How to caravan without upper body strength

CatBell replied on 14/06/2022 23:35

Posted on 14/06/2022 23:35

My husband and I are (very) new to touring with a caravan but I was struck by how stiff everything is. I need the upper body strength of a gladiator for just about everything: operating the Al-ko hitch lever, the jockey wheel clamp, handbrake, engaging the motor mover, lowering the steadies (although we've purchased a drill for that now), handling and erecting the awning etc.  I am no weakling but it's quite notable how much more is involved than with my parents motorhome. Luckily, my husband is strong but I like to pull my weight, too!

So my question is: are there adjustments / enhancements / techniques that can be made to make it physically less challenging or should I start weight training before our next trip?

DSB replied on 19/06/2022 23:31

Posted on 19/06/2022 23:31

Slightly different problem here...  The thing I find most difficult is kneeling (after havingving two knee replacements) and bending.  This is why we no longer use an awning.  We are now quite content in using our Thule wind out canopy....

David

jennyc replied on 19/06/2022 23:32

Posted on 19/06/2022 09:41 by eribaMotters

As mentioned above, the biggest result would be bin the awning idea. A Caravanstore/bag awning is great, but a wind out an even better idea. Use a slide in front for sun protection or solid panel to keep the rain out. 

Auto motor mover instead of a wind on. 

We use a bucket for waste water. Yes you have to lift it but we think easier than a waste water container. 

If a serviced pitch is unavailable would an onboard tank be preferable to an aquaroll. As owners of a continental van this is all we have ever used.

 

Colin

Posted on 19/06/2022 23:32

Fiamma make waste water containers on wheels with a bit more than half the capacity of a commonly found wastemaster. We have two, which even when pulled one in each hand are easier to handle.

ADP1963 replied on 20/06/2022 20:09

Posted on 20/06/2022 20:09

Catbell

            I don't want to be a killjoy but if you want to pull your weight work as a team and use each others strength and weakness. If you lack the strength to do something allow your other half to do it whilst you get on with something that he will not be so good at. your Caravan holidays/adventures will become much more enjoyable and less competitive.

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