The great Australian dream of hitting the open road with a caravan in tow is becoming a complex reality for many. With the allure of adventure and the freedom to explore the country's vast landscapes, caravanning has become a popular lifestyle choice for many Australians, particularly those in the over 60s demographic who are looking to enjoy their retirement years. However, beneath the romanticized image of life on the road lies a significant challenge that can turn the dream into a highly stressful ordeal: the need for proper towing education and training.

The question 'How hard can it be?' is one that many new caravan owners ask themselves, only to find that the answer is not as straightforward as they might have hoped. Caravanning, while offering a sense of freedom, requires a set of skills and knowledge that many drivers may not initially possess. This lack of experience can lead to disastrous consequences on the road, with numerous incidents involving inexperienced drivers making headlines and becoming the horror stories shared around caravan parks.

Caravanning in Australia can be quite stressful, requiring knowledge and skills that many drivers may not possess. Credit: Shutterstock

The debate over whether caravanners should undergo mandatory training or have specific driver's licence requirements is a hot topic. Currently, there are no such mandates in place, but as calls for more robust requirements grow louder, the conversation is shifting towards the need for education. John Eggenhuizen, a seasoned professional with nearly three decades of experience training Australia's best 4WD and caravan operators through his business Get About Training Services, has been at the forefront of this discussion.

Eggenhuizen initially believed that licensing might be the answer, but he soon realized the logistical challenges that would entail. For instance, would a seasoned caravan driver with 20 years of accident-free towing be willing to undergo a towing course? The implementation of such a system could quickly become a bureaucratic nightmare.

The solution, according to Eggenhuizen, lies in education. He advocates for new caravan owners to invest in learning how to use their equipment correctly from the get-go. His training course, which comes with a hefty price tag of $695 for a couple, aims to lay a solid foundation for good towing and maneuvering skills. It covers weight management, understanding complicated acronyms, and other essential aspects of safe caravan towing.

However, the cost of such training is a significant barrier for many. Eggenhuizen suggests that government-subsidized training could be a more palatable solution than mandatory licensing, which the caravan industry is unlikely to support due to potential impacts on sales. His views are echoed by Emily McLean of the National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO), who supports calls for additional training and a national conversation around towing safety.

The lack of knowledge among caravan drivers is not just a theoretical concern. Dave Jason from Get-A-Weigh has reported that over 80 per cent of vehicles his team checks before a trip are over the weight limit and do not meet roadworthy requirements. The alarming number of drivers who are either unaware or indifferent to these safety standards underscores the urgent need for education.

For our members who are considering or already enjoying the caravan lifestyle, it's crucial to recognize the importance of being well-prepared before hitting the road. While the cost of training might seem steep, it pales in comparison to the potential costs of an accident or fine due to non-compliance with safety regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Caravanning in Australia can be 'highly stressful' and requires knowledge and skill that many drivers may lack.
• There is a debate over whether training or increased licence requirements should be mandatory for caravan drivers.
• Education for caravan and 4WD drivers is expensive, with nationally recognised courses costing nearly $700.
• Experts suggest that subsidised training may be more effective and acceptable than implementing licensing, and a national conversation on towing safety is needed.

We encourage you to share your experiences and thoughts on this matter. Have you undergone towing training, and if so, did you find it beneficial? Do you believe that the government should subsidize such training to improve road safety for all? Join the conversation in the comments below and let's discuss the best ways to ensure that our caravanning adventures are as safe as they are enjoyable.

 

[Gaena]

I consider the idea of Camping or Caravaning the same as when room service is late, not for me, I prefer the comforts of an expensive hotel room or even my own home, never been the outdoor adventurous type!