If you enjoy traveling across Great Britain, you’ve probably thought about the joys of owning a caravan. After all, buying a caravan is a great way to be able to conveniently and affordably see more of our beautiful country.
With the demand for caravans expected to increase drastically this year, so should you expect the prices to rocket! Therefore, let’s break down some key questions around buying a caravan.
How Much Does A Caravan Cost?
Perhaps the most common question for people thinking about buying a caravan is how much one will cost. The major factors that affect price will be whether you are purchasing a new or used caravan and the size and amenities included.
It will cost between £15,000 to £35,000 to buy a new caravan. While you can find extra luxurious models at even a higher price, most new caravans will tend to fall into this range. Two berth caravans will be on the cheaper end while four berth caravans will be costlier.
How much does a second hand caravan cost?
Many people opt to buy a used caravan as it will typically provide you with some major cost savings. A second hand caravan will cost between £1,000 – £6,000. For that price, you are probably getting one over a decade old that may need some work; however, even a caravan only a few years old should net you some significant savings.
Since a caravan is a major purchase, it is important to fully consider this decision. Let’s break down what you should look for when buying one.
What To Look For When Buying A Caravan
When thinking about buying a caravan, adequate preparation will help ensure that you will be happy with your purchase. This is going to be your home when on the road, so you want to be sure you are as pleased as possible with the purchase.
Here are the major things to consider:
1. The overall size.
Caravans come in a variety of sizes. One of the first things you want to consider is the ideal size. When thinking about this, you also need to make sure that you have a vehicle capable of effectively towing the size of caravan you want.
2. The internal layout.
Not all caravans are made equally. You will find a number of different layouts available. Thank about your needs such as the number of people. Do you have kids? Is it just one or two people? Do you prefer more space for dining?
3. Waterproofness of seals and windows
One thing you definitely want to ensure is that your caravan can keep water out. If you are buying a used one, look around for signs of leaks or dampness. Strange stains or odd-coloured areas are signs of concern.
4. Usable everyday features
Another consideration involves the features you want to have. Things such as heating, hot water, kitchen features, and size of refrigerator are major things to look for. What will best fit your lifestyle? Newer caravans have more high-quality features while older ones may be a bit sparser.
Another residual factor to consider is the average cost of running a motorhome.
How Much To Insure a Caravan?
The cost to insure a caravan depends largely on its overall value. Just like choosing a car insurance policy, the higher the value, the more the insurance will cost. This is because it would likely cost more to repair or replace the caravan.
Insurance is not too expensive for caravans. To give an example: It will cost around £300 annually to insure a caravan valued at £20,000. Of course, your specific rate will vary based on a number of factors such as your driving record. However, this should provide a good general estimate.
Does Car Insurance Cover Towing a Caravan?
Yes. Most car insurance policies provide third party liability coverage for towing a caravan. You should still consult your specific insurance policy, though. Car insurance policies typically will not provide any coverage for theft or damage to the caravan itself.
Therefore, you should purchase insurance specifically for your caravan. This will provide cover in case it is stolen or encounters damage.
The caravan life is a great way to explore nature and get away for relaxing holidays. I hope this guide has been useful!
James Banerjee is an Account Director who graduated from the University of Kent in 2014. He works in SEO on clients such as HSBC UK and Nestle and he has a keen interest in personal finances and money-saving advice.
