Any suggestions for a newby?

Submitted: Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 17:45

ThreadID: 85144 Views:2728 Replies:3 FollowUps:6

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Member - George B (WA)

Hi all,
My wife, my Staffie and I will shortly be commencing a new life in a 5th wheeler towed by a new Isuzu dMax 3 litre diesel 4wD and would greatly appreciate any constructive tips regarding the do's or don'ts, vital equipment requirements etc.
The 5th wheeler is new and on the face of it appears to be quite comprehensively equipped. At this time we have acquired a 2kVA Honda generator, quality compressor, easy plug puncture repair kit, UHF twin handset radio, under awning matting, camp chairs and table, thermal cooker and all the necessary crockery and cutlery.
We are contemplating an Aussie Foldaway boat (much the same as a PortaBote) which will be carried in a custom built "sleeve" fitted to the underside of the 5th wheeler. Fishing rods will be stored in a lockable 15cm pvc pipe attached to the rear alongside and under the bumper. The 5th wheeler is not an off-roader so I don't foresee us incurring any damage to the underside.
I have good sense of humour so don't hold back - my enthusiasm is dent proof.
Thanks in anticipation of the usual quality ExploreOz input.
No doubt we will catch up some time somewhere out there and I can apply some dents of my own.
Cheers
George

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Reply By: Member - Tanka (NSW) - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 17:50

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 17:50

George,
two bits of vital equipment you forgot. Fridge and beer.

Cheers Tanka.

AnswerID: 448859

Follow Up By: Member - George B (WA) - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 17:54

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 17:54

Shanks a lot Tanka
HIC!

FollowupID: 721127

Follow Up By: Member - Joe n Mel n kids (FNQ - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:45

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:45

well Tanka,
Reading between the lines
"""" The 5th wheeler is new and on the face of it appears to be quite comprehensively equipped. At this time we have acquired a 2kVA Honda generator """"""""
The front section is built in cool room with the gen set hard wired to it, side loading facility for kegs, it has a full bar and bed at rear .....

Hi George,
I note you say 2wd and a pet, these combined will limit you a fair bit in that with pets you will not be able to camp at some places and if 4wd you can at least go off road a bit and find a spot, it also rules out some national parks and other spots ....
All i mean is dont forget to factor it in when planning and you will most certainally enjoy your trip then.....
Cheers
Joe

FollowupID: 721141

Follow Up By: Member - Joe n Mel n kids (FNQ - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:48

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:48

ooops...... car 4wd but van not off road.. sorry
Joe

FollowupID: 721142

Reply By: Motherhen - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 18:04

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 18:04

Hi George

It looks like you have put a lot of thought into your needs already.

A few tips and hints, particularly for those starting out, including basic packing list, choices, and how to keep it all simple and easy:

Tips and Hints

Most of all, get out there, talk to others, and enjoy. A few trial runs will soon let you know what you have overlooked, and how much you can take out and leave behind.

Motherhen

Motherhen

Red desert dreaming

Lifetime Member
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AnswerID: 448861

Reply By: Member - Richard L (VIC) - Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:51

Monday, Mar 21, 2011 at 19:51

Hi George

I think Motherhen hit the nail on the head. Have a trial run and pack everything you think you might need, when you get home, if you are anything like us, put most of it back in the shed!!

AnswerID: 448883