Just after a little advice. We are looking into purchasing our first caravan sometime after August this year. We are new to the caravan owners scene but not to camping and caravaning.
We have been looking at new vans rather than old mainly due to the fact that we really want a fix bed setup rather than end washroom etc... We only need 1 lounge area really.
I have a Vectra estate 2.2 dti to pull the van with which has braked tow weight limit of 1400kg. So would mind keeping it to a reasonable size/weight.
We have been looking at the Bailey Ranger 460/4 as these seems to have everything we want for a good price. Anyone got any experience with Bailey's and particular this model? Or can anyone recommend other makes and models? My Partners parents have not long bought a Swift Conqueror 655lx (I think) which I don't like, they had a lunar before hand which was great. We had an old Fleetwood for years which although big heavy van was really comfy and well kitted for its year.
It needs to be 4 berth so friends can stay if needed and it can expand with family etc... plus we have 2 choc labs as well.
Any advice would be great.
Cheers
Al
ps if anyone is interested we have lots of camping equipment for sale. Tents, stove etc... contact me for details.
Take delivery of our new bailey in a couple of weeks, although not the 460/4. We ordered in September of last year so you'll need to order in March/April for delivery in August if you actually want it then. Baileys - great value.
I note that you are thinking of buying after August. That makes it September which is good for you on two counts.
1. You do not have a caravan to put in part exchange and
2. September is the start of the "new Year" as far as caravans are concerned.
Any new vehicle on the forecourt of a caravan dealer in September becomes "last years" model. Dont let any dealer try to sell you a new caravan from off his forecourt at ANYWHERE NEAR the list price ( I know I'm shouting).
Haggle and haggle hard. Its your money he's after and the more you can screw out of him the better. You are in the ultimate of positions, don't throw away your chance.
We looked at the Bailey Ranger 510/4L and in the end picked a Sprite Firebrand 474 (fixed bunks at the end). They do a 473 fixed end double bed as well and the unladen weight is just 1017kgs. We picked the Sprite in the end as it had the best use of space and good spec and crucially was lightweight.
The Firebrand is a Barrons special as is basically the Musketeer. They have a few 473 fixed end beds left that they are selling off now could be some around still in August!? If its any help the Bailey was as equally as good we just liked being at opposite ends of the van to the kids! Good spec though with Stoves cookers, blown air etc.
Quote: Originally posted by buzzahole on 23/1/2007
Hi Al,
We looked at the Bailey Ranger 510/4L and in the end picked a Sprite Firebrand 474 (fixed bunks at the end). They do a 473 fixed end double bed as well and the unladen weight is just 1017kgs. We picked the Sprite in the end as it had the best use of space and good spec and crucially was lightweight.
The Firebrand is a Barrons special as is basically the Musketeer. They have a few 473 fixed end beds left that they are selling off now could be some around still in August!? If its any help the Bailey was as equally as good we just liked being at opposite ends of the van to the kids! Good spec though with Stoves cookers, blown air etc.
You mention that you liked your in laws Lunar, well I can recomend you to look at lunars "Lexon" fixed bed model, my last caravan was a Lunar and it was a lot of caravan at a very reasonable weight, well within the towing limit of your car. If you live anywhere near Chesterfield Robinsons do some very nice dealer specials called "Ultima"(lunar) which are really good value for money.
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: Looking for First Caravan
