Well after 2 months of searching we have finally found our first caravan!
Gave up trying to find a decent one for £2k and went to White Arches in Northampton to get a bit dearer one
The staff there are great, very helpful and not pushy at all
We are buying a 1999 Swift Archway Barnwell (dealer special) 4 berth - comes with new awning, Al-Ko stabiliser and everything needed to get started. 60 point check, full service, 6 months warranty. Very pleased!
Can't wait to pick it up and get started
Any of your tips are most welcome as we are first timers
Thanks
xx
------------- Save the earth...it's the only planet with chocolate
Excellent choice !!! my mum has an Archway 2 birth 2001, and it is beautiful you will love it very very nice indeed, have a wonderful time in your new van.
------------- wishing everyone,,,,what you would wish for yourselves x
Don't go to far from home on your first few trips and take some tool's. Make time to check caravan and car tyres for pressures and sidewall condition. Caravan tyres could be nine years old, if they have not been changed. Last but not least enjoy and be prepared to have a good laugh at your selves !
Quote: Originally posted by vulcan7 on 26/5/2008
be prepared to have a good laugh at your selves !
Also, be prepared for other people laughing AT you as you make the beginners mistakes we all make. In time you'll get your own back.
Accept that you will do some damage to the van through your daft mistakes. I daren't list the damage I've done including bumps, floods, getting stuck, pulling doors off etc. It's all part of the fun, and things are much easier to mend than you think at the time
Mrs Woody, Try a dry run putting the awning up away from the view of any body, On site we can all spot a virgin vanner by the all the rows they have , (hold this ,hold that, its your fault, dont speak to me like that, all right do it on your own,) that is the polite version, allow plenty off stopping room when driving and take corners a little wider, I have been vanning for over twenty years, and have today just fitted an alko 3004 stabiliser ,we used to have the blade type
We are going to stay close to home for the first run and make sure we go to a site where the wardens are happy to help out newbies! I have had some good suggestions so far
We are well prepared to cock up most things and dealer is going to run through everything with us when we collect the van. Even if it takes him hours :-)
Can't wait!
x
------------- Save the earth...it's the only planet with chocolate
Well after 2 months of searching we have finally found our We are buying a 1999 Swift Archway Barnwell (dealer special) 4 berth - comes with new awning, Al-Ko stabiliser
Make sure your tow ball can use the Alko Stabiliser as the standard flange ball wont work. The Alko ball has an extended neck to accommodate the hitch.
------------- I'm just a slave to the outdoor life!!!!!!!
Take a small role of sellotape in case you find that any doors/ drawers are prone to fly open - that way you can secure them for the trip home. Also pack any tinned food items at floor level. Our friends made the expensive mistake of packing tins in an overhead cupboard. A tin fell out causing damage to the work top which resulted in the whole worksurface top having to be replaced. Always take one more bottle of wine than you think you'll you need. Trust me it'll get drunk.
Quote: Originally posted by tykey on 26/5/2008
It was only after a while that we realised it was the local dogging spot!!! But we at least broke all records for packing it away
OMG! lol
I bet you were outta there in seconds
------------- Save the earth...it's the only planet with chocolate
Quote: Originally posted by Custer on 26/5/2008
Make sure your tow ball can use the Alko Stabiliser as the standard flange ball wont work. The Alko ball has an extended neck to accommodate the hitch.
The dealership are very kindly going to change our tow ball to fit
------------- Save the earth...it's the only planet with chocolate
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: Finally got 1st caravan - Tips welcome!
