OFF GRID TRAILERS: Overland Camping post-Trip Checklist

Ensure readiness for your next journey – check these things when you’re putting your trailer away after an overland adventure.

Check to make sure that the hitch system is in good condition. The ball hitch, you’ll want to make sure the ball stayed tight and that the 5/8″ pin holding the adapter into the class 3 receiver on your vehicle is OK. For the CU offroad hitch, make sure the pivot bolt is still tight and no slack exists in the system. There’s a link at the bottom of this article for detailed information on the CU system. For the trailer side of things, make sure the 2 hex bolts are tight and in good condition, and that the safety chains are still secure.
Do quick test of the trailer exterior lights and 7 pin aux charge system (if applicable.)
Check the trailer battery voltage to see how you did with charging and maintenance. Plug the trailer in so that the onboard shore power system can begin refreshing the batteries.
Fully drain the water system. Consider the time of year – if it is approaching fall, is now the time to jump on winterizing, adding antifreeze?
Whether or not you’ve used the propane system for cooking or heating water or the cabin, check the tank to see the level. It is usually easiest to disconnect the system at the tanks connection during storage, and to always swap in a full tank before your next trip.
Do a circle check of the trailer body. Has there been any damage to any of the sealing element? (This is Sikkaflex black silicone at the roof to body joint at the front or top.) Do all of the doors still open and close/seal? Check the condition of the rubber seals – have any been damaged by use? As with anything, knowing you need parts as soon as possible makes it easiest to contact our service department to arrange replacement.
Get underneath the trailer and check the frame and running gear (suspension). Has there been any evidence of impacts that may have affected wiring or the other systems – especially the brakes? How do the wheels and tires look, is the camber and caster acceptable? See the article linked at the end of this document for information on suspension specifications. Now is a good time to look at the rear leveling jacks and their fastening bolts.
While unhooking, make sure the tongue jack is OK – moves easily up and down, locks in position, is perpendicular to the ground.
Grab the wheel and tire at the top and give it a good shove into the trailer. Is there any indication of trouble with the wheel bearings, any noise or movement? It is very easy to lift one wheel and investigate further using the leveling jack on that side! There should be no discernable movement when you try to move the wheel in any direction except for rotation. You can grab the front and back of the tire and try to twist it, and also the top and bottom.

As usual, if you need additional information or run into trouble when preparing, please contact our warranty and service department at warranty@offgridtrailers.com.