FIVE-STAR CAMPING

A great layout, quality materials, and stylish to boot... Claire Smith checks out the latest from the Dethleffs Beduin Scandinavia range.

The Dethleffs Beduin Scandinavia 550 RD has a U-shaped lounge up front, bedroom at the rear, and kitchen and split bathroom in the centre. The layout provides maximum space between the living and sleeping areas and, the bathroom can easily be used without having to go through to the bedroom.

The cooking zone is compact but comes with all the essentials, including a three-burner gas hob plus oven and grill, and a big 142L three-way automatic tower fridge-freezer.

Dethleffs makes comfort a priority, and the 550 RD is a prime example, with a generously sized U-shaped lounge that feels as good as it looks. The lounge has plenty of storage too, with six overhead lockers plus additional storage under the cushions. It also converts into a comfortable bed.

The bathroom has a split layout arrangement with the full-size shower on one side and the 18L Thetford toilet and a premium vanity opposite. The toilet door swings open to close off the lounge, which means the central aisle running through the middle becomes part of the bathroom. The shower cubicle is a decent size and has a few nifty inclusions including bifold doors as well as its own lighting and heating.

The island bed is north-south with room to move on either side. For extra space, the mattress and base are retractable. There are large windows on either side of the bedroom, plus a big overhead skylight, with three overhead lockers, two floor-to-ceiling wardrobes, plus a storage cupboard.

One of the defining features of the Beduin Scandinavia range is its superior insulation, full Alde central heating (LPG/230V) and underfloor heating (230v). All Dethleffs caravans (and motorhomes) also feature the Airplus ventilation system, which circulates air from top to bottom, including through the overhead lockers. It’s a clever innovation that helps to minimise condensation. Single-axle Beduin models also include 200w of solar plus a 150AH LIFEPO4 lithium battery with built-in battery management system and Bluetooth monitoring as standard.

Manufactured to Dethleffs’ usual high standard, the Beduin caravan range includes a comprehensive safety package, which includes an AL-KO heavy-duty chassis and suspension for a payload of 325kg, anti-sway coupling, AL-KO Octagon shock absorbers, and AAA self- adjusting brakes.

Find out more at centralrv.co.nz