Short answer: inspect the tow vehicle and caravan in the same sequence before every departure. Start with documents and weights, complete a slow outside walk-around, check the coupling and running gear, secure the inside, test lights and brakes, then stop if anything is damaged, loose or outside the manufacturer’s specification.
This checklist is part of the Caravan Maintenance & Ownership Australia hub. It helps you notice problems; it does not certify roadworthiness.
Before you walk around
- Confirm registration, insurance, roadside assistance and any permits relevant to the trip.
- Check the tow vehicle and caravan limits using current plates, manuals and reliable weight information.
- Review unresolved faults, recent repairs and service due dates.
- Check road, fire, flood and weather information for the planned route.
If your checks uncover a fault that needs professional attention, use the Australian Caravan Repairer Directory to find repairers by location and service.
Inspect the coupling area
Use the coupling manufacturer’s exact process. Check that the coupling is fully engaged and secured, safety chains are connected correctly, the breakaway system is ready, the electrical connection is supported, and cables cannot drag or bind. Confirm the jockey wheel is raised and secured and stabilisers are fully retracted.
Check tyres, wheels and running gear
- Inspect tyre tread, sidewalls and valve areas for damage, ageing or abnormal wear.
- Set cold pressures from the correct tyre, caravan and load information—not a generic internet number.
- Follow the specified wheel-fastener torque and recheck process with the correct tool.
- Look beneath the caravan for leaks, hanging cables, impact damage or anything displaced.
- Confirm mudguards, steps and accessories are secure.
Use the free Caravan Tyre Load & Pressure Planner to compare planning loads with tyre ratings, then read the tyre load and pressure guide.
Check lights, brakes and visibility
Test indicators, brake lights, tail lights and clearance lights with another person or a suitable checking method. Confirm mirrors provide the required view. Test the brake controller and breakaway equipment according to their instructions. If braking feels different, a warning appears or a test fails, do not tow until the cause is resolved.
Secure services and the interior
- Turn off and secure gas equipment as required for travel; never assume every appliance can operate while moving.
- Close and latch windows, roof vents, hatches, doors, awnings and pop-tops.
- Distribute and restrain loads so they cannot shift.
- Secure fridge contents, drawers, tables, televisions and loose equipment.
- Confirm water carried is included in the weight plan and tanks are managed for the route.
For LPG safety, follow current local rules and appliance instructions. Energy Safe Victoria’s outdoor LPG guidance is a useful safety reference, but the rules for your location and equipment still apply.
Complete a final departure pause
Stand back and scan from ground to roof. Check the site for forgotten chocks, hoses, leads, rubbish and tools. Move slowly, listen for unusual sounds and stop safely after the first short distance if your manufacturer or recent work requires a recheck.
For a printable structured workflow, see the Pre-Trip Mechanical Inspection. First-time travellers can also use the First Caravan Trip Checklist.
Make it part of the complete ownership plan
Return to the Caravan Maintenance & Ownership Australia hub to connect this job with pre-trip checks, running gear, leak inspection, storage and service records.
Safety note: This guide is general planning information. Follow the current instructions for your caravan and every fitted component. Use qualified service, electrical, gas, brake, tyre and structural professionals where required.