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A weekend away at a site close to home is a really good idea - we did this and found it very helpful.  It was easy just to pop down the road (about 4 miles) to our house to pick up bits and pieces we had forgotten to pack and we were able to test everything out, make sure it was all working.   Used the time to give the inside of the van a good clean and made endless lists of stuff we needed to buy.  Had a great weekend and it convinced us we had done the right thing buying the van. 

We all have our jobs to do now when we arrive on site - the kids are roped in as well - one of us gets the water, another sets up the waste, hubby winds down the corner steadies and levels the van (note - add spirit level to your list of requirements) one hooks up the electric, etc.  All done in no time, kettle on, feet up and relax. 

We went to a local C&CC site and found everyone to be very helpful once they knew we were first timers.  Most of these caravanners are a friendly bunch and are always happy to lend a hand if you are struggling with anything.

As suggested above, we colour coded our awning poles and this made it much easier putting the thing up second time around. 

Hope you enjoy your new van as much as we do ours.   (Trying to convince OH now to upgrade and buy a newer one).

Can't believe how helpful you all are, absolutely fab!  We are a but apprehensive to say the least, but with all this advice I'm sure things will be easier, and if all goes well this year, definately think about upgrading next year.

Thanks again to you all.

Paula

Welcome Paula,

on't feel daunted about the whole thing, I am a newbie, well ready to star my second year really and believe me, people are always there to help you. The lfirst time I tried to put the awning up I was messing with the poles, didn;t know how you got it so close to the caraven, Then a couple came over and showed us, thats what its al aout, Learning, we've all been there. Now if you want a tent putting up, i'm your man. Get out there and enmjoy it, we bought a cheap van last year to see how we went, getting rid end of this season and getting bigger, or at lesat an upgrade with possibly hot water. Go off enjoy and don;t forget to let us know how you went on.

Harry C