Thinking about buying your first caravan? Or are you ready to upgrade to something bigger? Either way, choosing the right tourer is an exciting journey, and we’re here to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle with this in-depth new caravan buying guide.
A new caravan is typically the second-largest investment you’ll make after your home, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right. Whether you’re planning to visit a caravan show or pop into a dealership, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Finding Your Perfect Layout
The first step is understanding which type of caravan suits your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s the beauty of modern caravanning. Let’s break down your options.
Width Matters: 7ft or 8ft Wide?
This is often one of the first decisions you’ll face. A 7ft wide caravan is more compact and easier to manoeuvre, making it ideal if you’re planning to explore narrow country lanes or smaller campsites. An 8ft wide model provides noticeably more living space inside, which can make a real difference on longer trips or when spending time indoors during rainy weather.
Single or Twin Axle?
Single-axle caravans are lighter and generally more economical to tow. Twin-axle models offer better stability on the road and often feature larger layouts. Consider where you’ll be touring and how confident you feel about towing before making this choice.
Sleeping Arrangements
Two-berth caravans are compact, lighter, and easier to tow. Perfect for couples or solo travellers, these typically feature convertible seating or parallel lounges that transform into beds at night.
Four-berth models offer flexible layouts with either fixed beds or convertible lounges. They’re brilliant for smaller families or those who enjoy longer trips where extra space is needed.
Six-berth caravans with bunk beds offer the extra sleeping capacity that larger families or groups of friends require. The bunk bed option is particularly popular among families with young children.
Bed Configurations
Fixed beds have become increasingly popular, offering several styles to choose from. Island beds allow access from both sides, French beds sit against one wall, and transverse beds span the width of the caravan. Twin beds, often paired with a rear washroom, are a favourite among couples or families with teenagers who want their own sleeping space.
If you’re touring with young children, side-diner bunks might be your perfect match. The dinette converts into bunks with a curtain partition, providing everyone with their own sleeping area while maximising daytime living space.
Two-lounge layouts feature seating areas at both the front and rear that convert into beds. This setup is ideal for families wanting flexible day and night use of their space.
Key Features to Check
Once you’ve narrowed down your layout preferences, it’s time to dig into the details.
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Sleeping Spaces
Is there genuinely enough sleeping space for everyone? More importantly, are the beds easily accessible? There’s nothing worse than having to clamber over someone else to get to your bed in the middle of the night.
Storage Solutions
Think about your touring style. Do you need space for clothes and luggage? What about bikes or outdoor gear? If you’re travelling with pets, where will their belongings go? Open every cupboard and imagine it filled with your belongings to get a realistic sense of whether there’s enough room.
Kitchen Facilities
Consider how you like to cook when you’re away. Do you need a full oven, or is a grill and hob sufficient? Is there adequate worktop space for meal preparation? Check the fridge size too – you’ll be surprised how quickly a small fridge fills up.
Washroom Essentials
The washroom is where compromise often happens, but it shouldn’t. If you enjoy longer touring trips, a proper shower and adequate space to move around become really important. Make sure the washroom layout works for everyone who’ll be using the caravan.
Heating and Water Systems
Will the heating keep you comfortable during the times you like to tour? Three-season caravanners need reliable heating systems. Are the controls straightforward to use? Is the water pressure adequate for your needs? Don’t hesitate to ask for a demonstration.
Natural Light and Ventilation
Rooflights and windows do more than let sunshine in – they provide essential ventilation too. Check they’re secure and easy to operate from inside the caravan. Good ventilation helps prevent condensation and keeps your caravan feeling fresh and dry.
Take Your Time to Decide
Here’s our top tip: don’t rush. Take time to inspect several models before making your final decision.
Ask for brochures if they’re available, and take photos and notes on each model you’re considering. It’s easy to forget details nd highlights when you’ve looked at multiple caravans in one day.
Sit in the lounge and dining areas to truly experience how the space functions. Close doors behind you to get an accurate sense of how different areas feel when they’re separated. This simple trick gives you a much better understanding of the layout.
Lie on the beds – yes, really! This is the only way to properly check the size and comfort. Don’t feel embarrassed; good dealers expect this and encourage it.
Inspect cupboards for storage space and quality of construction. Do the drawer runners feel solid? Are the hinges sturdy? These details matter when you’re using your caravan week after week.
Open and close the blinds or curtains to see how this transforms the interior spaces. Some caravans feel completely different with the blinds down.
Ask the Right Questions
Car and Caravan Compatibility
This is essential. Is your current car suitable for towing the caravan you’ve fallen in love with? Matching your car and caravan correctly is crucial for a safe, legal towing experience.
If you’re drawn to larger caravans, consider whether your current vehicle is up to the job. Online tools like Towsafe can help you check compatibility. This clever online app generates results for over one billion potential car and caravan combinations.
You can also discover essential towing advice, including an explanation of MIRO (Mass In Running Order) and MTPLM (Maximum Permissible Laden Mass) in our Caravan Towing Advice article.
Warranties and Servicing
Don’t forget to ask about warranty coverage. How long is it, and are there any exclusions you should know about? Is there an extended warranty option available? Some dealers offer free servicing for a fixed period, so be sure to find out exactly how this works and what’s covered.
Getting a Good Deal
Research is your best friend here. The internet makes it easy to compare prices and spot special offers across different dealers.
Caravan shows often feature exclusive promotions and show-only deals. Dealerships also run seasonal promotions and one-time offers. Be prepared to shop around. The market is competitive, and good deals can be negotiated.
Consider whether you want the absolute latest model or if a changeover model might offer better value. As new model years arrive, previous year’s stock often comes with attractive discounts.
Ask what extras the dealer might include in the price. Security devices, towing aids, appliances, extended warranties, or servicing packages can all significantly enhance the value of your purchase.
Where to Find More Help
You’re not alone in this journey. The caravanning community is wonderfully supportive and always willing to share knowledge.
Facebook groups dedicated to caravanning offer a wealth of information from enthusiastic members who love sharing their opinions and advice. Most groups are free to join and cover a wide range of topics, from specific caravan brands to general touring tips.
If you’re a Caravan Information Services member, you can also chat with ASK AL, our intelligent chatbot programmed by caravan engineers to provide fast, accurate answers to your questions. It’s free to use and available whenever you need guidance. Not a member? Join here.
Your Next Steps
Buying a new caravan opens up a world of adventure and freedom. Take your time, do your research, and choose the caravan that truly fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re planning weekend breaks or extended tours, the right caravan will become your home away from home for years to come.
Ready to start your search? Download our handy caravan buying checklist to take with you when visiting dealers or shows. It’ll help you remember all the essential questions and features to check.
Happy caravanning!
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