We’ve created a guide to help those who are looking to purchase their first touring RV. Here are our top tips for new caravan buyers!
1. You Can Check If Your Car Is Capable Of Towing A Caravan
Before you even consider buying a car, it is best to find out if your vehicle can tow a caravan. Some vehicles have a maximum weight. You can find out the weight of your vehicle by looking up the VIN (Vehicle ID Number). In general, your caravan should not exceed 85% the weight of your vehicle. If you have passed your driving exam on or after the 1st of January 1997, you cannot exceed a combined vehicle weight exceeding 3500kg.
It’s always a good idea to note down your combined maximum weight before you begin. You won’t be able to buy a caravan that you can’t afford. You could also use it to justify buying a larger car.
You can double-check your list with the help of online tools such as ‘s Tow Safe caravan matcher. These online resources are great for finding the perfect combination of car and caravan.
2. Set Your Budget
A good place to begin when you are looking to purchase a caravan is to determine how much money you have to spend. Set yourself a budget. This will help you to narrow down your options and explore the various caravans for sale in NZ that fit within your financial plan.
The price can vary from PS7.500 to PS25,000+. It’s therefore important to research the market and understand what you are getting for your money. If you’re looking for a bargain, consider the used market.
We recommend a mid-range car if you have the money to spend it because there are more options. A higher demand means that more models are produced each year. This makes it easier to find parts in the event of a breakdown. It will be cheaper to repair and maintain, which means that your caravan’s value could last longer.
3. Online Reviews
Why not read what others have to say? The online community for Camping and Caravanning is fantastic. After you have made a list of your favourite caravan models, check out the online reviews. You can use this to find out if there are any problems that other people have encountered and narrow down your choices.
4. Inspection Of The Caravan
The most important tip that we can give is to always inspect your new caravan prior to putting down a security deposit. Even if it’s a new van, you should always double-check that you are happy with the caravan before you sign on the dotted lines.
Check for any scratches or dents in the bodywork. Also, make sure that all gas and electrical safety certificates have been handed over.
5. The Interior Of The Caravan
It’s fun and important to choose your “must-haves” when you’re buying. It’s your home away from home when you go on vacation, so you want to make sure it has everything you need.
Decide what you want, e.g. Minimum and maximum berth requirements; bunk beds, pull-out/convertibles, alarm, air conditioning, heating, separate washroom and shower, awning, etc.
It can be difficult for first-time buyers to know what they need. Many dealers provide a starter kit that includes the essentials such as a gas bottle, fresh water container, waste water container, towing mirrors and wheel clamp.
It is important to inspect the caravan’s interior before purchasing a used one. Check that all electrical and gas connections work. Check that the lights inside are all working and the shower and sink work. You should also look out for signs of moisture. This type of problem can be detected by bad smells. Open and close all windows and doors, and make sure everything is locked.
6. Where Is The Best Place To Buy?
You can reduce your insurance rates by buying from an NCC-approved dealer. It’s also the best choice if you are new to caravanning. This scheme requires dealerships to adhere to a code that ensures consumers are treated fairly. You’re also better protected when it comes down consumer rights.
Buy local. When buying a caravan, try to buy as close as possible to your home. This is in case there are any problems with the caravan and you need to return it quickly to the dealer.
7. When Is The Best Time To Buy?
The winter months are the best time for buying a new caravan. Although it can vary, dealerships will have a slowdown in sales. They may be more inclined to give you a deal and a discount.
You can get a great second-hand model in the first few months, as dealers are trying to move their stock ahead of new models. Spring is not the best time to purchase a new car.
8. Where Will you store your caravan?
After you have purchased your dream van, it is important to consider what to do next. When you are not using your caravan, where will you store it?
In an official storage facility, your caravan will be most secure. Your insurance rates will be reduced if you keep it in a secure location. A breathable cover will also protect it from the weather during the winter.
You can store your caravan in your driveway if you have the space. You should double-check the deeds of your property or speak to your local council before doing this.
We offer secure and safe caravan storage. Our two CCTV monitored compounds have plenty of room to accommodate motorhomes and caravans. Our caravan collection and delivery service will save you from the hassle of towing.
