Collyn Rivers needs no introduction as he is Australia's most well established author for all things RV. This excellent book is destined to become the "bible" for all owners and intending purchasers of a camper trailer. There is simply nothing like it available in Australia.

Even with the extended resources now available to us all via the Internet, you would be hard pressed to find all the information contained within the 76 pages of this new book. The detail most subject are covered in, is most impressive. For instance you can find out the flow rates of various model water pumps, how to install a pressure accumulator, how to filter the water and of course how to heat water. Interior comfort heating using diesel is dealt with, as well as the pros and cons of all types of lighting, even down to the very latest LED types. Brakes, wheels and tyres are well covered with lots of easy to understand illustrations. Electrics is a huge section and deals with estimating power consumption, trouble shooting, how to work out the state of charge of auxiliary batteries and even the basic principles are well explained.

Of course solar is one of Collyn's specialist subjects, as he lives in Broome in a totally solar house with 32 panels on the roof. We liked the example electrical system idea, as you are bound to find a described system that equates to what you are trying to achieve with your own camper trailer. Providing the "sums" on how the figures were arrived at, certainly helps you to get your head around this tricky subject.

Collyn has the knack of being an expert at reducing complicated subjects down to something we ordinary RV'ers can easily understand without going grey in the process! Of course the enemy of all camper trailers is weight and various ways of keeping it under control are fully explained. Fitting accessories is something rarely covered even in caravan magazines.

Thinking of building your own? Well, it's all in this book with lots of info on the legal requirements - one of the best descriptions we have ever come across and this chapter alone makes buying the book a must. Collyn finishes up with a massive chapter on preparing for the big trip, safety and most importantly communications. We liked the overall presentation of this book as it is easy to read and being A4 sized it is easy to store in your RV. It represents good value at $42.50 posted anywhere in Australia.