We've had a very large 4 bedroom tent for the last few years but, as our eldest is now wanting to stay home, are looking towards buying a caravan to fit 2 adults and a 12 year old. Hubby willing to sleep in an awning. We have a small budget (£3k)but have no idea where to start!
Whatever you do check for DAMP !! my preference would be to find a van you like then get a mobile service engineer to give it the once over BEFORE you part with any cash..wish i had taken my own advice !!!!!
First make sure you or your husband have the correct licence for towing. Secondly can your car tow a caravan Check the kerb weight, then start you search at 85% recommended.
The obvious things to check for are damp buy a damp meter, soft flooring,
any signs of exterior damage. Any service history is good, check the gas and electrics are working. If you are buying private ask them to set the van up so you can see all is working. Leaking pipes can be an issue so try and run taps if possible. Get a caravan tech to check over for you. It may cost but could save you a lot.
Like others have said, test with damp meter and make sure your vehicle is capable of towing it easily when fully loaded and that the layout suits your needs. If seller is not happy about you testing for damp and/or having a service engineer check the caravan running gear and habitation, walk away. Yours is not an insignificant budget and we are fast approaching the end of the season when it will become a buyers market, particularly if you have your own storage facility. You will be able to purchase a good older caravan for a lot less than the top end of your budget. Many people enjoy their older caravans just as much as the people who are in a position to purchase new ones.
Each manufacturer makes something like 3 or 4 ranges:
Budget
Midrange
Luxury
Within each range they make several different sizes and layouts and number of berths.
A good idea is to go to a dealer and wander round looking at the different layouts to see what you think you would like bearing in mind the size and weight for storage and your cars towing ability and maybe your licence.
There isn't really a need for one of you to sleep in the awning - there are plenty of 3 and 4 berth vans around. If you find you want to go away all year round, then this would be preferable I think.
Your budget is going to mean an older van, so as mentioned damp is a very real possibility. I would strongly recommend an inspection, whether you purchase privately, or from a dealer. Every season there are sad tales of people who don't have vans inspected and find they have bought rot boxes. Believe me, the cost of an inspection is insignificant compared to the cost of correcting damp. Don't be taken in either by 'small' damp patches - damp is like an iceberg - you see 10% the rest is still hidden.On entering a van your nose is a good test - any slight mustiness is a red flag...
As first timers, you might look out for someone who is selling up, as this could save you a lot, if an awning or other items are included. If a dealer, then haggle to to get whatever you can included.
I don't think any one make is better or worse than another, though some might disagree
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Topic: Any help on 1st time gratefully recieved
