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Hi,

Just looking to get into Caravans from a long line of tents, trailer tents & folding camper.

Looking at an Abbey aventura 330, 6 berth. There are 5 of us (2 adults, 3 kids 8,6 & 4) so a big van is a must.

Any feedback on this one?

Still aprehensive regarding towing, but will take it slow and have some experience from the folding camper.

Any help appreciated.

Mick

We don't know what you're using to tow it.

First, look at your weights.  If you are apprehensive about towing, the MTPLM of the caravan should not exceed 85% of the kerbweight of the car.

Jim

2007 ford Galaxy 1.9 diesel , so that should cope quite nicely.

Still don't know the kerbweight of the car or the MTPLM of the caravan.  That's the first step.

Jim

Jim,

kerbweight is 1724 , 85% is 1465. MTPLM of caravan is 1454.

I think that sounds about perfect.

Mick

It sounds like a good match.  If you're nervous about towing it'd be worth booking yourself onto one of the club courses.

We looked at a 2003 Abbey Aventura 330 & it was a nice van although we ended up buying a 2007 Compass Magnum 556 as we preferred the lighter interior colours.

The layout is a good one for families - we have our 6yr old on top bunk then DS (15) on bottom.  When his friend comes with us we'll use the dinette single too.  What we also like is the fact that on nights where we can't be bothered making beds up the front benches are long enough to use as singles.

The only thing I would say about the layout is to avoid the temptation to pile loads of heavy stuff in the massive storage area at the back when the bunk is lifted up.  This would lift the front of the van & could make it unstable to tow.  Anything heavy needs to be over the axle.  Also, be careful not to overload & remember to check your nose weight.

Sounds good to me.

Jim