5 Questions To Ask When Buying A Caravan

Whether you’re a seasoned caravanner or just looking to dip your toes in the waters of cross-country travelling, purchasing a new or used caravan is a big investment and one that shouldn’t be considered lightly.

It’s always important to do your research before making a big purchase and buying a caravan is no different. The team at One Adventure have collaborated with caravan finance specialists from CreditOne to bring you this list of key questions to ask when buying a caravan.

1. Where Do You Intend to Travel?

Where you plan on travelling can have a large bearing on what type of caravan you purchase.

As well as the key features that you need included in your new recreational vehicle. If you’re planning on travelling long distances with the family, you may need to look to get a larger van with more beds and amenities.

Taking into consideration where you plan on taking your caravan also helps to determine if you need an off-road compatible model. However, if you plan to use your caravan for shorter getaways and staying at well-established parks, you may be able to opt for something a bit more simple. Check out our guide to which caravan or RV is right for you. This will help decipher a model that suits you.

2. What’s The Vehicle’s History?

Purchasing a pre-owned Caravan can be helpful in reducing your up-front costs. But you need to be sure that it won’t end up costing you more in the long run.

Finding out more about a vehicle’s history prior to purchase can ensure you don’t end up with a dud. Ask questions around the maintenance history of your dream vehicle. Including the history of any major repairs or damages. This can help you decipher if there will be any major ongoing costs. From these questions, you will learn if any parts have been replaced. And if the caravan has been well cared for.

3. What Are The Warranty Details?

Warranty details can vary if you’re buying a new or a used caravan. However in either scenario, warranty is definitely one of the things to be questioned prior to purchase.

It’s also worth asking if your warranty options can be extended. This may add an additional cost, however it can give you peace of mind for longer. Not only should you ask about details of warranty. But it’s also important to ask about the factors that impact your warranty.

Elements such as where warranty repairs need to be undertaken. And if your warranty is voided by any actions are both important questions to ask when buying a caravan. For new caravans, it’s also worth asking your dealer what servicing is included with a new vehicle purchase.

4. What Do Experienced Caravanners Say?

Part of any good piece of research includes checking out industry insights. Taking a look at reviews of your intended caravan of purchase can help you find more questions to ask dealers from people who have experienced the vehicle first-hand.

Taking a look at online reviews will support you in assessing the functionality of the van. And it can help you determine if it will truly meet your needs. Identifying a range of positive reviews for your chosen caravan can help support that you are making a great decision in buying your dream caravan.

You should also find reviews and comparisons for your chosen caravan that pinpoint issues in the model. You can use this information to negotiate a better price or maybe even set your sights on something more reliable.

5. What Is your Budget?

Potentially the most important question to ask when buying a caravan is “what is my budget”?

Asking this question helps to ensure you are focussing on vehicles within your scope. A good way to determine your overall budget is to speak with a specialised caravan finance broker and arrange pre-approval for a loan. Knowing how much you have available to spend can also help to weed out caravans that will out-price themselves with sneaky hidden costs.

Remembering to ask about fees and costs not included in the ticket price can help you stay within your budget. Ask questions about dealership fees, additional taxes and registration costs to make sure you’re not pushed over the top.

To get a clearer idea of what might be within your budget, visit the Caravan Sales website. Caravan Sales offers a huge selection on caravans, camper trailers and motor homes so you can get a feel for pricing and find a caravan near you.

Finding the right questions to ask when buying a caravan can help you to buy the best vehicle to suit your needs. Need more help finding the right caravan for you? Check out our range of caravanning & camping advice articles today!