Another Newbie

[gar374]

Hi,

My name is Gareth, I'm married to Ellen and and we're thinking of getting our first Caravan.

We'll be looking for a 4 berth (we have a wee boy, big girl and a wee dog) caravan for under £3k (as this will be our first and we don't know whether we'll like it or not), that will be towed by the wife's Saab 9-3 Vector Sport Estate 1.9 TiD (150).

Unfortunately we don't know anyone personally that does caravanning so I've been trawling the net trying to find out as much as I can.

The more we chat about it the more desperate we both are to get something and get going!!!! Is that normal?

All the best
Gareth

 

[John_374564913]

Hi Gareth
I am confident that once you have purchased your caravan and taken it out you will not regret it.
Just the people you will meet and the life style is worth it in itself.

I note you have not purchased a van yet so my suggestion would be as follows as many members of this site will be able to advise you (these are just some of the questions you need to ask)

1. What weight can my vehicle tow
2. What is the nose weight maximum and can you explain about nose weights
3. Can somebody explain the 85% factor for towing
4. Is it worthwhile joing the caravan club and why
5. What advantages are their in getting an awning
6. What is the minimum in the way of equipment I will need
7. What are the bits of equipment are not essential but do help when camping
Remeber it is a fairly expensive lifestyle but in my opinion second to non and when it gets hold of you can become an obbsesion as we live for the next trip out.
As I said just ask away before making your initial purchase many will be only to happy to help
John

 

[Beachball]

Hi Gareth & ellen welcome to the practical caravan forum enjoy it and try out your first van ....

 

[Parksy]

Hi Gareth,Ellen & family, welcome to the Practical Caravan forum.
There is lots of information available on the internet and on this website which will help you to make the right choice and to avoid the pitfalls when buying your first caravan.
The best source of information of all is that given by experienced caravanners and you've definitely done the right thing in joining this forum because your knowledgeable and helpful fellow members will be happy to answer your questions and to offer advice.
You need to decide first of all on a suitable layout within your budget which will be safe and legal for you to use. Most caravan sales centres or dealerships stock caravans of all types and price ranges and some of their models taken in part exchange would be a good place to start looking.
Sit inside the various 4+ berth caravans to find out what you like and what you aren't so keen on, most models are open and available for inspection during hours of business.
Have a look at this Used Tourer Guide to highlight what you need to look out for,the 'bargain or rot box' section has clickable links down the left hand side with more detailed information on what to look for. http://www.caravantourer.co.uk/
Stay in touch and let us know how you are getting on, enjoy your search and I'm sure that your young family will enjoy regular outings when you have bought your first caravan.
The excitement and anticipation is perfectly normal b.t.w., enjoy!

 

[gar374]

Hi Guys,

Thanks for the really warm welcome - soe really good advice here and somemore links to more reading, great stuff. I'll get stuck in over the weekend.

Cheers
G

 

[Parksy]

If there's anything at all that you're not sure about just ask in the 'General' section

 

[Stuart_374401878]

<waves>

 

[Mel]

Hi gar. Welcome to the forum and soon (hopefully) to caravanning. You don't say how big your girl is, but if you buy a van with bunks for the kids and she is a teenager, get her to try it before you buy it. Some bunks are snug for older children and we know how teens can moan. (said with feeling).
mel