Questions to Ask When You’re Buying a Caravan

If you're thinking about buying a caravan, you're likely dealing with a combination of excitement and nerves. A new caravan will unlock a world of adventure - but you want to know you're making the right choice and not going to get caught out by something you hadn't thought about. As such, you need to make sure you're asking the right questions - whether you're buying new or used.

Ultimately, you'll only really enjoy your caravan if it's safe, reliable, and, naturally, good value for money.

We've put together a series of subjects and questions to ask about when you look at suitable caravans. They might not all be applicable to your situation - but it's worth reading through them all so you can approach your purchase with confidence.

1. What’s My Budget?

Deciding on a budget for your caravan isn’t always straightforward. Do you go all-in on a brand-new, luxury model - or opt for a well-kept pre-owned van that offers better value?

There’s no right or wrong answer really - just what works for you. The key is finding a balance between what you want and what you’re genuinely comfortable spending. A caravan should add freedom and enjoyment to your life, not financial stress.

We’re most certainly not here to tell you how to spend your money - just to suggest aiming for something that feels exciting, practical, and affordable, rather than something that turns into a burden later on.

Think about:

• What is your total budget, including insurance, storage, and any servicing costs?

2. What’s Included?

Does the caravan you're looking at include everything you need to hit the road and head for a park? Or do you need to order some extras before you go?

Every seller is different - so you should ask what’s included in the price. Things like awnings, motor movers, gas bottles, or upgraded appliances can make a big difference in value.

Useful tip: Leave a little space in your budget for extras - like towing mirrors, levelling ramps, or even a membership with the Camping and Caravanning Club, which can save you money on sites and storage.

3. Can My Car Tow It Safely?

Before you fall in love with a caravan, make sure your vehicle can legally and safely tow it. Every caravan has a Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) - the maximum weight it can carry when loaded.

Check your car’s handbook or the manufacturer’s website for its towing limit. As a general rule, keep the caravan’s MTPLM under 85% of your car’s kerb weight if you’re new to towing.

Key questions:

• What is the caravan’s MTPLM, and is it within my car’s towing capacity?
• Do I need a specific driving licence category to tow this caravan? (Some newer drivers are restricted by licence rules - always double-check before you buy.)

4. What’s the Condition and Service History?

Condition is everything when buying a used caravan. Even one that looks spotless could be hiding damp or structural issues, so take your time inspecting it - or consider getting expert help.

Questions to ask:

• What is the caravan’s service history? Ask for paperwork showing previous owners, repairs, and servicing.
• Are there any signs of damp or water damage? Check corners, cupboards, and walls with a damp meter.
• What is the condition of the chassis, axle, and tyres? Look for cracks, rust, or damage.
• Do the doors, windows, jockey wheel, handbrake, and awning all work correctly?
• Are there any known issues or upcoming repairs?
• Has the gas system been safety-checked recently? Ask for evidence of a recent gas safety or habitation check - it’s vital for peace of mind.

A good dealer should also show you the CRiS registration (the caravan’s logbook) and explain any warranty options.

5. Does It Fit My Lifestyle?

A caravan can be perfect on paper but totally wrong for how you take your breaks. Think about how and where you’ll use it - whether that’s loading up the family and heading for an all-action location - or just heading somewhere quiet and tranquil by yourself.

Questions to consider:

• What type of caravan suits my needs - think compact, single axle, twin axle - and even different layouts.
• How many people do I need to accommodate comfortably?
• Do I prefer a fixed bed, or one I make up nightly?
• What features or amenities do I really need (heating, storage, air conditioning)?

Don’t just look - try it out. Sit on the seats, stand in the shower, open every cupboard. You’ll quickly know if it feels like home.

6. What’s Its Age and Background?

This one doesn't really factor in if you're buying a new caravan - but if you’re buying used, ask about the caravan’s age, ownership, and maintenance. Regular servicing is a sign it’s been cared for, and a clean record gives you confidence.

Ask for:

• Full service history and CRiS check
• Details of any upgrades or replacements (like tyres, gas fittings, or batteries)
• Information about previous caravan owners

No paperwork? It's honestly probably best to just walk away - it’s not worth the risk that you find something untoward or poorly looked-after further down the line.

7. What Are the Running Costs?

Owning a touring caravan brings a wonderful sense of freedom - but there are ongoing costs. Being prepared for these things helps avoid surprises or stretching things financially later.

It's useful to think about:

• Annual caravan insurance
• Yearly servicing and maintenance
• Storage fees (especially if you can’t keep it at home or on a caravan park site)
• Fuel and pitch fees when staying at caravan holiday parks

You might even decide to look at the cost of the different holiday caravan parks you like the look of, and tot up what your breaks will cost you over the year. You obviously don't have to spend that money all at once - it just helps to know what your ideal number of getaways will cost.

8. What Warranty or Support is Available?

A good warranty gives peace of mind. If you're buying new (or there's an extended warranty available from a dealer) ask what’s covered, how long it lasts, and whether you need to use specific service centres.

If you’re buying privately, find out who last serviced the caravan and whether you can continue using the same workshop (if it's in a convenient location). Having consistent care makes a big difference over time.

9. Who Am I Buying From?

Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, reputation matters.

Questions to ask:

• What’s the dealer or manufacturer’s reputation? Check online reviews and caravan forums.
• What kind of after-sales support do they offer?
• Are there delivery and storage options available?

Of course, it's harder to judge whether someone selling privately is trustworthy - but more and more online platforms give buyers the chance to rate sellers. Take a look, if possible, at a person's feedback, and make a judgment call from there.

Buying from a source you're confident you can trust - whether a dealer or an individual - helps avoid headaches later.

10. Can I Get a Demonstration?

If possible, ask for a full walkthrough. Have the seller show you how to hitch up, operate the heating, use the water and electrical systems, and check the safety equipment.

If the caravan is already sited at a caravan park, look at practical details too - like whether there’s a designated parking space nearby, access to the pitch, and how easy it is to manoeuvre or tow away when you’re ready to travel.

Final Thoughts

Buying a touring caravan should be exciting - not stressful. By asking the right questions and doing a little homework, you’ll find the perfect setup for your adventures - without worrying about running into problems after you've committed.

Wondering how we know which question to ask? Well, we connect sellers with buyers every single day of the year - and we know about what impacts the price of a caravan. As such - we're happy to share our knowledge, and we're here should you ever decide you want a quick, fair, and hassle-free way to sell your caravan.