Deciding you want a new adventure filled lifestyle is the easy part. Figuring out how and what caravan fits into that can be a little more difficult. Especially without all the information - that's why if you read on, you'll figure out all the details about caravanning for beginners and some basic tips and tricks to get you on the way with your research journey.
There are some key considerations that are important to the very start of your caravan journey. While it may seem obvious, it's important for you to consider whether it's a caravan or motorhome that suits your needs. Lots of people start browsing dealerships, attending industry shows and searching Trade Me without a clear picture in their head about what suits their vision. Eventually, they walk away confused and armed with conflicting information. Keep the vision in mind and work back from there!
There are more details about the benefits of either a motorhome or caravan in our free beginners guide to caravanning.
Caravans are great for:
Motorhomes are great for:
Usually, people have a preference for either a motorhome or caravan when they start looking. However, if you're not sure, think specifically about what you want to achieve with your purchase. What's the most suitable option for your budget, needs and timeline?
Caravanning is the perfect family holiday and the initial outlay is significantly less than a motorhome. You can get great value both upfront from a cost point of view, and during the life of your caravan from an enjoyment point of view. Some of the best New Zealand childhoods are depicted through stories of summer camping perched up at a beachside hotspot.
It's easy, getting people outdoors but with the luxury and comfort a permanent structure offers. No more tenting in the rain, but an ability to enjoy caravan experiences all year around.
What's better than picking one of New Zealand's hundreds of internationally renowned holiday destinations and heading off for a week or two in the comforts of your own caravan!
The popularity of family caravanning means there are many family friendly floor plans in a range of price brackets. Some of which give you the flexibility to enjoy separate living spaces. The new caravans are robust and most have great quality options designed for the long-haul.
The great thing about caravanning is that you really can head away with your kids at any age. You don't need to worry about fitting car seats into a motorhome but rather can just hitch on the caravan and go with the comforts of your normal car. Nowadays most have video screens to keep them entertained on the road, key safety features and more than likely with the kids seats already secured and in place.
Some important questions to ask yourself:
One this is for sure, if you are keen to spend more time with family, enjoying New Zealand's amazing scenery, then there will be a caravan to suit your budget and needs.
There are so many different ways to use a caravan. Suitable for a range of unique circumstances including living full time, temporary living, overflow accommodation for the Christmas holidays at the family batch or, as a lifestyle option heading away for weekends and extended holidays.
As mentioned above, caravans are a great value option and could be suitable for whatever your unique situation might be. They are cost effective, easy to own and currently have a strong resale demand.
Some important questions to ask yourself:
There will be caravans that you'll need a bigger tow vehicle to tow however there are also some great lightweight easy to tow, easy to park options. Not having a big rig isn't a good reason to completely rule out caravanning as a desirable option. Some people like the idea of their existing car being used for their getaways and not needing to maintain another 'motor'. Making finding something their existing vehicle can tow an important non-negotiable.
We'll get you clear through your journey on how to tow a caravan and what sort of vehicle is required to tow each caravan. A free tow assessment is offered by our TrailLite product consultants to help connect you with the perfect caravan for your existing car if that's a priority.
Do your research on towing as you get further down the journey to caravan ownership, including reading our tips from Rob Deed Product Consultant on towing a caravan.
There are some key things to keep in mind as you explore suitable product options that go above and beyond the question of 'is this floor plan right for me?'.
To maximise your enjoyment of the caravan and your time on the road, you need to be sure that the company offers a few basic after sales steps:
Caravans are an easy option for anyone new to the on road lifestyle.