Buying your first caravan

Wednesday, 09, Dec 2009 07:21

So you've been reading Caravan Times for a while, seen the caravan shows, and spoken to caravanners. Now you're ready to track down your very first caravan. And if you're thinking of purchasing a new or used caravan, then one of the best places to begin is your local dealer.

Dealers

Dealers tend to sell both new and used caravans, so a visit to the forecourt gives you a good idea of what you will be able to afford. As a general guide, new caravans will be priced up at between £8,000 to £15,000 (depending on specification). High-spec caravans bought new can exceed the £20,000 mark.

You'll notice that many dealers (nearly all, in fact) specialise in just a handful of caravan brands. For that reason, it's important that you visit as many dealers as possible. Get a good overview of the market and you'll be better placed to decide exactly which caravan you want - don't just settle for the first caravan you see (even if someone else buys that particular caravan, it's not unique)

Match the car to the caravan

Those new to caravanning are sometimes surprised by the importance of their car. There is a limit to how much weight any car can pull, and exceeding the maximum towing weight is not only unsafe - it also invalidates your car insurance. Visit whattowcar.com to find out if your chosen caravan is a suitable match for your car.

It's also important to check that your driving licence qualifies you to tow. If you passed your driving test after 1997, you'll need to sit a special towing test before you can legally take some heavier caravans out on the road (car and caravan can weigh no more than 3500Kg).

Be sure before you buy

When you've found your perfect match, a good caravan dealer will take the time to go through the workings of the caravan with you - inside and out. If there is anything you are unsure about, just ask - a caravan is an expensive purchase and you need to be certain before making the commitment to buy. Make sure there is enough room for you and your family and that there is plenty of storage space.

Delivery of your caravan represents your final chance to check it over. While this is perhaps more important in a second-hand purchase, it's still important to ensure that all is as it should be before signing for the caravan. For more information on models, do take a look at the Caravan page on our website.