4 birth for ú4000 for total newbie

[chris_374320239]

Hi all, thinking of taking the plunge and trying caravaning. As it will be our first time don't want to spend loads on a van till we decide if its for us.

I know very little about which are the better makers to go for at this sort of money so any help would be brilliant.

Will be towing with either a Honda Accord 2.4 petrol or an X trail dci.

Thanks Chris

 

[oldievanner]

Rather than spend a lot of money buying a van, why don't you hire one for a week or so to see if you like it.It would come with all equipment required,and if you didn't like it you could just take it back and walk away.The only problem will be if you like it and the other half does not or vice-versa!!

 

[chris_374320239]

Thanks for the reply peter, i did not know you could hire tourers so i'll definatly think about trying that before we buy.

Been for a look at a few vans this morning, most of them where fine on the inside but a bit scruffy on the outside. Is this typical of vans of around this value from dealers or have i just been to a place that did not have very good stock? Would i be better looking for one for sale privatly?

Going to have a drive up to Glossop caravans at the weekend to see what they have got, has anyone been there??

Sorry for all the questions but as i say i am a total newbie to tourers (know a bit about statics though as we have had them in the family for years)

 

[Angus1]

Hi Chris,

I`ve been to Glossop Caravans on a few occasions for reference purposes, but wouldn`t dream of giving them my hard earned!

When you say `going up to` where are you coming from? A few miles further up on either side of the country will pay dividends.

If you are on the Yorkshire side have a look at Pleasuretime Caravans in Castleford, been going a long time ( I bought a Lunar from them in 1987), small family firm with a small selection of decent vans. You`ll get more for your money here than at a large dealership with the budget you have.

I have no connection with them other than as a customer, (father-in-law bought one off them as well) but do pop in from time to time just to be nosey!

 

[Angus1]

Oh, nearly forgot.

Pleasuretime used to hire out `vans and you got a refund of the hire charge if you then bought a van.

Dunno if it still applies, but you can always ask.

 

[chris_374320239]

I'm just outside Chester

 

[GrahamSouthBrum]

Hi Chris,

One near you is Harringtons. Chester Road, Northwich. CW8 2HB

harringtons-caravans.co.uk

I have not had any dealings with this company but I believe they are a family run company & have a good reputation.

Dont rush in have a good look round, it will pay dividends.

Graham W.

 

[Angus1]

Have a look at Harringtons then, better than Glossop, but still not cheap.

 

[John_374224558]

Chris,

Have a good look around as many dealers as you can and dont be in a great hurry. I think that you will soon get a feel for a dealer that you would be happy to deal with, and dont be afraid to ask plenty of questions if you see a van that takes your (or the other halfs) fancy. At that sort of price overall condition is everything, if there is any sign of damp then run away. There are some good vans with a full service history around, and now that that the 2008 models are starting to hit the forecourts, some good P/X's should soon be out there, and the dealers wont want those sitting around all winter so practise your haggling skills, particularly as you will have no P/X.

As for your towcar, you should find a good range of vans to suit.

 

[Chris_374228491]

I live near to Harringtons. Their 2nd hand stuff is very expensive. Offered me

 

[Chris_374228491]

Further to last, Harringtons are now part of the Barrons group with others taking over the country!

 

[chris_374320239]

Thanks again for all your replies, had a look on the Harringtons website and it does look a little pricey! Think we are going to wait till the new year to buy so going to spend a couple of months checking out what you get for the money (think we may strech to

 

[Chris_374228491]

Thanks again for all your replies, had a look on the Harringtons website and it does look a little pricey! Think we are going to wait till the new year to buy so going to spend a couple of months checking out what you get for the money (think we may strech to