Hi everyone, just supposing I thought this summer was pants, and just supposing I was fed up with pitching my tent in the rain, and just supposing I could persuade the rest of my mob - if I started researching caravans what would a couple of major pointers be? Not that I've given this very much thought, but I would be looking at a 5 berth that was no more than 17'. If I managed to buy a cheap van, say £1000, what additional costs would I need to think about. Indeed, could I even get a non-damp van for that sort of money? What is the deal with damp anyway? Is it because of what caravans are made with, making a little damp a very big problem. Why are some small caravans so much heavier than others? Is it a quality issue. My Honda CRV can tow a reasonable weight, but I'd rather not add to petrol comsumption unless there's a good reason. Also, does anyone know of a caravan storage facility in Buckinghamshire, close to the Wycombe area?
Thanks in advance everyone,
Sharon
PS If these questions are already over covered could someone point me to the right link please. Ta very muchly.
Damp is an issue because caravans are largely made of wood. If they were made from hydrophobic man made materials then it wouldn't be such an issue. If they were made from composites then they would also be a bit lighter. All the wooden cabinets inside must also add to the weight, but people tend to go for what appeals aesthetically, adding to the towing fuel consumption and the size of towing vehicle needed.
You might well find a 5 berth for around £1000 but it would most likely be an older model - not that there's anything wrong with older vans (mines 15 years old). If you can allow a little more money, you might find you have a better choice.
Be very careful when viewing any van and check everything and a damp meter is worth taking. Damp is the biggest issue with a van of any age and you will find plenty of threads on this subject. If you are thinking of looking on eBay, again there are plenty of threads on this and are worth reading.
As to additional costs these would be: storage - if you can't keep it at home. Awning - if you wanted one and van did'nt come with one. Equipment - again if van did'nt come with any, i.e. water and waste containers, hook up (if you can't live without leccy), groundsheet for awning. Security - hitchlock, wheel clamp etc. Insurance.
You will see a difference in fuel consumption when towing, not always as bad as some think.
I think the biggest problem with damp is generally it has to be bad before the signs become obvious to the eye. If you see a small patch you can be certain there is a lot more not showing up, and by that time the damage has been done. Also damp isn't limited to older caravans. Ususally if the caravan is regularly serviced, damp is spotted, and repaired before it damages the frame of the caravan.
Thats not to say it can't be repaired see HERE. There are some guys called the Fixed It Club on UKCS (Wizard and his crew) who have step by step instructions of the caravans they have repaired, and tackle jobs you wouldn't believe with great results.
There are good dry caravans out there within your budget, and probably with most of the standard stuff included Awning, Aquaroll, Hookup, etc our first caravan came with everything but crockery and cutlery for £720.
The other plus point is we are just coming to the end of what a lot of people class as the end of the season, so there are usually bargains to be had.
I don't think you'll have a problem towing with your CRV HERE are the Honda weight limits.
Good luck in your search, you won't regret the change.
Paul
------------- "Whether you think you can, or think you can't... You're right"
hi sharon we have recently bought a 6 berth for 1500 its a great van and a real bargin we got it from a lady in crowthorn who deals in good second hand vans great lady i also store mine in wycombe a farm near hazelmere foe 150 a year if you want the numbers let me know
Thanks everyone, Jackie, if you could let me have those details that would be great - I'm in Tylers Green so Hazelmere couldn't be more ideal. My email address is Chez-hart at talktalk.net. Thanks very much.
Cheers Jackie, they haven't arrived yet but my server tends to be slow. I'll let you know if it's not there by tomorrow. I'm quite excited by the possibility of storing a caravan so close by - that was the big off putting factor as we have a restricted covenant preventing us keeping one on our drive. Going to do a bit more research on previous threads now....
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Topic: caravan questions
), groundsheet for awning. Security - hitchlock, wheel clamp etc. Insurance.
