You’re not into caravanning, yet. You like the idea, hitting the open road with the family going on a great adventure for the holidays. However, do you have a real understanding of what is required, beyond just purchasing one. There are many considerations you need to ponder very seriously because they are all important. Of course, price is a key factor as in reality your budget is your fundamental, but not your only driver in this case.
One prime thing you need to factor in is having a vehicle suitably powered to safely (and legally) tow it where you want it to go depending on its size and weight.
No Place Like Home (away from home).
The other important consideration is where are you going to actually put your (not so small) home away from home caravan once you pick it up. If you don’t have a large enough property to suitably store it, given that you probably won’t be using it all the time, this is a vital consideration.
Most, if not all local councils would prohibit you from legally parking it on the street, or even the verge in front of your house as these public spaces are by and large for vehicle parking, not storage. Let’s face it, just imagine your local street clogged with people’s stored caravans all year round, it would make access and using your street a nightmare.
If your property is not large enough, what then? Storage options are available to park/store your caravan off-site, but they come with a weekly or monthly cost you need to factor in. Also, are you capable of safely towing it to where you want to go. This is worth looking into for no other reasons but safety and confidence.
Other Things.
I could also mention things like electric brake controllers, suitable hitches, plugs, electrics, power considerations (if going off-road), storage, bathroom functions, connectivity and there are many more.
And once you have arrived at your holiday destination, what other things would you need? Outdoor furniture for your annexe, suitable matting under your annexe, additional lighting, extension cords, activities equipment, food, storage, a generator perhaps? I could go on, but in general these are some things to think about.
Driver’s Education.
Confidence and skills are also a realistic requirement for owning and certainly using a caravan. But how to get these skills ahead of buying one? Check with friends who may own one and hit them up with as many questions as you can think of, education is worthwhile and the experience of such travellers cannot be underestimated. You could (and probably should) look into some form of course in practical ownership, learning good driving skills and how to effectively use of a caravan. At last check, the RAC runs such a thing called ‘Tow Safe’. There are others, just Google it and see what you can find that will work for you.
Conclusion.
Once you have some form of understanding on what a caravan is, what it requires and what you want to get from your investment in adventure, remember you can rely on Autospark for electric brake controllers, dual battery systems, off-road, power and a host of other goodies you may need for your caravan, least of all, we are always ready to offer you the best in advice and service. All you have to do is ask.
For any issues with your car’s needs for caravanning, lighting, wiring, accessories, customisation or anything, talk to the experts and your trusted professionals at Autospark.
