How to setup your Elecbrakes Brake Controller
Quick Setup Guide for your new Elecbrakes brake Controller Learn how to setup the app for your new Elecbrakes brake controller. Elecbrakes Setup Instructions If you have purchased an Elecbrakes system for your new camper – this will come pre-installed on your trailer. Your next step is to set up the Smartphone app on your phone and make sure it is communicating with your controller. Here’s the instructions on how to set it up, and how to configure and test your controller. App Setup 1) Download the Elecbrakes smartphone app. Android Play Store / Apple App Store 2) Connect your trailer to your tow vehicle and sit in the drivers seat. 3) Either switch your headlights on, or just your parkers (Do not use automatic headlights, as this may switch off during your trip) – This is what powers up your Elecbrakes Unit. 4) Check your phones Bluetooth has been turned on. 5) Open the Elecbrakes app. It should search for your controller for a few moments and then connect. You will know this is working because the big tick will appear in the home screen circle. IMPORTANT – Keep your headlights turned on while driving to ensure Elecbrakes stays powered on and operating smoothly. Mounting Angle The Elecbrakes unit itself can be installed on your trailer in any angle, while Platinum will always install it on your drawbar, in a horizontal position – the unit needs to set this angle before your first major trip away. It is an automatic, relatively simple process to do. 1) Connect the trailer and take for a drive. On a straight road increase speed to at least 50 kph and press moderately on the brake pedal for 4-5 seconds. 2) The angle the unit is mounted at will be measured, and an installation angle set. 3) To confirm installation angle is set go to: Settings Page > Device > Angle After braking the angle should be set between 0-360 4) If the angle is not set after the first braking effort, continue braking the tow vehicle and trailer. The Elecbrakes controller will assess each brake response and set the angle for you. This could take 405 brake responses. 5) The mounting angle is continuously measured and refined on every application of the brakes. Installation is now complete. Configure and Test your Brake Controller After you have the app communicating with your controller, the next step is to make sure your controller is getting enough power from the tow vehicle, via the headlight and brake light circuits. What you will do next is open your app, wait for it to connect, and then click on the data tab. Like in the image below. The first section “VOLTS IN” is where you need to look, this shows you how much voltage is being received by the controller – Basically we want to see a number of at least 10 here. The tail light subtitle is where the number should be – as this is showing you that your headlights are on, and they are supplying voltage to the controller. You should also see a green light next to tail light. Now – Press your brake pedal down. A number should appear next to the brake light subtitle, and a green light next to Brake light in the “ON/OFF” section. If both numbers are above 10 – You are good to go. If they are not showing up, or they are too low – Elecbrakes have an amazing customer support team, give them a call on 02 4058 3980 and they can help you troubleshoot the problem over the phone. Configuring your Response Settings Your Elecbrakes controller has 5 braking programs. These are there so you can have different brake response settings ready to go based on your trailer load weight and driving conditions. For example: We recommend you setup a program for Unloaded, Fully Loaded, Beach Driving, and Off-Road. In your brake programs, there are 4 settings you need to set: 1. Forward Response – Driving in normal conditions (> 50kmh). 2. Reverse Response – Backing trailer in reverse. 3. Minimum Response – Driving in normal conditions at slow speed (25kmh). 4. When Tapped – Manual Override When you are ready to configure your brake response settings, go to settings and select a program you want to edit. Setting Forward Response 1) Tap on Program 1 to open 2) Select ‘Forward’ under Brake Response -Factory set at 40 3) When driving at 50kmh apply moderate brake pressure and assess trailers braking response. 4) Increase or decrease brakeresponse to suit conditionsand weight of trailer. 5. Continue adjusting responseuntil satisfied that the traileris responding correctly.Elecbrakes recommend adjustments in 5-point increments initially. Fineradjustments can be made to gain a smooth braking response. Note: Trailer should brake evenly with car in normal driving conditions. Examples:• Car Brakes > Trailer Pushes Car >Increase Trailer Brake Response• Car Brakes > Trailer Pulls Car >Decrease Trailer Brake Response Setting Minimum Response 1) Select ‘Minimum’ under Brake Response – factory default is set at 10 2) When driving at 25kmh apply light pressure and assess trailers braking response 3) Increase or decrease brake response to suit conditions and weight of trailer 4) Continue adjusting response until satisfied that the trailer is responding correctly Elecbrakes recommend adjustments in 5-point increments initially. Finer adjustments can be made to gain a smooth braking response. Note: The Minimum Response should be set up to ensure a smoother braking performance. Poorly adjusted Minimum Response will have the trailer brakes lock up or shudder at low speed. Example: Driving slow in a town and the brakes lock up Setting Reverse Response 1) Select ‘Reverse’ under Brake Response – factory default is set at 10. 2) When driving slowly in reverse apply light brake pressure and assess trailers braking response. 3) Increase or decrease brake response to suit conditions and weight of trailer. 4) Continue adjusting response until satisfied that the trailer is responding correctly. Elecbrakes recommend adjustments in 5-point
Day 1 with Your New Camper Trailer
From Driveway to Wilderness: Celebrating Day One in Your Camper Trailer
How to use a Poly Block Hitch
How to hook up your camper trailer with a Polyblock Hitch Learn all about your new Poly Block Hitch, and how to connect your trailer to your vehicle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzOEcfcv8xM&t The Anatomy of your Poly block Hitch Before we start hooking up your trailer – I believe it is a good idea to get to know your hitch and understand what all the parts do. In this article, we will be looking at the Platinum Poly block Hitch, the same that is included as standard with your new camper trailer. There are a number of other hitch options that we can offer, but this is a great hitch for first timers and seasoned campers alike. It is very easy to hook up with a 70 degree up and down motion and a complete 360-degree turn. From back to front, you have: – A Handbrake – Brakes the wheels.– Grease Nipples – You need to periodically grease these nipples, it keeps everything moving smoothly.– Mechanical Brake Latch – Used for mechanical braking, for most camper trailers you should Always leave this down. – Spring Pin – Connects your hitch to the receiver. – Poly Block – The main block– Couple / Hitch Receiver – This gets installed on your vehicle and replaces your tow ball.– Lynch Pin – This locks the Spring Pin in place How to Hitch up using a Poly Block Hitch We have made this quick video to show you what you will need on your vehicle, how to remove the old tow ball (if you had one), how to connect your new receiver and of course, how to hitch up your new camper trailer to your vehicle. Step 1: Remove your spring pin Step 2: Reverse closer to your camper Step 3: Raise or lower your camper with the jockey wheel, to line up the hitch with the receiver Step 4: Move the camper, or reverse your vehicle to insert the block into the receiver Step 5: Drop in the Spring Pin and secure with the lynch pin Step 6: Cross and connect chains to your vehicle Step 7: Connect your Anderson plug (optional) and trailer plug Step 8: Check your lights and also check your brake controller is communicating with your brakes Step 9: Raise your jockey wheel, and handle is secured Step 10: And of course – check your wheel nuts before every trip Questions? Still have questions? Shoot us a message or give us a call and we would be more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding our hitches, how to use them and how to maintain them over time. Drive Safe & Happy Camping!
New LPG Gas Fittings Have Arrived in Australia
New Gas Fittings LCC27 New LPG Gas Bottle Fittings have arrived Here’s what you need to know. The New LCC27 LPG Gas Cylinder Fittings for Australia Here’s a quick video from Platinum Campers explaining everything you need to know about the new gas fittings. LCC27 fittings have improved safety features LPG cylinders will be coming out soon with a new fitting called a LCC27. There’s a good chance that your current gas bottles use a Type 21 or POL connection. LCC27 fittings offer improved safety features, including an easy-to-use right-hand threaded external ACME connection, and a back check valve that must be engaged before gas can flow. In addition, there is a thermal cut-out on the LCC27 appliance connection. What you Need to know about the new Gas Fittings Do I need an Adaptor? The new gas regulations state that you cannot use an adaptor with the new LCC27 gas fittings. However – the new bottles are backwards compatible to appliances with POL connections – so you won’t need an adaptor anyway. You will not need to change anything to use the new gas bottles with your current appliances (Your BBQ will still work!) However – New appliances, like camper trailers from now will have the new LCC27 gas connection. And these are not backwards compatible with your old gas bottles. So, if purchasing a gas appliances (including camper trailers) from now, you will need to get the new bottle. POL connection phasing out Over the next 10 years, the LCC27 will take over from the POL Connection across the board. Leisure gas cylinders have a 10 year test cycle, so by 2031 – you will find the LCC27 is the main bottle in use. Still safe to use? Yes, your current gas appliances with a POL connection are still safe and reliable for use, and will still plug into the new bottles. So on your next swap – look out for the new bottle and get yourself future proofed! Read More
Camper Trailers Buyer’s Guide
There is no doubt that buying a camper trailer is a huge investment, and for a lot of campers, a tent is sufficient for the one or two annual camping trips they take. But for those who are starting to get out there often, want to get out more, your car is running out of room for the family, or if your set up and pack up process is getting so complex that it is stopping you from getting out on those spontaneous weekend escapes; it just might be the time to upgrade to a camper trailer or even a hybrid camper.
The Best Platinum Camper Trailer for Large Families
The best Platinum Campers for a large family Travelling with more than 4 people? Relatives always tagging along? Feel like you just never have enough storage? You need a big camper – Let us help you find the perfect one. Need Help Choosing the Best Camper for a Large Family? Trips with a large family can be fun, hectic, sometimes tricky, but always worthwhile. Except when you’re all trying to fit into a small trailer. In order to make sure all of the family members can have a great time on vacation, choosing the right camper trailer is critical. A great camper trailer to fit large families does exist, and we’ve narrowed it down to three options with various benefits to suit your camping needs and wants, such as being able to camp off the beaten path and sitting at one time comfortably inside the trailer. There are many options to choose from when looking for the best camper trailers for large families camping trips, so you won’t have trouble making your dreams of a family camping trip come true. Check out our selection of family camper trailers that will last you years and help you build cherished family memories in the Australian outback. The Chariot Double Fold Camper A True 6 Sleeper Hard Floor Camper Trailer It is rare to find a Hard Top Camper Trailer to suit a large family – most are great four couples, but more than 4 people – and you are hard pressed to find an option. Introducing the Chariot S4 – double fold camper. The Chariot S4 is unique in its class, where the second fold goes all the way to the ground. It was designed in Australia for our harsh conditions, and includes all the extras. And is a perfect option for large groups or families as it can sleep six, comfortably without the need of the include, fully enclosed annex. You will find everything you need for hassle-free, comfortable camping in the Chariot. First, the Chariot has three different sleeping areas. The forward fold section is opened using gas struts and a winch system to accommodate a queen-sized foam mattress. With the same winch, the rear folds all the way to the ground, providing another full height room which can be used for sleeping or whatever your heart desires. As a final touch, a central living area for sit-down meals can fold down into another queen-sized bed when needed. We should also mention the stereo system included as a standard feature. Super capable – and designed for off-road adventure, the Chariot is great even on the toughest terrains. Incorporating durable, dual independent suspension, with heavy duty coil springs, off-road tires, ground clearance better than some 4WD’s, and galvanized, hammertone finished chassis – the Chariot S4 is tough. Learn More The General Soft Floor Camper Get the storage and space you need for your large family! If you come into a Platinum Campers Showroom and ask us for a recommendation for a family of 4+ – we would always show you a General Soft Floor. This is our entry level Step Through camper – meaning you’re not climbing up a ladder to get into the main queen bed sleeping area. Instead – you have a small step through section that is a much easier way to get into bed – without climbing over your partner. But there is nothing entry level about it – Sporting a HUGE main tent area (at 5.1m x 2.8m) with 14.28m2 of space (including the Queen bed area) you will have plenty of room for the kids, this camper will just blow you away with it’s size. Still not enough room? There are optional kids rooms available to give you even more useable sleeping space. There is a common myth about soft floor campers being more difficult to set up than hard floor campers. We believe the opposite is true. The tent opens on gas struts, and can easily be opened by one person. Then with the addition of just 6 tent poles, your main tent area is open and setup, taking just a few minutes. You do need to add a little extra time to hammer in your tent pegs – but this is not difficult, just perhaps a little more time consuming. However, perhaps the best feature of this camper trailer is the amount of accessible, compartmentalised storage and space for large families. Storage boxes around the side, fridge slide, and tool box, pole storage, all accessible even when the camper is closed. Perfect for packing during the week! Learn More The Warrior Soft Floor Camper More Storage than Storage King – The Best Camper Trailer for Large Families The Warrior has it all – the Ultimate Off-Road Soft Floor Camper for large families. This is our top of the range soft floor – With more storage than storage king, a super-sized kitchen, with fridge slide directly next to it, and dual spare tires. Same as the General, The Warrior utilizes a step through section for getting into bed without the need of a ladder. Equipped with an even larger main tent area than the General – at 5.2m x 2.8m (14.56m2) – this camper truly is the Best Camper for Big Families. Still not enough room? There are optional kids rooms available for this model also. Additionally, included as standard is an enclosed annex, that includes walls, floor, and draft skit. All canvas on our campers are a 16oz close weave canvas (thicker than a lot of the competition) and include ample windows ensuring you can take advantage of the breeze, and internal zip-up screens making it easy to close up for the night without having to leave the camper. The huge tailgate kitchen with a extra large serving area and an extra long Pantry Drawer means you don’t have to miss a moment of fresh air and gives you plenty of space to cook for all the family. The refrigerator (optional extra)
Do you really need Lithium Batteries in your Camper Trailer
Do you really need Lithium Batteries in a Camper Trailer? What is the point of spending extra money on lithium if AGM batteries are less expensive? That’s a good question… Here’s why.https://youtu.be/1glnEVQ3aGU Initial Outlay Yes, the cost of a lithium battery is probably over twice as high as that of an AGM battery for the same energy capacity. While this is a pretty large expense, your intended use will determine whether a lithium battery is more economical for you than an AGM. AGM batteries are probably a better choice if your battery is only used a few times per year. Lithium batteries, on the other hand, maybe the best option for anyone who regularly camps and discharges their batteries on a regular basis. When discharging an AGM battery to about 50% of its rated capacity at a time, it will likely last approximately 600 cycles before it needs replacing. While the same sort of usage will see lithium batteries last around 5000 cycles. This is where lithium is truly cost-effective. Weight, Size and Energy Ratios Everything you add to your camper trailer will take away from the payload you can take with you, and AGM batteries are heavy right? If you have ever changed one you know what I am talking about. A typical 110Amp Hour AGM Battery can weigh up to 35KG or more. In comparison, the Baintech Lithium Batteries Platinum campers recommend weighing in at only 13kg. When talking about a dual battery setup – this could be a saving of more than 44kg! Which is a lot of clothing and food, or even an extra jerry can of fuel or water! That could make a big difference on an outback adventure! AGM batteries really shouldn’t be discharged below 50%, as this can start to damage the battery and reduce the number of cycles you will get out of it – reducing its overall lifespan – sometimes dramatically. (We’ve all experienced a flat battery, that no matter what you do will not recharge.) At only 50% discharge from your battery – the real usable energy from a 110amp hour battery is going to be closer to 55 amp-hours. Compare this to lithium batteries. Lithium batteries can be safely discharged to as low as 10% without having a detrimental effect on the battery’s health. Meaning a 110 amp-hour lithium has over 40 more amp hours when compared to AGM batteries. Charging Simply – it is the quicker the better while out camping. As batteries discharge in regular use, you want to be able to charge it up quickly. Lithium batteries are very quick at this, they are able to take a much higher charge-level right up the full 100%. AGM batteries start to slow right down when they hit 80% full. This means you need more sun time on your solar panels, and/ or more time on the generator. Plus another thing to consider is that times have changed. I remember when I was a kid, the only battery we had out camping was to start the car and a couple for torches and walkie-talkies. Things were kept cool in esky’s, and cooking was done by gas or over the fire. Today – things are a little different, Fridge/Freezers are common, all the kids now want to keep their phones charged to take photos (not play games of course), maybe you have brought a TV to watch some Netflix at night, and while music used to be the guitar – these days it’s probably Spotify! So these days – you need a large battery to keep everyone juiced up. Main Reasons to Upgrade to Lithium Batteries, and do you need one? This all depends on what you need to charge, how often you need to recharge, and how long you will be away from mains power. While there are a number of reasons to take the plunge into Lithium – Here are the main points to consider: 1) Up to a third of the weight – 13kg Vs. 35kg2) More power – Lithium batteries hold their voltage over the cycle, unlike lead acid where the voltage drops off almost immediately. 3) More capacity – A lithium battery can discharge up to 90% where as a lead acid is only 50% – 1.8X storage capacity. 4) Greater lifespan – Get over 10 years life from lithium 2000-5000 cycles. 5) Faster to charge – Lithium batteries can accept a great charge more efficiently. 6) Cost comparable over the life cycle – you might go through 3-4 lead-acid batteries at the same time as a single lithium battery. Why Bainbridge Technologies? More than 30 Years of DC and AC power systems expertise Stock on Hand Batteries are manufactured from their Brisbane factory and they carry stock of the most popular range ready for immediate road transport. And being local to the Platinum Factory – we can collect within hours. Proudly AustralianAll their batteries are CAD Designed, engineered, built, and supported from the Brisbane premises. Verified Designs They have partnered with leading engineers to design a 12v battery range to provide solutions in the outdoor leisure and recreation space. Including RV, 4×4, marine, and camper trailers. 5 Year WarrantyAfter-sales support and warranty for 5 years on all Lithium Batteries sold by Bainbridge Technologies. Questions? Still have questions? Shoot us a message or give us a call and we would be more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding Lithium Batteries, DC to DC Chargers, Power Management Systems and Platinum Campers. Drive Safe & Happy Camping!
Understanding DC to DC Chargers for Camper Trailers
DC to DC Chargers for Camper Trailers.How they work You have probably encountered DC-DC Chargers when researching Dual Battery Systems or Camper Trailer Power Systems. With so many different options available, you might wonder “What exactly do they do?” and “Why do I need a DC-DC Charger?” https://youtu.be/VhEiCtlkITU How do camper trailer batteries charge? When traveling, your camper trailer can be charged by your car’s battery. This can be accomplished by installing a 50 Amp Anderson Plug near the tow bar and wiring it to the car’s battery. Platinum Camper Trailer’s batteries are connected to a 50 amp Anderson plug that is mounted at the front of the trailer. As soon as the Camper Trailer is connected to the car via the Anderson plug, a link is formed between the car’s battery and the Camper Trailer’s batteries. As soon as you start your car, the alternator will kick in and charge the car battery, which in turn charges the Camper Trailer battery Do I need a DC to DC Charger? And What do they do? Well, it depends – mainly on how you use your camper trailer. Modern cars have systems such as ‘Smart Charge’ where they reduce the voltage output of the alternator when the car warms up or it detects that the car’s main battery is at a certain voltage. Or if you have upgraded to lithium batteries – they are required, as the car’s alternator cannot put out the required charging profile. Alternators aren’t designed to charge multiple batteries at once. Basically, they are there to recharge the starter battery so that the next time you turn on the car, there will be enough battery charge for the start. Even though the Camper Trailer battery will receive a charge, it won’t be able to charge it back to 100%. If you normally camp at powered campsites, where you have 240v and a charger, this might not be too much of an issue – as the power provided by the car will be enough to keep the fridge running while in transit. On the other hand – if you usually camp off-grid, or a little bit of both, relying on batteries and solar power – then a DC to DC Charger would be a great investment for your future adventures. How do they work? DC to DC Chargers are designed to isolate your camper trailer battery management system from the vehicle’s alternator. The DC to DC Charger picks up the car’s charge, regardless of the voltage output, using a charging system to boost and maximise the charging capacity. With this setup, the vehicle will be able to charge your batteries to the full 100%. A lot of DC to DC Chargers, including the Thunder DC to DC Charger, one of the options we install into Platinum Campers will also include an inbuilt solar regulator. This will allow you to attach unregulated solar panels to your camper – and the charger will continue to charge and manage the input to the camper’s batteries. If you leave your camper plugged into the tow vehicle battery and a solar panel – the Thunder DC to DC Charger can automatically select engine or solar charging to find the most efficient charging source for the Camper. So – How does it all improve your camping experience? A good quality DC to DC Charger has a huge number of benefits: longer off-grid camping, safer charging source, and a regulated input – which will extend the life of your camper trailer battery. Questions? Still have questions? Shoot us a message or give us a call and we would be more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding DC to DC Chargers, Power Management Systems and Platinum Campers. Drive Safe & Happy Camping!
Camper Trailer Weights and Towing Capacity Jargon Explained
Camper Trailer Weights and Towing capacity Jargon When you first start searching for a new camper trailer, you may not be familiar with the industry lingo and jargon, and it can get pretty confusing. The following information is essential in choosing the appropriate vehicle/camper trailer combination. That is, a camper trailer that meets your family’s needs while also being able to be legally and safely towed by your current vehicle. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swUDFWQ5QhI Let’s say the towing capacity of your vehicle says it has a braked capacity of 3,000 kg. You might think, wow, I can just buy the best camper I can afford with all the bells and whistles. This might be an option. However, there is more to consider – and if you get it wrong you may not be able to take anything else with you, not even your children. Let’s get back to basics and define some key weight terminology to help demystify the selection process so you know how much you will be able to handle. So – How much can you really tow, what’s a GTM and GVM and more? *note: this information is broad in nature. If you are unsure of any of your weight limits, please contact the manufacturer of the vehicle to confirm your limits. Towing a trailer over you capacity is not only illegal – but also incredibly dangerous – so make sure you get this right! First, Let’s define some weight terminology Payload Payload is the vehicle’s carrying capacity, calculated by subtracting KW from GVM. The maximum weight of extras that you can pack in your vehicle is the total weight of passengers, luggage, and tow-ball load. Towing Capacity This is dictated by the manufacturer, who takes into account factors including the design of the vehicle and the weight on the rear axle as well as the capacity of the tires to determine how heavy a trailer will be on a vehicle. Vehicle manufacturers equate towing capacity to ATM. Kerb weight (kw) The weight of your tow vehicle, unloaded, with no passengers but with a full tank of petrol. Gross vehicle mass (GVM) This is the maximum permissible weight of your vehicle including all passengers, payload, accessories, roof racks, everything on your vehicle – including the tow ball weight. Tow ball mass (TBM) When hitched to your tow vehicle – the Tow ball mass in the percentage of weight exerted onto the vehicle’s tow ball from the camper. This can be up the 10% of the maximum towing specifications of the camper trailer. TBM will eat into your vehicle’s carrying capacity as this amount of weight must be deducted from your overall payload in the tow vehicle. (Including the weight of passengers etc.) Tare weight (tare) The tare weight is the weight of the camper trailer as delivered from the manufacturer, empty, and without any extra accessories, water in the tanks, gas bottles etc. This weight is listed on your compliance plate. Aggregate trailer mass (ATM) The ATM is the maximum combined weight of the camper trailer, including a full payload, fluids, everything that is on the trailer, including the tow ball mass when it is NOT coupled to a vehicle. Gross trailer mass (GTM) The GTM is the maximum combined weight of the camper trailer (and can be thought of as the ATM), including a full payload, fluids, everything that is on the trailer, including the tow ball mass when it is coupled to a vehicle. This weight is listed on the compliance plate. Combination mass (CM) The Gross Combined Mass (GCM) is defined by the vehicle’s manufacturer and is the maximum limit of your combined rig (Tow vehicle and Camper Trailer) can weigh at any time. When you add your Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and your and your GTM (Gross Trailer Mass), the combined figure is your rig’s Combination Mass (CM) (GCM = GVM + GTM) The CM of your complete setup must not exceed the GCM specified by the tow vehicle manufacturer. Putting it all together. What does it all mean? Putting all this together can seem overwhelming, but it is easier than it looks. Basically, you need to do a couple of calculations during the buying process to figure out what camper trailer you can tow safely. The two most important equations you need to remeber are: GCM = GTM + GVM: This gives you the Maximum Combination Mass. The total weight of your tow vehicle, the trailer, and everything you intend to carry – including people. GCM – GVM = GTM: This gives you the maximum weight your vehicle can tow, The combined mass, minus the full weight of your tow vehicle which could end up being considerably less than the maximum specs dictate – so allow room for what you need to pack. G An example: 2021 Subaru Outback 3.6R AWD Let’s do an example together. Let’s look at the 2021 Subaru Outback 3.6R AWD – This has a Kerb weight (KW) of 1626kg, and a Gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 2,200kg, and a towing capacity of 1800kg. This leaves you with approximately 574kg of payload in your vehicle. If we pop on a camper like the Chariot – with a tow ball mass (TBM) of roughly 130kg that figure drops to 444kg. An average family of 3 (2 adults and one child) is roughly 170kg which drops you down to 274 kg that you can pack in the back. Now – This isn’t taking into consideration and aftermarket additions you have made to the vehicle – so make sure you add this as well. Upgrades can be made to some types of 4×4’s and Utes that can increase your GVM, however – this does not change the CM, so you may be able to put more in the tow vehicle – but you would need to reduce the size of the camper to compensate. The total Carrying capacity of the full setup, including your vehicle and trailer – the GCM (gross combination mass)
8 Reasons Why Camping with Kids is the Best
Top 8 Reasons why Camping with Kids is the Best! Think it’s too hard to take the kids camping – there’s a lot of reasons why its a great idea Reasons to take your kids camping… Since COVID, more and more Australian families have decided to hit the road and go camping! If you ask me, it’s a welcome side effect and distraction to the pandemic. Over the last few years, there have been a number of very large studies that have shown kids are spending less time outdoors, and are less connected to the natural world. A recent article: Natural Childhood (Stephen Moss, The Nation Trust UK) even coined a new term for this, “Nature Deficit Disorder”. Simply put, nature has a lot of competition these days – the image of children spending hours in front of TV’s, devices, and consoles are becoming all too commonplace. While we could discuss the reasons and issues why this phenomenon has developed in our modern world, like traffic, “stranger danger”, and the resulting modern “helicopter parents,” who watch and direct their kid’s every move, denying them the freedom they enjoyed when they were themselves growing up. We’re going to focus on how regular camping trips away with the kids can be a great way to reconnect with nature, spend more quality time with the family, and help you raise more resilient adults, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And with that – here’s Platinum Campers top 8 reasons why camping with the kids is the best! 1. It teaches them not all holidays don’t need to cost heaps You can grab a campsite for $20 bucks – try to find a hotel room for that amount! When first starting out in a tent, with just a small outlay of a couple $100 dollars you can be out in the bush, on the beach, or in the outback before you know it. Plus with the money you save on accommodation, you can do more activities at your destination! 2. Help develop their sense of Adventure! Camping, even if it’s just for one night is awesome! New environments, unfamiliar sights and sounds, other kids to meet and play with, a tent or camper trailer to help put up and sleeping under the stars all make for a fun-filled adventure. Some say it’s in our genes, the Wanderlust gene (DRD4-7R), a sense of adventure ensures life remains open and full of possibilities; promoting the positive outlook that underpins great current, and future mental health. 3. You can see more stars and go Stargazing The night sky is full of stories, adventures, and curiosities. And when out camping, you usually are away from the bright lights of civilization and will be able to see literally 1000’s of more stars than at home. Let your eyes adjust to the night sky and start talking about stars, Earth and out place in the Universe. Not only is gazing into the night sky one of many ways to encourage your child’s natural love of learning, it’s also a step toward raising thoughtful, introspective, universe-conscious people. 4. Camping helps build resilience Too often today kids, remain in their comfort zones; and let’s be honest, we parents can sometimes fall into the same traps. We’re all spending more time indoors than ever before. This environment, for many, is predictable, secure, and closely monitored. While stability is good, being inside constantly stimulated won’t help a child to develop confidence & resilience. Helping to put up a tent, finding the campsite shop and being sent to pick up supplies, dealing with adversity (broken poles, forgotten tent pegs, bad weather), by comparison are all great ways of building resilience. When kids learn that they can deal with adversity, they become more robust and confident adults. 5. Camping gives kids the freedom to explore and be creative As a parent, I understand the worry of letting your kids play alone outside in 2021. The world in a sense has become a more dangerous place. But, having the freedom to play, explore and generally behave the way children should is one of the vital elements missing from modern life for many children. Family-friendly campsites are a safe, and secure environment for kids to play and explore in, giving them a sense of freedom. This freedom, along with the more natural environment is a great way to boost creativity. Being bored gives kids the opportunity to be creative and use their imagination to play games and entertain themselves; something they typically don’t need to do when they’re at home. 6. Get the kids moving and exercising (without forcing it) Camping with kids in a word, is an Adventure! It’s not just about sitting on camp chairs all day, sure some days, but not most of them! Depending on where you camp, when you get up in the morning there is a world of possibilities. Hiking, canoeing, playing beside the creek and swimming, collecting firewood, climbing trees, playing hide and seek, the list is literally endless. Brought bikes? Riding on the dirt and over bumps in a new environment is a lot of fun! Obviously the sort of exercise your kid does will depend on age and your campsite, but the main point here is you are all moving and outside, and most importantly, hopefully having fun! 7. They make new friends – And so do you One of the best parts of camping is the new friends and people you meet along the way. And the same goes for your kids! Chances are there are other families camping nearby and the kids have the chance to explore together. I never worry about them getting bored because they always find someone to hang with and these kids are typically avid campers too, so they already have that in common. And of course – you will have a lot in common with the parents! 8. You’re creating lifelong memories Why do memories matter? Happy memories are not just