There’s a lot to consider when buying a second hand tourer caravan and these tips are in no way a full guide, but hopefully will get you thinking, and set you off in the right direction to get the information that you really need.
Choosing The model
This is where compromise may come into force. You need to figure out out how often you will be using your caravan. Where will you be keeping it? Does your current car have the capacity to tow the caravan of your choice? But, there may be one question that you haven’t considered, is a caravan really appropriate to your needs, or, would a camper van be more suitable?
If you rather a bit more luxury, then a caravan is the obvious choice, although bear in mind that with more luxury usually comes more weight and cost. If you are prepared to rough it a little bit then a large camper awning can provide with with plenty of living space. If you are sure that you do want a caravan, then it’s time to get the brochures out to see what is on offer, and immerse yourself in the world of caravans before you commit to buying. Even though you are buying second hand, it may still be a good idea to get yourself acquainted with essential specifications.
Do Your Homework
Once you have found your potential purchase you need to find out how much it costs to insure. And, even though you may have read the manufacturer’s description it’s time to start reading a few reviews made by genuine owners. Genuine reviews are easy to spot on caravan users’ websites and forums, but it does take a little bit of time to sift through them. But, this is where you’ll probably come across issues that you hadn’t previously considered.
Depending on where you will be buying the caravan from (e.g. eBay), you may be able to check up on the caravan seller. If it’s from a caravan dealership you again can see if they have any reviews, and you also need to pay attention to the details of any warranties offered.
Caravan History
One tell tale sign of a well looked after caravan is the owner handbook. If there is one, then this says that the owner is probably someone who has looked after the caravan well. Another good sign is a service history, as well as documentation covering repairs and any modifications. If the caravan was made after 1992 it will have an HPI number which can found on the windows/chassis, ask the owner for this before visiting, as you can check online whether or not the vehicle has any recorded problems such as insurance write offs.
Physical Checks
Do all the amenities within the caravan work? Check the stove and everything else to make sure it is all in good working order (don’t be fobbed off with “we just need a new gas bottle…”). Anything that opens and closes needs to be checked, that includes doors, windows, cupboards etc. Check seals aren’t peeling away or eroded.
Damp can be a big problem with some caravans, and once it starts it can be like rust, once it’s got its foot in the door that’s it. Check to see if there’s been a ‘cover up’ job done. Another tell tale sign apart from the obvious odour of damp is another smell being used to mask the damp. If the caravan smells heavily of domestic cleaner than this could be a cover up (or maybe not!).
These are just some of the things you need to consider, but if you are serious, you really need to do your homework and start chatting with people on forums, everyone’s needs are different, and it’s through chatting that you will discover what the best purchase is for you.
By: Gareth Whieldon
