GORV ISSUE CATALOGUE

Issue #91

In early August, Tango Caravans went bust, with the proprietor leaving many hard-working customers stranded without their caravan. These people had paid deposits or, in some cases, the full amount for their van. Their only ‘crime’: trusting Tango. The human toll wrought by Tango’s mismanagement is immense, while the black mark left on the Australian caravan industry will last a long time. How many people have been put off buying a van because of this situation? This month, we speak to one of the Tango victims, who asks the question: how could this be allowed to happen, and why could the proprietor escape any real consequences?

Issue #89

If it seems we are being dramatic, remember: people can and do lose their lives in the outback. This situation – a humble bogging of a vehicle in sand – could have been so much worse. It goes to show exactly why you have to be prepared for all situations when heading offroad and off-grid, especially in Australia.

Issue #87

With the cost of site fees on the rise, free-camping has never been more popular, and caravans are rapidly being fitted with systems that facilitate longer stays off-grid. But even still, many caravanners struggle to free-camp longer than a couple of days. So what can you do to extend your stay? In this issue, we tackle how to maximise your resources, while offering some crucial advice on safe and legal towing.

Issue #85

Modern RVs are so full of the latest electrical gadgetry that it is like taking your home on the road with you. The problem: this gear is prone to eventual failure or difficulty. Here are five of the most common electrical issues you’re likely to face and how to rectify them.

Issue #83

Portable lithium power banks are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, where petrol generators have reigned supreme for many years. Have these ‘solar generators’ got what it takes to knock their petrol rivals off their perch? It’s time to find out…

Issue #81

Are you trying to decide on the best way to charge your van’s batteries when off-grid? In this issue of GoRV, we discuss the options for keeping your batteries topped up, and take a technical look at the advantages and disadvantages of each. We might even have found one or two ways to man-age your 12V power that you didn’t know about…

Issue #79

You pull into a caravan park and you need to get online. But there’s a problem: your internet speed is so slow that everything grinds to a halt. Is Starlink the answer? One caravanner renders his official verdict in this must-read communications feature!

Issue #77

This is a HUGE issue of GoRV! We’ve tested the 2023 Isuzu MU-X, including its fuel usage, hitched up and reviewed four different caravans, tested RV toilet care products, installed a 5G caravan wi-fi system, and even tested a true food-grade caravan water hose. This is our most comprehensive issue yet!

Issue #75

If you’ve recently purchased a new or second-hand caravan, you will want to ensure all of its systems and appliances are functioning correctly and safely. Here are 10 essential maintenance tasks you can do yourself, including a list of the tools you’ll need for the job and simple instructions on how to go about each task. All these tasks can be carried out by any reasonably handy caravan owner.

Issue #73

It is one of the most asked questions in caravanning: how big a battery do I need for free-camping? Given our reliance on electronic devices, you don’t want to get this one wrong. Our guide to sizing up a battery to suit your needs should help you get it right the first time.

Issue #71

If you’re in the market for a new caravan, you will need to make a decision about caravan suspension. But what are your options and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each type?

Issue #69

We have reviewed plenty of caravans in the last 12 months, from hard-core offroaders to luxurious couple’s tourers built for the blacktop. These are our seven favourites…

Issue #67

Should you need a licence to tow a caravan? After all, towing is very different to driving unhitched. Let’s open a can of worms…

Issue #65

Isuzu UTE Australia’s LS-U+ D-MAX ute has gained a great deal of traction as a tow vehicle in this country. For the next six months, we’ll be testing it under a variety of conditions. Anyone in the market for a new tow vehicle should keep up with this must-read series of features. These are our initial impressions of our new long-term tow vehicle…

Issue #63

When preparing for a caravan trip, it’s very easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all, especially during the planning stages. We’ve compiled the disaster stories of others in hopes they spur you to prepare for the unthinkable before you leave.

Issue #61

Is your tow vehicle, van or both overweight? Would you even know how to assess if they were? The truth is, no topic within the caravanning community causes more confusion. So let’s set the record straight…

Issue #59

The Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series 4.5 V8 turbo-diesel has long been an all-time favourite tow vehicle in Australia. But the just-arrived Land Cruiser 300 Series has created a ruckus among those who are a bit wary of its smaller, 3.3L V6 turbo-diesel engine. Can the new LC300 match its legendary predecessor? We hitched it up to find out…

Issue #57

You might think a turbo-diesel vehicle is the only way to go for towing anything bigger than a camper trailer. But is this really true? Let the debate begin!

Issue #55

So you want to get into the best remote areas Australia has to offer. We spoke to one of Australia’s most respected outback travellers for his advice on how to do it safely. We’ve also put together one of the most comprehensive wrap-ups of remote-area communications you’re likely to find anywhere.

Issue #53

Discover a caravan that kisses fossil fuels goodbye once and for all. With its 14.3kWh lithium battery by OzXcorp and 2000W rooftop solar array, this van requires no 240V power or gas for long-term off-grid camping. Even the outdoor barbecue is powered by this advanced battery! This is the future of caravans in Australia…

Issue #51

More Aussies are hitting the road than ever before, and there are many ways to extend your stay at that perfect campsite or holiday park. Long-haul vanners share their hints and tips on the best ways to camp for longer!

Issue #49

Are you new to towing? The fact is, it can be a difficult, daunting experience, and the potential to damage something is real. Here’s what to expect, based on personal experiences, along with a horror story or two. We’ve also included some tips to see you through. If you’re experienced at towing caravans, there’s plenty here for you, too.

Issue #47

How much do you really know about your van’s tyres? There are good reasons why each caravan and camper trailer sold in Australia must come with a tyre placard. In this issue, we delve into RV tyres, with technical advice on tyre loads, wheel studs and much more.

Issue #45

RVs are highly prized by opportunistic thieves in Australia. So… is your van safe? Your RV was too expensive and provides too much enjoyment for it to fall into the hands of thieves. These are tried and tested ways to protect your investment, both at home and when you’re on the road.

Issue #43

A number of new or significantly revised tow vehicles have been released this year. In this issue, we nominate five of the best, and it’s a list we are sure will cause plenty of debate. Meanwhile, we’ve joined forces with Camps Australia Wide. Each issue, Camps will nominate a Freedom Camp of the Month – don’t miss it!

This is one of our biggest issues yet!

Issue #41

We have a brand new Jayco TRX tent trailer worth $18,990 (RRP) to give away to one lucky GoRV reader! This forward-fold, lightweight trailer is equipped with a slide-out kitchen, a water tank, large storage areas, a double bed, a club lounge and much more. It’s also very easy to tow! It’s FREE to enter so what are you waiting for?

Issue #39

Are you considering independent coil suspension for your next caravan, or thinking about upgrading your van’s exisiting suspension? In this issue, we delve into the benefits of coil suspension. We also go in-depth with the professionals on caravan servicing, show you how to do a DIY jockey wheel service, and much more!

Issue #37

Our travelling lives have suddenly, drastically changed. But that doesn’t mean we can’t dream about or plan our next big trip. We at GoRV have focussed this month on easy, cheap tips and modifications that other caravanners have adopted to make their lives on the road more enjoyable. With travel restrictions in place, now is a good time to have a go at one of these yourself.

Issue #35

Issue #33

The RV market is brimming with options, from shiny new caravans to faded second-handers hoping for a new lease on life. Get your purchase right, and it’s happy travels. But getting it wrong could mean spending money hand over fist to finally get it right.

Issue #31

Issue #29

The caravan industry’s national body has slammed a federal government decision to delay a much-needed overhaul of Australia’s vehicle manufacturing and importation laws. The Caravan Industry Association of Australia has blasted the move as putting lives at risk. It’s not all doom and gloom in this issue, though. We’ve put together practical – and sometimes neglected – advice for purchasing a new tow vehicle, real-world tips on how to save fuel from a full-time vanner, and much more!

Issue #27

The pros, the cons, the heated debate! Do you prefer RVs that have a coupling, or an engine and transmission? Whether caravan or motorhome, there’s more to this question than meets the eye. This issue of GoRV is packed with essential information – don’t miss it!.

Issue #25

Though they’re uncommon, caravan rollovers can and do occur. And there’s one very important reason why. In this issue, we explain the facts behind caravan rollovers and what you can do to help prevent them. We’ve all reviewed two new vans and have a special report on a device that replaces the trailer plug with a wireless signal.

Issue #23

Looking for a new tow vehicle? There’s no shortage of options. In this issue, we reveal our top three under-rated 4WDs, vehicles that are more capable with a van on the back than many people realise. We also attempt to make the case for caravan parks – sure, some seem too expensive while others don’t live up to expectations. But could Australian travellers really manage without them?

Issue #21

Understanding caravan weights, and how to remain legal when towing, remains ones of the largest topics of confusion. In this important issue of GoRV, we demystify the terminology and problems every caravanner must reckon with. This is essential reading for all vanners, new and old hands alike.

Issue #19

How safe are we, and our belongings, when we’re on the road? The terrifying story of a couple exploring WA, which we present in this issue, has shone sad light on the fact that RVers are potentially easy targets for crooks. How prepared are you to guard against theft or a break-in?

Issue #17

This issue is packed with useful advice, from choosing the right suspension for your caravan and understanding the crucial signs of wear and tear, to the must-pack gear for a successful trip and even a DIY washing machine!

Issue #15

Is Australia’s caravan registration system a virtual rip-off? The costs to register caravans around the country vary greatly. And in some states it is shockingly expensive. Find out what it will cost to register your van in our state-by-state guide.

Issue #13

RVers are facing more legal scrutiny than ever before. But what actually occurs during a roadside police inspection of an RV, and what are the penalties for being overweight?

Issue #11

It’s the latest fashion to portray caravans as a danger on the roads in the media and A Current Affair is leading the charge. Here’s what we have to say…

Issue #09

Bush camping, away from the crowds, is one of the reasons we love the RV lifestyle. In this issue, we spill the beans on five campsites on the east coast that you have to put on your list. Meanwhile, we’ve also reviewed a few new vans and even headed to Kununurra, WA.

Issue #07

How you load your van has serious implications for its towing stability. We set the record straight. Once and for all.

Issue #05

Is your RV’s payload adequate, or even legitimate? In this issue, we look at the ins and outs of payload and what you can do to increase it. Things are going to get a little heavy.

Issue #03

When is an offroad caravan not an offroad caravan? In this issue, we look at what you need to know about the differences between purpose-built offroad caravans and bitumen-bound vans fitted with ‘offroad’ packs.

Issue #01

Welcome to GoRV, a digital magazine all about the RV lifestyle. This issue, we review two new caravans and bust common vanning myths.