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Save money with a second-hand caravan
Published:
10 July 2012
With the economy looking as gloomy as the weather, it's no surprise that many people across the UK want to cut costs where they can and holidays are no exception.
In a lot of ways, caravanning is a great wallet-friendly option for holiday makers; you don't have to shell out for expensive flights when you opt for an overseas caravan break, and you also avoid the need to pay for expensive hotels in order to have somewhere comfortable to sleep every night.
Of course, if you're new to the world of caravan travel and have yet to buy the vehicle itself, that initial purchase could prove to be quite the expense.
One way to cut costs is to search used caravans. However, there are a number of tips you should consider before doing so.
First, do not go for the first one you see, no matter how good it looks and how excited you are to get it onto the road and into the countryside.
It's also a good idea to get a friend who is more experienced with caravans to come along when you go to shop for caravans, as he or she might have a better idea of what to look for and what to avoid.
Consider your needs before you put your money down, especially when it comes to the size of the vehicle. Is it predominantly for long family breaks or the occasional romantic weekend with just you and your significant other?
Also, while larger vehicles offer more luxury and space, they also tend to be heavier and harder to manoeuvre, not to mention that you'll need a bigger and more powerful tow car to get them anywhere.
Experts agree that, as a general rule of thumb, your caravan should be no less than 85 per cent of the curb weight of your car, so keep that in mind when making your purchase.
The most important thing when making your purchase is to do your homework. You need to check the history of your chosen caravan thoroughly, including a formal service history comprised of receipts and invoices for any repair work. Don't be afraid to ask questions about how it's been used in the past.