Off Road Caravans

Semi-off-road caravans are becoming more and more popular as more campers want to explore remote parts of our big brown land. Most semi-off-road designs start with a standard caravan body that has a semi-off-road suspension kit added. They have bigger wheels, tyres, and more ground clearance, as well as a 2 or 3-inch chassis riser, so they can go over rutted roads like dirt or gravel.

Off-road caravans, on the other hand, are made to handle the rough conditions of off-road travel. They have a heavy-duty frame and a separate suspension for each wheel. They also have better brakes, shock absorbers that can handle more weight, and more ground clearance than most cars.

Off-road caravans are great for free campers who want to get right off the beaten track.

4WD caravans are often heavier than regular or semi-offroad campers because the chassis is stronger. To pull them, you will need a bigger, more powerful vehicle.

If you want a family caravan that can go off-road, you've come to the right 4WD caravan manufacturer.

The Leader Xpedition caravan shown on this page has a variety of interior floor plans that allow for different sleeping arrangements, such as bunk beds and other family-friendly features.

Leader has put a lot of thought and R&D into making the best use of small spaces, and we are proud that our caravan bathrooms don't require sacrificing the quality of the amenities.

Your new Leader all-terrain caravan comes with a ceramic ensuite basin and swivelling toilet, a one-piece moulded shower, and an extra-large 28lt stainless steel gas and electric hot water system. So the whole family can freshen up in civilised privacy without having to brave any communal restrooms.

Our smartly designed, compact 4WD caravan kitchen is well-equipped with high-end, full-sized small-living appliances so you can cook on the road with all the ease of home.

Your Leader off-road caravan has a full kitchen with drawers, sink, 23lt microwave and 188lt double-door fridge, 3 gas/1 electric cooktop with Laminex cover to maximise bench space when not in use, flush-mounted vented range hood, and a full-sized oven with grill.

The maximum towing capacity for your vehicle (as determined by the manufacturer) will be crucial when purchasing an off-road caravan. To be sure you have the correct towing capacity rating, consult your vehicle's owner's manual or the manufacturer's website. It is important to note that vehicles with automatic or manual transmissions and gasoline or diesel engines typically have differing capabilities.

You'll also need to work out your vehicle's maximum towball load is, as this will reduce your caravan alternatives. Your towball will be stamped with a rating and your towbar should have a plate or label that says the manufacturer's name with overall towbar capacity and download capacity, which must not be exceeded.

The lowest rated item in the towing configuration, whether it is the towbar, towball, or towing vehicle, ultimately determines the maximum towing capacity of any vehicle.

For example, your car could be legally capable of towing up to 2100kg, however it is fitted with a towbar rated at 1200kg. In that scenario, the weight restriction is 1200kg.

Check the maximum permitted Gross Combined Mass (GCM) - this is the maximum laden weight of both the car and van, in the owner's manual.

To avoid exceeding this GCM limit, add the vehicle's total recommended mass (GVM) to the maximum possible caravan Aggregate Trailer Mass. (ATM).

Finally, when it comes to towing capacity rules, consult the owner's manual for your vehicle's rear axle load. If you are towing a fully loaded caravan and also fill your vehicle's cargo compartment with heavy items, you risk overloading the back axle, this can be dangerous and is against the law.

The smaller the caravan the wider the potential pool of towing cars will be. Normally off-road caravans tend to be heavier due to increased reinforcement, so greater consideration is needed when picking the correct towing vehicle.

Four-cylinder vehicles with 2L or larger engines are often only capable of towing trailers weighing between 1000kg and 1200kg, assuming the vehicle and towbar ratings are enough.

Some six-cylinder and V8 cars and wagons can haul lightweight single-axle caravans and campers weighing up to 1700kg comfortably.

Many medium to large SUVS and 4WDs are capable of hauling trailers weighing up to 2500kg before becoming overwhelmed.

For the true heavyweights towing three tonnes or more, there are fewer options available – Ford F250s and Landcruisers shine here.

Remember, when preparing to take a 4WD caravan on vacation, check its total laden weight with full water tanks and all your packed gear at the nearest weighbridge to verify it does not exceed your vehicle's towing capacity.

Leader offers the Xpedition 4WD caravan in a variety of sizes, including compact off-road caravans and large family bunk off-road caravans, through our reputable and well-established dealer partners.

You can view new and used Leader off-road caravans throughout Australia with dealers located in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.

Speak with our friendly dealerships about trading in your pre-owned caravan for a new Leader or to receive guidance on the many interior layout choices available to tailor your custom off-road caravan to your specific needs.

Click here to locate a Leader 4WD caravan dealership near you.