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just enjoy chill with a beer or two and start to think where your next trip will be

if your not sure of anyting ask someone at the site explain its your first time etc most will only be to glad to help

Like has been said, don't be afriad to ask for help, us caravanners are a friendly bunch, (well most of us!)

My advice: double check everything in regards to towing. Start with tyre pressures, ensure all windows and rooflights are shut and latched, and develop a routine when hook up, so you don't forget anything vital. Make sure car and caravan are properly connected! Attach the cables and do a lights check. Don't forget the breakaway cable. Walk round the van and check that all doors/lockers are locked shut. Make sure the stabiliser is engaged (if you have one) and, finally, take the van's handbrake off. You won't get far, otherwise!

Pre-plan your journey route and, once on the road, take it easy. Stop after 10 or 15 minutes to make sure everything's as it should be with the van - especially with cables etc.

Then, when you get on site, take your time to set up properly - it's worth it in the long run. Don't stress about having to get the van perfectly positioned with your car - if the site's level it's often easier to unhitch and push it into place by hand, although someone should be ready with the handbrake at all times in case the van starts to "run away".

Spend time to learn how the water, electric and gas systems work. Get the electric hooked up first - attach the cable to the van first, and then to the power bollard. Never walk around with a handful of "hot" electric cable because you've plugging in to the mains first. It's dangerous - especially if it's raining! Once the van is "live", turn the fridge on to mains operation. Remember to remove any fridge vent covers from the outside of the van, which should be in place when you're towing.

Realise that to attach a gas canister to the van you have to turn the connector anti-clockwise - which is usually the way you go to unscrew something. I think this is a safety feature, but it's beyond me as to why!

Get fresh water, set up your Wastemaster (or similar) to collect water from your van's drains ... and don't forget to set up the loo.

After that, have a rest and a drink. Relax - at least for a few minutes. Then you can get to grips with putting up the awning. But remember: if it's the first time you've put up an awning it's the law to inform the entire campsite, so everyone can have a laugh!

Nothing to it, really....

Have fun!

Double check before leaving that you've got your caravan keys! Sounds daft but we've driven off without them before....but then again i am daft!

Hope you have a great time...you'll be hooked!

Quote: Originally posted by carmey33 on 01/7/2009

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Double check before leaving that you've got your caravan keys! Sounds daft but we've driven off without them before....but then again i am daft!

Hope you have a great time...you'll be hooked!

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lol, we`ve caravanned for years and did this just last month,too much rushing about and it cost us over an hour !!!

enjoy your trip,relax and get the beers out....job done !!!!