A caravan water tank is a purpose-built water storage vessel mounted to, inside, or alongside a vehicle to supply drinking, cooking, and washing water during travel. Unlike relying on external water sources at each campsite, a dedicated water tank gives you independence and flexibility to stay longer at remote locations without facilities. Quality water tanks are designed to be food-safe, durable, and resistant to the vibrations and conditions of Australian road and off-road travel.
At VicOffRoad, our water tanks are available in a range of sizes and mounting configurations to suit compact camper trailers, large touring caravans, and 4WDs or utes that need a portable water solution mounted under tray, behind the seats, or inside a canopy.
Built for Every Setup: 4WDs, Utes, Camper Trailers, and Caravans
A reliable water tank needs to suit the vehicle and storage configuration you actually travel with. Our range covers a variety of setups:
- 4WDs and utes: Compact tanks mounted under tray, behind the seats, or inside a canopy, suited to touring and outback travel.
- Camper trailers and hybrid campers: Mid-size tanks that fit dedicated bays without compromising other storage.
- Caravans and overland rigs with custom setups: Slimline and under-floor tanks designed for built-in compartments and chassis mounting.
Whatever you are travelling in, having a dependable water supply is at the heart of any self-sufficient off-grid setup.
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Secure Your Water Supply With a Food-Grade Caravan Water Tank
Water safety is non-negotiable when you are travelling for extended periods. Our caravan water tanks are manufactured from food-grade polyethylene, a material widely used in food and beverage storage because it does not leach chemicals, does not rust, and does not support algae growth.
Using a food-grade caravan water tank means you can confidently fill up at approved water sources, bore water stations, and campground facilities knowing your supply remains clean and safe for drinking and cooking throughout your trip.
Slimline vs Under-Floor Caravan Water Tank: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Slimline Water Tank | Under-Floor Water Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Mounting location | Inside storage compartments or side bays | Beneath the caravan chassis |
| Space impact | Uses internal compartment space | Frees up internal and bay storage |
| Weight distribution | Inside the van, higher centre of gravity | Low and centred, improves towing stability |
| Access for filling | Via compartment inlet | External inlet on chassis |
| Best for | Compact caravans, tight bay configurations | Larger caravans, maximising storage space |
| Installation complexity | Generally simpler | May require chassis modifications |
For 4WD and ute setups, additional mounting options are available beyond the caravan-specific configurations above, including compact under tray tanks, rear-seat storage tanks, and canopy-mounted tanks that fit neatly alongside other touring gear.
Heavy-Duty Polyethylene Tanks Built for Rough Australian Tracks
Australia's roads include smooth highways, corrugated outback tracks, river crossings, and steep gravel descents. Every one of these puts stress on water storage components, whether mounted to a caravan, ute, or camper trailer. Our heavy-duty polyethylene water tanks are engineered to withstand the demands of Australian touring:
- Reinforced walls that absorb impact and vibration without cracking.
- UV-stabilised materials that resist sun degradation during prolonged outdoor exposure.
- Flexible polyethylene construction that flexes slightly under impact rather than splitting.
- Secure mounting points designed to prevent movement during travel on rough roads.
Leak-Proof Fittings and Easy Integration Into Caravan Plumbing
A water tank is only as reliable as the fittings and connections that support it. Our tanks come with precision-engineered fittings designed for a leak-free installation and easy connection to hoses, pumps, and taps:
- Secure threaded outlets that reduce the risk of leaks at connection points.
- Durable seals that maintain integrity through vibration and temperature changes.
- Precision-moulded connection points compatible with standard caravan plumbing hardware, hoses, and pump fittings.
- Straightforward integration with existing water pump, filter, and tap systems.
How to Install a Camping Water Tank
Installation varies depending on your vehicle and the tank you choose, but the general process follows the same steps:
- Choose a tank size and shape that suits your available storage area, whether that is a caravan bay, ute canopy, or under-tray space.
- Mount the tank securely using brackets or straps rated for the tank's filled weight.
- Connect the tank to a hose, tap, or shower setup using the appropriate fittings.
- Test for leaks and flush the tank before first use to clear any residue from manufacturing or storage.
Always check the product specifications to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle and travel needs before purchasing.
Pair your water tank with a portable hot water system for on-demand hot water at camp. Explore our full range of caravan accessories and caravan stabiliser legs to build out a complete, self-sufficient touring setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a caravan water tank?
A caravan water tank is a storage vessel mounted to or inside a caravan, ute, or 4WD that holds water for drinking, cooking, and washing during travel. It is made from food-grade polyethylene to ensure water safety, and is designed to withstand the vibrations and conditions of Australian road travel. Tanks are available in slimline, under-floor, under-tray, and canopy-mounted designs depending on your vehicle.
What material should a caravan water tank be made from?
Caravan water tanks should be made from food-grade polyethylene. This material is safe for storing drinking water, does not rust, does not support algae growth, and resists chemical leaching from lower-quality plastics. It is also impact-resistant and UV-stabilised for long-term durability in outdoor environments.
How much water capacity do I need in a caravan water tank?
Allow 10 to 15 litres per person per day for drinking and cooking as a starting point. Washing and showering adds significantly more. Most touring caravanners carry between 100 and 250 litres total, split between onboard bay tanks and under-floor tanks where possible. The team at VicOffRoad can help you size a tank for your specific van and travel style.
Can a water tank be mounted to a 4WD or ute instead of a caravan?
Yes. Compact water tanks can be mounted under tray, behind the seats, or inside a canopy on a 4WD or ute, giving you a self-contained water supply without a caravan or camper trailer. These setups use the same food-grade, UV-stabilised materials as caravan tanks, just in sizes and shapes suited to vehicle-specific storage areas.
Why Shop With Vicoffroad
At Vicoffroad, our passion for the great outdoors drives us to deliver excellence in the outdoor and adventure space. As an emerging brand inspired by the shared passion of Australians for nature's wonders, we are committed to delivering nothing short of outstanding products and exceptional customer service, ensuring your outdoor experiences are truly triumphant.
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Water Tanks for Caravan & Camping FAQs
What types of water tanks are available, and how do I choose the right one?
We offer a variety of shapes and capacities, including undertray tanks, slimline tanks, jerry-style tanks and more. Choose based on how much water you need, how much space you have and how you plan to use it.
How do I install a water tank in my 4WD or camper?
Installation depends on the tank and vehicle. Most tanks mount using brackets or tie-down points. Our range includes options designed for easy integration in canopies, drawers or under vehicles.
Are Vic Offroad water tanks safe for storing drinking water?
Yes, all our tanks are made from food-grade, BPA-free materials that are safe for potable water.
Can water tanks fit undertray or behind seats?
Many of our models are specifically designed to fit undertrays, behind seats or in tight canopy spaces. Check the dimensions to find the best fit.
How do I clean and maintain my water tank while travelling?
Rinse regularly with clean water. For longer trips, use tank sanitising tablets or food-safe cleaning solutions. Avoid letting water sit stagnant between uses.