Important Tips for Purchasing a Used Caravan

The cost of buying a caravan is not a shocking statement.

It does show why so many people choose to buy a used model over a new one.

It can be disastrous if you buy a bargain second-hand caravan and it turns out that the item is a “lemon” and all your savings go into the pocket of the caravan repairer. Or, worse yet, the new toy you bought is dangerous.

How Do I Begin?

Consider these points before purchasing a caravan, whether new or used:

• What is your destination of choice?
• How long will you stay? How long should you stay?
• Do you plan to travel on highways or off-road?

Tip: Rent a caravan for a short journey to see what suits you.

It’s Done. I Found a Van That’s for Sale. What Should I Bring to the Viewing?

Being prepared is key when purchasing a used caravan. You may want to bring the following items with you to your inspection:

• Notepad and pen for jotting down pros and cons about your purchase.
• Use a tape measure to verify the dimensions of your caravan.
• Take photos with your smartphone or camera to refer back to later (it’s funny how you can remember certain details and not others).
• Check those hard to reach spots, such as underneath the van.
• The van’s moisture content can be measured using a damp meter.

What Information is Essential to Me?

This advice can be applied to any pre-owned vehicle that you are looking to buy and is similar to a teenage daughter asking her mother about her boyfriend.

• How old is your van?
• Where was it in the past?
• What is its ‘home’? Undercover or outdoors?

You may change your mind about buying if you ask these questions. Sometimes, looks can be misleading. Ask questions if you are concerned about the caravan.

Ask about the history of the van, its service, and the previous owners. Also, ask if the seller holds a valid certificate for the gas, electrical, or weighbridge.

Check with the relevant authorities of your state/territorial jurisdiction to see if any of these documents is required by law when you own a caravan.

The size of your caravan and the weight that it can pull is also important.

What should you look out for when inspecting the outside of the caravan in ?

When you look at the exterior of the van, there are several things to consider. When inspecting a vehicle, such as a used automobile, you should pay attention to the following factors:

• Does the van have any rust?
• Do you see any scratches, dents or other marks on your roof?
• What is the state of the tyres?
• Are the windows and door opening and closing properly?
• What are some obvious paint jobs that may be hiding bigger problems?

There Are Also Caravan-specific Checks That You Should Perform:

• Is the chassis cracked?
• The axle is in good condition.
• Is everything as it should be under the van? Wiring, piping etc.
• Does the handbrake on the van work?
• Is the tow-hitch able to move freely?
• The jockey wheel is easy to wind up and down.
• The awning opens and closes as it should.
• Are all the electrical and gas components in good working order?

What Should You Look Out for When Entering the Caravan?

When buying a used caravan, there are several interior factors to consider. Checklist includes:

• Do you see any signs of moisture? Your damp meter will come in handy. Do a thorough check, including corners and cabinets.
• The caravan floor is in good condition.
• Does the van have a smoke detector?
• Does the microwave, stove and refrigerator all work?
• All drawers and cabinets in good condition
• Does the water source (showers, sinks, etc.) work properly?
• Does the light work?
• Does the main lock on the door work properly?
• Are all the electrical and gas components in good working order?

When I Buy a Used Van, Everything Will Not Be in Perfect Condition. Can I Compromise Anything?

You should expect a caravan to have some wear. This may include fading or scratches. Any of the above should not be negotiable if it compromises your safety.

Consider whether the price of a van includes these costs.