Camper Trailer Action — Issue 104 2017

FEATURE

Best Value Upgrades

We need to carry water on any camping trip
away, and naturally the longer the trip, the
larger the carrying capacity should be. With
water literally being our most precious cargo
in most cases, how it’s stored and even the
material it’s stored in can also require some
careful planning. When you get it right, you
can stay for longer at bush campsites which
saves you paying extra for campsites with
water available.

JERRY CANS

For years now, jerry cans have provided a
convenient and cost affective method to store
water. They’re cheap, easy to use and available
in an assortment of capacities to suit a variety
of options. But after travelling over rough
corrugated roads they do have a tendency to
rub against the holder, eventually wearing a
hole through the material. Leaks are known
to occur as the material starts to weaken with
age. For the price, they’re hard to beat, but
it’s always wise to carry more then one water
source just in case you spring a leak.

Average Price Range: $10 – $100

4. WATER STORAGE

Stainless steel water tanks have a tough

exterior which is more durable than

plastic tanks

The problems with

plastic jerry cans is

they often rub against

the metal holder

during transit

PLASTIC WATER TANKS

Nowadays, large capacity polyethylene water

tanks are readily available off the shelf for

camper trailer applications. The thickness of

the walls will determine the overall strength

of the tank and its resilience to damage, so

fi nding the right one is important for off-

road applications. They don’t rust and they’re

available in a massive range of shapes and

sizes. Although they are quite strong, impact

damage is always a concern with plastic water

tanks, so adding a stone guard is a good idea

but an additional cost. A common complaint is

they can make the water taste like plastic, and

also allow the water to heat up quite quickly.

Average Price Range: $150 - $600

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel water tanks have a reputation

for being as sturdy as they come. Their

strength is one of the most noticeable

benefi ts, and also contributes to their

longevity. The extra strength also means they

don’t need to be as thick as most plastic tanks

so they don’t waste any space. But the biggest

selling point for stainless steel water tanks is

they don’t affect the actual taste of the water

no matter how hot it gets. You’ll pay more for

a stainless steel tank but at the end of the day,

you get better tasting water from a tank that

could outlast your camper trailer, and that’s

value for money.

Average Price Range: $500 - $2000

FEATURE

Best Value Upgrades

Jerry cans can be

moved around the

campsite to where

water is needed