Buying a new Leisure Vehicle
With the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show at Birmingham NEC (18th-23rd February 2025) just around the corner, you might be thinking about changing your current leisure vehicle or buying for the first time. It can seem a bit of a minefield, so here is some advice.
The most important thing to do before buying a new caravan or motorhome is to agree on what you are looking for and set a price. Sit down and make a wish list of what you want. If you are a family, it’s important to listen to your children’s desires as their needs will change as they get older. You also want to make sure everyone will still be comfortable, so consider whether your children have outgrown their beds.
You can see the latest models at a dealership or one of the national shows. Before you go for a larger caravan, make sure you use a matching calculator to ensure your outfit is safe and legal to tow. The Caravan & Motorhome Club, The Camping & Caravanning Club and TowCheck can help you with this.
When you’re looking at models, the layout and beds are some of the most important features to consider. Fixed beds are a popular choice, but they may not work for everyone. Lie on the beds to make sure they are comfortable and long enough for everyone.
Consider where you want the washroom to be and think about the features you want. You’ll want to be able to comfortably sit on the toilet and stand in the shower without feeling cramped.
The kitchen equipment also needs to be carefully considered. Make sure the fridge is large enough for your family. Consider the position of the hob to ensure it’s safe for young children. Make sure there is enough space for a drainer and to prepare meals.
You may want to think about the upholstery as well. If you don't like the pattern, remember you can always reupholster it.
External features are also something to keep in mind. External BBQ points and 230V sockets are becoming standard equipment. External cold-water showers can be useful for cleaning off dirty boots. Consider whether you need a bike rack. If you are planning on carrying bikes on the back of a caravan, make sure they aren't too heavy, especially e-bikes, as this could cause the caravan to snake.
The most important piece of advice is to do your research and don’t rush into anything. It's not uncommon for people to buy a model only to find a few months later that it doesn’t suit their needs. Good luck!