Types of Caravan – From Static to Touring Caravans

There are probably thousands of different styles of caravan available. Think carefully about your requirements from a caravan before you buy one. Caravans are an expensive purchase so it is worth taking some time to find the perfect one for you.

Static Caravans

Static caravans are great if you have one place that you really love to go. They are normally fairly large and stay in one place all of the year. The main advantages of a static caravan are:

• Stays in one place at your favourite destination.

• You do not have to transport your caravan when you wish to go away.

• You do not need to organise storage when you are not using your caravan. (Although you may have to pay the park it is in for general security and upkeep).

• More suited to the installation of modern conveniences for example washing machines and double glazing. (This means buying a static caravan can be expensive).

Touring Caravans

Touring caravans are the most popular form of caravans. They allow for spontaneous holidays and if you do not like where you end up you can just move on. Here are a few general key facts about touring caravans.

• They must be attached to a towing vehicle for transportation. Heavier caravans must be transported by more powerful cars.

• Size varies enormously.

• Generally the seating area is transformed into the sleeping area at night.

• Touring caravans are likely to have a kitchen and washing area of varying description. Some may have a toilet and others will not.

• Touring caravans are popular because they offer the greatest amount of personal freedom.

Full/Standard Touring Caravans

This is the most recognisable style of caravan. They have solid sides and a solid roof. They are set up to be easy to connect to amenities and normally have a fairly high roof for comfort.

Pop-top / Pop-up Caravans

As the name suggest these kinds of caravan have roofs that can be raised up providing extra head room. Normally this flexible part is made of a strong vinyl to ensure water resistance. Pop-top caravans have some specific benefits. They make towing easier because they are less wind resistant. They use less fuel in transportation because they are less heavy that standard caravans and they will have good air circulation inside. The disadvantages are that you will have less storage space and they take a little more time to set up.

Compact Caravans

As the name suggests these caravans are small. Normally they have a solid metal shell. They do not have a large amount of room so do not expect luxury. The main attraction is that they will have beds inside (normally two). If you are looking for a more comfortable nights sleep than you could get in a tent then they are a good option.

Fifth Wheel Caravans

These caravans are not often seen in the U.K. however they are popular in America. A pick up truck or similar vehicle is needed to tow them. They are very large and contain many home comforts, they are quite literally a home away from home. But they use a significant amount of fuel to be transported and need a large specialised towing vehicle. Getting around some of the small country roads in the U.K. would not be possible with this kind of caravan.

A few things to consider before making a purchase

• How far and how frequently are you going to travel? Smaller caravans are easy to transport, but the living space is reduced, you will need to strike a balance between the two.

• Where are you going? Do you need a shower/toilet which will take up space and add weight or are you going to stay in caravan parks where they are likely to have these facilities?

• What weight can your towing vehicle tow? Do not forget to budget for a more powerful car if you want a large caravan.

• Fuel will cost more with a heavier caravan.

• How many beds do you really need?

• What appliances will make you comfortable? For example in the kitchen will a microwave be sufficient or do you want a grill and hob? If you will only go caravanning in the summer you may be able to BBQ outside instead.

• There are only a few caravans that are expressly listed as off road suitable. If you do want to go off road, fully check the manufacturers warranty to ensure that what you want to do will not invalidate it. Off road caravans will weigh more because they are re-enforced with a lot of extra metal. They are likely to come with more spare parts and will ideally have low energy appliances.

• Having lots of windows allows for a greater view of the scenery around and lets in lots of light.

• Interiors and layouts vary enormously so shop around for something that makes you happy. Remember it is not about how large the caravan is but how the space it used!