PRE-OWNED CARAVANS are great – they allow you to buy far posher models than your budget would allow if you bought new, and all for a fraction of the price of a new van. Sometimes depreciation can be wonderful.
And make no mistake, a high-end tourer is still a high-end tourer, even when it has a few thousand miles under its tyres and a few wrinkles on the upholstery.
However, before you rush off to Facebook Marketplace with visions of bagging yourself a Coachman caravan for pennies, bear in mind that when you’re buying used, it pays to do your homework and be fully aware of just what you’re getting into. So here’s how you can be a savvy shopper.
First pick your layout
Before heading for the online classified ads, it’s wise to visit a caravan show or your local dealership, to get a better feel for what sort of layouts are out there.
Layout is by far the most important factor, but you need to drown out the online noise and focus on one that will really suit you. No single layout works for every buyer and your needs will also change over time, as both families and lifestyles evolve.
We would also suggest borrowing a van from a friend or family if you can, to find out if a particular layout suits the type of holidays that you like taking.
Do your homework
Once you have narrowed down your choice of layouts and models, it’s time to begin researching those tourers.
The owner’s club (if there is one) is a good place to start, because club members tend to be a fount of knowledge about their particular brand or model. They also help to highlight common issues with the tourers.
Older models, especially those over 10 years of age, can suffer from rust, so always be sure to carefully check their undersides.
Is the listing legitimate?
Esta historia es de la edición November 2024 de Practical Caravan.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición November 2024 de Practical Caravan.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 9,000 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Uncooperative utilities
Gracious friends didn't mind using Penny with no water or electric for a weekend, but it was puzzling news to Nigel Donnelly
PC GUIDE TO...The low-down on lighting
Good lighting makes all the difference to any caravan interior, but which type is best for you? Sammy Faircloth looks at options for upgrading
STAY SAFE! TOWING AROUND VULNERABLE ROAD USERS
A poorly driven car and caravan can do a great deal of damage, especially around vulnerable road users. Here’s how to keep everyone safe
FORD KUGA
Ford has upgraded the Kuga SUV with improved hybrid powertrains, high-tech features and a better infotainment system.
BAILEY PEGASUS MODENA (2016)
This fixed-bed layout offers ideal touring for two, says Andrew Jenkinson
How to buy SECONDHAND
There are brilliant used bargains to be had if you know where to look and how to avoid the pitfalls. Here's what you need to know, says former salesman Peter Rosenthal
ELDDIS AVANTÉ 520
A sleek new profile graces the exterior of this compact two-berth and inside, there’s an impressive washroom
COACHMAN LASER 845 XTRA
The opulent living space in this comfortable four-berth makes the 845 an ideal choice for a seasonal pitch
See the best of France
Enjoy a trip to the most beautiful regions of France with a stay at these brilliant campsites
48 HOURS IN...ST MALO
Our regular series highlights top attractions and itineraries to help you make the most of a weekend visit