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quoteLast month we asked the question on everybody’s lips during spring buying season; What do you look for in a new caravan or motohome?
Before we reveal the results let’s take a look at some of your comments…
Eric told us, “I look for the best build quality that I can afford and try to find out as much as I can beforehand.”
Budget was also a priority for Ian who told us, “I look for the layout I need, quality and reputation of manufacturer and the best spec model I can afford.”
Layout was a popular choice with Rob too, who also said that design was important to him, “Layout, interior & exterior modern design, storage space, a wide range of domestic appliances and security. Many new caravan designs are totally ruined by garish horrible in your face interior upholstery – more choice & options should be available.”
Let’s see how the rest of you voted!
The voting was close this time around, but a 23% majority of you told us that make and model is what you look when buying a caravan or motorhome.
One option not on the list was weight, which Phil told us factored into his decision making, “Weight was the most important factor for us when choosing our new van. We found out what the car could safely tow and then looked around those models we liked the look of.”
Mr Garratt got in touch to say that having a good relationship with a dealer is most important, “A dealer who helps you resolve warranty issues after they have sold you the caravan and a dealer who is capable of servicing the van without creating more problems.”
And finally caravanner Mick told us he looks for a few different things, “Good quality fixtures, the amount of storage, layout of bathroom, ease of access to controls. work top space and layout. I would also consider towing costs.”
Do you agree with the majority?
Share your comments below or have your say in our latest online poll which this month is all about fifth wheel caravans.
We are looking for a 4 birth van with an Island bed and an ‘L’ shaped lounge. Such as the Eddis Odyssey 550 and the Crusader Mistral, this is such a brilliant design especially Please tell what is wrong with manufactures? We were at the last NEC caravan show looking to purchase such a unit, when we were told by one of the sales staff (properly tongue-in-cheek but) ‘ You must be the 400th person I have told today, there is NO call for that design’.
Hi Steve,
Thanks for getting in touch. I guess it’s frustrating when you know exactly what you’re looking for. Did you go for the Eddis Odyssey 550 or the Crusader Mistral in the end?
Lucie
Caravan Guard
Thanks for your comments Tony & Rob. Manufacturers are beginning to develop their own construction techniques such as Elddis’ Solid construction and Swift SMART which demonstrates that there’s a real focus on these areas.
Lucie
Caravan Guard
In order of priority, I address the following when selecting a new caravan:-
(1) Berths – Will the van suit our accommodation requirements.
(2) Weight – Is the MTPLM a suitable match for my towing vehicle.
(3) Size – Will it fit in my storage location.
(4) Layout – Does the Sleeping Accomodation (Fixed Bed etc) & Kitchen arrangement match our requirements.
(5) Build Quality/Cost – Both have a major impact in the selection process although the former is difficult to assess completely until after a period of usage.
A slight tangent, but I think that caravan manufacturers must really address their quality issues which seem to be as bad as British Leyland in the 1970s if the reports I see are to be believed. This month’s Caravan Club magazine talks of a new caravan that was a “Friday build” with a long list of faults. This is just unacceptable! Most manufacturers today who care about their customers and reputation have a Zero Defects target and relentlessly pursue root causes of defects. Time for caravan manufacturers to get into the 21st Century please.