Turn the journey into part of the holiday

We’ve all heard it before: “Are we there yet?” But what if the drive itself became part of the adventure? When you’re towing a caravan or heading to your holiday destination, the journey doesn’t have to be a chore. With a bit of planning and a splash of creativity, your road trip can be just as fun as the holiday waiting at the other end. Here’s our take on hitting the road.

1. Start with the basics: Better safe than sorry with packing and towing

Before you even think about chucking the kids, the dog, and half the house into the car, let’s talk towing. Whether you’re a seasoned caravaner or more of a “what does this button do?” type, a quick refresher on towing basics can save you from some epic headaches later.

Pack it in!

Whether you’re bringing the kitchen sink or just the essentials, packing properly is key.

• Weight Distribution: Keep heavy stuff low and near the caravan’s axle to avoid that wobbly, jelly-on-wheels situation.
• Securing Items: Don’t just shove things in and hope for the best. Secure your load so it doesn’t turn into a high-speed treasure hunt.
• Car Packing: Keep the car’s essentials – snacks, entertainment, and Dexter’s lead – within easy reach. Oh, and don’t overload it; your suspension will thank you.
• Double-Check: Before hitting the road, do a walkaround. Check all the connections, locks, and lights.

What's my towing cheat sheet?

Here’s the lowdown (no complicated jargon, promise):

• Towing Capacity: Your car might look tough, but can it handle the weight of your caravan? Check the handbook to avoid any roadside dramas.
• Safety Chains: These little guys are lifesavers – literally. Make sure they’re securely attached and meet the rules.
• Mirrors: If your caravan blocks your rear view, you must get towing mirrors. Yes, they look a bit dorky, but they’re not optional.
• Breakaway Systems: Got a hefty caravan (over 2,000kg)? It needs a working breakaway system. It’s like a safety net for your caravan if things go sideways – literally.

Need more tips? Check out this handy guide here. Trust us, a little prep now means more time for relaxing later.

2. Hit the road with the ultimate playlist

No road trip is complete without a killer soundtrack. Lucky for you, Reflections Holiday Parks has already done the hard work and created the perfect road trip playlist. Featuring singalong classics, feel-good tunes, and the occasional air-guitar-worthy riff, this playlist will keep the whole car grooving from start to finish.

Check it out on Spotify here. Pro tip: Let everyone take turns DJ-ing to avoid backseat meltdowns over song choices.

3. Stay alert with free coffee from Oliver’s

Long drives can take their toll, especially when you’re towing. Staying awake and focused is crucial for everyone’s safety. Here’s a perk to brighten your journey: if you’ve booked a stay with Reflections, you’re entitled to a free coffee from Oliver’s Real Food - check your sms messages for more info on the day.

Swing by one of their locations along the way and grab your caffeine fix. It’s organic, delicious, and guaranteed to perk you up faster than your kids can ask for their next snack.

4. Keep the fun rolling with a car quiz

Even with great music and coffee, the miles can drag on, especially for younger passengers. Enter the car quiz—your secret weapon for keeping everyone entertained (and off their devices).

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• “Name That Tune”: Hum or whistle a song from the playlist and see who can guess it first.
• “I Spy (Car Edition)”: Stick to things outside the car, like road signs, landmarks, or interesting license plates.
• Trivia Time: Test your family’s knowledge of Australian landmarks, big things, animals, or random fun facts.

Make it competitive with prizes—maybe the winner gets the best bed in the caravan or first dibs on dessert at the holiday park.

5. Stop, stretch, and snack

No one enjoys being cooped up in a car for hours on end. Plan regular stops to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and let the kids (or your dog) burn off some energy. Bonus points if you find a scenic lookout or quirky roadside attraction.

And don’t forget the snacks! A well-fed car is a happy car. Pack a mix of healthy options and treats to keep everyone satisfied until you arrive, or pull up at one of our epic pubs to stop at for a bite to eat on the way.

Enjoy the journey, Not just the destination

By turning your road trip into part of the holiday, you’ll arrive at your destination feeling relaxed and ready to dive into your adventure. So, check your towing setup, queue up the tunes, grab that free coffee, and let the fun begin before you even unpack.

Safe travels and happy caravanning!