Media post: Common Mistakes when Buying a Caravan

Buying a caravan is an exciting step towards freedom and adventure, but it’s easy to make costly caravan buying mistakes. This is a big investment, and you want to get it right from the start. Making the wrong choices can lead to frustration, financial strain, and a caravan that doesn’t fit your lifestyle.

This guide will help you avoid common mistakes new buyers often make. We will cover everything from your tow vehicle to the hidden ongoing costs of ownership. By being informed, you can confidently choose the perfect home-on-wheels for your travels. If you are in the market for a caravan check out CMG campers in Christchurch. 

1. Not Checking Your Car’s Towing Capacity

One of the most critical and frequent caravan buying mistakes is not considering your car’s capabilities. Your current tow vehicle must be able to safely tow the caravan you choose. Before you even look at a single van, you need to understand your car’s towing capacity.

You can find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, on a placard inside the driver’s side door jamb, or on the manufacturer’s website. You need to know several key figures, including the maximum towing capacity and the Gross Combination Mass (GCM), which is the total allowable weight of the car and caravan combined. The caravan you buy must fall within these weight limits.

Ignoring these figures is dangerous and can lead to serious mechanical failures. It puts you, your passengers, and other road users at risk. You could also void your vehicle’s warranty and insurance, turning a dream purchase into a nightmare.

Key Weight Terms to Understand

Understanding the terminology is vital for safe towing. The Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) is the maximum your car can weigh when fully loaded. Your tow ball weight, the downward pressure from the caravan’s hitch on your car’s tow ball, is also a critical number not to exceed.

For the caravan, the Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) is its total weight when packed, while the Tare Mass is its weight when empty from the factory. The difference between these two is your payload. You must get the proper weight figured out before you hit the open road.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size

Size is a major factor when buying a caravan. While it’s easy to be drawn to a larger caravan on the showroom floor, bigger is not always better. Your choice should reflect your travel plans and how many people you’ll be travelling with.

A large van offers more storage space and living area, which can be great for families or those planning a big lap. However, a larger caravan can be difficult to tow, especially for beginners. It will also consume more fuel and can be challenging to maneuver in tight spots like caravan parks or at busy fuel stations.

Conversely, a caravan that is too small can lead to a cramped and uncomfortable experience. Think about how you will use the space and be realistic about your needs. If you’re planning weekend getaways, a smaller model might be perfect, but for extended off-grid adventures, you may need more room.

3. Ignoring Your Budget

It’s very easy to get swept up in the excitement of looking at brand-new caravans and overspend. A common mistake is focusing only on the upfront cost. Setting a realistic budget and sticking to it is essential for a positive long-term caravanning experience.

Remember that the purchase price is just the beginning. There are many ongoing costs associated with caravan ownership that you must factor in. These include insurance, registration, regular maintenance, storage fees, and caravan park fees.

Don’t forget potential extras like an annex, an upgraded battery system, or solar panels. If you’re on a tighter budget, a well-maintained used caravan can be a fantastic option. Just be certain to get a professional caravan check before finalizing the purchase.

Example of Ongoing Caravan Costs

To help you budget, here is a table of potential yearly expenses beyond the initial purchase. Costs can vary widely based on your location, caravan model, and usage.

4. Skipping the Inspection

Never purchase a caravan, especially a used one, without a thorough inspection. A detailed caravan check can save you from hidden problems and thousands of dollars in costly repairs. If you’re unsure what to look for, it’s wise to hire a professional.

During the inspection, pay close attention to signs of water damage, the number one enemy of caravans. Check for discoloration, a musty smell, or soft spots on the walls, ceiling, and floor, particularly around windows and hatches. Press firmly on the interior surfaces to feel for any give.

You should also test every system and appliance. Run the air conditioner, turn on the fridge, test the water pump, and check all lights and power outlets. Outside, inspect the chassis for rust or cracks, check the age and condition of the tires, and examine the brakes, suspension, and safety chains.

5. Forgetting About Storage

A frequent oversight for first-time buyers is storage. When you’re not out exploring, your caravan needs a place to live. These are large vehicles, and finding suitable storage options can be a challenge.

If you have a large property, storing it at home might be an option, but check with your local council for any restrictions. If home storage isn’t possible, you will need to find a secure storage facility. This adds another line item to your list of ongoing costs.

Investigate storage solutions in your area before you commit to buying a van. Compare prices for open-air, covered, and fully enclosed secure storage. Factoring this in from the beginning prevents a stressful search after you’ve already made the purchase.

6. Not Considering Your Towing Experience

Towing a caravan is a skill that takes practice. For new caravanners, there is often a steep learning curve. It’s a common mistake to purchase a large, heavy caravan with no prior towing experience.

Be honest with yourself about your comfort level. The process of learning to reverse, navigate corners, and handle sway on the highway can be intimidating. Starting with a smaller, lighter caravan can help you build confidence and make the entire caravanning experience more enjoyable.

Many dealerships or local clubs offer towing courses. These are a great investment to learn the fundamentals of safe towing, including how to properly set up a weight distribution hitch. Essential gear like towing mirrors is not optional; it’s a legal requirement for safe towing.

7. Rushing the Purchase

Buying a caravan is a significant decision that should not be rushed. Take your time to do thorough research. Visit caravan shows, explore different dealerships, and spend time inside various layouts.

It’s easy to be impressed on the showroom floor, but you need to think practically about how the van you’re considering will work for your travel plans. Talk to other owners and join online forums to learn from the wider caravanning community. People are often happy to share their experiences with specific brands and models.

If you can, rent a similar model for a weekend trip. This gives you a real-world feel for the layout and functionality. Don’t feel pressured by salespeople; a reputable expert team will encourage customers to take their time to make the right choice.

8. Overlooking Insurance Costs

Caravan insurance is non-negotiable, yet many buyers don’t research the cost until after they’ve bought the van. The premiums can be a significant part of your annual budget. The cost will vary based on the caravan’s value, your storage location, and your personal driving history.

Before you finalize a purchase, get several insurance quotes for the specific model you’re considering. This will give you a clear picture of the total cost of ownership. Ask about coverage for contents, annexes, and emergency roadside assistance.

Choosing the cheapest policy isn’t always the best path. Make sure you understand what is covered, especially for incidents like hail, flood, or accidental damage. Proper coverage provides peace of mind while you’re travelling.

9. Ignoring Payload and Weight Distribution

Every caravan has a specific payload capacity, which is the total weight of all the items you can add to it. Forgetting about these weight limits is a dangerous and common mistake. Overloading your caravan creates excessive weight, which strains the chassis, suspension, and tires and makes it unsafe to tow.

When you’re packing, you must account for everything: water in the tanks, gas bottles, food, clothing, and all your gear. It’s vital to practice proper weight distribution by placing heavy items low to the ground and centered over the axles. This helps maintain stability on the road.

Proper weight on the tow ball is also crucial for safe handling. Too little tow ball weight can cause unnerving sway, while too much can affect the tow vehicle’s steering and braking. Using a public weighbridge to check your total vehicle mass and individual axle weights is a great way to be certain you are within legal limits.

10. Forgetting About Resale Value

While you may be planning to keep your caravan for years, circumstances can change. It’s wise to consider the potential resale value when making your initial purchase. Some brands and layouts hold their value much better than others.

Do some research on the used market to see how different models depreciate over time. A caravan from a reputable manufacturer with a popular layout will likely be easier to sell later. Features that support off-grid adventures, like solar panels and quality batteries, can also enhance resale value.

The best way to protect your investment is through diligent care and regular maintenance. Keep detailed service records for all work done. A well-maintained van will always command a better price and attract more buyers when it’s time to sell or upgrade.

Living in Harmony: Caravan Park Etiquette

Once you have your caravan, you’ll likely spend time in caravan parks. Being a good neighbour is part of the experience and helps everyone enjoy their holiday. Understanding the unwritten rules of the caravanning community is just as important as knowing your caravan specifications.

Always respect the park rules, which often cover things like speed limits, generator use, and pet policies. Be mindful of making noise, especially early in the morning or late at night. The walls of a caravan are thin, so sound travels easily.

A common courtesy is to avoid walking through other people’s sites; always use the designated roads and pathways. Keep your site clean and tidy, and manage your grey water responsibly. A little consideration goes a long way toward a pleasant stay for everyone.

The Journey Begins: Preparing for Your First Trip

The learning doesn’t stop once you’ve purchased your caravan. Before you’re heading out on the open road for the first time, preparation is key. Don’t wait until the last minute to get everything ready.

Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections before every journey. This includes checking the tyre pressure on both the car and caravan, testing the lights, and inspecting the tow hitch and safety chains. Make sure all items inside the van are secure and that you’re not exceeding your weight limits.

If you’re unsure about anything, ask for help. The journey from a novice to a seasoned traveller has a learning curve. Taking the time to prepare properly will help you build confidence and make your first caravanning experience a safe and memorable one.

Avoiding common caravan buying mistakes will save you from significant stress and financial loss. This process is about more than just picking a van; it’s about choosing a lifestyle. By taking your time, doing your research, and being honest about your needs and abilities, you can make a purchase you’ll be happy with for years to come.

From matching the wrong caravan to your tow vehicle to overlooking ongoing costs, the pitfalls are avoidable. Use this guide to help you navigate the process. With careful planning, you’ll soon be on the open road, creating incredible memories in your perfect caravan.