salandbob Posted September 14, 2014 Share Posted September 14, 2014 Hi We have done a lot of camping over the years, firstly with the kids (four close together), and now just the two of us. We like to run away together sometimes, and just chill in the countryside at our own pace. Now that we're getting on a bit, it is getting harder for us to get up off the ground in the morning. We want to purchase a little caravan, so that we can disappear for a day or two, now and then, without great expense, or fuss, or PITCHING! A couple of years back we paved down the side of our house, so we would have somewhere to store a home-from-home. Last week we took the plunge and bought a tow bar, which is now attached and wired in. Yesterday we bought a rear number plate and some sticky pads. We are now ready. ......trouble is, we don't really know about caravans, and can't be sure what to look for, or what is a bargain. We are hoping that we have found a fount of knowledge. Looking forward to some conversation. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
harvomark Posted September 14, 2014 Share Posted September 14, 2014 Well we did the same, got fed up of pitching the trailer tent so upgraded to a caravan and never looked back. My advice would be look at a few and get a feel of the standard of caravan in your price range, also look at different layouts etc and get as much information as possible before making a purchase. There are plenty out there so if it doesn't feel right move on. Finally good luck. Quote Volvo XC90 D5 AWD, Lunar Ultima 615,Towing at 62% You have a second chance at life it's called tomorrow! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blondchaser Posted September 14, 2014 Share Posted September 14, 2014 What make / size car you got? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ich Posted September 14, 2014 Share Posted September 14, 2014 What make / size car you got? Possibly a Rover 45 as stated in the OP's details Quote My mind not only wanders, sometimes it leaves completely Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WispMan Posted September 14, 2014 Share Posted September 14, 2014 and do take the plunge, you will never regret it. Quote Graham Unless otherwise stated all posts are my personal opinion Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
salandbob Posted September 14, 2014 Author Share Posted September 14, 2014 Possibly a Rover 45 as stated in the OP's details It is indeed! It has a 2 litre diesel engine, so plenty of torque. Our research so far tells us that we need a caravan weighing less than 1000kg. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
salandbob Posted September 14, 2014 Author Share Posted September 14, 2014 and do take the plunge, you will never regret it. Well we did the same, got fed up of pitching the trailer tent so upgraded to a caravan and never looked back. My advice would be look at a few and get a feel of the standard of caravan in your price range, also look at different layouts etc and get as much information as possible before making a purchase. There are plenty out there so if it doesn't feel right move on. Finally good luck. Many thanks for the warm welcome, and good advice. We'll try to keep level heads; exciting though. ........ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Wunny Posted September 15, 2014 Share Posted September 15, 2014 Now that we're getting on a bit, it is getting harder for us to get up off the ground in the morning. We want to purchase a little caravan, so that we can disappear for a day or two, now and then, without great expense, or fuss, or PITCHING! Sounds just like us. You'll be much happier in a caravan and a tad warmer too! We looked at lots of second hand vans and they all had that 'Caravan Smell' and the thought of other people sleeping in the bed put someone off!!! Strangely, hotel beds and those on cruise ships seem to cause no such worries! Anyway, we opted for new, but it all depends on what you want to pay, or can afford. You'll know instinctively if it's the right one for you. Happy searching and enjoy your disappearing acts! Quote Bailey Orion News & Information - Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JamesF Posted September 16, 2014 Share Posted September 16, 2014 Hi We have done a lot of camping over the years, firstly with the kids (four close together), and now just the two of us. We like to run away together sometimes, and just chill in the countryside at our own pace. Now that we're getting on a bit, it is getting harder for us to get up off the ground in the morning. We want to purchase a little caravan, so that we can disappear for a day or two, now and then, without great expense, or fuss, or PITCHING! A couple of years back we paved down the side of our house, so we would have somewhere to store a home-from-home. Last week we took the plunge and bought a tow bar, which is now attached and wired in. Yesterday we bought a rear number plate and some sticky pads. We are now ready. ......trouble is, we don't really know about caravans, and can't be sure what to look for, or what is a bargain. We are hoping that we have found a fount of knowledge. Looking forward to some conversation. I suggest that you go to a decent caravan dealer/sales site where they sell second hand 'vans, just to look around the various layouts facilities and get an idea of prices. Also useful having a look on eBay but looks at the completed sales prices NOT what people start by asking ( some people have an overblown idea of the value of stuff!) Then make a short list of what you want and come up with a budget and THEN start looking for your dream 'van. This ( and other fora) are really useful as you've already found out One main difference with caravans and tents/trailer tents etc is the issue of DAMP!!! Caravans seem to be particularly susceptible to damp in the wall-boards due to water ingress at the seams. This issue doesn't seem to be limited to any one make/type/age so when you've found your dream van - make sure you get it damp tested !!! Happy caravanning Jim Quote "keep your motor running" caravan: Avondale Avocet ( 2006) - tow car: Renault Laguna (2007) - play car: Mercedes 300SL (1988) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SteveMilner Posted September 16, 2014 Share Posted September 16, 2014 What you might need to consider is fitting a motor mover. It will eliminate the need for some pushing and tugging when you get on site and parking the van up at home. Obviously if you do decide that, you will need to budget for it. Quote Olympus II 620-6 & Mitsubishi Shogun Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blossom52 Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 If you do look at eBay vans be very careful as there are a lot o's scams on there. Make sure the seller owns the van, ask for id, try to look at it at their home, if it seems too good to be true. ...... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
slimseydy Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Get along to the Nec caravan show . there is something for everyone out there . Good luck lunar are good lightweight vans as a starter Quote 2012 Static Willerby Severn, Sitting in Hidden Valley Welshpool . Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.