While laundry may not be the most exciting part of caravanning, having a reliable clothesline can make your travels far more convenient. Whether you're dealing with unexpected rain or just need a practical way to dry clothes on the go, the right setup ensures fresh, dry clothing wherever the road takes you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best caravan clotheslines for different travel styles and share practical tips to help you get the most out of your setup.
For weekend warriors: compact and quick options
If you love hitting the road for quick weekend getaways, you’ll want a clothesline that’s easy to set up and pack away. Since you won’t be doing massive loads of laundry, a compact option is your best bet.
- Retractable clotheslines
You’ll find that retractable caravan clotheslines are a great fit for short trips. These pocket-sized lifesavers extend to provide several metres of line and attach easily between two points at your campsite. Their lightweight design means you can toss one into a small storage compartment or even a backpack pocket — ready to go whenever you need it.
- Pegless clotheslines
Another solid option for your weekend travels is a pegless clothesline. Instead of dealing with pegs, you simply slide your clothes into built-in gaps, and they stay put for drying. It also comes with tensioners and springs, making setup between two anchor points fast and effortless. When you’re making the most of your weekend adventure, a time-saving feature like this makes all the difference.
For extended travellers: durable, high-capacity designs
If you’re on the road for weeks or months at a time, laundry becomes a regular part of your routine. You’ll need a clothesline that can handle frequent use, hold more clothes and stand up to different conditions.
- Collapsible clotheslines
Collapsible caravan clotheslines are a fantastic choice when you’re travelling for an extended period. These freestanding designs provide plenty of hanging space while staying fairly stable on different surfaces. Many come with ground pegs for extra support, which is helpful in windy conditions. When not in use, they fold down compactly, making them easy to store and transport.
- Portable rotating clotheslines
Portable rotating clotheslines are another great option for longer trips. With their 360-degree design, you get easy access to your laundry while making the most of the available space. The rotating function lets you adjust clothes based on sun exposure, helping them dry faster throughout the day. If you’re washing clothes regularly, this type of clothesline makes the process much more efficient.
For full-time caravanners: integrated, permanent solutions
If you’ve embraced the caravan lifestyle full-time, you need a clothesline that’s reliable enough for daily use while still being adaptable to different camping situations. A permanent or semi-permanent setup is worth considering for a more convenient and hassle-free routine.
- Awning clotheslines
An awning clothesline is one of the best choices for full-time caravanning. They attach directly to your caravan’s awning arms, creating a secure drying space. Suspended along the frame, they keep laundry neatly in place without taking up extra ground. When not needed, they can be easily dismantled and stored, giving you flexibility depending on your campsite.
- Underbed clotheslines
For camper trailer owners, an underbed clothesline is a clever way to maximise space. These systems attach to the bed supports without any drilling, offering substantial hanging space while staying completely out of the way. One of the biggest advantages is that they can stay attached while travelling, sparing you the effort of setting them up and taking them down each time.
Tips to get the most out of your caravan clothesline
Once you've selected the ideal caravan clothesline for your lifestyle, a few simple strategies can help you maximise its use:
- Set up on level ground for stability
For freestanding or collapsible clotheslines, choosing the right placement can make all the difference. Always set up on even ground to prevent tilting or wobbling, especially if drying heavy items. If you're dealing with uneven surfaces, use stabilising pegs or weights to keep the structure steady and prevent it from tipping over from strong winds.
- Use your existing structures for support
If your clothesline attaches to an awning or bed supports, make sure it’s securely fastened to avoid unnecessary movement. Awning-mounted clotheslines should be clipped on firmly to prevent shifting in windy conditions, while underbed clotheslines should be checked for proper tension to keep clothes from dragging. Avoid overloading these setups, as excess weight can put strain on the supporting structure.
- Keep your clothesline clean for longevity
Dirt and dust can accumulate over time, affecting the performance of your clothesline. Wipe down the line regularly to prevent grime buildup that could transfer onto your laundry. If you’re using a metal frame, check for signs of rust, especially after travelling through humid or coastal areas. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your caravan washing line in top shape for longer.
- Pack and store efficiently
If you have a foldable or retractable clothesline, store it in a dry, dust-free area to prevent wear and tear. Freestanding models should be fully collapsed before packing, and any removable parts (like ground pegs) should be stored in a small bag for easy access. Keeping all components together prevents losing small parts and makes setup quicker for your next trip.
Find the best caravan clothesline at CaravanMods
Finding the right clothesline for your caravan adventures doesn't have to be complicated. By matching your choice to your travel style, you'll ensure fresh clothes are always at hand, no matter where your journeys take you.
At CaravanMods, we understand the unique challenges of life on the road. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of caravan clotheslines to suit every lifestyle and camping setup. From retractable options that fit in your pocket to robust rotating systems that handle full loads, we’ve got you covered.
Make laundry day at your next stop stress-free — shop CaravanMods today and discover the difference a quality clothesline makes to your caravan experience.