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I have decided to get a caravan rather than camping with a tent as I want a few more comforts on holiday!

Now I am not sure what i need to look out for, I guess damp is the main thing but is there any thing else?

I was looking to spend a couple of grand and am going to look at a 2 bert swift corniche on Friday for £2000 its a 1994 15/2 model.  Is there price guides available like you can get for cars? I just dont want to make a mistake.

Any advice will be appreciated

Steve

Agree with checking for damp.  Have you got a damp meter?  If you haven't then it really is worth getting one because your £2000 caravan will become worthless if it is damp.  Check the awning rails on the outside of the van as damp often starts there.  If it has been regularly serviced you will be able to see if they have ever been resealed.  Check those area's on the inside of the 'van with your damp meter too.  You can feel the walls for any soft area's but if it hasn't rained for a while then they will dry out but a damp meter will pick them up.

Have you thought about phoning a mobile servicing man to come with you?  He could go over the 'van for you and tell you about any problems.  Probably cost you about £150?  Obviously you would only want to pay that out once so once you've found the 'van you like you could have it checked over?

good luck and i hope you find the one you like soon

Buying second hand vans.

Thanks for the link Jusy and for the information you have all given. I think I will get the damp meter and put my budget up to 3 grand :o)

If you are new to caravanning..........try and get somebody with some experience to go along with you, and go round the dealers and look at as many vans as you can to get an idea of the many different layouts that are available as it will give you a better insight to what's on the market....and at prices that would suit you.

and remember .....with a dealer, you have some comeback....with a private sale you are less likely to have redress.