About Caravan Campervans…
If you look on the internet, or along the highways, you will find used camper vans and caravans for sale. These are large tow-able units that are like having a mini motel on wheels. In them can be found benches that fold out into beds, tables, even a miniature kitchen, shelves and a bathroom. Many have running water, AC and heat, and even satellite hook-ups. Touring with your own place to sleep hitched to the back of your truck or minivan brings a new freedom to your vacation. You can take your time, pull over when you want and tour the more scenic routes the country has to offer.
There are definitely things you need to look for when you inspect used Caravan Campervans. Obviously, you want to find out as much as you can about the history of it’s use. Be sure to ask if the campervan has ever been hired (or rented out), and if so, how often. Motorhome hire as well taken care of as previously owned ones. Ask if the owner is the original owner. If not, find out who was. Write down the VIN number and check it out. Make sure the VIN on the chassis and the bodywork match. Don’t fall for the hard sales tactics of there is another buyer waiting in the wings if you do not buy it right then and there. It just may be an indication the used camper van is stolen!
If it is a dealer that is selling the Caravan Campervans, camper caravans or 4 wheel drive camper vans, check into their background and make sure the Better Business Bureau doesn’t have complaints on file. Ask other people who use their camper as their Motorhome holidays recreational vehicle or often take vacations in them who they know that is a reputable dealer.
Always inspect the caravan or camper over in the daylight. Check to see if it has been subjected to dampness. Make sure it doesn’t smell musty inside. Mold and mildew damage is one of the most expensive things to repair in a caravan. You want to make sure the seams are not rusted and the roof is sound. It may be worth your while to spend a few bucks at the hardware store to get a meter that will detect dampness levels. Check around the windows for signs of condensation or glazing, especially if they are plastic. Look for cracks or heat and sun damage. Don’t be afraid to get down on your hands and knees to inspect the flooring next to benches and in the kitchen, bath areas.
You want to make sure the main door fastens tightly and the locks work well. It should be watertight and the weather stripping sound. Then check your stepping inside the caravan. Does the camper wobble? Do you feel sure-footed? If not, is it the air pressure in the tires or a suspension problem? Also see if the hitch and the chassis to make sure there is no rust or signs of major denting or damage from possible road hazards or wrecks.
Finally, if it has a kitchen and bathroom, be sure to check the gas, the electricity and the plumbing systems. Bring an expert along with you if you need to. It is better to check everything thoroughly for wear and tear, especially on older models whose parts may be a hassle to locate. Ask the owner where they shopped for parts or who they would recommend.
A bonus would be to find Used Caravan Campers with the accessories as well. Built in TV’s, durable kitchenware, even back up batteries and generators are all accessories that may be for sale. There are motorhome societies you can join that can clue you in on the best places on the web to buy accessories, or parts for used camper vans. Word of mouth is always the best referral.
One last piece of advice before deciding on Caravan Campervans. Know what you want in a caravan before you shop. Do you want a kitchen or bath? How many should it sleep? What’s the towing weight both as braked and unbraked and how much can your truck or minivan handle? Will you carry bikes or other things hitched to the back or on top? How much storage do you need? Once decided you are ready to go shopping for your New Motorhomes.
If you buy the basic size you need with the basic items you and your family want, the accessorizing can always come later on down the road, no pun intended.