Whether you’re looking to take the family on a lap around Australia or are looking for the perfect caravan for weekend escapes, buying a caravan can be an extremely challenging process. There is so much to learn and consider to make sure you get the perfect caravan for your specific needs. Here are our top tips to consider to help you get out on the open road sooner with your new caravan.

Set your budget and stick to it

Caravans and motorhomes can range in price from a few thousand to a few hundred thousand. It is so easy for the price to begin creeping up when you start adding optional extras or looking for features you want in your perfect caravan.

Making a ‘wants and needs’ list can help you to identify things that you simply ‘want’ versus more important features which are non-negotiable, which can help you to work out what fits within your budget.

Determine the Perfect Size and Type

Depending on your plans for your van, you may want to consider a motorhome, caravan, or camper trailer. This will be highly dependent on your budget and what features you’re looking for. You will also need to consider the size and your intended van use. Are you using it as a weekender or are you and your family of 4 planning to spend the next year living out of it while doing the big lap? Do you need a toilet and shower, solar panels and 240v inverter to run a microwave and hair dryer? Or are you planning to stay as close to nature as possible and find a tree and a swimming hole? Your intended use should help you to determine how much space you’ll need and therefore what size and type of caravan or motorhome you’re looking for.

Don’t Skimp on the Research

The more research you do on the different makes, models, features and optional extras you can get on caravans, the more likely you are to make an informed decision and experience many years of hassle-free caravanning. Consider your lifestyle needs and which one would best suit you. Go around to plenty of dealerships and look through the designs and layouts of different caravans available, but don’t let them suck you in to making an emotional, rushed buying decision. You can also visit online forums, join related Facebook pages and lookup reviews of specific models online to see what other people have to say about them.

Watch your Weight

No, not your weight – the overall weight of your caravan. You need to put some serious consideration into the weight of your caravan and the towing capacity of your tow vehicle. Your towing capacity will determine how big a caravan you can safely and legally tow. Don’t forget to factor in additional weight such as passengers, kitchen and bathroom supplies, food, bedding and clothing as well as any additional gear you may be taking. This will all contribute towards the combined weight.

For more information about your vehicle’s towing capacity, consult your user manual and for information about the weight of your desired caravan, speak to the dealership.

If you have your heart set on a specific caravan and your vehicle can’t tow it, not to worry – simply give our expert Finance Consultants a call on 1800 538 287 to get an obligation-free quote on upgrading your vehicle. See how easy and affordable finance can be and the best part is that you could be driving out on the same day with your new vehicle and dream caravan.