We have been looking at new caravans today, we currently have a folding camper, which we love, but just want to extend our camping season. Looking around, there seems to be deals to be had with it being towards the end of the season...but would we be better waiting until the show at the NEC...would there be better bargains to be had there?
Also...and I'm sure preference is personal, but given money is no object, which brand would you choose?
We've just bought a brand new elddis avante and got a great deal as for us its brand new, we don't care that there are newer models out in a month or two. We could never have got a better deal at NEC so went for it. Look for dealer specials for nice extras on standard models and negotiate hard. Good luck!
I want a bargain...which isn't necessarily cheap, but I want people opinions on which caravans are the better quality. Perhaps I should have said where would I get a better deal...?
We've been looking and the same caravan layout for different manufacturers differ considerably in price...if you could have any brand, which would it be?
Quote: Originally posted by FionaW1971 on 01/9/2013We've just bought a brand new elddis avante and got a great deal as for us its brand new, we don't care that there are newer models out in a month or two. We could never have got a better deal at NEC so went for it. Look for dealer specials for nice extras on standard models and negotiate hard. Good luck!
Thanks...that's the sort of answer I was looking for...I also suppose that getting something from a local dealer would be better than a show if there was any problem...not as far to trek.
Yes that's a big factor for us, the best deal at NEC may not be your nearest dealer and then servicing and warranty issues become a problem. We used Campbells in Preston who aren't too far from you and had an excellent trade in and buying experience with them, all very minor niggles on handover were sorted instantly. They do show at NEC but I'd pay them a visit and tell them you are waiting for NEC and see what they offer you, such as a dealer special at no extra cost, throw in an awning etc - we got a mover thrown in! They should work hard as you are in a good position for a quick easy sale, no trade in etc.
Unless you want a new new model then I think you will get a better deal now before the show. Decide what you want though and shop around. I agree that there is a lot to be said for buying local and striking up a relationship with a nearby dealer.
I have an Adria and currently have a minor warranty issue to sort, as there is only one service engineer near me I've had to wait two months for an appointment. I really wouldn't want to be driving miles.
It's Campbells we've been to today...to be honest they didn't have much new stock and weren't at all sales orientated...we walked out of both the Preston and Clifton showrooms without so much as being approached by a sales person. Going to try Stewart Longtons next weekend.
We went to Stewart Longtons in Blackpool yesterday and they were the same, Veema. All the vans were locked up. Mostly there were four berth fixed bedders and a lot of heavyweights, neither suits us. We had a look through a few windows but as nothing interested us we left. There was no one on the forecourt. Came back via Reads at Whitebirk. They were a bit better. More to see and a sales guy walking around. Kids were a bit fed up by then and only had a nosy around a couple. Will try to get back there.
I don't think they approached us either but I went and spoke to them and then we had their full attention. To be honest the caravan industry isn't like buying a car, it's all slower and less up front regarding sales - it does take a bit of getting used to!
My advice after having done this twice . Is don't buy at a show go and look around but go to your nearest dealer they will match the offer and save a lot of problems when things go wrong and believe me no matter how good the van seems things will go wrong.
Some may be minor and some not so minor it is better if you buy a van with easy reach. Because any after care needs to be sorted from where you bought it.
Build quality wise I would say all the large UK manufacturers are much the same. The more expensive ranges are better equipped but the actual build quality & construction will be the same. For better build quality arguably you should be looking at the more expensive German makes like Hymer for example.
The most important thing is to find a layout that really suits you and a model that has all the equipment you view as essential. Not just for a short while, but long term. It is well worth while looking at used 'vans, as you may find something that suits you better than anything currently in production (we were set on buying a new 'van and this happened to us).
If you buy newish (2 or3years old, say) the van will still be within warranty but any niggles will have been ironed out by the previous owner.Worked for us.
Have you tried Read Caravans in Blackburn? I find they are a good place to go for a nosey around. All the vans are open (unless they are sold) and there tends to be a reasonable selection with a variety of layouts, new and used.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Questions re: buying a new caravan
