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Hi,

We are thinking of buying a caravan but, having never owned one before, we have no idea what to look for/watch out for. Ideally want a second hand one about 2-4 years old to sleep 4 comfortably. If we do buy second hand, what should we be looking out for/ what questions do we ask?

Many thanks.

hi see here

Avoid Caravan Crime
	Buying Secondhand
	Arrival On Site

Gosh, loads to think about - and that's part of the fun.

If you are happy with your car - look here to see what weights you can pull

http://www.cuddles.abelgratis.net/kerbweights.htm

then I would go and have a look at a dealership and see what layout you prefer.Is it all adults? if so a 5 berth might be a possibility with 2 double beds, if its kiddies, then fixed bunks. Do you want a luxurious end bathroom or more space?? go for the day and sit in them, play etc, then once you have found the layout you like, I would say go on ebay to have a look to see what prices second hand ones are asking - do not bid without looking especiually if over 4 years old.

main factors I would say are weight, layout, then look to see what price range you are willing to pay, then scour sites like this, and

http://www.preloved.co.uk/fuseaction-adverts.listadverts/sec-Health%20and%20Leisure/cat-Caravans%20and%20Camping/subcat-Caravans/0fbbbeee.html

and

http://www.c4caravans.com/touringcaravans-forsale-cheapest-2.php

and keep your eyes out in the local paper - certailnly subscribe to practical caravan magazine, alot of useful stuff.

one word of caution - if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!! beware of the dreaded damp!!!! - enjoy looking!!

take a damp metre

.we got ours from b and q under £15 and saved us a fortune by buying a dry caravan ,

 nearly bought a caravan this weekend ,walls bone dry put metre on floor it was badly damp  worth its weight in gold hate to imagin how much it would have cost us to put that right .