Whether on the road or in a caravan park, there are rules all caravanners should follow while on a road trip.

Caravan World Editor at Large John Ford said some caravanners could be more aware of their behaviour on the road and in camp.

“The biggest gripe I hear from other road users is of a slow van not pulling over to let faster traffic past,” Mr Ford said.

“Even if a driver is sitting close to the speed limit, the rig will inevitably slow on hills and in twisty sections, which in turn will slow following traffic.

“That’s inevitable to some extent but moving over when it’s possible won’t spoil your trip and might even save lives by preventing other drivers becoming frustrated and attempting a dangerous overtaking manoeuvre."

Mr Ford said caravanners who sped up or maintained speed in passing lanes, making it difficult for following traffic to overtake safely without breaking the speed limit, could be a particular source of frustration for other motorists.

“So, think about slowing down in these situations to let traffic past,” he said.

Being properly prepared before setting off is another good idea.

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Essential caravanning items include a hydraulic jack and handle suitable for lifting the caravan to change a flat tyre, a spare wheel and tyre and a sturdy wheel brace. Grease for the tow-ball coupling is a handy inclusion.

Likewise, a suitable set of flat timbers for placing under van jacks or wheels when levelling the van.

Other handy items include a hammer for annex pegs, a tyre gauge to check tyre pressures, a fire extinguisher, wheel chocks, sullage bucket and hose, a water supply hose and a 240v/15amp power supply lead.

Mr Ford also recommended fitting tyre pressure monitors to the van, to be instantly alerted when a tyre goes flat, possibly preventing the tyre being ruined altogether.

“Another good idea is to have a small sign or note on the dash displaying the height of your van,” he said.

“You will meet a low-level bridge one day and be thankful to know your height limit.”

The growing popularity of camping and caravanning means idyllic beach or riverside campsites without a neighbour in sight are becoming harder to find, but Mr Ford said it was important to remember your manners when camping in proximity to strangers.

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“When selecting a site in free camps where there’s plenty of room, find a quiet spot away from other vans,” he said.

“Not everyone wants a neighbour a few feet away from them.”

Caravanning Queensland CEO Jason Plant said it was fine to have fun at a caravan park or busy camp area, but polite to remember that others nearby may be having an early night.

“When you’re at a caravan park there are some basic tips for good park etiquette,” Mr Plant said.

“These include being friendly and respectful to your neighbours by avoiding bright lights and loud music after hours; being as quiet as possible if packing up your campsite in the early hours; sticking to footpaths and avoiding the temptation to cut across other people’s sites; and doing your bit to maintain the cleanliness of shared amenities.

“If you’re staying at a pet-friendly site, make sure Fido is well-behaved and not barking at everything that moves, and be sure to pick up your pet’s waste.

“Likewise, only dispose of your own toilet waste at designated dump stations and wash down the station afterwards so that it’s tidy for the next person.”

Follow these tips ensure your next caravan trip runs smoothly.

Road etiquette

• Keep to the left lane unless overtaking.
• Don’t unnecessarily hold up faster traffic.
• If there is a build-up of traffic behind, pull over when safe to do so and allow it to pass.
• Allow plenty of space for other traffic to pass. The law requires caravans and other large vehicles travelling outside built-up areas to leave at least 60m between each other. The distance increases to 200m in road train areas.
• Consider fitting a UHF radio to communicate with other road users. This can be helpful when on narrow roads and overtaking. (Use channel 18 which is widely considered the caravan or travellers channel).
• Use indicators and give plenty of warning about your intentions.

Truck etiquette

• If a truck is behind you, maintain your speed. They’ll know when it’s safe to overtake.
• If you see a truck coming on gravel and narrow roads, slow down, pull off the road if safe to do so and allow them to stay on the bitumen.
• Do not park in truck-only rest stops.

Caravan park etiquette

• Be friendly to your neighbours. You all share the same site and amenities.
• Don’t walk across someone else’s site. Try to stick to the walkways where possible.
• If you’re at a pet-friendly caravan park, make sure your dog is well behaved.
• Keep noise and lights to a minimum. There’s not much separating you from your neighbour so be as courteous as possible.
• Don’t make a mess and clean up all your rubbish before you leave.
• Follow the park rules that are in place.
• Only dispose of toilet waste in designated dump stations and wash down the dump station after emptying your holding tanks.