Used caravan sales figures are up at the moment as people choose to find cheaper ways to holiday and enjoy their leisure time. For those not in the know however, buying used caravans can be extremely troublesome; requiring much research and consideration. The following article attempts to lay down some golden rules that are applicable to caravan sales.
First consideration is whether you wish to buy a caravan or a motor home. Fundamentally this depends upon the type of travelling you intend to do, for instance those who wish to visit campsites regularly will most likely benefit from owning a caravan whilst those who wish to travel anywhere with unbridled freedom are likely to benefit when a motor home is used. In addition those who move on regularly, taking in as many sights as possible are more likely to utilise a motor home or camper van.
The second most important consideration when considering a used caravan is the size of the outfit. Typically the larger a van the more opulent and comfortable it will be; however, more size means a higher price, so if buying on a budget, a smaller outfit can be the preferable choice as it allows for more holidays with the money saved. Additionally using a large caravan can mean certain rules of the road must be followed. Do not be taken in by the sales person, buy within your means and legal boundaries; for instance; if a caravan is wider than 2.3 m it is likely that a specialised vehicle will be needed to tow it.
The importance of research cannot be underestimated. A caravan, even a used one is a considerable investment and hence looking in detail where this money will be invested is important. If you have found a particular model that suits your needs get a copy of a caravan sales magazine and see where in the local area it will be possible to obtain this model, subsequently helping you to find the cheapest price.
It is especially important to make a detailed check of used caravans. For instance in older models damp is a serious problem that if seen should lead the buyer to walk away. Signs of damp include patches present in the corners whilst buyers should also check the seals around doors and windows to ensure that that no water ingresses into the outfit causing damage.
In addition buyers should make a thorough check of the chassis and structural supports, these are the skeleton of the outfit and hence if they are damaged or faulty the caravan can be considered a poor investment. As well the chassis the tow clips and fixings should also be assessed to deduce whether the outfit will be stable once in transit.
In a similar vein it is important for buyers to check with the sales person about the gas and electric systems present in the outfit, if possible a test should be undertaken. Faulty systems can be extremely dangerous and hence by testing them you are given some level of assurance that they are working properly and safely. Make sure that you understand exactly what deal the sales person is putting on the table; make a note of any extras that may be applicable and whether if these are taken away, the price will drop. Through effective bartering it is often a possibility to grab a bargain.
Hopefully these five tips have given those considering a used caravan as an investment a suitable reference point of advice. By taking a careful and logical approach it is always possible to find an outfit that will give years of holidaying pleasure.
Travel expert Thomas Pretty provides consumer advice for those considering used caravan sales deals and the vital decisions that need to be made.
