Buying A Touring Caravan For The First Time

Nov 14, 2025

Thinking of buying a touring caravan in the UK? Start with the short answer: choose one that fits your budget, lifestyle, and car’s towing power—don’t forget the caravan awnings! This touring caravan buying guide covers the best time of year to buy, which touring caravan to buy, and what to inspect. Keep reading!

Phase 1: Pre-Purchase Planning and Matching Your "Outfit"

Understanding Towing Law and Vehicle Limits

The 85% Rule (Guidance): Why You Should Tow 85% or Less of Your Car's Kerbweight

The caravan’s weight plays a major role in how safe and stable your towing experience will be. In the UK, a common guideline is to tow no more than 85% of your car’s kerbweight. This helps ensure safer handling, especially for beginners. Always check the towing capacity of your vehicle before making any decisions.

Grey and black inflatable caravan awning with clear windows attached to a white caravan on a grassy field surrounded by trees.

The 100% Limit (Legal): Never Exceed Your Car's Maximum Towing Limit

Legally, your caravan must not exceed your vehicle's maximum towing limit. Going over this can compromise safety and void insurance. Always check the manufacturer's specification sheets for both your car and caravan.

Driving Licence Check (B+E rules and limits for pre- and post-1997 passes)

Before 1997, standard licences typically covered heavier combinations. After 1997, additional B+E entitlement may be needed to tow larger caravans. It’s important to double-check your licence before making a purchase, as the rules vary based on when you passed your test.

New vs. Used: Weighing Up Cost, Warranty, and Condition

Pros and Cons of Buying New (Warranty, Latest Tech, Higher Depreciation)

A brand-new touring caravan often comes with a full warranty, modern features, and better insulation.

However, it will lose value more quickly than a used model. If you’re looking for peace of mind and plan to keep it long-term, new might be the way to go.

Pros and Cons of Buying Used (Lower Cost, Potential for Damp, Essential Inspection)

Used caravans tend to be much cheaper than new ones. But they may need more maintenance and come with the risk of hidden issues. Checking the condition and service history is essential to avoid costly surprises.

Dealer vs. Private Sale (Buyer protection vs. potential bargain)

Dealers offer added protection, warranties, and often a service check.

Private sales can offer lower prices, but you’ll need to be extra careful.

Always inspect thoroughly and verify paperwork if buying privately.

Grey and black inflatable caravan awning with zipped panels attached to a white caravan on a white background.

Phase 2: Choosing the Right Caravan Layout and Features

Berths, Axles, and Size Considerations

Layout vs. Berths (Fixed bed, bunk beds, end washroom—prioritising practical use over just sleeping capacity)

The number of berths (sleeping spaces) isn’t the only thing that matters. Look at how the layout fits your travel style. Fixed beds, bunk beds, or end washrooms all have different advantages, especially for families versus couples.

Single vs. Twin Axle (Manoeuvrability for beginners vs. stability/payload for larger families)

Single axle caravans are generally lighter and easier to tow and park. Twin axle caravans offer better stability and payload capacity but are heavier and need a more capable vehicle. Choose based on your towing confidence and the space you need.

Weight and Payload (MTPLM/MAM) (Ensuring enough allowance for belongings)

Make sure the caravan’s MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) leaves enough room for your belongings. You don’t want to run out of payload when packing for a trip. Check both the caravan’s figures and your car’s towing specs.

Essential Appliance and Build Quality Check

Heating and Hot Water System (Gas vs. Electric, Alde wet heating vs. Truma blown air)

Good heating is a must for UK trips. Check whether the caravan has a gas or electric system—or both. Alde wet heating is efficient and quiet, while Truma blown air is light and widely used.

Kitchen Facilities (Oven, Fridge Size, and Countertop Space)

Look at what the kitchen offers. Is there enough worktop space? Does the fridge meet your storage needs, and is the oven practical for you?

NCC Approval and Build Technology (Importance of modern, non-wood construction for longevity)

Caravans with NCC approval meet important safety and build standards. Modern ones often use non-wood frames, which help prevent rot and improve lifespan. That’s something worth prioritising, especially for long-term ownership.

Phase 3: The Buyer’s Checklist, Safety, and Next Steps

The Essential Used Caravan Inspection

Damp Check (Using a moisture meter around windows, seams, and the bathroom)

Damp is the silent enemy of many used caravans. Use a moisture meter, especially around windows, seams, corners, and the washroom. A small spot of damp could lead to bigger problems if ignored.

Chassis, Running Gear, and Tyre Age (Checking for rust, brake operation, and tyre date codes)

Inspect the chassis for signs of rust or damage. Check the brakes, suspension, and tyre age codes. Caravan tyres should typically be replaced every 5 to 7 years—even if they appear fine.

Testing All Appliances (Gas hob, fridge, toilet flush, and electrics)

Turn everything on and test it. From the hob and fridge to the toilet flush and lighting—check it all works. Any issues could point to deeper electrical or plumbing problems.

Grey and black inflatable caravan awning with one open panel attached to a white caravan on a grassy field surrounded by trees.

Financial and Legal Due Diligence

CRiS Check (Verifying ownership, stolen status, and outstanding finance)

Use the CRiS system to make sure the caravan isn’t stolen or under finance. It’s the UK’s official vehicle check system for caravans. A CRiS report gives you peace of mind when buying.

Service History and Habitation Records (Proof of maintenance and damp checks)

Ask for the full service history. A caravan with regular habitation checks is a safer buy. It shows the previous owner cared for it properly and helps validate the asking price.

Budgeting for Essentials (Hitch lock, wheel clamp, leisure battery, awning, and insurance)

Don’t forget the extras. You’ll need a hitch lock, wheel clamp, leisure battery, and good caravan awning. Add insurance to the mix, and your budget needs to cover more than just the caravan itself.

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Phil McEleney

Get to know me

Started CamperNation to make buying caravan and glamping gear feel simple, honest, and stress-free. Now helps customers daily with awnings, power solutions and outdoor setups. Usually found talking canvas, campsites, and why the kettle is the most important piece of kit.

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