HOW TO BUY NEW

Choosing a layout

People’s needs differ, and your layout choice will depend on your companions and how you want to use your caravan.

To understand which layouts are available, spend a day at one of the big shows, where manufacturers and dealers will be showing their latest models.

A dealership is also a good place to start, but can be affiliated with a limited number of manufacturers.

A chat with a dealer, though, could raise issues or offer ideas you hadn’t considered.

Think about your needs: will you want to carry bikes, sports kit, barbecues or outdoor furniture?

Perhaps creature comforts are a bit higher on your list; you might want a separate sleeping area, a lounge with parallel sofas and TV points, and an oven.

If you plan to tour in Europe, your preference might be a smaller caravan with less kitchen kit, but with an external barbecue point and mains socket.

Is the washroom going to be very important to you, or will campsite facilities suffice?

For further information on the types of layouts available, see p100.