Travel
Your must-have caravan-buying checklist: what you need and what you don't
Introductory standfirst in italics: When buying a caravan, it’s easy to be enticed by slick marketing pushing all the bells and whistles. Here’s how to decipher what you actually need.
By Carolyn Tate
If you’re in the market to buy a caravan, congratulations! It’s an exciting project – especially if you're planning to hit the open road and explore our wide brown land.
There’s a world of caravan sales out there, pulling you this way and that way, telling you all the things you’ll need for your life on the road. What features are necessary and what is just slick marketing? And how do you know the difference until you’ve been out there and tried it all out?
There’s no need to be overwhelmed. We’ve done the research for you and created this checklist to help you decide on the best caravan for you.
Must-have caravan features
First, let’s start with the features we think are non-negotiables. These are the ones that are worth the expense because they will make your life better, easier or safer.
Safety features you just can’t skimp on
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a caravan.
Look for features like anti-sway systems, electronic stability control, and strong braking systems to ensure your safety while towing. Driving with a caravan is a whole different proposition from just hitting the road with your car, and these features will help you to feel safe and secure.
Adequate sleeping arrangements
Nothing should get in the way of a good night’s sleep, so that’s something we wouldn’t compromise on.
Ensure that your caravan provides enough sleeping space for your needs, whether it's a double bed, bunk beds, or convertible seating. You might also want to think about whether you’ll invite others to join you, such as friends or family, and ensure it won’t be too squeezy when you’re all in there together.
Kitchen facilities that make a difference
Everyone has to eat, and you don’t want it to be a fight to prepare a decent meal.
A well-equipped kitchen allows you to prepare meals comfortably while on the road, with everything you need within reach. Look for features like a good sized stove, refrigerator, microwave, and ample counter space for the way you’ll be using it.
Bathroom facilities to consider
Some may consider this a luxury, but having a bathroom in your caravan can save you from relying on public facilities, especially during shorter overnight stops. Look for a toilet, sink, and shower if you want to be comfortable. This means you’re self-contained and not at the mercy of whatever facilities you can find – and the state you may find them in.
Storage space can save you angst
Clutter can be a pain, not only for convenience, but for your mental health. Efficient and adequate storage solutions are essential for keeping your caravan organised and clear. Look for ample cabinets to put away your cooking items, closets for your clothes, and under-seat storage options for all those extras like blankets and pillows.
Proper ventilation and insulation
Having good ventilation means you can maintain a comfortable temperature inside, and it also helps to prevent moisture build-up and mould. Insulation will help keep you warm in the colder months – especially important if you’re travelling in the southern regions of Australia.
Features that sound enticing but aren’t necessary
When caravan shopping it can be easy to be swayed by shiny brochures and a range of bells and whistles. Some items may be nice to have, but you can comfortably do without them. Here are a few you might want to reconsider putting on your list.
Built-in entertainment systems
Some caravans come with built-in TVs and entertainment systems, which might seem handy for those long evenings in the middle of nowhere, but you can probably do without them. If you have any portable devices like tablets and laptops, you can have all the entertainment you want without the need for expensive built-in systems that will potentially become out-dated very quickly.
Luxury appliances
Caravans with high-end appliances like wine coolers and dishwashers can be enticing, but these features can significantly increase the cost of your caravan without providing significant practical benefits. You can achieve the same functionality with more basic appliances or doing some things by hand. This is up to you though – how much is it worth to you to not have to hand wash your dishes?
Outdoor cooking stations
Some caravans come with elaborate outdoor cooking stations with in-built barbecues and sinks, but they’re not necessary for everyone. Portable camping stoves and barbecues are usually a more cost-effective and versatile solution.
Final thoughts
When you’re browsing through the range of caravans available, focus primarily on your essential needs and prioritise safety, comfort, and functionality.
After those needs are met, and if you still have budget left over, you may want to consider some optional luxuries. But try not to be sucked in by a smooth-talking salesperson. Keep in mind that you can often buy the same sort of item separately and use it outside of your caravan too
Feature image: iStock/Caridad Simon de la Espada
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