Caravan mats are an essential accessory for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a comfortable, durable, and practical flooring solution for camping and caravanning setups. These mats create a clean, non-slip surface outside the caravan, helping to keep dirt and debris out while enhancing the overall campsite experience. Whether used for added comfort underfoot, protection for grassy areas, or simply as a way to define a tidy outdoor living space, caravan mats have become a must-have for travellers across Australia.
The evolution of caravan matting in Australia has mirrored the growth of the country’s camping and caravanning culture. Early campers often relied on simple ground coverings like tarps or woven rugs, but over time, purpose-built caravan mats emerged. Today, modern caravan mats are designed with advanced materials such as breathable mesh, UV-resistant polypropylene, and eco-friendly recycled plastics. These innovations have made mats more durable, lightweight, and environmentally responsible.
With statistics showing that over 800,000 registered caravans and camper trailers are currently on the road, it is clear caravanning is as popular as ever in Australia. Many caravan parks and campsites encourage or even require the use of breathable mats to protect natural surfaces while providing a more comfortable outdoor space. With the increasing demand for quality caravan accessories, the market for high-performance mats has expanded significantly.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about caravan mats, from choosing the right type and size to understanding key features such as material composition, weight, and ease of cleaning. We will also discuss the best caravan mat brands available in Australia, tips for maintaining your mat, and essential factors to consider before making a purchase. Whether you are a first-time camper or an experienced traveller, this guide will help you select the perfect caravan mat to suit your needs.
Types of Caravan Mats
Caravan mats come in a variety of styles, materials, and designs to suit different camping and caravanning needs. Below, we explore the most common types of caravan mats available in Australia, their key features, benefits, and notable brands.
Synthetic Mesh Mats
Synthetic mesh mats are made from woven polyethylene or polypropylene, creating a breathable and lightweight structure. The open-weave design allows air, water, and dirt to pass through, making them ideal for outdoor environments where keeping the area dry and clean is essential. Most high-quality synthetic mesh mats are UV-resistant to prevent fading and degradation under the harsh Australian sun.
Best Usage Scenarios
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Caravan parks and campsites with grassed or sandy areas
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Outdoor annexes and awnings where dirt and moisture need to be minimised
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travellers who prioritise lightweight and easy-to-clean materials
Notable Brands
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CGear – Known for their military-grade, dual-layered design that prevents sand from accumulating.
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Camec – Offers UV-stabilized mesh mats designed specifically for Australian conditions.
Foam/PVC Rubber Mats
Foam or PVC rubber mats are made from closed-cell foam or heavy-duty rubber, providing a cushioned, non-slip surface. These mats are often interlocking or roll-up designs, allowing easy setup and storage. The dense construction prevents water absorption, making them resistant to moisture and mould.
Best Usage Scenarios
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Caravan setups where extra comfort underfoot is needed
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Campsites with hard or rocky ground that require more cushioning
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Areas where moisture resistance is a priority, such as near water sources
Notable Brands
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TRA – Produces durable, high-density foam and rubber mats designed for long-term use.
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Supex - Available in blue, green, or grey, this premium matting provides exceptional comfort underfoot.
Artificial Grass Mats
Artificial grass mats mimic the look and feel of real grass, usually made from synthetic fibers like polyethylene or polypropylene. These mats are designed to be durable, UV-resistant, and easy to maintain, providing a natural aesthetic to a campsite setup.
Best Usage Scenarios
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Campers who want a natural and visually appealing ground cover
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Long-term caravan setups where aesthetics matter
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Areas where comfort underfoot is a priority
Notable Brands
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Muk Mat – Offers high-quality artificial grass mats that look very similar to grass and are portable and designed for easy cleaning.
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Xtend - Synthetic grass mats are Waterproof and weather-resistant, built to withstand the harsh Australian outdoors while effectively trapping dirt and debris.
Recycled Plastic Mats
Recycled plastic mats are woven from repurposed plastic materials, making them an eco-friendly option for caravan owners. These mats are lightweight, UV-resistant, and available in various patterns and colors to suit different aesthetic preferences.
Best Usage Scenarios
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Eco-conscious campers looking for a sustainable option
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Caravan annexes and outdoor areas needing a stylish touch
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General outdoor use where a durable and lightweight mat is preferred
Notable Brands
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DLG Australia – Known for their durable and eco-friendly caravan mats made from recycled plastics.
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ACM - Ethically manufactured from recycled polypropylene, these mats help reduce landfill waste while providing a practical and stylish flooring solution.
Key Features to Consider
Choosing the right caravan mat involves more than just picking a style or design. Several key factors determine how well a mat will perform under different camping conditions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the essential features to consider when purchasing a caravan mat.
Size and Dimensions
Caravan mats come in various sizes to suit different setups, from small campervans to large motorhomes with expansive outdoor annexes. The right size depends on the available space, the width of your awning, and how much outdoor living area you want to cover.
Small Caravans (11-14ft)
Recommended Mat Sizes:
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2.4m x 2.4m (Perfect for compact awnings or single-door entry areas)
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3m x 2.5m (Ideal for slightly larger outdoor setups)
Popular Configurations:
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Small caravans typically have a compact annex or awning, requiring a mat that provides a comfortable outdoor space without excess weight.
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Lightweight synthetic mesh or recycled plastic mats are great choices as they are easy to pack and transport.
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A square or slightly rectangular shape is ideal for basic awnings and limited space setups.
Medium Caravans (15-20ft)
Recommended Mat Sizes:
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3m x 4m (Great for standard roll-out awnings)
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3m x 5m (Provides extended coverage for a larger outdoor living space)
Popular Configurations:
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Medium-sized caravans often feature full-length awnings, allowing for a larger mat area.
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Rectangular mats that match the width of the awning (typically 3m) provide a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor areas.
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Recycled plastic or synthetic mesh mats are common due to their durability and breathability.
Large Caravans (21-23ft+)
Recommended Mat Sizes:
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3m x 6m (Covers a large annex or full-length awning)
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3m x 7.5m (Best for extra-large outdoor setups, accommodating multiple seating areas)
Popular Configurations:
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Large caravans often come with full annexes or expansive awnings, requiring mats that provide maximum coverage.
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Mats with reinforced edges and pegging points help with stability in windy conditions.
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Heavier-duty recycled plastic or foam mats work well for long-term stays in caravan parks.
Weight Considerations
Lightweight mats, such as synthetic mesh mats, are ideal for travellers conscious of weight limits, whereas heavier rubber or artificial grass mats offer more durability at the cost of added weight.
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Mat Type |
Average Weight (Per Square Meter) |
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Synthetic Mesh Mats |
0.8 - 1.5 kg |
|
Foam/PVC Rubber Mats |
2 - 4 kg |
|
Artificial Grass Mats |
3 - 5 kg |
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Recycled Plastic Mats |
1.5 - 2.5 kg |
Material Durability
UV Resistance Ratings
Australian conditions can be harsh, with prolonged sun exposure leading to material degradation. Look for mats with UV-stabilized materials that resist fading and brittleness over time. Manufacturers often provide UV protection ratings, with premium options lasting 5+ years without significant wear.
Weatherproofing Capabilities
Caravan mats should be able to withstand varying weather conditions, including:
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Rain – Quick-drying and water-resistant materials prevent mold and mildew.
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Wind – Mats with reinforced edges and eyelets for securing pegs help prevent lifting.
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Heat – Materials that reflect rather than retain heat keep the surface comfortable underfoot.
Performance Features
Sand and Dirt Filtration Capabilities
Caravan mats with an open-weave or mesh design allow sand and dirt to fall through while preventing it from being tracked into your caravan.
Water Drainage Properties
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Synthetic mesh and recycled plastic mats drain water quickly, reducing puddling and preventing mold growth.
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Foam and artificial grass mats may retain moisture longer, requiring proper drying to avoid mildew buildup.
Heat Retention/Reflection Properties
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Light-colored mats reflect heat, keeping the surface cooler underfoot.
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Dark-colored or rubber mats absorb heat, which can make them hot in direct sunlight.
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Artificial grass mats tend to hold heat but can be cooled with water.
Wind Resistance and Stability
To prevent mats from shifting in windy conditions, look for options with:
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Reinforced edges and eyelets for pegging down
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Heavier materials that naturally resist movement
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Non-slip backing to keep the mat stable on hard surfaces
Brand Comparison
Choosing the right caravan mat involves considering various factors such as price, durability, material quality, and warranty offerings. Below, we provide a detailed comparison of major brands available in Australia, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.
Aussie Traveller
Designed for durability and practicality, Aussie Traveller Annexe Matting is lightweight, non-slip, and breathable. Providing a safe and stable surface while protecting the ground beneath.
Built for long-lasting performance, Aussie Traveller Annexe Matting features hemmed reinforced edges for extra strength, UV-stabilised fabric for sun protection, and rot-proof materials to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Plus the strategically placed eyelets make it easy to peg down securely, keeping it in place even on windy days. Check out the ethically manufactured from recycled polypropylene mats also by from Aussie Traveller, know as ACM Matting.
Why we love Aussie Traveller Annexe Matting:
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Keeps Your Campsite Clean & Comfortable
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Breathable & Grass-Friendly
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Non-Slip & Safe
DLG Australia
This Australian family business, based on the NSW South Coast, focuses on zero waste textile and plastics landfill, so you can be confident their products are environmentally friendly. DLG Australia caravan mats are made from 100% recycled polypropylene plastic and are lightweight. Best of all, they are specifically made for Australian conditions, which means they are tough and UV treated. There are lots of sizes and designs to choose from, which makes a change from the other solid colour caravan mats on the market. You can also opt for indoor and outdoor models, and they’re reversible!
Why we love DLG Australia caravan mats:
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Good for the environment!
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UV Treated and made for Aussie conditions - you know they’ll last.
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Easy Fold - fold them flat or roll them, and pack up in just 10-15 seconds.
Muk Mat
Another Australian owned company, Muk Mat is an original artificial grass mat designed by an Aussie couple who love the outdoors. Muk Mats are made from recycled, synthetic grass materials which makes them a great choice for the environment. The Polyethylene multi-filament yarn combines the plushest and longest blades available so your feet can enjoy a super soft surface. Choose from five sizes: Muk Mat caravan step, Muk Mat caravan pull-out step, Muk Mat original, Muk Mat large, and Muk Mat extra large in either green, light or dark grey and a variety of trim colours to suit your style.
Why we love Muk Mat caravan mats:
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They feel super soft underfoot.
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UV protected materials (avoid long exposure to direct sunlight to prevent overheating).
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Easy to clean - simply shake the mat!
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Camec
Camec offers a range of caravan mats and annexe flooring for caravanners and campers. The floor matting is good quality with hems for extra strength and pegging eyelets to prevent tripping. The two-tone weave is warm underfoot, non-slip and allows the air to circulate. At the same time, the close weave stops annoying insects from squeezing through. They are available in a wide variety of popular sizes.
Why we love Camec caravan matting:
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Breathable fabric ensures that underlying grass is not killed.
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Close weave allows air to circulate whilst stopping insects in their tracks.
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Exceptionally hard-wearing, rot proof and UV stabilised.
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Easy to clean - just hose down.
CGear
Australian owned company CGear originally designed the Multimat as a helimat that could be deployed to eliminate dirt, dust and debris from being kicked up by the helicopter rotors when landing. It was so successful that the team figured it would be great for campsites too! The CGear Multimat is designed so that sand and dirt fall straight through to the ground beneath the mat, but not back up. It’s a great choice for outdoor living areas to provide a sand and dirt free area. The Multimat can also be used as a shade mat and gives 90%+ UV protection, and as windbreak for screening.
Why we love the CGear Multimat:
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Designed in Australia for Australian conditions.
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Versatile - the MultiMat can be used as a mat, shade and windbreak.
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Highly effective in eliminating dirt, dust and debris from camping areas.
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Lightweight, easy to set up and pack away.
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Made tough with reinforced edges and D-Rings to peg it down.
Detailed Comparison Table of Major Brands
|
Brand |
Material Type |
UV Resistance |
Grass-Friendly |
Australian-Made |
|
CGear |
Synthetic Mesh |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Camec |
Synthetic Mesh |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Aussie Traveller |
Synthetic Mesh |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Muk Mat |
Artificial Grass |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
|
DLG Australia |
Recycled Plastic |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Installation and Setup
Proper installation of a caravan mat ensures longevity, stability, and comfort during your camping trips. Follow this step-by-step guide to set up your mat correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Installation
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Choose the Right Location: Ensure the ground is relatively flat and free of sharp objects.
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Unroll the Mat: Lay the mat flat and let it settle before securing it.
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Align with the Awning: Position the mat so it aligns with your caravan’s awning or annex space.
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Secure the Mat: Use pegs, weights, or anti-slip pads to keep the mat in place.
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Adjust for Comfort: Smooth out wrinkles and ensure edges are firmly pegged to prevent tripping hazards.
Pegging Techniques and Best Practices
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Use reinforced eyelets or loops to peg the mat securely.
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Place pegs at an angle for better grip, especially in sandy or loose soil.
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For windy conditions, use additional pegs or sandbags for extra security.
Tips for Different Terrain Types
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Beach: Use long, screw-in sand pegs to anchor the mat in loose sand. Check out the Aussie Traveller Sand Pegs.
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Outback: Secure the mat with heavy-duty pegs and check for sharp rocks underneath. For rough terrain underneath check out the Aussie Traveller Screw In Pegs.
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Caravan Parks: Ensure mats comply with park regulations; many require grass-friendly mesh mats. Check out the Peggy Peg Plastic Screw In Pegs.
Safety Considerations
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Avoid tripping hazards by securing loose edges.
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Ensure proper drainage under the mat to prevent slippery surfaces.
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Check for any tears or loose fastenings before each use.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your caravan mat and ensures continued performance in all conditions.
Cleaning Methods for Different Mat Types
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Synthetic Mesh Mats: Shake off loose dirt and hose down with water; mild detergent can be used for stubborn stains.
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Foam/PVC Rubber Mats: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap; avoid abrasive scrubbing.
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Artificial Grass Mats: Brush off debris and rinse thoroughly with a hose.
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Recycled Plastic Mats: Hose down and let air dry; occasional scrubbing may be required for mud stains.
Storage Recommendations
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Roll or fold mats neatly to prevent creases.
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Store in a dry, ventilated space to prevent mold and mildew.
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Use a storage bag for easy transport and protection from dust.
Seasonal Care Considerations
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Summer: Keep mats shaded when possible to reduce heat damage.
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Winter: Ensure mats are completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
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Wet Conditions: Use breathable storage bags to prevent moisture buildup.
By following these setup, maintenance, and care tips, your caravan mat will remain in top condition for years to come, enhancing your camping experience in any environment.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Caravan mats are an essential accessory for any camping or caravanning setup, providing comfort, cleanliness, and protection for both travellers and the environment. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the various types of caravan mats, key features to consider, proper installation and maintenance, and a comparison of top brands. By choosing the right mat for your needs, you can enhance your outdoor experience and ensure durability for years to come.
Top Recommendations by Category:
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Best Overall Value: CGear Multi Mat – This breathable synthetic mesh mat offers excellent durability, dirt filtration, and UV resistance, making it a well-rounded choice for most caravanners.
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Premium Choice: Muk Mat – Featuring high-quality artificial grass, these mats provide luxury underfoot, excellent dirt-trapping ability, and premium construction.
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Budget-Friendly Option: Supex Annexe Matting – A cost-effective yet durable choice, offering eco-friendly materials and a range of stylish designs.
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Most Eco-Friendly: DLG Australia Recycled Plastic Mat – Made from 100% recycled materials, this mat is a sustainable choice without compromising on quality.
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Most Versatile: Camec Mesh Mat – With its lightweight and breathable design, this mat suits various terrains and is easy to clean and store.
Caravan Mats FAQs
What size caravan mat should I buy?
The ideal mat size depends on your caravan length and outdoor living space needs. Standard sizes range from 2.4m x 3m to 2.5m x 6m, with custom sizes available for larger setups.
Are all caravan mats suitable for use in caravan parks?
Most caravan parks allow breathable mats like synthetic mesh to protect grassed areas. Some parks may have specific regulations, so it's best to check their requirements before arrival.
How do I keep my caravan mat from blowing away?
Use heavy-duty pegs or sandbags to secure the mat. Some mats come with built-in eyelets for pegging down, while others may require additional weights.
Can caravan mats be used on the beach?
Yes! Synthetic mesh and rubber-backed mats work well on sandy surfaces as they allow sand to fall through while providing a stable, non-slip surface
You can shop our full range of caravan mats here!
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
