It can feel like a never-ending list of things to buy for a new
We’ve compiled a list of popular, practical and basic must-have
Your ‘must-have’ items may differ from ours. For e.g., we are not coffee addicts, so you won’t see a coffee machine on this list. You’ll find it’s a list of practical caravanning essentials, a basic list of caravanning must haves that will suit all caravanners, e.g. water hoses and pots and pans.
To make the list easier to read and organise, we’ve separated inside and outside items. Remember weight when looking at things to buy for a new
Things To Buy For A New Caravan – Inside
Items such as a fire extinguisher, washing machine, and 12-volt
The following are the most popular and best
Caravan Bedding
It’s best to have a combination of pillows, sheets, and bath towels that are comfortable and not too heavy. Remember, your space is limited, so anything bulky or heavy will take up valuable storage space.
Remember extras like lightweight blankets, tea towels and hand towels.
Bedding stores such as Adairs, Pillow Talk, Bed Bath N Table and even Myer have a great selection of bedding for your new
Other bedding items are a
Aero Mesh Underlay
Caravaners speak highly of the Aero Mesh mattress underlay. It’s one of the most popular essentials caravan accessories as it helps keep mould at bay from underneath the mattress if you have a solid bed base.
The moisture beneath the mattress will cause mould to develop, stains on your mattress, and unpleasant odours. It will also cause the wooden bed base to rot or corrode the metal bed base.
This Anti-Condensation Mat sits between the mattress and bed base and creates an air space between the bed base and mattress. This prevents moisture and dampness from building up and stops mould as the moisture evaporates via the open weave of the Aero Mesh.
Click here for more information and pricing on eBay for Aero-Mesh
Dreamer RV Mattress Topper
If you suffer from any back pain (as I do) or knee and hip pain, then you’ll love the softness and support of the Dreamer RV mattress topper.
This is a specifically designed mattress topper and they also do a waterproof mattress protector.
With a bit of a back problem, I am always searching for comfortable bedding. I bought a topper for our bed at home and intend to use it on our bed in the new van. (See below). That was before I realised with the curved end on the 
What I found was Dreamer RV Waterproof Mattress Protector and Mattress Topper. Even better they are an Aussie company. As business owners, we are always pleased to find good Aussie Small Businesses to support.
The DreamerRV mattress topper and protector are super soft and generous elastic skirts—beautiful luxurious RV bedding without the price tag.
Click here for more information and Pricing for the Dreamer RV Mattress Topper
Ecosa Mattress Topper
If you suffer from any back pain (as I do) or knee and hip pain then you’ll love the softness and support of the Dreamer RV mattress topper.
A friend of mine recommended this topper to me. She also suffers from back pain and switched the Ecosa and her back still thanks for the shift!
We bought one and although I bought a queen size for our van I have also used it on a king-size bed see photo) with no problems. There is just a small gap on either side of the mattress. I found the gap doesn’t affect your sleep quality.
The gentle gel memory foam softens and moulds your body, making you more comfortable. It also minimizes disturbance to your partner by 50 per cent, allowing you both to sleep undisturbed and wake refreshed.
The
Click here for more information and pricing for Ecosa Mattress Topper
Cooking Utensils And Stackable Pots And Pans
The Smartspace Pots and Lids are a game-changing new way to prepare food on the go. The Camec-branded pots, which have been carefully created to give campers the most compact cooking experience feasible, are ideal for RV camping!
These stackable SmartSpace pots are the ideal camping addition for even the most enthusiastic cook. They come with a high-quality Teflon surface and a square shape that fits better on an RV stove.
The detachable handle may be effortlessly switched out, allowing each vessel to fit inside the other for ideal on-the-road storage.
Click here for more information and prices for Stackable cookware
Food Storage Containers
To save room in your
Buy the same shape and design containers for transferring packaged food into storage. Instead of the cumbersome and unevenly shaped and sized packages and packaging, keep essentials like staples and ingredients in your new containers.
I transferred all my pantry items from glass containers to Sistema containers months before our van was due. I didn’t fancy transferring them all at once, so I changed them over when I used the ingredients.
I also labelled them all so it’s quick and easy to recognise what ingredients were in the containers.
Wait for the Sistemas to come on special, often for half price at Coles or Woolies. I found Amazon to have the best deals, whether they were on special or not.
Click here for more information and pricing on food storage containers
Caravan Crockery
Even the most modest comforts are useful when travelling and camping in your
If there are just the two of you, take 4 of everything. Even tho you might have a BBQ or meal at your camp, and your fellow campers bring their own, you can use a couple of sets throughout the day and only have to wash up once. You’ll save some water, which is crucial if you are doing to camp off-grid.
We’ve also dedicated a post to the best dinner set to use for caravanning here.
Click here for more information and pricing on crockery
Caravan Kitchen Incidentals
Gone are the luxuries of dishwashers in your
You’ll need kitchen dishwashing liquid, dishcloth, rubber gloves and a dish brush. A foldable bucket will come in handy and pack down to reduce space. Tea tree oil will come in handy to kill mould in the shower, should you need it.
Draw items might include cling wrap, beeswax wraps, ziplock bags, baking paper and tin foil.
First Aid Kit
When you go caravanning and camping in Australia, having a first aid kit is essential. It can help you treat minor injuries and illnesses and could potentially save someone’s life. A first aid kit is handy inside your van. I’d also have a first aid kit in the car.
A first aid kit should include bandages, scissors, painkillers, antiseptic cream, and insect repellent. It’s important to ensure the kit is well-stocked and up to date so you’re prepared for any situation.
If you’re travelling with children, it’s important to have supplies for treating common childhood injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, and insect bites. You should also pack supplies to treat burns and blisters.
A first aid kit can make your caravanning or camping trip much safer and less stressful. So be sure to pack one before you hit the road!
One of the first aid kits could double up for your backpack when you go hiking. The kit is excellent as it comes with small separate bags dedicated to a particular problem.
Click here for more information and the price for this first aid kit
Fire Blanket
Let’s hope we never need to use one, however it is a great idea to have one when you need one. For the low cost, it is worth the money.
Cooking oils and fats are highly combustible, making burning out of control a real possibility. The worrying thing is that they might occur on any stove, even in your van or slideout kitchen.
As a result, it’s a smart idea to keep a fire blanket on hand for emergency usage. This fireproof fibreglass blanket will swiftly extinguish any fire, and it includes a rapid-release sheath so you may use it as soon as you need it.
Click here for more information and the price for this fire blanket
Safety Box – Safe
If you travel with valuables, how do you keep them safe and away from prying eyes? Especially when you are away from your
When travelling around Australia, having a safe place to store your valuable belongings is important. Caravans and camping gear can be prime targets for thieves, so having a safe is a valuable addition. It can keep your cash, important documents and jewellery safe while on the road.
Having a safe onboard is a great way to protect your belongings from thieves and from being damaged or lost. It can also provide peace of mind when you are away from your van.
Most safes are heavy. But not this one!
The military lock is un-pickable; you can hide it in a drawer or anywhere else in your
The docking station lets you move your safe whenever you need to change location.
Click here for more information and pricing for this safety box
What Is The Best Torch For Caravanning?
A great flashlight for any camping or emergency kit will always be handy. It can be used for navigating the campsite at night or even to help out if you are trying to find something in your car.
LED bulbs are brighter than other flashlights, last a lot longer, and are shockproof and waterproof.
The MH25GT is now available with a CREE XP-L HI V3 LED, generating 1000 lumens of light. The elongated reflector allows this light to shine with an excellent beam distance of up to 450 meters.
This flashlight has a high-capacity 18650 battery and onboard USB charging, making it both powerful and convenient. It also has extended battery life.
Click here for more information and the price for this torch or here for a handy head torch
Toilet Chemicals And Toilet Paper Rolls
Boring right? However, they are necessary if you buy a new caravan for most caravanners.
Think about what and where you will dump your waste. You can only dump your
To maintain the “good bacteria” in the waste system, it’s important to use the correct eco-friendly toilet chemicals. Napisan, although a popular alternative to the correct toilet chemicals isn’t good for the sewage or septic systems.
This is due to the bleaching aspect of the compound and other chemicals contained in the product. Help our environment and use eco-friendly chemicals for your toilet.
Carry spare rolls of toilet paper. For a couple, four should be enough.
Click here for more information and prices for toilet chemicals
Eco Laundry Sheets
Skipper eco laundry sheets are strictly formulated to offer a great clean without chemical nasties, making the laundry sheets terrific for newborns and people with skin sensitivities. The biodegradable, hypoallergenic laundry sheets are made from plant-derived substances, unlike conventional laundry detergents that incorporate more than 20 toxic ingredients.
I’ve “test-driven” these in my washing machine at home and was very pleased with the result. They left our laundry smelling fresh and clean. I also use them in the van.
Unlike many other “green” options within the marketplace, no plastic is in the packaging. The eco-friendly laundry detergent sheets are biodegradable, so you can be sure the sheets dissolve rapidly and cleanly in the surroundings.
Skipper laundry sheets are super lightweight and come pre-measured to provide the right amount of detergent for every wash. Zero waste so you can be sure you’ll only use what is necessary for each wash. Never spill or overuse detergent again!
Throw your sheet in the washing machine and wash your clothes. They work in all water temperatures and are perfect for caravanning and camping washing machines.
The packaging is 100% recyclable, compact, and lightweight. Even if you buy in bulk, you still won’t have the clutter! Plus, the eco-friendly laundry sheets are paper-thin, reduce carbon emissions by 94% and dramatically reduce transport fuel consumption compared to big containers for powders and liquids.
Click here for more information and prices for the laundry eco sheets
Personal Care Items
As you would expect, personal care product favourites vary from person to person. But everyone can use a few items – toothpaste, toothbrushes, shavers and shaving cream.
Hygiene is important to most people so I’ve included some of the best toiletries for personal care – shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion for the list.
Insect repellent – this is essential in the summer months especially up north with many mozzies, midges, biting bugs and insects!
Sunscreen is a must in Australia, especially when travelling full time as you are more likely to be exposed to the sun’s harmful rays. Whether winter or summer, always protect your skin, especially between 9 am-4 pm.
Click here for personal care products and here for the dispenser
Board Games And Card Games
Board games are the perfect item to buy for a new
This is especially true if you have children with you, as they will quickly get bored if they’re stuck inside all the time. Board games and puzzles are a great way to keep everyone entertained, regardless of the weather.
Every good board game is different in terms of how it plays out, its objectives, and even how it’s presented to players.
Some fun ones include Pictionary, Chess, Draughts or good old-fashioned Monopoly.
They’re also a great way to bond with your family and friends. We’ve spent many fun nights around the kitchen table playing 500, other card games and Pictionary. So pack a few puzzles and board games in your
Click here for more information and pricing for the board and card games
The 4th Drawer
Regarding caravanning and camping, being prepared for anything is always important. This means having a well-stocked toolbox with all the essentials.
But what happens when you need a tool you don’t use often? This is where having a 4th drawer comes in handy.
Just like in your kitchen at home, this is a place where you can store all those bits and pieces that you don’t use regularly but are handy to have nearby when needed.
It’s super handy to have a few popular tools in this drawer such as a Stanley knife, a couple of different screwdrivers and pliers. This will save you from tripping back and forth to your main toolbox.
Make sure to use your 4th drawer and add the necessary items to your packing list!
Click here for more information and prices for tools
Things To Buy For A New Caravan – Outside
As with the inside
Anti Flap Kit
You finally secure your
Introducing the anti-flap kit! This semi-permanent fixture attaches to the bottom of your van with clamps and grips onto one end of an unobstructed roll-out awning via vertical bars. While putting minimal pressure on the vinyl surface – it is perfect for protecting against rainwater penetration and sun damage.
Some kits also include awning poles, and some have sail tracks that attach privacy screens. They help strengthen your awning and reduce the flap!
Click here for more information and the price for this anti-flap kit
Water Hose/s
A high-quality drinking water hose is designed to provide a safe and fresh water supply for drinking and cooking while enjoying time in your
Whether you are using the hose to connect with your own water tank or any other water supply, a water hose will ensure that the water you drink tastes as good as it should.
Made from durable food-safe materials that resist leaks and kinks, it’s perfect to use on the road, wherever you need a reliable source of fresh-tasting cold-drinking quality H2O on tap.
Click here for more information and the price of water hoses for caravans
Water Tank Filler
Fill your water tanks with less stress thanks to the all-new Stand At Ease Quick Fill
The valve on this unit can be used to start or stop the flow of water according to what you need at that moment without having to leave the pump alone. This also works as an air release valve so no more worries about bubbles clinging during filling or lack of space for your hand in the tank! The long flexible tube is designed to direct straight into the tank while allowing air out.
Who would have thought filling up those water tanks could be so easy? The Quick Fill
No more sprinting to turn off the tap or switch tanks, as this water tank filler has an on/off valve and a flexible tube for directing the flow straight into your van’s tank.
Click here for more information and the price for the water tank filler
Water Filter
The B.E.S.T inline water filter is designed for caravaners and campers to give them access to fresh water free from harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella and fecal coliforms.
Just hook up any standard water drinking hose (it does not take long), and the system does the rest, removing lead, fluoride and other contaminants through its naturally occurring silver particles – making it 100% safe to drink!
This system includes a whopping 3-year warranty on the primary filter and an absolute lifetime on our silver treatment component! So enjoy your travels without getting sick from drinking bad water again!
For the cleanest water you can get on the go, get a B.E.S.T water filter with maximum filtration quality and minimal fuss.
Click here for more information and the price for the best water filter for caravans
levelling Blocks – Levelling Ramps And Wheel Chocks
You’ll need levelling blocks and chocks outside your van to help stabilise and secure it.
Wheel chocks are especially important if you’re on grass or gravel because they’ll prevent your
You should always put wheelchocks in before you unhitch your car for maximum safety.
Levelling blocks will create a solid surface on which your
Click here for more information and prices for levelling blocks and chocks for caravans
Spirit Level
This levelling device will be useful when putting together things to buy for a new
It can indicate whether your van is perfectly balanced or not so that doors don’t slide and you are sleeping on level ground.
There are two degrees to consider – the front-to-back level, which may be adjusted on a
Correcting a lateral tilt takes longer than fixing a
Camping Chairs
If you want to soak up the sun and go on your big lap or camping trip, ensure you have all the right gear.
Camping chairs are often underappreciated; not only do they give a warm, comfortable location to relax while parked up and they may also be carried on day trips and beach days.
Whether you want a luxury reclining chair or a basic deck chair, these choices are sure to please. These foldable camping chairs are a must-have for any camper, from headrests to footstools and tray tables that can be adjusted.
Click here for more information and prices for camping chairs
Click here to read our Ultimate Guide To The Best Camping Chair
Camping Tables
One of the best pieces of any camping essential is a sturdy table. It can be used in various ways – from reading on a sunny afternoon to playing card games with the whole family.
A camping table is perfect for families to share meals while enjoying the beautiful outdoors. It’s an important part of relaxing, having fun, and cherishing memories that will last a lifetime.
With a spacious surface and an easy-to-store design, camping tables are perfect for camping and caravanning.
Click here for more information and prices on camping tables
Awning Mat
Mats for out the front of your
An awning mat helps to reduce dirt, dust and grime. Plus, they look fabulous and provide extra instant seating for family and friends. These all-weather
Make sure your mat is grass-friendly, allowing the grass to breathe underneath. Plus, you’ll want the sand to disappear through your mat so you are not tacking sand and dirt inside your van.
Some
Click here for more information and the price for camping mats
Privacy Screens
You know how it goes: you’re in the middle of a gorgeous, pristine wilderness, and then suddenly, in the distance, you see someone’s car parked at the side of the road with people lounging around drinking their morning coffee.
It’s an unfortunate reality when we choose to explore natural wonders that will never be fully our own again. That is why
Caravan privacy screens are a must-have for
They come in high water-resistant models, just like you would want if you were camping outside year-round – or even for short periods during winter months and long, hot summers.
Click here for more information and prices on privacy screens
Power Leads
Caravans have two independent power systems: one for most of the lights some 12V appliances and another for appliances. They also feature 240V circuits comparable to your home’s outlets.
The 240V is not the same as at home since it is not permanently hardwired. Every circuit in your house begins at your fuse box. Because the wires running through your walls have a limited capacity, each circuit has a limited capacity.
Your RV’s limit begins when your power cable is connected to the power source, such as at a
A single cord feeds electricity to one circuit within your RV. In many situations, 15amp outlets will not be sufficient, thus a second and sometimes even a third circuit is required.
Click here for more information and prices for 15A power cord
Power Adaptor
Sometimes, such as when you are parked at home or at a friend’s home, you won’t have access to a 15amp PowerPoint. In the past, some people have done their own modifications, however, these dangerous practices are not only illegal but will also void any insurance policies if there was a fire due to the mods.
There is a device on the market that allows you to connect a 15-amp power cord to a standard 10-amp power outlet. The device has a circuit breaker to prevent more than 10 amps from being transmitted via the supply connection. The Ampfibian ® RV-PLUS is weatherproof, lockable, made to Australian Safety Standards and specially made for the RV market.
The Ampfibian® RV-PLUS is your ideal power adapter for caravans. It’s designed to shut off power through the appliance if you are drawing too much amperage and features everything you need to set up in a
Click here for information and price for this power adaptor
Washing Line
If you have a washing machine in your van, you’ll need somewhere to hang your clothes to dry.
There are ideas from lines that slide in the track in your awning to a mini version of the old Hills Hoist.
This type is the most popular as it’s lightweight, folds down in seconds, is easy to store and doesn’t take much room.
Of course, you will also need pegs. I’ve been using stainless steel pegs for two years, and we live on the coast. I find them easy to use, they keep clothes on the line and do not rust. They last a lifetime and you won’t have to buy pegs again!
I use this clothesline, and surprisingly, it holds many clothes. Make sure you tether it down, though, as the wind can blow it over.
Click here for more information and the price for this clothesline for camping
Fire Pit
Camping isn’t the same without a campfire.
If you are off-grid or bush camping, having a campfire is easy. Collect a few rocks or dig a shallow trench and build a fire. However, you’ll miss out if there is a fire restriction or you are in a
With so many fire-pits on the market now, we are spoilt for choice. Which one do we recommend? We recommend the Fireside Portable Pop-Up Fire Pit.
Easily set up your campfire with this clever Fireside Pop-up Fire Pit. It has a weighted base for stability and is easy to transport, with a carrying case that measures just 68x12x12cm when packed up!
With room enough to keep the whole party warm, it sets up in 60 secs without any tools needed.
Click here for more information and price for the Fireside fire pit
Caravan Accessories And 4x4ing
There are also
Car Fridge
The best camping fridge will serve at least three purposes when caravanning or camping.
- Drinks fridge
- Freezer overflow storage if you are travelling to remote areas
- Fridge when you are out of a day trip or need to keep your lunch cool on travelling days
We’ve written an Ultimate Guide To The Best Camping Fridge here.
For a quick look at the recommended camping fridge click here and here
Caravan Jack
At best, and if you are fortunate, your van will come with a fairly flimsy
It may be called Trail-A-Mate, but it’s just your friend! It takes the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to – all while being safe.
Use the lever and this
It comes with an extra converting wheel for when you need additional support or to use as a jockey wheel instead of parking up.
Click here for more information and the price for Trail A Mate
Air Compressor
When you travel off the blacktop, you’ll need to air down the tyres on your rig and van. This includes sandy roads and tracks, corrugated roads, rocky roads and designated 4WD tracks.
Your wheels and tyres will thank you for investing in a 4WD air compressor and a tyre pressure gauge.
Air compressors are the perfect 4×4 accessory to keep your tyres inflated on the side of dusty, off-road tracks or around town. They work wonders when it comes to punctures, too.
There are several different air compressors available, ranging from portable air compressors to compressors that are permanently fixed to your rig.
These are generally mounted in the back of your 4WD for easy storage and access.
We’ve written an Ultimate Guide To The Best 12v Air Compressor here
Click here for more information and pricing for air compressors
Recovery Equipment
When you are travelling off-road, you will need a basic 4WD recovery kit. These consist of
• snatch straps
• tree protectors
• bow shackles
• heavy-duty gloves
• long-handled shovel
If you have a bullbar fitted to your rig, consider a winch. Winches can help you if you are stuck, and there is no other 4WD to snatch you out.
You can always add to your 4WD recovery kit, depending on where you are going and the condition of the roads there. However, always carry a basic kit when you head off anywhere off-road.
Click here for more information and prices for recovery kits
Towing Mirrors
Towing mirrors are useful because they allow for better visibility. They are also mandatory on Australian roads when towing a
They increase your field of view, help prevent accidents, and also make parking easier.
They attach to your existing mirrors and give you more range than just using regular mirrors. They help reduce blind spots and increase the field of vision.
There are also several manufacturers of after-market tow mirrors. They completely replace your existing mirrors.
Click here for more information and prices for towing mirrors
Spare Parts
Whether you’re changing tyres, repairing leaks, or doing basic
Here are some of the most common tools every
- tyre lever
- air pressure gauge
- wheel brace that fits the towing vehicle’s lug nuts
- stabilising blocks for uneven or soft ground
- socket wrench set -standard and metric
- selection of spanners
- flat and Phillip head screwdrivers in various sizes
- standard & Channel-lock pliers in various sizes
- metal and wood small drill bit set
- cordless drill with spare batteries
- claw hammer
- pocket knife or Leatherman
- wire cutters for cutting electrical wire
- tape measure
- mini hacksaw and extra blades
- small 2 bubble spirit level to make sure your van is level
- folding tree saw
- Tarzan grip or superglue for high-strength repairs
- 1000 mile-an-hour tape (to fix anything!)
- vinyl adhesive for fixing fabric tears
- thread locker glue for screws and bolts
- silicon sealant
- rubber gloves
- gloves for the campfire
- hi-Vis vests and breakdown warning triangles
- one or more spare wheels to suit your vehicle and
caravan - electrical wire and insulating tape
- plumbing tape
- engine oil, coolant, radiator hose and spare fan belt
Wrap Up
The list of things to buy for a new
Happy trails and we hope to see you on the road!
Looking for other
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With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
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Wandering what sheets and donna you use
The sheets and donna cover are from Adairs
Dear
I was looking to buy a few gadgets for my caravan and camping needs. Your reviews are very informative and I would definitely go with your suggestions to buy folding table for camping and a few more things.
Regards
Hi Marie
I’m glad you found the info and suggestions helpful.
Happy travels
Annette