Offroad Travel 101 – Everything You Need to Know

There’s a whole world waiting beyond the suburbs. A world of hidden gems to discover by day and star-filled skies to admire by night. Off-road travel gives you the freedom to unplug, explore and savour moments that don’t come with a schedule.

But before you chase the red dirt horizons and creek-crossed tracks, there’s one thing you need to get right: your setup. From a reinforced chassis and independent suspension to solar systems and satellite internet, travelling off-road demands more from your caravan—and from you.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, detailing everything you need to know before heading off-road. We’ll break down what makes a caravan adventure-ready, explore top models that go the distance, and help you tow, pack and plan like a seasoned pro.

Here’s why your caravan matters more than you might think

Choosing the right caravan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before embarking on any off-road journey. 

When you are hours from the nearest town, bouncing along red dirt tracks, or crawling through a rocky riverbed, the last thing you want is to discover your van wasn’t built for it. Off-road travel demands more from your setup. It demands more durability, more clearance, and more grit.

So, what actually makes a caravan ‘off-road ready’? Let’s break it down:

1. Reinforced chassis

The chassis is the structural frame your caravan is built on. When you’re rumbling down a corrugated track for hours, every bump and shake adds up. 

A reinforced, galvanised steel chassis gives your van the backbone it needs to survive those constant vibrations and sudden jolts. It keeps everything in place—so your cupboards stay shut, your plumbing stays intact, and your van doesn’t fall to pieces halfway to camp.

2. Independent suspension

Off-road terrain is rarely flat or predictable. And that’s exactly where independent suspension proves its value. It allows each wheel to move separately, which helps your caravan hug the track instead of bouncing over it. 

Compared to traditional leaf springs, independent suspension provides better traction and reduces wear and tear on both the van and your gear. In other words, independent suspension delivers fewer headaches and a much smoother, more comfortable driving experience off-road.

3. Off-road tyres

The tyres on your caravan are your first line of defence against the ground below. But standard tyres simply weren’t built for the demands of rough tracks and rugged ground. That’s why off-road tyres are a must-have. 

Designed with deeper treads and reinforced sidewalls, off-road tyres can take on sharp rocks, slippery mud and loose gravel without blowing out or losing grip. They can also handle the extra weight that comes with off-road travel, reducing the risk of punctures and giving you the confidence to take on rougher conditions.

4. Higher ground clearance

Getting hung up on a log or scraping your undercarriage on a rocky ledge is no one’s idea of fun. This is where having more clearance under your caravan pays off.

Off-road caravans are designed to sit higher off the ground than standard vans, helping you glide over obstacles and avoid damage to your water tanks, pipes or flooring. Think of it like this: more clearance means more freedom to explore off the beaten path without constantly worrying about what’s underneath you.

5. Protective underbody coating

When you’re driving off-road, your van’s underside is constantly bombarded by gravel, mud, sticks and water. A solid underbody coating acts like armour, protecting vital parts such as water tanks, gas lines and electrical cables from chips, cracks or corrosion.

It can mean the difference between just a scratch and a trip-ending repair job, which is why underbody coating is essential for protecting your van.

For stacks of fantastic tips on how to keep your van spotless, head over to our blog.

Find the off-road caravan that fits your travel style

No matter the adventure you’re chasing, Wonderland RV has a caravan to match. With state-of-the-art capabilities, luxury features and high-end comfort, these vans offer serious value over the long haul. 

So, now that you know what makes a caravan off-road ready, let’s take a look at three of your best options, and break down what makes each a great fit for countless adventures.

XTR

If you’re hitting the open road as a family, the XTR 2211 is your secret weapon for keeping everyone happy. With separate living zones for the kids and the grown-ups, there’s plenty of space for everyone to unwind, making it easier to enjoy both togetherness and a little breathing room.

But that’s just the beginning! The XTR 2211 is purpose-built to take you further. Its heavy-duty CRZR chassis and advanced suspension system can conquer rough roads and challenging terrains without breaking a sweat. That translates to you and your family enjoying a smooth, stable ride no matter what the road throws your way.

And with its serious power and water capacity, you can go off-grid for longer, staying comfortable and self-sufficient as you explore the great outdoors. Add in clever design touches and top-tier finishes, and you’ve got a caravan that turns family getaways into five-star luxurious adventures.

As if all of that wasn’t impressive enough, the XTR 211 is also backed by serious accolades, including the 2024 Best Overall Caravan Award, plus titles for Best Family Caravan and Best Innovation.

Hornet

With the looks, the layout and some serious off-road muscle, the Hornet is built for freedom without the compromise. Step inside and you’ll find all the essentials elevated:

• A plush north-south queen bed for lazy lie-ins.
• Full ensuite with separate shower and toilet.
• Plus ample space to cook, relax and reconnect.

There’s even room to bring the bikes, boards and all the gear, thanks to a massive 1100L under-bed storage compartment and full tunnel boot. 

And when you’re so far off the grid that your phone signal gives up? No stress—the Hornet is designed for exactly that. With an 800W solar setup, 400Ah lithium battery and a 2600W inverter, you’ll stay powered, connected and comfortable without needing to plug in.

With over 30 layout options and Wonderland’s signature finish, the Hornet offers a personalised fit for every kind of traveller.

Amaroo

If you’re dreaming of long, laid-back getaways that don’t rely on holiday parks or powered sites, the Amaroo was made with you in mind. Built for extended off-grid travel, it’s a perfect match for couples or families wanting to slow down, stay longer and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Step inside the Amaroo and you’ll find all the creature comforts of a full-sized home, thoughtfully packed into a smaller design. This includes a spacious club lounge that invites you to stretch out and unwind; a well-appointed kitchen with plenty of prep space; and an ensuite that feels like a luxurious hotel. The Amaroo is an excellent choice for new off-road travellers who don’t want to compromise on comfort. 

While the inside offers serious luxury, it’s off-grid living where the Amaroo really shines. With an 800W solar system, 400Ah lithium battery and ample fresh and grey water storage, this amazing van keeps you and the family powered and comfortable no matter how far off the beaten track you venture.

What you need to know about towing your caravan

Before you set off on your first big trip, it’s really important to make sure your tow vehicle is properly matched to your caravan. Knowing how to properly tow your caravan ensures a safer, more stable journey for you and your passengers. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty details and get you ready to hit the road with confidence:

1. Know your towing capacity

Every vehicle has a maximum towing capacity. Exceeding it can be incredibly dangerous—not to mention illegal. That is why you’ll need to check both the braked towing capacity and the GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) to make sure your car can safely handle the weight of your fully loaded caravan. Don’t forget to factor in water tanks, gear, food, and anything else you’ll bring along.

2. Choose the right hitch

For off-road caravans especially, a standard tow ball just won’t cut it. A heavy-duty, articulating hitch, such as a DO35 or similar, can handle rough terrain and reduce stress on both the caravan and vehicle. It will also help keep the connection stable on uneven ground.

3. Install a brake controller

If your caravan weighs more than 750kg (and most do), electric brakes are legally required, which means your tow vehicle needs a brake controller. This device connects your car’s braking system to your caravan’s, making sure both slow down together. 

This results in smoother stops, shorter braking distances and a massive boost in overall safety. Plus, most modern brake controllers let you adjust the braking intensity to suit different road conditions, giving you more control when it counts.

4. Get your weight right

Poor weight distribution is one of the most common causes of caravan sway. Avoid this by keeping your heavy items low and centred, distribute weight evenly on both sides, and use a weight distribution hitch to keep your setup level. Not only does this reduce the risk of sway, but it also improves handling and fuel efficiency, making it a win-win.

To learn more about safe and confident caravan towing, check out our ultimate guide.

Hit the tracks with the right essentials

Once you’ve got your tow vehicle sorted, the next step is making sure your caravan is kitted out for the kind of off-road travel you desire. Equipping your van with the right gear ensures you’re not only ready for the unexpected, but comfortable and self-reliant no matter how remote the journey. Consider adding the following equipment to your setup:

1. Recovery points

When you’re off the beaten track, getting bogged or stuck is always a possibility, particularly in sand, mud or uneven terrain. Recovery points are reinforced steel mounts on your van and tow vehicle that allow you to safely attach snatch straps, winches or recovery boards. 

Without these, extracting your rig becomes dangerous or even impossible. Rated recovery points are an essential safety feature for any serious off-road setup.

2. Sway bars

While off-road routes can be unpredictable, long highway stretches are no less challenging. Sway bars work to stabilise your caravan while towing, reducing side-to-side movement and giving you more control behind the wheel. For beginner travellers, they offer extra peace of mind and safer, more confident towing on all road types.

3. High-capacity water tanks

Every litre of water counts when you’re camping off-grid. With fewer refill opportunities in remote areas, having high-capacity fresh and grey water tanks gives you the freedom to stay off the beaten path for longer. Wonderland caravans like the Amaroo come equipped with generous tank sizes, making sure you always have enough water for drinking, cooking, cleaning and showers.

4. Solar panels and lithium batteries

Powering your off-grid lifestyle starts with a reliable solar and battery setup. Rooftop solar panels paired with lithium batteries mean you can run your lights, appliances, fridge and fans without relying on caravan parks or generators. It’s quieter, more sustainable and gives you complete freedom to camp anywhere.

5. Starlink satellite internet

Staying connected in remote areas used to be a luxury for the privileged few. Now, with Starlink satellite internet, you can work, stream and stay in touch no matter how far off the grid you roam. 

For remote travellers, especially those working on the go or keeping in contact with family, Starlink is a total game-changer. It delivers fast, reliable internet from just about anywhere in Australia, making it a must-have for any traveller who wants to stay connected.

How to prepare for off-road adventures

Off-road travel brings freedom like no other, but it also demands a bit of extra planning. Whether you’re heading out for a long-haul trek or a weekend escape, here’s how you can get everything in order before setting off on an adventure:

Route planning

There’s a lot more that goes into route planning than simply choosing a destination. Off-road travel can be unpredictable, so it’s important to do your homework.

• Research trails: Use trusted tools like Wikicamps Australia and local tourism sites to find off-road routes that are safe and suitable for caravans. Not all 4WD tracks are caravan-friendly, so check clearances, access and difficulty ratings.

• Check road conditions: Weather and terrain can change in the blink of an eye in remote areas. That’s why it’s a good idea to check state road authority websites and recent traveller reports for the latest info on closures, floods or rough patches.

• Plan fuel stops: Don’t rely on fuel being available when you need it. Map out fuel stops in advance and know your van and vehicle’s range to avoid getting stranded.

Pre-trip checklist

A bit of pre-trip prep goes a long way when you’re venturing off-grid. Before you leave home, make sure your caravan, tow vehicle and gear are adventure-ready.

• Vehicle and caravan maintenance: Check tyre pressures (including spares), fluid levels, brake systems, battery charge and that all lights are working. Look for signs of wear or damage and sort out repairs before departure.

• Packing smart: Bring essential tools like a tyre inflator, jack, wheel brace and basic tool kit. Don’t forget spare parts such as fuses, hoses and belts, along with an emergency first aid kit and satellite phone or PLB for safety.

• Permits and regulations: Double-check that you’ve secured the necessary permits for off-road tracks and national parks. It’s also smart to let someone know your itinerary in case of emergencies.

Permits and regulations

Regulations vary between regions, and being across the rules ensures you avoid fines and protect the environment.

• National parks: Many parks require both entry and camping permits. Check the official government or park website and book in advance, especially during busy seasons.

• Fire regulations: Fire bans are common in many parts of Australia, particularly during summer. Stay up to date with fire restrictions, and always follow guidelines when using campfires or portable stoves.

• Camping rules: Respect local signs and follow the ‘leave no trace’ principles: dispose of waste responsibly, avoid harming plants and wildlife, and only camp in designated areas when required.

Safety tips for off-road travel

When you’re travelling off the beaten path, safety should always come first. A few smart precautions can make all the difference in keeping your trip safe, enjoyable and stress-free.

• Emergency preparedness: Always carry extra fuel, food and water, especially when heading into remote areas. A satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) can be a lifesaver if you’re out of mobile range.

• Travelling in groups: If possible, travel with others. Having a second vehicle nearby can be a huge help in case of breakdowns or recovery situations. 

• Wildlife and environmental awareness: Be alert for animals crossing the road, particularly at dawn and dusk. Respect local wildlife and follow guidelines to protect delicate ecosystems along the way.

Your adventure begins with Wonderland RV

For couples and families eager to explore the calm beauty of Australia’s natural escapes, Wonderland RV is here to help you cruise into the travel lifestyle with absolute comfort and style.

Our family-run team pours passion into every caravan, making sure each one is ready to handle the rugged outback while providing the luxurious touches that make you feel at home. 

So, if you’re ready to kickstart your journey and create unforgettable memories, head over to our range of custom-built caravans and discover the perfect one that fits your lifestyle, your budget, and your big adventure plans.

Here’s to the first of many epic getaways, with Wonderland by your side!