Buying a Tourer

Aug 18, 2025
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We are currently in the market for a Tourer. Our preference is a 4 or 5 berth with an island bed - any advice / pointers will be gladly received.
We have had a chat with a couple of dealers, but would prefer real user feedback, with our preference to buy privately as funds are in place.

Throw stones if you like as I know there will be strong views over Dealer / Private buying, in everything we do in life individual tastes dictate the necessity for choice.



Thanks Liz
 
Nov 30, 2022
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First, and vital, thing you need to know is what the maximum weight of caravan your tow car can legally tow.
Look at the VIN plate, deduct the second bigest number from the bigest number.
 
Aug 18, 2025
7
2
15
First, and vital, thing you need to know is what the maximum weight of caravan your tow car can legally tow.
Look at the VIN plate, deduct the second bigest number from the bigest number.
Thanks, yes 1800kg is our max, so with most we’ve looked at we may only have 150kg to play with for payload (which hubby understands) and I know that is not a lot, got to start somewhere and it’s not a new car lol - it’s going to get harder as we move forward, but we have a decent car with full history and no issues, but we know we’ll have to upgrade whatever caravan we buy and our car as time goes on - just starting out - Liz
 
Nov 11, 2009
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Thanks, yes 1800kg is our max, so with most we’ve looked at we may only have 150kg to play with for payload (which hubby understands) and I know that is not a lot, got to start somewhere and it’s not a new car lol - it’s going to get harder as we move forward, but we have a decent car with full history and no issues, but we know we’ll have to upgrade whatever caravan we buy and our car as time goes on - just starting out - Liz
Some caravans may have had a payload upgrade by previous owner, if not then a caravan may be eligible for a payload upgrade via a dealership, although Bailey used to sell them via their online shop at one time Generally such upgrades tend to be around 30-35kg max, but some larger can vans go higher.
 
Aug 18, 2025
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Some caravans may have had a payload upgrade by previous owner, if not then a caravan may be eligible for a payload upgrade via a dealership, although Bailey used to sell them via their online shop at one time Generally such upgrades tend to be around 30-35kg max, but some larger can vans go higher.
Thanks, the benefit/s at the minute are lost on me lol although I can see it would help a bit, need to find a caravan then see where we have to go with it then - cheers Liz
 
Feb 13, 2024
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Buy private no warranty, but you usually get lots of extras thrown in especially if seller is packing it in. Buy dealer usually get a warranty, but will pay extra. If it were me it would be private, but take someone who is knowledgeable along with you. P.S. it's a minefield out there, good luck 👍
 
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Reactions: Hutch
Mar 14, 2005
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Whilst you have access to all the relevant information, It seems you are aware of the obvious pitfalls, and the significant risks if there is a problem, only you can make the decision about Private or Dealer purchases. good luck
 
Aug 18, 2025
7
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Buy private no warranty, but you usually get lots of extras thrown in especially if seller is packing it in. Buy dealer usually get a warranty, but will pay extra. If it were me it would be private, but take someone who is knowledgeable along with you. P.S. it's a minefield out there, good luck 👍
Yes thanks, I appreciate it’s a minefield, but tapping into people experiences helps - hubby knows his way around things but tips and advice always helps - cheers Liz
 

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