Caravan Types - What to choose?

It is a big decision and you may need some help, but where do you start?

What sort of vehicle do you already own to tow it with? If you already have a small sedan car, and want to tow a large van, it obviously will not work.  If you are in the enviable  situation of choosing a complete set-up, then you can choose something that works for you.  On the other hand if you can only afford to buy the van, then you are restricted to what will work with the vehicle you already own. Find out the maximum towing weight (by looking in the vehicle manual, or contacting the manufacturer), then talk to caravan dealers, with the maximum weight in mind. Don't forget to allow for all the extras you will be taking with you, so it is the van weight, plus contents.

The following are a representation only of some of the many types available. Test “drive” where possible. Consider hiring one similar to the one you choose, which should be for a week or more to really know if it is right for you, and what you want to do with it. Take it away for a real trip if possible. It will also be an opportunity to find out some of the other items you might want/need. Take a packing list and refine it to really make it your’s. Why not request an editable copy from NomadicLife so you can make it your own list.

Choosing your home away from home:  This means the freedom to take your lifestyle with you. Where do you want to go, is it really the outback, or just main roads & touristy areas? How will get there, will you need a 4x4 or will a fairly robust type of vehicle suffice? What will you do when you get there, how will you travel around? This question relates to the type of rig you choose, because a campervan and awning, will not be easy to dismantle to go get the milk you forgot to buy along the way. How many people will be travelling, and how much comfort do they need or want? These are some of the questions which need to be answered, to help make up your mind about what you need to buy. If you can it is best to match the vehicle to suit the lifestyle you will be leading, rather than the other way around. There are Caravan and Camping shows on in most capital cities, and they may be the place to start, because the many options are together in one place, at one time. They also often have specials on during the show, which may mean making a decision on the spot. To do that, some research needs to be done before going so a decision can be made at the time. Go at the beginning of the show, look around and if you see something that might work, there is still time to walk away and think about it before signing up for anything. Go back to show again later, after thinking about all the options, and doing some research about prices etc before committing to such an expensive purchase in the heat of the moment.

Choosing the right caravan, camper or tent trailer for your needs.
Before purchasing a new caravan, camper or tent trailer, consider the following:

• How long do you intend to travel, and live in it?
• How many people will be sleeping in it?
• Will you be travelling on the road, off road or on 4x4 tracks and trails?
• Do you require alternative power, such as solar panels, dual batteries, or generators?
• Do you require an onboard toilet or a shower?
• What sort of refrigeration is required, will it need a power source?
• Will you require an awning, or perhaps a full annexe?
• Do you intend to cook inside (stove), outside (BBQ) or both?
• Do you require plenty of storage for personal and essential items?
• Will you be carrying bicycles, boat, or other large objects, and if so how?
• Do you intend using it at home for additional accommodation when not travelling?
• Is height a major consideration for storage, for instance under a carport?

The above list is only a start. We recommend that you develop your own detailed wish list, in conjunction with any towing issues, budget, vehicle height or other limitations.

See options below - also see  Towing Tips, Budgeting, Planning, Packing, and Caravan Shows

Campervans Comparatively easy to drive, because there are no towing issues. Highly mobile and convenient due to the fact they are more of a "park and you are ready to camp" style.  Providing you don't need awnings etc there is not much more to do. They are self contained. Some have a raiseable roof, while others are fixed like this example. Great for quick trips, with minimum fuss, such as weekends away. For longer stays you may need awnings and/or a separate tent to allow more freedom, especially if you need to use the vehicle for transport at your destinations. They have some of the features of a caravan or motorhome, but not an on-board shower or toilet.
Motor Homes Highly mobile, and again fairly easy to drive. Great for an immediate camp setup. Most are fully self contained, and they have more spacious accommodation than the campervan, and are more secure than a tent. Ideal for the more extended travel. You may need another means of transport if you need to set up awnings etc. Some have bed/s that is can be left ready to use. Some even have a toilet and shower, which can make them fully self-contained. The larger size makes them less economical than the Camper, but the extra space may be well worth the extra cost. Be aware that depending on the size and weight of the motorhome, you MAY need a different licence to drive it.
Motor Home with the lot This type of vehicle is not for everyone, but some people have a large vehicle that is fully equipped as a home away from home, with a smaller vehicle for local travel. It may be a converted bus, or an articulated truck (or a 5th wheeler as they are sometimes called). They certainly have everything you could want, or need, but they also cost a lot to move, and it may be difficult to find parking for them. This one has everything, including this nifty car underneath. (not sure how more than 2 people can use it though). With this type of rig you could comfortable spend long periods of time in them. Paying the fuel bill may an issue. This type of vehicle will also require an appropriate licence to drive it, so be sure to add that issue to the list in your preparations.
Caravans There are huge choices of sizes and lay-outs. They range, from economy to luxury models, and everything in between. Buy new or pre-loved depending on your budget. They are often fully self contained, with a shower and toilet. With a fully equipped kitchen, and a variety of bed layouts. This option is a good one if you are setting up a base-camp to work from. There are many choices of floor-plans, just find one that suits your needs.
Pop-Top Caravans This type of van has a lower profile for towing, which might suit your needs better. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. They are easier to store when not travelling. With the lower profile they can sometimes fit under a carport. Like a regular caravan they are fully equipped, but they have less overhead cupboards for instance. Easily converts to full height, and the newer, and better designs, are less prone to leaking at the joins. They have nearly all the full Caravan benefits, but less wind resistance, which may mean less fuel to move them around. .
Extendable Caravans They are compact in design, and come in a huge variety of sizes and layouts. Easier to store when not in use, because they take up less space when folded down. They are usually well equipped, and are easy to erect, with most of the conveniences of a full caravan. They don't usually have a bathroom. Their lighter weight means they are easier to tow, with less wind resistance. Extendable sizing for maximum room, but minimum towing size. Check the layout most suitable to your needs. They require more setup time, and the storage space inside is much more limited as the awnings etc. need to be stored within themselves. They are not usually as self-contained as a regular caravan, but they may suit your needs better than a full size model.
A-Frame Caravans This sort of style has a low towing profile, and extends up quickly to allow more room. Variety of sizes and styles which are easy to store, easy to erect. More useful for short trips, or if less room, but more flexibility is required. They are almost fully equipped, but with less room to move around perhaps. Excellent for a quick get-away, especially weekends away or where less space is required e.g. for one person. They have some of the caravan benefits, with less wind resistance, and easier to manoeuvre than a full size van.
Slide-on Caravans Low profile, with no towing issues as it is mounted on the tray of a Ute or even a 4x4 for more rugged terrain driving. They are a separate issue to the vehicle, so you have choice of vehicle options. They can go on a standard two door Ute, or a four door type or a 4x4 like this one. They come in various configurations from different makers. Some even have a chemical toilet and shower as an option. They often have flyscreens and awnings to give you more usable space. Variety of sizes and styles, some parts are canvas, and others are fibreglass. They are fairly easy to store, on or off the vehicle. Flexibility of set-up, with the added benefit of being able to drive away with the vehicle after you arrive at the campsite, leaving the camp set up.
Tent Trailers Lower cost than a caravan, with tent style accommodation. They come in an infinite variety of styles and layouts. They are usually easy to erect, and offer more than just the tent, some have fridges mounted in the trailer. They are lighter to tow than a caravan, and can go almost anywhere, and you pay lower site rentals than a van, if using non powered sites. It is possible to have a powered fridge to store food while you are attached to a powered site. Or if you install solar panels to operate the fridge and the lights, you are more independent.
Tents Their major feature being they are economical, lightweight and compact, and can accommodate from one, to perhaps six or more people depending on size and layout. There are an infinite variety of shapes and sizes. Check out what is right for your needs. Flexibility of location, because they can be erected almost anywhere. They are highly portable, and are usually a lower site rental. Rental will be more expensive if you want/need a powered site. Always test the available room, as they usually say they are a 6 x man tent, but they usually have no room to move about, let alone store your luggage etc. Check out the ease of erecting the model you are looking at buying, especially if you are on the move all the time, some can be rather complicated to erect. Test it out before you buy if possible.