Thinking about hitting the road in a caravan but not sure where to start – or what you actually need?In this episode, Myke Bartlett chats with Mike Sandilands (Driver Risk Management & Caravan expert to Horizons by RAC YouTube) to break it all down. From trying before you buy, to choosing the right vehicle and finding a setup that suits your lifestyle and budget. They also unpack the realities with costs, storage, maintenance and the common mistakes that can catch first-timers out!Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next upgrade, this is your guide to getting on the road with confidence.Chapters:(0:00) Caravan freedom, common mistakes & what to get right from the start (1:45) Introducing Mike Sandilands: the man to talk to about a van (2:15) Why caravan life appeals to so many Australians (3:15) Mike's own journey (4:15) The post-COVID caravan boom and why parks now need to be booked well ahead (5:45) Mike's background (6:45) Step one for beginners: hire before you buy (9:15) What to focus on when trialling a setup. Comfort, space & family needs (12:15) How your current vehicle shapes your caravan options (13:30) The biggest mistake you can make (14:45) Petrol vs diesel vs EV (21:15) Choosing the right caravan for your lifestyle (23:15) On-grid vs off-grid: what's the actual difference? (27:30) What does a full caravan setup actually cost? (31:00) Storage: council rules, costs & creative solutions (36:45) Final advice for those sitting on the fence (39:15) Why WA is perfect caravan countryGuest: Mike Sandilands https://www.driverrisk.com.au/Training courses here: Driver Risk Management | Advanced Driver Training & Safety https://www.driverrisk.com.au/training/Catch up on your Caravan 'How To': https://www.youtube.com/@UCVqC3suMevCzn-N3VUG1U2w (95) Caravan How-Tos – YouTubeSubscribe and share:  If you liked this episode, subscribe to RAC’s Horizons podcast and share it with your friends and family.     Find us online:Website: ⁠https://rac.com.au/horizons⁠   YouTube: ⁠ / @horizonsrac⁠  Instagram:   www.instagram.com/racwa   Facebook:   www.facebook.com/racwa   Legal disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individuals involved and may not be shared by the Royal Automobile Club of WA (Inc) or its related bodies corporate (together “RAC”) or any of its or their councillors, directors or employees.  This podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only.  Listeners should not rely on the content as a substitute for independent advice.  References to a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RAC.  RAC accepts no liability for any reliance placed on the content.