The decision to buy a brand new caravan isn’t an easy one as there are many factors that need to be considered. It can be a daunting task, a bit of an intense learning curve as well, particularly if you’re new to caravanning. Nonetheless, with some careful planning and research, you can find and purchase the caravan you desire. To help you in your endeavours, here are the nine vital tips to purchasing your caravan.
- Comfort& Space
What kind of spaceis enough for you and your family to be comfortable? Well, smaller caravans have smaller accommodation whereas bigger caravans have bigger accommodation. There is nothing right or wrong when it comes to comfort and space – it depends solely upon your personal preferences and needs.
For instance:
- If you’re single or like to live outside, a compact pop top caravan may be the perfect choice.
- If you’ve just retired and want to travel continually then perhaps a mid-sized caravan would be the right choice.
- A large family may require a bigger caravan with bunks.
Always remember the bigger the caravan gets, the heavier it will be and the harder it will be to manoeuvre.
- Safety
Safety needs to be of the highest priority – you need to feel safe and comfortable while holidaying in your caravan. Also, if you’ve never towed a caravan before then know that it will take some time to get used to. Caravans with single axles are easier to operate compared to those with double axles.
- What is the GCM (Gross Combination Mass) of your tow vehicle?
Unless you’re in the market to purchase a very small van, you need to start by finding out the GCM rating of your vehicle. Most of the modern vehicles now come with a GCM of 6000kg or higher. Nevertheless, if your tow vehicle is older, then its GCM capacity could be very low. You need to be certain you’ll have adequate spare towing capacity to carry the things you require. Don’t forget to add in these extra things such as fuel and water to the weight of your new van.
- Capability
Some people prefer to sit in a caravan park while others want to discover those remotest bush camps or out-of-the-way national parks. If you belong to the latter category, you should select a caravan that can aid you to reach these isolated locations and is better equipped with all the things you need.
- Semi-Off Road, Full Off-Road or On-Road
Again, this will depend on personal preferences. Here are some examples that will help you decide what type of caravan you would need for your expeditions – whether it is a semi-off road, full off-road or on-road caravan.
- Well, if you’re interested in exploring most of Australia with only some uneven dirt roads and creek crossings along the way then you’ll need a semi off-road caravan. These have a somewhat heavier build quality.
- However, if you want to experience the faraway outback, then you’ll need a full off-road caravan that comes with adequate under van and side protection shields. They also come with a higher end chassis and suspension package – all these features will give you peace of mind.
- If you’re a family with kids that love to take delight in all the comforts and play areas of caravan parks, and you’re only staying on sealed roads an on-road caravan is the perfect choice.
- Mobility
Caravans with different setups provide different levels of mobility. The best thing about a caravan is that, once you’re at your destination and set up, you’re totally free to drive your tow vehicle around unburdened. Conversely, if you own and use an RV, then you’ll find yourself less mobile on the road.
- Fuel Consumption
Depending on the distance you want to travel and how fast you intend to reach your desired destination, as well as, the mounting fuel prices – you could be putting thousands of dollars into your tow vehicle’s tank. Thus, you need to consider how much you’re happy to spend on fuel per trip.
- Budget
Caravans vary in features and price starting out at a basic budget model and working their way right up to luxury homes on wheels. It makes sense to know your budget before you start giving yourself a guideline to what you’re looking for.
- Setting up&Packingup Caravan
Well, nobody wants to waste hours and hours to set up campsite after unhitching their caravan. Luckily, modern caravans aren’t very hard to unhitch and stabilise. If you’re not quite sure whether you can manage this, visit a dealership near you and give it a try.
Final Words
When you’re looking for the right caravan for sale, make sure to compare quotes, check the quality and ask as many questions that come to your mind-this will ensure you end up purchasing the best caravan for your precise needs at the right price point.
