Touring Caravans
When most people think of caravans, they think of touring caravans. These are mobile that can be hitched to the back of cars, vans and other vehicles and towed the wherever the caravan owner wishes to go. The only restriction on destination is the availability of berths in a caravan park, or other permitted area.
Touring Caravans
Touring caravans are very popular, and come in a variety of makes and models, with a number of different features to consider. The main one is the number of people that will be regularly using the caravan. Small caravans to accommodate two people can be purchased, but for families and other groups 4 berth touring caravans and 6 berth touring caravans are more common. Most caravans can fit an extra person for a short time if needs be, but getting the right number of berths is essential for enjoyable use, and should be the primary consideration when buying a touring caravan.
Another factor to consider is the size of the caravan compared to the vehicle which will be used to tow it. Touring caravans can be difficult to transport, especially for inexperienced drivers, and it is important that the caravan purchased is not too big for the towing vehicle. If the caravan is too big, it can be difficult to manoeuvre, and road speed can be below an acceptable level.
Buying Touring Caravans
Many buyers also pay attention to comfort and cosmetic considerations when buying touring caravans. Although the most common caravans seen on the roads are white, caravans come in a variety of colours. These can usually be specified when ordering a new caravan, and will either come as part of the package or for a small additional cost. Paints with greater resistance to rust and moisture are also available.
For obvious reasons, caravan furniture and internal decor is very important for most buyers. Indeed this is where big differences in price can occur. The amount of different options available can be very confusing: the best thing the buyer can do is to consider their needs. Will they only spend a few days in the caravan every so often? If so, then caravan furniture isn’t so important, and a Spartan yet functional solution can be selected. If however, the buyer is likely to use the caravan heavily, then they would be well advised to spend enough money on caravan furnishings: caravans can be uncomfortable over long periods if they are furnished in the most basic manner.
Used Touring Caravans
When buying used touring caravans, it is important to be aware of a few things. Does the caravan have a full service history? If not, it is best to be cautious. Does the caravan have untreated spots of rust or other types of decay? If so, it is a sign that the caravan has not been cared for correctly, and may signify deeper structural defects. Is the interior clean and well maintained, with little wear and tear? If so, this can be taken as a sign that the touring caravan being considered for purchase has been generally well cared for.
Touring Caravan Hire
Similarly, when hiring touring caravans it is important to check for signs of wear and tear, rust, decay etc. A little money might be saved by hiring a less well maintained caravan, but due to the problems that can arise this is an unwise risk. When hiring, always ask for the relevant safety certificates, both for the caravan itself and for the company providing the caravan. It might also be wise to purchase short-term touring caravan insurance, even if the company renting the caravan provides it as part of the package.