Buying a Used Caravan: What Should You Look For?

Buying a used caravan can be a great way to get more for your budget. You may be able to find a larger model, a better-equipped caravan or a layout that suits your family perfectly, without paying the price of a brand-new caravan.

But, as with any major purchase, it pays to know what you’re looking for.

From checking for signs of damp to making sure the layout works for your holidays, there are several things worth considering before you make a decision.

Here’s what to look for when buying a used caravan.

Check the age and overall condition

Start with the basics. The age of a caravan can give you an idea of what to expect in terms of condition, specification and price, but age alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

A well-maintained older caravan can be a much better buy than a newer model that hasn’t been properly looked after.

Take a good look around the exterior for signs of damage, including dents, cracks, corrosion or repairs. Check the condition of the bodywork, windows, doors and seals, and don’t be afraid to look inside cupboards and storage areas where less obvious problems might be hiding.

The general condition of the interior is important too. Look at upholstery, flooring, furniture and fittings, and consider whether everything appears to have been well cared for.

Check carefully for damp

Damp is one of the most important things to check when buying a used caravan.

Water ingress can cause significant damage over time, so look for any signs of damp or previous water damage, including discolouration, staining, soft areas, mould or unusual smells.

It’s not always possible to identify a damp problem just by looking, however. A proper damp check can give you much greater confidence about the condition of the caravan.

If you’re buying from a reputable caravan dealer, ask whether the caravan has been inspected for damp and whether the results are available to you.

Look at the service history

A caravan’s history can tell you a lot about how well it has been looked after.

Ask to see any available service records and find out when it was last serviced. Regular servicing can help identify issues before they become bigger problems and gives you a better understanding of the caravan’s condition.

It’s also worth asking whether any repairs or replacement work have been carried out and, if so, what was involved.

The more information you have about the caravan’s history, the easier it is to make an informed decision.

Don’t forget the tyres

Tyres are easy to overlook when you’re concentrating on the interior and all the features of the caravan, but they’re an important part of your checks.

Look at the overall condition of the tyres and check for obvious signs of cracking, damage or uneven wear. You should also check the age of the tyres, as they can deteriorate over time even if the caravan hasn’t travelled particularly far.

If you’re unsure about their condition, get them checked by a qualified professional before towing.

Test the appliances and equipment

One of the benefits of buying a caravan is having everything you need for comfortable trips away in one place.

So, make sure the equipment actually works.

Depending on the caravan, this could include:

• The fridge and freezer
• Oven and hob
• Heating system
• Hot water system
• Toilet and shower
• Water pump
• Electrical sockets and lighting
• Battery and charging system

Don’t assume that everything works simply because it’s fitted. If possible, test the appliances and ask the seller about anything that isn’t currently operational.

Think carefully about the layout

A caravan can look fantastic on paper, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right caravan for you.

Think about how you’ll actually use it.

Do you need fixed beds, or are you happy converting seating areas at night? Would you prefer a separate shower and toilet? Do you need a large lounge area? How important is kitchen space?

If you regularly travel as a family, consider how easy the caravan will be to live in when everyone is inside on a rainy day.

It’s worth spending some time actually sitting in the caravan and imagining a typical day away. Sometimes you only realise how important a particular layout is once you’ve experienced it.

Consider how many berths you need

The number of berths you need is another important consideration.

A two-berth caravan may be perfect for couples and can offer a spacious layout without unnecessary sleeping space. Families may need four, six or more berths, depending on how many people travel together.

However, don’t automatically assume that you need the maximum number of berths.

Think about who will actually be using the caravan and how you want to use the available space during the day. A higher berth number can sometimes mean more beds to convert or less living space, so it’s about finding the right balance for your needs.

Make sure there’s enough storage

Storage can make a surprisingly big difference to how enjoyable a caravan is to use.

Take a look at the wardrobe space, overhead lockers, under-seat storage and external compartments. Think about where you’ll keep clothes, food, camping equipment, outdoor furniture and everything else you’ll inevitably take away with you.

If you’re viewing a caravan in person, don’t just look at the storage – open it. Get a feel for how much usable space there really is.

Check the weight and towing requirements

Before you fall in love with a particular caravan, make sure it’s suitable for your vehicle.

Check the caravan’s weight and compare this with your car’s towing capabilities. You should also consider the overall dimensions and whether you’re comfortable towing a caravan of that size.

If you’re changing caravan or vehicle, it’s always worth checking the figures carefully rather than assuming your existing setup will be suitable.

Ask about warranty and dealer support

One of the biggest differences between buying privately and buying from an established caravan dealer can be the level of support available after the sale.

When you’re spending a significant amount of money on a used caravan, having someone to speak to if you have a question or discover an issue can provide valuable peace of mind.

Ask what warranty is included, what it covers and whether servicing or aftersales support is available.

A reputable dealer should also be able to provide information about the caravan’s history and condition, helping you make a more informed decision.

Take your time before making a decision

Buying a used caravan shouldn’t be something you rush.

Take your time looking around the caravan, ask questions and make sure you’re comfortable with its condition, specification and history. Most importantly, think about whether it actually suits the way you want to spend your time away.

The right used caravan isn’t necessarily the newest or the cheapest. It’s the one that gives you the combination of condition, layout, equipment and practicality that works for you.

Looking for a used caravan?

At Campbells Caravans, we offer a range of quality used caravans from trusted manufacturers, giving you plenty of choice when you’re looking for your next caravan.

Our experienced team can help you find a caravan that suits your requirements, whether you’re buying your first caravan, upgrading to a larger model or simply looking for a different layout.

Take a look at our current range of used caravans or get in touch with the Campbells team to discuss what you’re looking for.