Arriving at your destination is one of the best parts of any caravan trip. But before you can relax, there’s one important job to do — setting up your caravan properly. A well-set-up van ensures comfort, safety, and a stress-free stay.
Whether you’re staying overnight or settling in for a week, here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up your caravan the right way.
Our Caravan Set Up Checklist has changed and developed over the years. You can view it below, or download it in PDF form. Please leave a message in the comments if there are any mistakes or if you have other suggestions to add.
This list is provided in good faith and is not a substitute for professional advice. Your use of this list, this site and your reliance on any information on the site is solely at your own risk.
Our Caravan Set Up Checklist
What follows is some more detail on the above. This is not an exhaustive list and you should always seek advice of professionals. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn commission from qualifying purchases. We are in no way affiliated with any of the manufacturers of these items. The price you pay does not change.
Here’s a practical guide to help you Set Up when you arrive on site.
Step 1: Choose the Right Position
Before unhitching, take a few minutes to position your caravan correctly.
Consider:
- Access to power and water outlets
- Shade and sun direction
- Proximity to amenities
- Ground level and drainage (avoid low, flood-prone spots)
- Space for your awning and outdoor area
If possible, walk the site first before reversing in.
Step 2: Disconnect From the Tow Vehicle
After manoeuvring the caravan into the correct position;
- Lower the Jockey Wheel.
- Engage the Caravan’s Handbrake.
- Unplug the electrical connector.
- Disconnect the breakaway cable.
- Raise the coupling off the tow ball using the jockey wheel.
- Move your tow vehicle clear of the site.
- Lower the front of the caravan using the Jockey Wheel.
Step 3: Level the Caravan
A level caravan is essential for comfort — especially for sleeping, cooking, and using the fridge.
How to level:
- Use a small spirit level or a built-in leveling indicator.
- If the site slopes side-to-side, drive onto levelling ramps until balanced.
- Once side-to-side is level, adjust the jockey wheel to level front-to-back.
Taking your time here prevents doors swinging open and helps your fridge operate efficiently.
Step 4: Secure the Caravan
Once level:
- Place wheel chocks on both sides of the wheels (especially on sloped ground).
- Lower the stabiliser legs to firm contact with the ground — but don’t use them to lift the van.
Stabiliser legs are designed to reduce movement, not carry weight.
Step 5: Connect Power Safely
If you’re at a powered site:
- Plug your caravan lead into the caravan first.
- Then connect it to the site’s power supply outlet.
- Switch the power on at the outlet.
Always ensure the lead is fully uncoiled to prevent overheating. Use a heavy-duty, caravan-rated extension lead if needed.
Step 6: Connect Water (If Required)
For a direct water connection:
- Use a food-grade drinking water hose.
- Connect to the site tap. A tap splitter is a great idea to keep the tap available for other purposes.
- Turn the tap on slowly and check for leaks.
If using your onboard water tank, ensure it has enough supply and that your pump is switched on.
Step 7: Check Gas Supply
If you’ll be using gas appliances:
- Turn on the gas bottle slowly.
- Check that connections are secure.
- Test your stove or hot water system.
If you smell gas at any point, turn it off immediately and investigate.
Step 8: Erect the Awning
Before rolling out your awning:
- Ensure there is enough clearance.
- Check weather conditions (strong wind can damage awnings).
- Fully secure support arms and guy ropes.
For longer stays, use awning storm straps for extra stability.
Step 9: Set Up Your Outdoor Living Area
Now for the fun part — making your campsite feel like home.
Set up:
- Camping chairs
- Outdoor table
- BBQ
- Outdoor mat
- Lighting
Keep walkways clear to avoid tripping hazards, especially at night.
Step 10: Final Comfort Checks
Before settling in, do a quick internal check:
- Turn on fridge and appliances
- Adjust air conditioning or heating
- Open roof vents for airflow
- Set up bedding
- Store loose travel items
A quick tidy now makes the rest of your stay more enjoyable.
Safety Tips to Remember
- Never leave stabiliser legs on soft ground without pads.
- Keep electrical leads off wet areas.
- Store hoses and cables neatly to avoid trips.
- Remove awnings during storms or strong winds.
Final Thoughts
Setting up your caravan properly doesn’t need to be complicated. By following a simple routine each time you arrive, you’ll make the process quicker and safer with every trip.
A smooth setup means less stress and more time to relax, explore, and enjoy your surroundings.
Once everything’s in place, put your feet up, take in the view, and enjoy the adventure ahead.
We have other Caravan Checklists which you may find helpful.
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