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HI see

http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/chatter/search.asp?search=WHICH+CARAVAN&searchMode=allwords&searchIn=Topic&forum=8&searchSort=dateDESC&Submit=Start+Search

Do you need a 2-berth or 4-berth, or larger?  What is the maximum weight your car will pull safely (85% of car kerb weight for beginners), but NEVER higher than maximum trailer weight given in car handbook.

This will give you the maximum technical permissible laden mass for the van (MTPLM and shown on a plate fitted outside the van, usually near the entrance door).  You then have to find a van which suits your needs (interior layout, etc.), but which does not exceed this weight.

Also, what car have you got?  Most ordinary family cars have a maximum tow bar loading allowance of no more than 75 kg.(van nose weight).  The nose weight for a laden van is seldom readily available.  When you find a van, you need to expressly ask the dealer the recommended van nose weight when it is loaded.  If he edges, tell him to get it from the van maker if he wants to make a sale.

The dealer should have the necessary info. to match van and car, but this info is also available elsewhere.

Coachman are an excellent van, but I admit to being biased.  Others will recommend different makes, based on their own experiences of reliability.

Bertie.     

I presume that Hobbys are turned away from sites because they are used by travellers.  I take it that they use hobbys and other german vans for their build quality and longetivity.  It seems a shame that possibly the best built vans are going to be passed over by leisure caravaners, because of problems at sites and insurance companies.

Brian