Having survived Perth's horrible storm yesterday relatively unscathed, we hitched up this morning and drove to Guilderton (Moore River) for a three-day break. Unfortunately, the storm meant no power in the town or the caravan park, and, facing the real worry that it could be off for a day or more, we made the sad drive home again (luckily, only an hour or so). Ah well, worse things happen, but it was frustrating. Have been looking into 12V systems for the van, and now need to accelerate that process! Cheers, Tony
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If you don't stand behind our troops, please feel free to stand in front of them.
There's a lot to be said for setting up for free camp. It might cost a bit in the first place but makes things so much easier if you are in Tonyd's situation.
Sorry you didn't get your days away Tony. I would be very unhappy too. The main thing is that you and yours were safe.
We free camp using only the gas in the van for fridge and stove, depending on your usage, most 9kg gas bottles will give you about 14 to 21 days running the fridge 24/7, you can keep or hook up a spare if you want longer until you get to a refill station. So you could have still enjoyed yourself. I the showers at Guilderton were heated by electricity and you didn't like cold showers, then you could have heated some water on your gas stove for an indoor wash, and wet ones wipes for a quick once over.
For lights we use our inboard battery, but you can get away with some battery lanterns instead, just schedule your cooking etc while it is still daylight.
We don't use TV or the A/C and listen to a battery powered radio for news etc, read during the daylight hours.
If you want more, then you would have to go to a generator (at least 2i for A/C etc) and/or solar which is very expensive and relies on reasonable sunny days.
-- Edited by Wonker on Wednesday 24th of March 2010 10:29:03 AM
Tony Accelerate you solar decision and you will not look back. Usually means you can stop wherever you like Nat parks/Forestry and many alternate camp sites. Just do some research so that you will have the power you require.
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I was tired yesterday and I'm tired today betcha I'm retired tomorrow. he he.
A lot depends on your budget and weight with the extra's such as solar etc, as you only have a camper trailer, unless your tug is big enough to carry any extra's.
Because of the cost, suggest you look into it carefully before you rush in whichever way you decide to go.