Old-fashioned holidays in tents are passé, and now we want real luxury when we go camping. Many rent a motorhome, but an increasing number have been so saved by life on the road that they buy their own.
Buying a motorhome and caravan is not that different from buying a car. At the same time, there are quite a few more things you have to check. So fasten your seat belts - here are the tips for first-time buyers.
What should you look for when buying?
1) First rent - then own
Rent a motorhome for a weekend or two before you buy. Then you quickly find out what you want, and even more importantly - what you don't want. Also find out how much money you are willing to pay.
2) Find out what your needs are
Are you a retired couple who will drive in Europe in the summer, or a family who will go on a trip every weekend all year round? How many beds and seats do you need? What about insulation?
Remember that driving license class B is valid for total weight up to 3,500 kg, while between 3,501 and 7,500 kg you must have a driving license class C1.
3) Which brand should I buy?
Here again it comes down to needs and finances, but a good starting point for both motorhomes and caravans are Fiat and Peugeot .
4) When you have found a motorhome or caravan that you want
Look carefully at the outside of the car first. Does it have a lot of rust and uneven tire wear? Are there cracks in the tank? Many small dents and scratches can indicate a car that has not been well treated otherwise either. Check that all lights, doors and locks work. Take an extra good look to see if the engine is clean, and check the oil. Ask when the timing chain was last changed and ask to see the service booklet.
Apart from the engine, the same applies to caravans.
5) Check that EVERYTHING works internally
Here you need to take extra time:
Are the fridge and freezer cold enough?
Do the gas burner/hob and oven/stove work?
Can all cupboards and drawers be closed and locked?
Do the TV, lamps and other electrical equipment work as they should?
Is the hot water hot enough? Also check the water pump and boiler
Does the toilet flush properly?
Is there moisture? When was the last tightness check carried out?
Can the seats be turned towards the living area?
6) When you test drive
Think like when you are going to have a car:
Do the brakes work as they should, without pulling you to the right or left?
Does the clutch slip?
Do the handbrake and windscreen wipers work?
Do heating, ventilation and air conditioning work?
What about all the instruments, lights and switches - as well as GPS and reversing camera?
Check the seat heater, and almost most importantly: whether you sat comfortably during the trip.
7) What camping equipment should you have? It is always smart to have a power adapter, extra septic tank, own water hose and leveling blocks. And don't forget camping chairs and tables. If your needs are met, everything works as it should and the equipment is in place, all you have to do is hit the road for the family's new motorhome! And you - remember that haggling is allowed.