FEATURE: Five of the best lightweight micro caravans
Drive off into the sunset with a lightweight T@b caravan
Thursday, 18, Nov 2010 01:28
by Holly Tribe
We've received a few comments in recent months from readers nostalgic for the simple things in life, namely, lightweight low tech caravans.
For some, the increasingly sophisticated technology and heavyweight designs of modern tourers aren't cause for celebration.
As Beryl who currently lives in France, recently asked: "Why oh why are caravans so heavy? Surely in these days of climate change, the lighter the greener. I am pig sick trying to find a decent caravan that we can tow!"
Well Beryl, in response to your cries of lament here are our top five tourers that can be towed by a reasonably sized VW Golf.
The Little Guy
These teardrop shaped trailers are based on the travel trailer design which originated in the US. Their diminutive form is light enough to be hauled behind a quad bike. But caravanners beware, you will have to travel light as nominal storage comes in the form of a small roof mounted cupboard above the bed.
- Price: £3995
- Weight: 300kg
Tuareg
A winner in this years' European Caravanning and Design Awards, the Tuareg is lightweight and garage friendly with an elevating roof for extra headroom. The cunning island kitchen design can be used in the cabin or taken outside for the chef to prepare dinner al fresco.
- Price: Euro 13,995
- MTPLM: on request
T@b
Manufactured at the Tabbart factory near Frankfurt in Germany, these pint-sized caravans come in a range of three layouts - the smallest of which is the T@b 320. In its naked form weighs approximately 550kg and is small enough to be towed by a mini.
Price: on request
MTPLM: 800kg
Sprite Finesse 2
If you're looking for something a bit more mainstream, have a look at the Finesse 2. This compact lightweight tourer from Swift Caravans is the littlest in the Sprite range. Standing at 3.66m in length with an MTPLM of 1,084kg - it is small enough to be matched with a small family car such as VW Golf or Vauxhall Corsa.
- Price: £10,599
- MTPLM: 1,084kg
Adria Action 361
And finally, we come to our final European offering, the Action 361 from Adria Caravans. Slightly undercutting the Sprite in cost and weight it comes equipped with a large toilet and boasts class leading storage facilities.
- Price: £10,114
- MTPLM: 1,000kg