Whether you are single, widowed, or just prefer your own company, the idea of travelling alone is often greeted with apprehension. Concerns about self-sufficiency, managing your RV, personal safety, ill health and vehicle breakdowns are generally the big ticket worry items.
Fortunately, there are a range of strategies you can employ to help prepare you for travelling solo.
Head back to school
Towing training
Training organisations such as Tow-Ed http://www.tow-ed.com.au/ are geared to help travellers learn or fine-tune their towing prowess. Courses cover everything from the legal aspects, safety, loading, driving techniques and, importantly, reversing a trailer.
Caravan clubs
Some commercial vendors cater for fee-based tag-along trips, where they do the lion’s share of research and planning, leaving you to supply your own vehicle and RV. Other travellers prefer a caravan club as a lower-cost alternative, where volunteers organise the trips themselves. Whatever option you choose, you will have the comfort of travelling with others for company and safety.
Choose an RV to suit your needs
It is mind-boggling comparing the range of mobile accommodation options at caravan and camping shows. There is plenty to choose from, with most manufacturers offering a number of different sizes and layouts suited to varying needs and budgets.
Considerations should include space, comfort, and manageability within your means. Take your time and do your research.
There are plenty of confident and courageous women cruising around the country that aren’t at all fazed by the idea of touring alone or even with a girlfriend. While young backpackers in mini vans are the most common, there are plenty of others who have selected an RV best suited to their requirements.
Most caravan parks have at least some drive-through sites if reversing is not your strength, and staff are always on hand to assist. In fact, some parks have tractors or other vehicles to help shoehorn you into tight spots, especially in the popular seaside parks on the east coast.
Partake in HAPPY HOUR
Wherever you go, a common evening ritual occurs around 5-6pm, where people can be seen dragging their camp chair, wine glass, stubby and a few nibbles to a common spot. This is a fantastic way to meet people and share information from the travelling grapevine; where to visit, stay and stock up on goodies.
Remember, it’s all about enjoying the moment and being open minded about approaching new people. Most travellers really enjoy mixing with other travellers and happy hour is the ideal time to do it.
The full feature appeared in Caravan World #532, December 2014. Subscribe today for the latest caravan reviews and news every month!