How To Level A Caravan On Site: Step-by-step Guide

Last Updated on January 1, 2023 by Mosabbir

If you’re new to caravanning, the thought of levelling your van on-site for the first time may seem a little daunting.

But don’t worry – it’s a lot easier than you think! This step-by-step guide will show you how to do it like a pro. So read on, and learn how to level a caravan perfectly in no time.

What You Need To Level Your Caravan

Before levelling your caravan, it’s important to ensure you have all the right equipment. You’ll need a pair of solid wheel chocks, a spirit level, and simple tools such as a hammer and a tape measure.

Having a few wooden blocks or large stones handy is also helpful to help you get the caravan level.

How To Measure The Caravan?

The first step to levelling your caravan on site is to measure how far off level it is. You’ll need a pair of standard levelling ramps with bubble levels attached, which are widely available for purchase online or at auto and RV supply stores.

Place one ramp at each of the four corners of your caravan and use them to measure how far off level it is. Make sure each level ramp is even and read the bubble levels to determine if they are within tolerance of being perfectly level.

How To Level A Caravan On Site?

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to level a caravan on-site:

Step 1: Get The Height Right

The first step in getting your caravan perfectly level is ensuring it is at the correct height from the ground. To do this, you’ll want to measure out five feet (1.5 meters) from each corner of your van and mark it with either stakes or flags.

That way, when you get into your spot, you will be able to measure the van’s height and adjust accordingly and accurately.

Step 2: Chock The Wheels

Once you have set your caravan at the right height, it’s time to chock the wheels. Place one wheel chock on each side of each wheel and then use a spirit level to check that they are both level with each other.

If they aren’t, adjust them until they are both perfectly straight before moving on to the next step.

Step 3: Adjust For the Perfect Level

Now that your caravan is at the correct height and your wheels securely choked, it’s time to adjust for the perfect level. Using either blocks or stones under each corner, raise or lower the caravan as necessary until it is perfectly level when checked with a spirit level.

Once you are satisfied that your caravan is levelled, remove the blocks or stones and secure them with a hammer and nails.

Step 4: Secure The Caravan

The final step in levelling your caravan is to ensure it’s securely fastened to its spot. This can be done by using ratchet straps or other attachment points, depending on what type of surface you are parking on.

Ensure all connection points are tight so there is no movement when travelling along the roads.

Things You Should Avoid Doing When Levelling Your Caravan

When levelling your caravan, there are certain things you should avoid doing. Here is a list of the most important ones:

Do not use wooden blocks to level the caravan – these can cause damage to both the ground and the train itself.
Do not place pipes, stones or any other objects under the wheels of your caravan to raise it – this could be dangerous and harmful for your vehicle, as well as causing long-term damage to its suspension system.
Never attempt to level your caravan with jacks or ramps that do not have adjustable feet – this can put too much pressure on one side of the structure, which could collapse or become unstable.
Avoid using force to try and level the caravan – this could cause damage to both the vehicle and the ground underneath.
Finally, do not attempt to move or adjust your caravan when it is already levelled – doing so can put too much strain on its structure and cause it to become unbalanced or even tip over.

The Importance Of A Level Caravan

Levelling your caravan is essential for both comfort and safety. An unevenly balanced caravan can cause rocking, instability and swaying when driving on the road, making it difficult to control.

Uneven weight distribution can also lead to damage from excessive wear and tear on certain parts of the vehicle. Ensuring your caravan is level will guarantee a much smoother ride while minimising potential risks.

FAQs

Does It Matter If Caravan Is Not Level?

Yes, your caravan must be level. This prevents strain on the structure and helps to maintain balance while travelling. It also helps with the overall stability of the van when camping.

How High Should A Caravan Be Off The Ground?

When levelling a caravan, it is important to ensure the van is not too high off the ground. It should be about 2-4 inches above your campsite or parking place level. This will ensure that your caravan has adequate clearance for manoeuvring and preventing any damage from rocks, bumps or other obstacles.

Can You Level A Caravan With The Legs?

Yes, you can use the legs on a caravan to level it. This is done by adjusting each leg so that the entire van is taller. To do this properly, start with the stabiliser blocks and jacks, ensure they are securely in place, and then raise or lower them as needed.

Final Words

Learning how to level a caravan on-site is essential for any caravan owner. Taking the right approach and utilising the right tools will help make the process easier, quicker and safer for you and your caravan.

Please ensure you understand how to correctly level your caravan before attempting it to avoid any potential accidents or damage. Remember also to use chocks or stabilisers when necessary, and always check the level of your caravan after the process is complete.

By following these steps, you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable and safe experience during your next camping trip! Happy camping!