But a great caravanning experience doesn’t end when you pull back into your driveway. From finding the perfect campsite to properly storing your rig when the holiday is over, protecting your investment is just as important as enjoying it. Here are some top WA road trip ideas and essential post-trip care tips.
Top Caravan Destinations in Western Australia
Western Australia offers some of the most diverse and stunning landscapes in the world. If you are looking to hitch up and head out, these regions should be at the top of your list:
The Coral Coast: Stretching north from Perth up to Exmouth, this route is famous for its stunning beaches, the Pinnacles Desert, and the world-renowned Ningaloo Reef. There are excellent, spacious caravan parks scattered along the entire coast.
The South West Edge: Heading south to Margaret River, Albany, and Esperance provides a completely different vibe. Think towering karri forests, world-class wineries, and the impossibly white sands of Lucky Bay.
The Golden Outback: For those seeking the iconic red dirt and starry skies, venturing east to Kalgoorlie and the Wave Rock region offers a true off-grid experience.
Post-Trip Caravan Care: Keeping Your Asset in Top Shape
When you finally return home, the temptation is to simply unhitch the caravan and head inside. However, skipping post-trip maintenance can lead to long-term damage, rust, and costly repairs.
Always run through this quick checklist before packing your rig away:
- Deep Clean the Exterior: Wash away salt, red dirt, and road grime immediately. Salt air from coastal trips is highly corrosive to the chassis and bodywork.
- Flush the Water Systems: Empty your grey water tanks and flush your fresh water tanks to prevent algae and stale odors from building up while the van sits unused.
- Clear the Fridge and Pantry: Defrost the fridge, prop the door open to prevent mold, and remove all non-perishable food to avoid attracting pests.
- Check Your Tyres: Inflate your tyres to the correct pressure to prevent flat spots from forming during long periods of stationary storage.
Where Should I Store My Caravan After the Trip?
This is the biggest hurdle for many caravan owners. Not everyone has a large double garage or a deep driveway to accommodate a pop-top, camper trailer, or full-sized caravan. Leaving it parked on the street leaves it vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and weather damage.
If you don’t have the space at home, a dedicated hardstand storage facility is the best option. But you shouldn’t hand your keys over to just anyone.
The Pre-Storage Security Checklist
When looking for a facility to store your recreational vehicle between journeys, ensure they tick these crucial boxes:
- Easy Access: Caravans are notoriously difficult to reverse and maneuver. Look for a facility that specifically advertises wide laneways to make drop-offs and pick-ups stress-free.
- Keep Your Bay: If you head out on a long trip, you don’t want to lose your spot. Choose a provider that allows you to keep your designated hardstand space while you are on the road.
- Layered Security: Standard chain-link fences aren’t enough. Demand high Colorbond fencing, extensive security lighting, CCTV cameras, and ideally, an onsite caretaker.
If you are looking for a reliable place to park your rig, checking out dedicated caravan storage in Perth is the logical next step. Facilities like AK Self Storage offer 10,000 metres of secure hardstand space specifically designed for caravans and boats. With 7-day access, wide laneways for easy parking, and affordable long-term rates, you get the peace of mind knowing your van is secure and ready to go the moment the open road calls your name again.