Buying guide | Choosing a used caravan

A caravan is one of those vehicles that gives you the comfort of your home even when out in the wild. Its features should be a top priority whether you're thinking of camping or going on a road trip. However, getting a brand new caravan can be really expensive. Perhaps you may want to simply have a feel of the vehicle before deciding on a permanent one, or maybe you're just looking to save your money. Whatever the reason, getting a used caravan will be the perfect path. However, you need to be careful when doing so. Here are some of the tips to assist you in making the right choice.

Check for dampness

Dampness is one of the top problems caravans face. You need to make a thorough inspection to ensure that the damp is nonexistent. Dampness can really destroy the caravan's structural integrity. Look for cupboards that are not sturdy enough or loose fittings within the caravan; these are some of the symptoms of a damp caravan. Also check the corners of the vehicle for any signs of moisture. You'd rather buy a damp meter from your DIY store than risk purchasing a damp vehicle. It may cost a fortune in trying to repair it.

Think of your safety

When buying a used caravan, you need to ensure that you consider your safety. For used caravans, go for the ones fitted with an IRS (independent rear suspension) axle system. This simply means that that the rear wheels react differently to motions and are not linked. For instance, a bump on the right rear wheel doesn't affect the motion of the one on the left. Such a system is a lot safer to use and more stable. Additionally, go for one with ESC (electronic stability control) system. ESC assists in giving more control by applying brakes individually over the wheels whenever you lose your steering control. That way, you'll steer where you intend to.

Check the documents

Some of the most important documents to check are the ones that show the service history and proof of ownership. Insist on having a look at the service history so as to know the degree of care the caravan has had. Also ask what kind of areas the caravan has been driven through and what distances it's covered recently.

Proof of ownership is to prevent any fraud from taking place. You don't want to buy a caravan and have the cops on your door a day later charging you of theft. Ask for the sellers' ID and ensure they are the owners.