Message Forums

Hi there,

We are looking to buy our first ever caravan soon. A little help, advise would be helpful.

Which are the best makes and model and easiest to tow etc. Only looking to spend about £2000 to see if we like it. Having been a tenter for many years and also a trailer tenter too our next stage in life awaits.

We do need it be 4 berth to accomodate our  4 year old that much i do know, but apart from that clueless!

Thanks in advance. Jill

Hi Jill, there are some descent second hand vans out there, I have found a small private caravan business now far from my location, but some distance from your location, but it may give you some idea of the choices, this van was priced at £1950, had no damp, and was in good condition for year. A few other things to check for when looking at vans, if you are buying from a private individual,

check that seller has proof of ownership, get the VIN number (chassis number), on a plate on the A frame or next to van door,Check to see if it is CRiS registered; older vans may not be registered with CRiS but with the VIN number you can find out that the van you are going to buy is not stolen , or has any outstanding finance owed on it, think there is a  £12 fee for the search. Hope this is of help. the van below is a 4/5 berth, black mark on front locker is ink from my printer, when printing photo, just to give you some idea of whats out there.

We just part exed our old Elddis Wisp 5 berth.  It was dry, comfy and extremely reliable.  We just outgrew it.  The dealer sold it on within a couple of weeks for under 2k

There are great deals out there but as other posts have said, be careful what you buy. 

When I look at older vans, I use my nose first.  If it smells musty - walk away.  Then I walk right to the front of the van and check the floor isn't spongy as delamination is expensive to repair.  After that I just look generally at how its been cared for and whether it would work for me.  We haven't bought anything without making up the beds.

Most importantly choose something you like and enjoy your prde and joy.