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Hi Kevin and welcome.

First you have to find out what weight your car can pull - ideally 85% of your cars kerb weight. Then visit lots of Dealers and look at all the different 4/5 berth layouts within your weight/price limit. Do you want end kitchen or end bathroom - bunks etc. Take a note of which make/models that suit and prices. Try and buy as new as you can with least use and all the extras that you will need - aqauroll, waste, wheel clamp, hitchlock, leveler, awning etc. and beware of damp!!!!!!! You would probably have to buy privately to get all the extras - maybe someone giving up caravanning. £5k should get you a decent van newer than year 2000.

Good luck and don't be afraid to ask for more info. we are all here to try and help each other.

Quote: Originally posted by Kevn on 18/3/2008

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Thinking of moving from camping to caravan, have upto 5k to spend and need a 4 berth any tips.

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dont you mean moving from camping to better camping he he

Look out for flood damaged vans and also ones that have been used by flood victims for emergency accommodation. The running gear on these will be first class but the interiors will be well hammered. 7 to 8 months of constant use will have taken its toll.

Hi Everybody

Thanks for your hints and help, were going to start looking this weekend.

Cheers

Kevin

A 4 berth with all the extras newer than 2000 is rather optomistic I think.  But it would depend on the spec.  We recently sold our Sterling Eccles Emerald 1998 model with a good spec and a mover for £4500, and that was a good price for the buyer.

We did not add in any equipment as we need it all for our next van, so do not assume all vans will come with loads of extras.Make sure you get a mains hook-up cable and pump included, probably a step, vans come with these as standard now.  Also a spare wheel and a battery are good.  Then there is not that many essentials left to buy.

Ask for service history and receipts, and handbooks.

Once you decide on a layout you will have a better idea, and your towcar may be the limiting factor.  You can check second hand prices on caravanpriceguide.

Selling my van on the free adds on here your more than welcome to have a look its in your price range and we are up your way for Easter its got quite a few extras with it, just follow the advice on here you won't go far wrong, but do check for damp and ensure they have receipts from when they bought the van. Cris registered is also a good indication but is not a guarantee that its ok. Trust your instinct or get someone to go with you who knows what they are looking for. Also if you are buying from a dealer go through the warranty with a fine tooth comb they are not always what they say they are when you read the small print.

Good luck