The UAE has a diverse landscape and offers various camping locations. One can camp not just in the desert, but also around lakes, beaches and mountains. Taking a caravan on a camping trip makes the experience even better. You get to enjoy the comfort of your home along with all the adventure of a long road trip.
Although caravan makes any trip more convenient, proper preparation is crucial to avoid any misadventure. Here is an overview of all the essentials to keep in mind and planning a road trip on caravan.
Permit Requirements For Camping
Dubai Municipality has made camping with caravan free on the beach at Jebel Ali. You can apply for the free permit online by signing in with the website and use the service for application of NOC. You are required to submit a picture of the caravan to get a 2 week permit.
Additionally, there are various official camping spots and off-road trails in the UAE, ideal for caravan camping in the desert. Camping at such spots will usually require payment on day to day basis.
Preparing Caravan for the Trip
The following checklist will help you out prepare your caravan to enjoy road trips and camping sites across the UAE.
Clean Your Caravan
A caravan is not something you take every day for a spin. If it is left idle for long, chances are you will need to get some car cleaning products. Ideally, you shouldn’t let it sit in the dirt for long, as just like cars, your caravan is prone to environmental deterioration. Even the climate of the UAE contributes to faster degradation due to extreme weather conditions and constant dust storms.
Here are some caravan cleaning tips to keep in mind:
- Start by cleaning the roof and then the sides
- Avoid using abrasive cleaning substances
- Check corners for signs of pest infestations
- Check for signs for moulds as it can be a health risk
- Check for signs of leakages that may have caused body damage
- Polish after cleaning to add in a protective layer
Safety Checks
Long camping trips require a thorough safety check to make your experience safe and hassle-free. Let’s take a look at a list of things to check in car before road trip.
- Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed and leak proof
- Check or replace your fire extinguisher
- First aid box should be well-stocked along with vital meds
- Check your engine oil and lights if the caravan is part of the motorhome
- Working batteries are essential for recreational camp activities
- Visually inspect tires for lack of air pressure or other damages
Equipment for Caravan Camping
If you are planning to make a long camping trip, you might want to consider stocking your fridge with food and drinking water. Don’t forget to pack some cutleries and kitchen utensils along with processed tin food. If you will be making barbecues, stow up grill equipment and maybe some foldable lawn chairs for a social evening.
Entertainment Options
Although for some, the purpose of a caravan road trip is to enjoy nature away from the bustling city life and all the electronic buzz around us. However, when on a long trip, children may just itch for some entertainment or you may have to stay indoors during an unexpected sandstorm or rain. While music is something everyone can enjoy, it isn’t enough entertainment for longer trips.
For times like these, you can opt for some indoor recreational activities like board or card games, movies, video games and ebooks.
Working Toilet
Caravans are usually fitted with cassette toilets so you don’t have to worry about stopping in the mid-way for a public bathroom. Don’t forget to load up on sanitary items like tissue rolls, soap, sanitizer and towels.
Water and Fuel Supply
If your caravan was left idle for long, you may have to flush out and refill the water tank. To ensure proper circulation of water before the trip, run the connected taps to check for pressure. If you are taking a gas cylinder for cooking, check for any kind of leakage or damage. It is better to get a new cylinder for the trip rather than an old one.
Plan a Test Run
If you are planning the trip for the first time, take the caravan on a test drive. If there is a problem with weight limit or tow hitch, get it sorted. It is best to plan a few small trips before you embark on a longer journey on your caravan. Smaller trips will get you a good grip on handling the vehicle.
By practising some common safety tips for roadside emergencies, you can protect yourself and your surrounding from unforeseen dangers of the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a caravan cost in the UAE?
The cost of a caravan varies on its design, features, size and installed facilities. Check out some of the used caravans and motor homes for sale in the UAE.
What tools to take on a caravan trip?
Even if you have a caravan in perfect condition, no one can predict if you might need to change tyres, fix some leak or do other maintenance work while on the road. The caravan is basically a home on wheels, so you will need certain tools to get by, including:
- Electric screwdriver set
- Sealant
- Electrical tape
- Wheel blocks
- Hydraulic jack
- Lubricants
Many of such tools and auto accessories for sale are available at affordable rates. Once everything checks out, you are ready to take a caravan on a road trip and enjoy your well-deserved vacation. Recently, Dubai Municipality has relaxed the fees criteria and allowed free caravan camping on the beaches for 15 days.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s leading auto blogs for more information on car parts, market trends and automotive technology.
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