravan and explain why they are so unique.
What is An Off-Road Caravan?
An authentic off-road caravan is built for the hard terrain and rough conditions. They can endure taking a beating for a long time. They are made with sturdy material designated to go through some of the harshest driving conditions.
Let’s take a look now at the main components of an off-road caravan.
Frame and Chassis
It has a sturdy chassis that contains elements that are adequately protected. This forms the foundation of the entire caravan and keeps all the different elements in place.
Some designers laminate a second rail to the main one for more strength. This formation enhances the strength and stability of the caravan and makes it heavier as well.
In today’s day and age, manufacturers are leaning towards hybrid chassis designs for more power and additional weight savings.
Suspension
Most off-road caravans have enhanced suspension systems with the best springs and shock absorbers. The suspension also gives sufficient clearance for navigating through the tough terrain.
The entire suspension should be meant for off-road environments to minimise the amount of shock transferred from the ground to the body of the caravan.
An independent suspension is a top option for manufacturers with some specific types including coil springs with trailing arms and shock absorbers.
Ground Clearance
An off-road caravan should have enough ground clearance. Note that this does not only apply to the minimum height off the ground, but some of the critical components should also be hidden from the way.
You do not want to risk some of the parts falling on the ground when camping. They should have a sizeable rear departure angle to allow the body to handle undulating tracks without scrapping the backside on the ground.
Power and Water
Off-road caravans are known for their higher power, solar, and water capacities. Challenges are harder when camping in rough areas and you need more provisions than the one you would need for a regular expedition.
Most caravans have a minimum of 200 L of freshwater, 300 W of solar panels and 200Ah of batteries.
Some manufacturers offer more than this and others opt to split the water tanks so that you can keep drinking water in separate containers.
Hitching
These caravans have a 360-degree hitching articulation that is specially engineered for the off-road experience. It contains both horizontal and vertical articulation plus quick hitching that needs no pin or hole alignment.
Outer Armor
It is always important to ask about the testing done on a caravan before buying one. Some of the features indicated above might not be sufficient for harsh terrain as others may have extra high checker plates on different sides.
It helps to note how the frame is designed as well as the cabinetry. You need a well beefed up caravan since the off-road experience can be unforgiving.
Weight
Note that the weight of a caravan largely determines where you can go camping. Your off-road trailer will be heavier than the average ones due to the beefed-up parts and have a tow vehicle that can pull that weight.
If you are wondering what makes off-road caravans so unique, then you should have your answer by now. Most of the parts of the body and suspension are carefully engineered for the experience.
For the best new or used off-road caravans for your next holidaying adventure, then look no further than Luxury RVs WA.
We have over 40 years of experience in the caravan industry ranging from sales and custom vehicle building through to service and repairs.
Please call our super-friendly customer service team today on (08) 9509 6083 or contact us through our website for all your caravanning requirements.
