Buying a new caravan is one of the biggest and most expensive decisions you'll make when preparing for your Big Lap of Australia. And while it's exciting, it's also incredibly easy to get wrong.

In this solo episode, Annette shares the essential advice every future lapper needs before choosing a van. Drawing from her experience as a full-time traveller, she explains what really matters when it comes to setup and comfort on the road.

You'll learn why understanding your tow vehicle's weights is so important, what layout features make daily life easier (especially in bad weather), and how to plan for your full travel setup, not just the van. Annette also covers off-grid capability, build quality, towing confidence, and the often-overlooked extras that can add weight and cost fast.

She breaks down the most common mistakes new buyers make and how to avoid them, especially if you've been swayed by shiny Instagram vans that don't match your lifestyle.

Whether you're buying your first caravan or still in the early stages of planning, this episode is full of real-world advice that will help you travel smarter and make more confident decisions.

If you love a good glass of wine after a day on the road, but hate the weight, waste, and breakage of glass bottles this episode is for you.

Annette sits down with Kim and Mike, the creators of Greenskin Wine, a premium Australian wine packaged in lightweight, unbreakable, fully recyclable pouches.

Designed for caravanners, vanlifers, boaties and campers, this clever innovation is changing how Aussies enjoy wine while travelling.

We chat about:

• How Greenskin was born from frustration (and a love of great wine)

• Why wine pouches are not just goon 2.0

• The huge environmental benefits over glass

• How long the wine lasts after opening (hint: it's weeks, not days)

• Delivery tricks for travellers on the move

Whether you're planning your Big Lap or already on the road, this episode will have you rethinking your happy hour setup.

Try Greenskin Wine:
Https://greenskinwine.com – use code AAO and save 10% on your order!

#BigLapChats #GreenskinWine #VanlifeAustralia #CaravanningAustralia #TravelAustralia

Not every shiny new feature is worth the price tag, but after two and a half years on the road, we've figured out which caravan upgrades truly make life easier, safer, and more comfortable.

In this solo episode, I'm sharing the upgrades we'd invest in again in a heartbeat, like lithium batteries, solar setups, extra water tanks, and the small creature comforts that make a big difference on the road.

If you're setting up your caravan or wondering where to spend (and where to save), this episode will help you make smart, practical choices before you hit the road.