A good campsite position makes every later task easier. Before you reverse, walk the site and decide where the caravan, awning, doors, services and tow vehicle will sit—and how you will leave.
Quick answer
Choose firm, reasonably level ground with safe access, suitable clearance, practical drainage and enough space for the complete setup. Check current weather, fire information and park or land-manager rules. Position the caravan so doors, awnings, vents, gas appliances, electrical leads and escape routes can be used safely.
Walk the site before driving in
Stop where you are not blocking traffic and inspect the site on foot. Look up for branches, service lines and low structures. Look down for soft ground, deep ruts, sharp objects, hidden edges, sprinkler heads and service points. Check the turning space and the path the vehicle and caravan need to follow.
If the site is tight, agree on the final wheel position and drawbar location before moving. It is easier to change the plan while stationary than halfway through a difficult reverse.
Check ground, slope and drainage
- Choose firm ground that can support the caravan, jockey wheel, stabilisers and levelling equipment.
- Avoid obvious water channels, low points and areas that may soften after rain.
- Estimate the side-to-side level before unhitching. Use the Caravan Levelling Calculator if a measured estimate will help.
- Use load-spreading pads where the manufacturer or ground conditions require them.
Plan clearances and the outdoor area
Allow space for slide-outs, doors, steps, awnings and access hatches. Do not position combustion appliances, vents or exhausts where they will be enclosed. Keep the outdoor living area clear of vehicle paths and obvious trip hazards.
Consider wind and sun, but do not rely on the caravan or awning as protection from severe weather. The Bureau of Meteorology warning service and local emergency information should guide decisions when conditions may change.
Check services before committing
Locate the approved power outlet, water connection and waste point. Plan the shortest practical route for leads and hoses without creating a hazard. Use equipment rated for the purpose and condition. Never improvise electrical or gas connections.
Think about the departure
Ask whether the tow vehicle can reconnect and leave if neighbouring sites fill, the ground becomes wet or visibility is poor. Where possible, avoid a position that depends on another vehicle moving first.
Common mistakes
- Reversing immediately without walking the site.
- Focusing on the awning view while ignoring the exit path.
- Parking under suspect branches or in a drainage line.
- Stretching power leads or hoses across busy paths.
- Positioning an outdoor gas appliance where fumes can enter the caravan.
Continue the setup sequence
Once the position is agreed, use the driver and spotter reversing plan, then follow the arrival and setup checklist. Return to the Caravan Setup & Campsite Safety Hub for the complete pathway.
Safety note
This guide is general planning information. Site conditions, weather, fire risk, caravan dimensions and equipment instructions vary. Follow current park or land-manager directions, emergency warnings and manufacturer instructions. Use licensed electrical and gas professionals where required.