A First Time Caravanners Guide

Reversing - This can be very difficult at first but it soon becomes second nature. To start with try to site the caravan where you can drive in, unhitch and then drive off without manoeuvring. If you really can't do that for whatever reason, apply the handbrake on the van, unhitch, borrow some hefty friends and manhandle it. Practice reversing in an open area if you can or perhaps at the weekend on an empty industrial estate until you become competent

Manhandling – Do not try to manhandle the van on your own.  Even on the flattest of sites this is a two man job. The van is heavy and can roll down hill very quickly.  Try to have a person responsible for the brake. This person doesn't push or pull the van at all, their only responsibility is the hand brake on the van.  When moving the van, if anyone shouts brake or stop then the brake man pulls the brake on and everything stops

NEVER push or pull you caravan anywhere apart from the handles or the corners of the van. If you push in the centre of the van it may flex and you will end up with broken windows or dented panels

Don't be too adventurous - Go somewhere near to home the first time out, so that you can go home for that essential luxury you've forgotten.  Staying close to home will give you more time for that all important unhitching and setting up

Don't be frightened of your caravan - Take your time and try it. Even experienced caravanners can take several attempts to reverse their caravan onto the pitch, so after a little practice elsewhere perhaps, try it, it is easier than pushing.  If people laugh, then laugh with them, it's all part of the fun and the learning process. If you can't manage it, then get out and push. Fellow caravanners are usually keen to help rather than watch you struggle

Relax - As with everything, try it and make up your own mind. Got into a mess putting up the awning, then take it down and try again, and relax in the knowledge that many have done so before and will do after you. Just do everything at your own pace and let others worry about what you are doing

Once Sited - Once you have you caravan where you want it and you are happy that it is level side to side, apply the hand brake and unhitch from the car (remember to remove the breakaway cable from the car and to unplug the lights etc) then adjust the jockey wheel to get the van level fore and aft.  Then drop the jacks down until they touch the ground and the van doesn't rock when you walk in it. Once sited you should leave the hand brake off (you may need to chock the wheels) this will prevent the handbrake from seizing up

Before you go - Before you take your caravan out, you should spend some time researching caravan insurance