What We Learned
Loading up a caravan for the first time with five kids either breaks you or bonds you. For us - it bonded us.
Our first proper family caravan trip in this van was to the Macalister River region in Gippsland - and it's a trip we still talk about.
The Caravan
Ours isn't bought off a lot. It's built by us - a DIY project Dylan put together from the ground up, every weld and fitting done by hand. Taking it out for the first time felt like sending a homemade boat out to sea. Spoiler: it held up perfectly.
Getting There
Maffra sits in the heart of Gippsland, a short drive from our home base in Sale. Montana on the Macalister Caravan Park & Campground sits right alongside the river - peaceful, and close enough that if something went wrong we weren't hours away, but far enough to feel like a real adventure.
Setting Up & The River
What we thought would take 20 minutes took an hour, but everyone had a job. The Macalister River was perfect for families - shallow wading spots, deeper pools for fishing, rods out within the hour.
The Campfire
Nothing brings a family together like a campfire. No phones, no screens - just fire, stars and five kids asking questions about everything. Simple food cooked outdoors tastes incredible.
What We Learned
Less is more - half our gear never left the van. Routine disappears, and that's okay. The drive is part of the trip. And a DIY caravan is a brilliant conversation starter at every park.
Would We Go Back?
Absolutely - we have. Montana on the Macalister is now a regular spot for us. Close to home comforts, far enough to feel like a real escape.
Dylan & Fiona - Adventure Hooked
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