One of the quickest ways to put a dampener on a dream trip is to suffer some sort of breakdown or mechanical failure, but a new report shows that a huge proportion of caravanners are not across basic maintenance tasks.
Research from Queensland motoring organisation, the RACQ, revealed that almost a third (30%) of caravanners wait for a breakdown before doing any maintenance on their van.
Equally surprising was the fact that some 41% failed to refresh their driving skills before hitting the road.
According to RACQ’s state-wide survey, 32% of Queenslanders see servicing costs as the greatest challenge in caravan maintenance, while almost one in five (18%) consider finding a qualified repairer as their main hurdle.
Carrying out regular maintenance work helps keep trips on track. PIC: Cizza
RACQ General Manager Automotive and Mobility Services, Mark Boswell, said a simple safety check before the trip can be the difference between a smooth holiday and a breakdown on the side of the road.
“We know cost-of-living pressures are continuing to impact households, but regular servicing helps identify small issues early, before they turn into larger, more costly problems,” Mr Boswell said. “Keeping your caravan and vehicle regularly maintained also improves fuel efficiency which in turn helps you save at the bowser while prices are high.”
The RACQ said that ideally people should be servicing their caravans at least every 12 months and even more often if they went off-road or travelled over sandy terrain or through water.
“Before hitting the road, caravanners should take the time to check their tyre pressure and condition, lights and indicators, brakes, water and gas systems, along with the tow hitch and wheel bearings,” Mr Boswell said. “These checks don’t take long, but they can make a big difference to safety and peace of mind while travelling.”
And the RACQ said it was just as important that drivers were properly prepared.
“Brushing up on caravan towing techniques, checking your vehicle and caravan before you go, driving to the conditions and giving yourself extra breaking distance between you and the vehicle in front can help every road user arrive at their destination safely,” Mr Boswell said. “Allowing extra travel time, taking regular breaks and eliminating distractions are also critical steps drivers should follow when they get behind the wheel.”
The RACQ said its roadside assistance fleet attended more than 2,000 callouts for caravans and motorists towing trailers in 2025, underpinning the importance of preparation.
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