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Getting the Ford Super Duty ready for off-grid use
After leaving Hartly, NSW, the Super Duty pulled our caravan up the short but steep mountain (6.75% gradient) to Lithgow without any problems, with more than sufficient power, even though I’d started loading it up. The Super Duty came standard with the steel tray, to which I added an Aussie Tonneaus Wildback canvas canopy incorporating ladder racks on which I mounted 2 x 250w solar panels. Under the canopy, I installed : I decided not to install the alternator charging kit and am still of two minds as to whether I’m going to, seeing that the Super Duty does have a trickle charge set up already, meant for the trailer/caravan…
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Ford Super Duty – Still a happy customer
Since my last blog, after buying the Ford Super Duty just before Christmas, we have towed our 21.7‑foot caravan (around 3200 kg) with an additional 400 kg on the ute from Ballarat to the Blue Mountains (Hartley). We followed the M8 to Melbourne, then the M31 north‑east, overnighted at the Ettamogah Pub just past Albury (a great free‑camping site), then turned onto the A41 at Coolac and continued through Bathurst and Lithgow to Hartley – altogether around 900 km. Before setting off, we used the Smart Hitch to check both the ute’s payload and the tow‑ball weight, which showed 300 kg (this changed slightly once we got into the vehicle).…
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New 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty
We’ve used our 2007 4X4, 3-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged 4-cylinder Nissan Patrol to tow a 21.7-foot caravan over 16,000 km (probably slightly overloaded at around 3200kg), but we always felt the Patrol was working at its limits, especially when traversing hilly country. We generally towed at around 90km/h and a lot slower in the mountains, which we usually tried to avoid. In looking to upgrade our tow vehicle, we considered what the market had to offer, from the Ram, Silverado, the new lower rated 4 cylinder Land Cruiser and even trucks, finally, with my heart still set on the discontinued V8 Land Cruiser, we decided on a 2026 Ford Ranger Super…
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25 surprising facts about caravanning in Australia
Australia’s caravanning culture is full of quirks, records and unexpected trends that make it unlike anywhere else on Earth. From horse‑drawn vans to high‑tech off‑road rigs, here are 25 surprising facts that show just how big and distinctive caravanning is down under. Early days and hidden origins 1. Long before modern caravans, horse‑drawn travel trailers were used by Australian explorers, workers and holiday‑makers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blending European wagon ideas with local conditions. 2. The first purpose‑built Australian caravans began appearing in the early 1930s, with small operators like Paramount in Adelaide and others experimenting with streamlined bodies, novel layouts and even patented floor‑lowering systems.…
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Barriers to decarbonisation in the Grey Nomad community of Australia.
Grey nomads face several practical, financial, and systemic barriers to decarbonising their travel, even though many are keen to reduce their environmental impact. The main obstacles are the high cost of low‑carbon technology, patchy infrastructure in remote areas, and the design of current RVs and travel patterns, which make it hard to switch quickly to electric or solar-powered travel. High upfront costs and limited budgets Many grey nomads are on a fixed retirement income and are cautious about making significant, one‑off expenses, which in turn makes low‑carbon upgrades difficult. Lack of charging and refuelling infrastructure The most significant practical barrier for grey nomads is the absence of reliable, fast charging…
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Why sustainability research matters
Sustainability research is essential because it provides the knowledge and innovations needed to address climate change, protect biodiversity, and ensure that future generations can thrive. Sustainability research connects science, society, and policy to create practical solutions for global challenges. By focusing on long-term resilience, sustainability research ensures that today’s actions do not compromise tomorrow’s resources. The United Nations defines sustainability as meeting present needs without limiting future generations’ ability to meet theirs, and sustainability research is critical to making that vision a reality. Sustainability research responds directly to global crises such as climate change, poverty, and environmental degradation by offering evidence-based strategies to tackle interconnected challenges. It also drives innovation,…
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Eco-Friendly Adventures: How to Be Carbon Neutral in a Caravan
Travelling carbon neutral in a caravan means reducing fuel use, minimising waste, and offsetting emissions—so your adventures leave memories, not a footprint. Caravan travel offers freedom, comfort, and a deep connection to nature, but also comes with a carbon cost. From towing fuel to campsite energy use, every kilometre adds up. The good news? With smart choices and a sustainability mindset, you can make your caravan journeys carbon neutral and even regenerative. 🌿 Step 1: Choose an Energy-Efficient Setup ♻️ Step 2: Minimise Waste and Water Use 🌍 Step 3: Offset Your Emissions Even with the best intentions, caravan travel produces emissions, primarily from fuel. Offset them by: 🛠️ Step…
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Eco-Nomads Support Local Communities
Travelling by caravan offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in diverse landscapes and cultures. However, ensuring that your journey positively impacts the communities you visit is crucial. Supporting local communities while caravaning not only enriches your travel experience but also contributes to the sustainability and prosperity of these areas. Here’s how you can make a difference: Travelling by caravan provides an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. By making conscious choices to support local communities, you ensure that your journey not only benefits you but also leaves a lasting positive impact on the places you visit. Remember, the heart of travel is connection, and every small effort counts towards…
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The Road to Carbon Neutrality
Travelling in a caravan offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure, allowing you to explore breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace. However, balancing this sense of wanderlust with a commitment to sustainability is essential. Going carbon neutral while towing a caravan might seem challenging, but with the right approach, it’s entirely achievable. Here’s how you can embark on a greener journey without compromising on the fun: Travelling carbon-neutral in a caravan is a rewarding challenge that aligns your love for adventure with a commitment to protecting the planet. With these practical tips and a conscious mindset, you can explore the world while leaving a minimal carbon…
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Embracing Solar Power: An Eco-Nomad’s Guide to Harnessing the Sun
Solar panels have become an essential addition to modern caravans as more travellers look for sustainable ways to explore Australia. By utilising the sun’s energy for power, Grey Nomads and #VanLife travellers can reduce their carbon footprint, save on fuel costs, and enjoy a reliable power source wherever their adventures take them. Here’s how to integrate solar power into your caravan lifestyle: Embrace the serenity of nature and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with sustainable living. Harnessing solar power for your home on wheels is a smart, eco-friendly choice that enhances your travel experience and minimises environmental impact. By integrating solar panels into your setup, you contribute to…
