How to Hitch a Caravan

If you’ve just bought your first caravan or you’re still shopping around, one of the first things you’ll need to learn is how to hitch a caravan. It might seem intimidating at first, with cables, chains and couplings all needing to line up, but once you’ve done it a few times, it quickly becomes part of the routine.

Whether you’re using a traditional caravan tow ball or the more advanced DO35 hitch found on our hard top hybrid caravans and off-grid caravans, this guide will walk you through the process in clear, easy steps. We’ll also cover how to unhitch a caravan correctly when you reach camp or pull into your driveway.

Let’s start with hitching up.

Hitching Your Caravan

Step 1: Line Everything Up

To begin, make sure your tow vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface. Then use the caravan’s jockey wheel to wind the hitch head up high enough to clear your vehicle’s tow ball. Now it’s time to reverse in. This can take a bit of practice, so don’t stress if it takes a few goes. You want the tow ball to sit directly underneath the caravan’s hitch receiver so the coupling sits correctly before lowering it down. A reversing camera or spotter is helpful here, especially when you’re still learning, and towing mirrors can make a big difference by giving you a clear view of both sides of your van.

Step 2: Lower the Hitch onto the Tow Ball

Once you’re lined up, wind the jockey wheel back down slowly, guiding the hitch receiver onto the ball. Most caravans in Australia use a 50mm tow ball, and you’ll feel a slight ‘clunk’ when it locks into place. Make sure the locking lever has fully engaged, and secure it with the safety latch or pin to prevent it from bouncing free. If it doesn’t feel right, double-check your alignment before moving on.

Step 3: Cross and Connect the Safety Chains

Next, attach the safety chains, and remember to always cross the chains underneath the hitch. This creates a cradle that can catch the drawbar in the unlikely event of a disconnect. Use rated D-shackles or rated locking devices to secure each chain to your vehicle’s tow bar. They should be tight enough to stay put but loose enough to move freely with the caravan’s articulation.

Step 4: Secure the Breakaway Cable

Every caravan must be fitted with a breakaway system, which is designed to activate the caravan’s brakes if it ever becomes disconnected. You’ll find a thin cable connected near the hitch which needs to be clipped to a separate, fixed point on your tow vehicle. It should never be attached to the same point as the chains or hitch. Think of it as your last line of defence in a worst-case scenario where your caravan gets disconnected.

Step 5: Plug in Your Power

Now it’s time to connect the trailer plug. Most caravans use a 7-pin or 12-pin connector, which powers your brake lights, indicators, and other electrics while driving. If your vehicle is fitted with an Anderson plug, plug that in too, as it allows your alternator to charge the caravan’s batteries and run things like your fridge while you’re on the road. Make sure all cables are tidy and won’t drag on the ground.

Step 6: Final Safety Checks

Before driving off, release the caravan’s handbrake and wind the jockey wheel all the way up. Secure it into its travel position using the jockey wheel clamp so it doesn’t move during travel. Do one last walk around of your setup and check your lights, indicators and electric brakes are working correctly. Ensure all storage compartments are closed, and triple check that the hitch is locked and the chains are secure. Finally, make sure your side mirrors are correctly adjusted so you can see the length of your van clearly. If everything’s good to go, you’re ready to roll.

Hitching a Caravan with a DO35 Hitch

If you’re towing a Fantasy hybrid or off-road model, chances are it’s equipped with a Cruisemaster DO35 hitch instead of the standard tow ball. These hitches offer improved articulation, better off-road performance, and a smoother towing experience overall.

The process for hitching a DO35 is slightly different:

First, remove the DO35’s dust cap and ensure the tow pin on your vehicle is correctly aligned with the receiver head on the van.
Lower the van slowly until the hitch head drops onto the pin and locks into place.
Press the red locking button to engage the safety lock. Once this clicks, the connection is secure and can’t disconnect accidentally, even in an emergency.

From here, the rest of the process is the same: connect your chains, secure the breakaway cable, plug in your electrics, and do your final checks.

For a more detailed walkthrough, check out our dedicated guide on How to Connect a DO35 Hitch.

How to Unhitch a Caravan

Unhitching might seem like a simpler job, but there’s still a right way to do it, especially if you want to avoid any sudden movement or strain on your gear. Here’s how to unhitch a caravan safely when you arrive at your destination.

Step 1: Park on Level Ground

Choose a flat, stable location to stop. Put the vehicle in park, apply the parking brake, and put in wheel chocks if needed, especially if you’re on a slight slope. Always apply the caravan’s handbrake first before beginning to disconnect anything.

Step 2: Disconnect Electrical and Charging Plugs

Start by unplugging the trailer connector and Anderson plug from your vehicle. Coil them neatly and place them on the A-frame or into a storage hatch so they don’t get damaged or collect dust.

Step 3: Remove the Breakaway Cable

Unclip the breakaway cable from your tow vehicle and make sure it’s not tangled or under strain. Like the plugs, stow it securely so it’s out of the way.

Step 4: Detach the Safety Chains

Unfasten your D-shackles and disconnect the crossed safety chains. Some people like to hook them up on the A-frame or lay them on a mat. Whatever you choose, just make sure they’re off the ground and not sitting in the dirt, keeping them safely stowed and ready for next time.

Step 5: Unlock the Hitch

If you’re using a 50mm ball hitch, lift the locking lever and ensure the mechanism is fully released. If the hitch is still gripping the ball, you may need to wind the jockey wheel up slightly to relieve pressure.

For DO35 hitches, press the red release button and wind the caravan’s nose up until the pin is free. You’ll often hear a soft “pop” when the coupling separates from the pin.

Step 6: Wind the Jockey Wheel

Once the hitch is free, raise or lower the jockey wheel as needed until the caravan is stable and level. Tighten the jockey wheel clamp to lock it securely in place, make sure the drawbar is stable, and that the caravan is sitting correctly before leaving it unattended. Your van is now safely unhitched and ready to enjoy.

Choose Fantasy Caravans for Your Next Adventure

Learning how to hitch a caravan (and how to unhitch a caravan safely) is one of the most important things you can do before hitting the road. Whether you’re towing a compact weekend van or a fully-equipped off-road hybrid, getting these steps right sets you up for safer, smoother adventures.

If you ever feel unsure, just ask. At Fantasy Caravans, we walk every customer through this process during handover, and we’re always happy to explain it again. We’re here to help you travel with confidence.

To start planning your next adventure, explore our range of hard top hybrid caravans, compact caravans, adventure caravans, and more, and get ready to explore with Fantasy!

Choosing the Right Caravan for Your Lifestyle

Buying a caravan is a big decision, and the best place to start is with one simple question: what kind of travel do you want to do? Whether you’re chasing weekends away, planning family road trips, or heading off-grid for months at a time, there’s a Fantasy model that fits your lifestyle. If you’re wondering which Fantasy is right for you, use this guide to help answer your common questions and find out how to choose the right caravan.

Define Your Travel Style & Terrain

Before narrowing down which model is right for you, consider how and where you like to travel. Are you chasing quick weekend trips close to home, planning family holidays with the kids, or heading off the beaten track? When choosing any recreational vehicle, it’s essential to match the capabilities to your intended use.

For weekend escapes, a smaller, lightweight model is often the best choice. They’re easy to tow, quick to set up, and perfect for couples or solo travellers who want a no-fuss option for short trips.

For family adventures, look for layouts that maximise space and comfort. The Skyline 22E 22ft caravan for sale gives you room to breathe with a full ensuite, queen bed, and club lounge, while the Expedition 15C 15ft caravan with slide out bed packs both a bed and bunks into a tough off-road setup. Both models are great examples of how a well-planned floor plan can make a huge difference when travelling with others.

For off-road and off-grid exploration, you’ll want something built to handle rougher tracks and longer stays without power. While smaller models will allow you to venture down tighter bush tracks and deeper into the wilderness, larger models offer more space, comfort, and things like under-bed storage. Whichever you choose, make sure it has robust suspension, plenty of solar panels, and enough lithium battery storage to keep you powered for several days at a time.

Group Size & Sleeping Configurations

Start by figuring out how much sleeping space and how many beds you need, as the number of people you travel with will ultimately determine your caravan. Whether you’re heading off on a solo escape, a couple’s retreat, or looking for family caravans built for the whole crew, we’ve got a setup that fits.

Travelling solo or as a couple? The Mystic 12 is a 12-foot caravan with a shower and toilet, and a great place to start. It’s compact, lightweight and surprisingly well-equipped for its size. You get an ensuite, kitchen, fridge, and TV, all wrapped into a 12-foot build that’s easy to tow with a small SUV or light car. It’s an ideal choice for couples who want a bit of comfort without the fuss, and you can even opt for the family version, which includes two bunk beds!

The Frontier Series pop-top caravans offer an excellent solution for those who want the flexibility of a compact setup that expands when needed. These models provide additional headroom when set up while maintaining a lower profile for travel and storage.

If you need room for an occasional guest or want extra space to spread out, the Fury Series offers flexible layouts and premium features. Both the Fury 16D, a 16 ft hybrid camper with a hard top and the Fury 18A 18ft hybrid caravan include a hard top, queen bed, full ensuite, 152L fridge and generous water and battery storage.

If you want something smaller and are travelling with family, the Frontier-13D hybrid 13ft caravan with slide-out has you covered. It’s a 13ft hybrid that cleverly fits double bunks up front and a queen bed slide-out in the rear. That gives you space to sleep four hours without feeling cramped, plus it comes packed with 600W solar, 600AH lithium, and serious off-road capability so you can stay away from the crowds longer.

Terrain & Off-Grid Capabilities

Where you plan to travel and how long you want to stay off-grid are just as important as what’s inside your van. Some models are perfect for holiday parks and scenic drives, while others are built to tackle corrugated tracks and remote locations, even behind your Tesla! Having the right-sized caravan is essential when you’re heading to remote locations.

The Mystic Series is made for easygoing road trips and light adventure. These small on-road caravans are built to be light and simple, with everything you need to stay comfortable, like a full kitchen, toilet, and shower, in a compact package that tows easily behind most SUVs. If you’re sticking to sealed roads and are happy with the lower ground clearance, a Mystic is a solid choice.

The Frontier Series is where things get serious. Designed for rugged exploration, these hybrid campers feature heavy-duty suspension, heavy-duty construction, a robust chassis, and enough solar and lithium to keep you off-grid for days or weeks. With up to 600AH of lithium and 600W of solar, you can go remote without giving up comfort.

At the top end, the Skyline and Horizon Series are built for full-time travellers and remote explorers. With king-size beds, full ovens, big water tanks and reinforced construction, it’s made to handle the rough stuff while feeling like home. If you’re looking to disappear into the bush for as long as you like, the Horizon Series caravans are built for it.

Comfort & Living Amenities

No matter how long you’re on the road, comfort counts. Fantasy caravans come in a wide range of layouts and finishes, so you can choose the level of fitout that matches your style of travel. Sleeping arrangements differ across the ranges, from fixed bed configurations to king bed slide-outs.

If you’re happy with the bare necessities, the Mystic 12 makes excellent use of its small footprint. It includes a 102L fridge, induction stove, TV, rooftop air conditioning, and a combo ensuite, making it surprisingly livable for such a lightweight model.

But if you prefer a bit more space and a faster setup, the Fury Series caravans might be a better choice. They have a hard roof and a full ensuite with a 152L fridge, microwave, and high-end power systems that support off-grid living without sacrificing interior comfort.

And if you need extra room but can’t (or don’t want to) stretch your van’s footprint, the Frontier-13D’s slide-out queen bed is a smart solution. It gives you more living space inside while keeping things compact when you’re on the road or parked at camp. Many of our family caravans like this one also feature ample storage space throughout, including overhead lockers, under-bed compartments, and dedicated areas for outdoor gear.

Weight, Towability & Base Vehicle Compatibility

Understanding how much weight your vehicle can safely tow is crucial when selecting your next caravan. Don’t forget to ensure your tow hitch is rated for your caravan’s weight and that your vehicle’s towing capacity matches the caravan’s requirements.

Each Fantasy model has been designed with specific weight targets in mind, and the maximum weight specifications will vary depending on the range and model you choose. While larger caravans offer more amenities and space, they require more powerful tow vehicles.

Range	Typical Length (ft)	Tare Weight (kg)	ATM / Max Tow Weight	Ball Weight (kg)	Recommended Tow Vehicle
Mystic Series	10–12 ft	1 050–1 150 kg	~1 500 kg	~70 kg	Light cars, small SUVs; easy urban manoeuvring
Cubby Series	13–17 ft	1 420–1 710 kg	~1 985 kg? (≈ tare + 275 kg)	From 100kg	Mid-size SUVs, 4WD; suitable for sealed & gravel roads
Nano Series	10–16 ft	1 247–1 620 kg	~1 750–1 900 kg	From 140kg	Light 4WD/SUV; weekend to light off-road
Expedition Series	13–18 ft	2 200–2 700 kg	~2 600–3 200 kg	From 180kg	Capable 4WD; short-to-medium off-road touring
Frontier Series	11–17 ft	2 200–2 900 kg	~2 600–3 000 kg	From 230 kg	Heavy-duty 4WD; serious off-road & long-term remote stays
Fury Series	13–18 ft	2 370–2 400 kg	~3 000 kg	From 240 kg (Fury 13A)	Robust 4WDs; well-equipped & quick-deploy hybrid vans
POD	~11 ft	~1 900 kg	~2 200 kg	From 180kg	Mid-weight tow vehicles; off-road capable but compact
Skyline Series	14–22 ft	1 700–2 650 kg	~2 000–2 500 + (ATM up to 2 500 kg)	From 120kg	Medium-to-heavy SUVs/4WDs; versatile on/off-road
Horizon Series	17.6–22 ft	2 250–2 750 kg	~2 800 kg	From 210 kg	Heavy-duty 4WD towing rig; extreme off-grid built tough

Power Systems & Self-Sufficiency

While all of our ranges come equipped with off-grid amenities like solar, battery and water storage, there is significant variation depending on their intended use. Below is an overview of what you’ll find in each.

Mystic Series: Basic AGM battery and a small 100 W solar setup. Ideal for short weekends and powered site stays; minimal off-grid duration.
Cubby & Nano Series: Include a 200 AH lithium battery with 200 W solar panels. Suited for semi off-grid escapes (1–2 nights) and good for light gravel tracks.
Expedition Series: 2x 200 AH lithium batteries paired with 400 W solar and a robust Projecta charging/inverter system. Designed for remote adventure with up to 200 L of fresh water storage, perfect for longer trips.
Frontier Series: Extensive lithium battery setups (300–600 AH), 600–750W of solar, an inverter, and a DCDC charger, great for full energy autonomy.
- 2025 models: 400 AH lithium battery, a 2000 W inverter, up to 600 W solar, and 200L fresh water & 80L grey water tanks
- 2026 models: Upgraded to a 600 AH lithium battery, 2000W inverter, 750W of solar, and similar water capacity.
Fury Series: Hard-top hybrid, quick setup with full off-grid amenities. 400 AH lithium battery, 400–600W of solar, a 2000W sine wave inverter and a DCDC charger, giving you complete energy independence.
POD: A compact off-road package designed for agile exploration. A king-size bed and plenty of practical storage.
Skyline Series: Models include caravan park luxuries (TV, aircon, oven) as well as off-grid amenities. 200 AH lithium battery, 400W of solar, a 2000W inverter, 190L fresh water and 95L grey water tanks.
Horizon Series: Fully self-contained for extended independence, ideal for a remote, off-grid lifestyle. Prioritises energy efficiency with 400 AH lithium system, 600W of solar, a 2000W sine wave inverter, a DCDC charger, 225L of fresh water and 75L of grey water storage.

Range	Lithium (AH)	Solar (W)	Inverter	Water Tanks	Off-Grid Stay
Mystic	AGM only	100 W	No/Minimal	Basic tanks	1–2 nights, powered sites
Cubby/Nano	200 AH	200 W	Projecta small	Moderate	Short off-grid trips
Expedition	2x 200 AH	400 W	2000 W Projecta	200L fresh / 80L grey	Medium off-grid adventure
Frontier	600 AH	600–750 W	2000 W	200L / 80L	Long remote stays
Fury	400 AH	400–600 W	2000 W	Large tanks	Full off-grid comfort
POD	–	–	–	Moderate	Agile off-road stays
Skyline	200 AH	400 W	2000 W	190L fresh / 95L grey	Up to a week off-grid
Horizon	400 AH	600 W	2000 W	225 L fresh / 75L grey	Months-long solitude

Price & Value Considerations

In today’s caravan market, new caravans from Fantasy offer exceptional value with the latest technology and full warranty protection, something you won’t find in a second-hand caravan. Whether you’re upgrading from a used caravan or buying for the first time, our range provides options to suit every budget, and often at a more affordable price than other caravan brands.

If you’re looking for an entry-level van, the Mystic Series starts from around $32,990 and offers a great balance of comfort and affordability for couples or solo travellers.

Stepping up slightly, the POD Series begins from $37,990 and is ideal for those after a compact, off-road-ready camper with a focus on agility and simplicity.

The Nano Series starts from $39,990 and offers a more hybrid-style setup, giving couples and solo travellers the flexibility to handle semi off-road conditions.

The Cubby Series is a great option for small families, priced from $41,990. It provides affordable layouts with bunks and a practical design suited to holiday parks and light touring.

From $52,990, the Expedition Series is a strong all-rounder that balances off-road strength with everyday comforts, ideal for travellers looking to go further for longer.

The Fury Series, starting at $53,990, combines rugged off-road durability with a hard-roof hybrid design and well-equipped interior. The Skyline Series offers full-sized comfort from $55,990, making it a great choice for families who want a caravan that feels like home on the road.

Couples and families looking for long-term travel comfort should consider the Frontier Series, which begins at $64,990 and is tailored for semi-remote touring with premium amenities.

Finally, for those after the highest level of comfort, capability and independence, the Horizon Series starts from $77,990 and delivers premium off-grid living built for long-term or full-time travel.

*Prices correct as at 20 August 2025 and are subject to change.

Final Checklist

If you’re still deciding what to look for when buying a caravan, these key questions can help you decide, and ensure your caravan purchase meets your needs for years to come:

Who’s travelling? Are you going solo, as a couple, or with kids or pets?
Where are you going? Are you sticking to sealed roads and parks, or heading out to remote tracks?
How long do you want to stay off-grid? Just a weekend here and there, or months at a time?
Can your tow vehicle handle it? Be sure to check the tare, aggregate trailer mass, gross vehicle mass, gross combination mass, and ball weight limits in your owner’s manual or with the manufacturer to ensure you can legally tow your caravan. Remember that a heavy caravan requires a more capable tow vehicle and may affect fuel efficiency, wind resistance and handling.
What features matter most? Think about ensuite needs, slide-out beds, bunk layouts and off-grid power.
What’s your budget? Match your desired features to what you’re ready to spend.

What Caravan Should I Buy? Here’s a Quick Summary

Every caravan in our lineup is built using high-quality construction materials and proven engineering to ensure they can handle Australian conditions, whether you’re touring the coast or heading deep into the outback. The comprehensive caravan features we include as standard often require expensive upgrades on most caravans from other brands, giving you exceptional value for money.

As a caravan owner, you’ll appreciate the attention to detail that goes into every Fantasy model, from the robust chassis and high quality materials to the thoughtfully designed interiors. Here’s which one you should choose for your lifestyle.

Mystic Series: Lightweight, budget-friendly, compact caravans, ideal for couples wanting to keep things simple.
Cubby Series: A solid choice for couples and small families after an affordable and towable layout.
Nano Series: Built for agile adventure, great for solo or couple travellers looking to go semi off-road.
Expedition Series: Balanced and durable, ideal for those seeking more independence and capability.
Frontier Series: Tailored for long-term travel with a focus on comfort and semi-remote stays.
Fury Series: Great for couples wanting premium features and quick setup in off-road environments.
POD: Compact, minimal, and made for explorers who travel light.
Skyline Series: Roomy, comfortable and an excellent match for families who want to stretch out on the road.
Horizon Series: Built for full-time or long-term travel without compromising comfort or capability.

So, Which Caravan Should You Buy?

Whether this is your first van or you’re upgrading, choosing your next caravan should be based on a few key factors: who you’re travelling with, where you’re going, how long you plan to stay off-grid, and what you need to be comfortable. If you’re buying your first caravan, start by asking yourself what really matters to you on the road. Do you need an ensuite? A slide-out bed? Space for kids or pets? The right questions can make all the difference when it comes to choosing a caravan.

At Fantasy, our range has something for every traveller, from compact weekenders to full-sized off-road tourers. But if you’re still unsure, or want to know more about the benefits of our different ranges, find a dealer today and visit them to explore our caravans in person. We’ll help you weigh your options and secure your own caravan, fit for your lifestyle, tow vehicle, and travel plans!