Warning over ‘unsafe’ caravan mistake Aussies are making

Melbourne: As more Aussies hit the road for adventures, many are turning to secondhand caravans. It’s a budget-friendly way to explore, but there’s a catch. Safety risks can come with these purchases, especially if you don’t check the details.

One buyer recently found out that their secondhand caravan and 4WD, while within legal weight limits, were actually unsafe together. They bought them from different sellers, and the added weight from modifications made things tricky.

Jeff De Ath from Check Weight caravan weighing company explained that extra weight can change how the caravan tows. If the weight isn’t balanced right, it can lead to dangerous situations on the road.

He pointed out that while there are maximum weight standards, there aren’t any minimums. This means if the weight is uneven, it can cause serious problems. There’s even been scary footage of drivers losing control because of this issue.

When buying a secondhand caravan, it’s crucial to consider any changes the previous owner made. What worked for them might not work for you. If they overloaded it or had a different setup, you could be in for a rough ride.

De Ath suggests a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a caravan. First, know your weight limits. If you already have a vehicle, weigh it to see what you’re working with. It’s also smart to get a professional to help you keep track of weight.

Don’t buy a caravan that’s the same weight as your vehicle’s towing capacity. That leaves no room for your gear or passengers, which is a recipe for disaster. And remember, don’t overload!