What You Should Know Before Buying a Caravan

Have you found a new caravan that you feel is perfect for you and your needs whilst travelling? Before you get too excited and make the purchase, it is important that you are confident the van itself will be perfect for your holidays – both now and into the future. Buying a caravan is an investment after all, so take the time to ask yourself these questions to make sure this particular van is the right choice for you.

Will the bed size accommodate everyone?

In some situations, being tall is actually a disadvantage—and sleeping in a caravan can be one of them. You must make sure that the size of the beds will comfortably accommodate all members of your family, especially in those situations when the table must be folded down into a bed. You might also like to check that the padding is comfortable, too.

How big does the bathroom need to be?

When buying a caravan these days, you will find that most models fully equipped with either a full or half bathroom. Make sure that the shower cubicle is large enough for you to bathe in comfort. The facilities at the locations you plan on travelling to (and whether or not you fancy walking to the bathroom in the middle of the night) will impact the size of the bathroom that you need.

How much cooking do you plan on doing?

For many people, this is a pretty silly question, as they will be doing as much cooking whilst on holidays as they would at home. For others, however, they are happy to use a humble campfire, to eat takeaway or even to eat out during their travels. Think about how you like to cook while on holidays, and make sure the kitchen is up to your standards.

How much storage space do you need?

These days, it is possible to find vans that feature quite extensive storage, allowing you to take along your bikes or even surfboards whilst on holidays. If you don’t require this large amount of storage, however, you would be better off buying a caravan that provides you with a little more living space instead. Be mindful of the impact that the extra storage space can have on your towing capacity – though the van may not be that heavy now, be sure to visit your local weigh station once it’s loaded.

What type of caravan layout do you prefer?

There are actually a number of different layouts available for models currently on the market, allowing you to select one that is appropriate for your needs. Do you need a table with bench seats that face each other or would you prefer an L-shaped seating area? Should the sleeping area be near the door or at the other end? Do you need added bunkbeds, or are you travelling as a couple? When buying a caravan, these are all things you should ask yourself.

Do you require a single or a twin axle?

Whilst most people will opt for a twin axle when buying a caravan simply because they will provide you with a more stable performance on the road, it is important to keep in mind that this will increase the level of maintenance required. It can also make the van more difficult to maneouvre in small or tight spaces, which can make parking a problem.

If you’re buying a caravan, there are a number of questions you need to ask yourself before making a purchase. Once you know these things, you can be confident the van you’ve selected is the perfect choice for you, and will meet all your needs once you hit the open road