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Second hand van

M

moncman

Hi all,

I am new to caravanning and am considering the purchase of a second-hand 6 berth (we have 3 kids). I am hoping with rising fuel costs and the so called credit crunch I might get a good deal. I know that some manufacturers produce several brands (Swift/Ace/Abbey/Sterling) but after reading so many problems with certain brands (Bailey thread) can anyone suggest which caravan has best build quality/resistance to damp etc.

I am not likely to go older than a 2004/5 and will tow with a Ford S-Max 2.0TDCi. Regards to all
 
Swift Group and Bailey produce caravans of similar quality/reliability although Swift seem to have the better customer service. Coachman seem to be a step up, other UK manufacturers being a step down.

If you want better quality it's Carlight, VanMaster or a German brand.
 
On forums such as this one problems with caravans are highlighted and anyone who is new to caravanning could be forgiven for thinking that a particular brand is beset with faults.

Swift and Bailey are volume makers of caravans and any on weekend trip along a UK motorway more caravans made by these two manufacturers will be seen than any other make.

The best thing to do is to research the market and find out which layout suits your needs best.

When you've narrowed your search down visit as many caravan dealers as you can and have a good look round what is on offer.

Check for signs of damp such as soft walls, spongy floors or musty smells and look under cushions and in all of the corners of the caravan top to bottom.

Negotiate a price from a reputable dealer for the caravan that you want to buy and make sure that there is some guarantee along with the purchase.

Take nothing for granted, check every fixture and fitting and as always, buyer beware.
 
Thanks for all the advice. I was thinking of a private sale as it appears that some great deals can be done with someone leaving caravanning. A package with awning and some extras would suit. 2004/5 at around
 
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