Message Forums

 Hi Rusty, all of the above advice is good it sounds like a second hand van is what

you will be going for caravanfinder is a good source also type gumtree in your browser and select the town/city nearest you then search caravans,arm yourself with a damp meter £10 on ebay and search away better still if you know someone with a bit of caravanning exp.take them with you,dont be afraid to ask questions, poke around in the vans etc as if someone wants a sale they will be happy to let you,

 see if you can find a van for sale due to retirement/bereavement asd these are often

the best bargains and you may get an awning and other essentials thrown in,Good luck.

The Coachman VIP or Pastiche are soild well made vans with plenty of room.

Might be on the heavey side but in my opinion light is cheap :O)

Neil

I may well take a look at some of the models mentioned above, but feel that hobby is the fave at the moment.

I do agree with Neil's opinion that light is usually cheap.

Russ

As I've been looking at whats currently available under £2000 (our chosen towcar is going to cost a little more that 1st anticipated) We've found a 1990 Avondale Kingfisher with excellent condition, awning and lots of accessories inc clean/dirty aquarolls. Available at £1750 ono. I've seen potentially cheaper models on Fleabay, but not in the same condition or with the same amount of extras.

Are these a decent 1st time van ?

Regards,

Russ and Dawn

rustybaby

I am new to caravanning but have a continental door and I asked on here why some sites did not want us.Replies have said that Hobby vans are not liked by site owners as they could be travelling folk, apparently their favoured van, and site owners do not want them so as a precaution say no to the booking request .  On this basis, If you want to camp in England much you may find a problem with a Hobby. Don't know about Europe with this van.

Hope you find your ideal van soon

Carol

I am finding that is is going to be difficult finding a German built van, to true UK spec. I've already seen several illegally towed vans... I know lots of people do it, but we'll not go down that route.

Just spent a fair bit more than planned on our tow vehicle (XC90) so our 1st van will have to be under £4000.

Thanks for all contributions.

Russ

Hi,

we have a Coachman oasis, would recommend this model, my in-laws had an avondale for quite some time, never let them down, good luck :)

Hi K + R, I've not seen a Coachman oasis but will try to view one. Lots of people say good things about the Avondale's... they seem to be a good option for us.

Regards,

Russ and Dawn