When you buy an off road camper trailer, you expect it to be equipped to handle some rough, unsealed roads, but do you know what kind of off road conditions you can safely drive on while towing your camper? Do you know the limitations of your camper trailer? Will it be able to deal with all the conditions you expect to encounter on your trips?
These are the types of questions to ask your dealer before purchasing to ensure you buy the right type of camper for your needs, but here are some basic tips to get you started.
Decide What You Need in Camper Trailer
Do you have a destination in mind, or are you planning to go off road and explore the country? If there’s any possibility you’ll end up on a road that’s little more than a dirt track, then you’ll need a camper trailer with heavy duty, quality suspension. How long you’ll be travelling on rough roads is also a factor to consider, because even the best camper trailer can develop problems after hundreds of kilometres of corrugated roads.
The Effects of Constant Bumping Around
Constant jostling on bumpy roads isn’t just uncomfortable for you and your passengers; it can cause some serious damage to your vehicle and your camper trailer. As well as flat tyres – how many spares are you carrying? – your trailer can develop suspension, wheel, brake and axle problems resulting in reduced control and manoeuvrability at best, total breakdown at worst. The towing vehicle also takes a lot of strain on the tow ball as well as its running gear, and rear chassis as the camper bounces up and down.
Be Sure You Have Access Permission
Finally, be sure you have permission to take your off-road camper trailer on the roads you want to travel. Camper trailers can cause damage to smaller tracks and fragile country, and some places won’t let you pass through if you’re towing a trailer. Always check with the proper authorities before you leave so you know about road and weather conditions, and whether it’s safe and legal to travel with your camper.
A Smooth and Safe Journey
Now that you’ve got the right camper for your needs and you’re aware of the problems you might face, take some time to learn about your camper trailer so you’ll at least know how to handle the most common situations. Speak to experienced off roaders for great tips and remember that load distribution should be kept evenly spread across your camper for smoother towing. Ensure you have the right rims and tyres and match them to the towing vehicle for convenience and peace of mind. In very rough or boggy conditions, drive slow enough to reduce damage, but fast enough that you don’t get stuck, especially on hills.
Camper Trailers – WA
Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned adventurer, the professional team at PMX Campers is here to help you choose the right camper trailer for the road conditions you’re likely to experience on your trip. We’re active members of the camping and off-roading community and can provide expert advice on all your caravan and camping requirements. We offer a wide range of off-road camper trailers including hard floor and soft floor options. Contact our friendly and experienced staff today on 08 9455 1454, email us at [email protected] or fill out our online contact form.
