There’s something magical about packing up the van and heading off for weeks or months at a time. But when you’re travelling far from home, the little things matter more. A well-thought-out setup gives you freedom, confidence, and peace of mind when you’re parked under the stars or miles from the nearest servo.

We’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) which essentials make the biggest difference on a long trip. These three are now permanent fixtures in our own caravan and we wouldn’t leave home without them. Whether you’re just starting out or buying through a Caravan Broker in Australia, make sure these are part of your checklist.

1. Fire Safety Gear (Because Things Can Go Wrong Fast)

When you’re living in a small space filled with flammable materials, a fire can escalate in seconds. We’ve seen and heard enough close calls to know that having basic fire safety gear in your van isn’t optional, it’s essential.

In Australia, fire extinguishers are legally required in caravans but just having one isn’t enough. These devices have expiry dates and pressure gauges for a reason. If your extinguisher is over five years old, showing signs of rust, or the pressure needle is outside the green zone, it’s time to replace it.

A mounted fire extinguisher and a fire blanket near your cooking area could be the difference between a close call and a full write-off. Cooking mishaps, electrical faults, or even something as simple as a knocked-over candle can be serious.

👉 What we carry:

• Fire Box Fire Extinguisher – We chose this one because it’s compact but rated for caravan use. It fits neatly near the van door and doesn’t get in the way. Even if you already have one installed, it’s worth checking the date this could be the replacement you need. 
• DAWNTREES Fire Blanket – We keep this mounted just inside the kitchen area. Easy to grab and gives us peace of mind every time we cook. 

We added both after a campsite neighbour had a fire scare they caught it early, but only because they had the right gear on hand. That moment stuck with us.

2. Water Filter Jug (Because You Can’t Always Trust the Tap)

You’ll top up your water from all sorts of places: caravan parks, public rest stops, bush camps. Most of the time it’s fine. But now and then, the water tastes like chlorine, has a strange smell, or leaves a cloudy film on your cup.

Carrying a dedicated water filter jug means no second-guessing what you’re drinking. It’s a simple, low-fuss way to improve taste and avoid the long-term costs of buying bottled water (and the waste that comes with it).

👉 What we use:

• BRITA Marella Water Filter Jug (2.4L) – This one lives in our fridge door and gets used daily. A friend we met on the road had one and swore by it we got ours the next town over and haven’t looked back. It filters quickly, holds enough for a few drinks, and takes the edge off any funny-tasting tap water. 

3. GPS Tracker (Because Losing a Van is Unthinkable)

This one often flies under the radar until something goes wrong. A GPS tracker gives you the ability to monitor your van’s location in real time, whether it’s parked at a trailhead while you’re off hiking, stored for the off-season, or left unattended at a roadside stop.

It’s not just about theft (though that’s a big one). Some travellers have had their vans moved or tampered with at rest areas or campsites sometimes without realising until much later. A GPS tracker offers peace of mind. It helps you know your van’s safe and exactly where you left it, even when you’re far away.

It’s a small, smart addition that helps protect the very thing carrying your home and memories. If you’re planning longer travel or leaving your van stored for a while, this is one upgrade that gives real peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

These aren’t just gadgets, they’re practical additions that help you travel longer, safer, and more comfortably. For us, they’ve turned worry into peace of mind and made life on the road far more enjoyable.

If you’re getting ready for a big trip and want help setting your van up right reach out. We’re always happy to share what’s worked for us and our travelling community. Whether you’re gearing up for your first trip or working with the Best Caravan Broker in Australia to upgrade your setup, these essentials are must-haves.

Contact us through the button below, if you’ve got questions or want a second opinion on your caravan setup. If you’re still searching for the right van, a reliable Caravan Broker can help you get started on the right foot.