First-Time Caravanners Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Tow
Thinking of swapping hotels and tents for your own home on wheels? A touring caravan offers the freedom to explore the UK (or beyond) at your own pace, with all the comforts of home coming along for the ride.
If you are new to caravanning, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right layout and make, to towing tips and must-have features.
Why Choose a Caravan?
Caravans are ideal if you:
Prefer staying on campsites with facilities
Want to unhitch and use your car independently once parked
Like the idea of more space than a campervan
Enjoy weekends away, seasonal pitches, or extended holidays
They offer excellent value, comfort, and flexibility, but getting the right caravan for your needs is key.
Common Caravan Layouts
Caravans come in a range of sizes and sleeping arrangements. Some of the most popular layouts include:
2-Berth (Couples Layout)
End washroom, front lounge that converts into a double bed. Perfect for couples or solo adventurers.4-Berth Fixed Bed
Front lounge (makes into a double), rear fixed double bed or twin singles, with a side bathroom or rear washroom.4-Berth Bunk Layout (Family Friendly)
Front lounge, rear bunk beds (often fixed), and a dinette that converts into a second bed. Great for families with younger kids.5/6-Berth Layouts
Often include a front lounge, a rear dinette with bunks above, and a fixed bed — offering multiple sleeping zones for larger families or groups.
Top Tip: Always check the “MTPLM” (maximum weight when loaded) and “payload” to ensure your tow car can safely tow the caravan you choose.
Popular Caravan Makes to Look Out For
Here are some trusted and widely available UK brands to consider:
Bailey Caravans – Well known for great value, modern interiors, and good build quality (popular models: Pegasus, Unicorn, Phoenix)
Swift Caravans – Stylish, tech-friendly caravans with high-spec finishes (models: Sprite, Challenger, Elegance)
Elddis Caravans – Practical layouts and solid construction, often offering great value (models: Avante, Affinity, Crusader)
Coachman – Premium-feel caravans with strong insulation and attention to detail
Lunar (used only) – Lightweight and ideal for smaller tow vehicles; although no longer in production, still widely sold pre-owned
You’ll also find European brands like Adria, Hobby, and Knaus which may offer slightly different layouts and features.
Towing: What You Need to Know
Before you hitch up, make sure you understand:
Your Licence: If you passed your driving test before Jan 1, 1997, you can tow heavier combinations. If after, check the rules (though recent law changes have made it easier).
Tow Car Match: Your car must be capable of towing the caravan’s weight, check the kerb weight, towing limit, and use an online towing match checker.
Stabilisers / Anti-Snake Devices: Many modern caravans come fitted with ATC (automatic trailer control) or stabilisers for safer towing.
Practice towing, reversing, and manoeuvring in a quiet space or take a towing course for confidence.
Caravan Features to Look Out For
Modern caravans are packed with features to make life on the road comfy and convenient. Key things to consider:
Heating: Most have Truma or Alde central heating systems (blown air or wet systems)
Hot Water System: Usually gas or electric, for hot showers and washing up
Fridge/Freezer: 3-way (gas, 12V, mains) fridges are standard
Oven & Hob: Most UK vans come with a full oven, grill, and gas hob
Washroom: Look for a separate shower if you plan to use your own facilities often
Battery & Mains Hook-Up: Ensures off-grid power or use on a serviced pitch
Used or New?
New Caravans
Come with full manufacturer warranties, the latest layouts, and modern tech, but at a higher cost.Used Caravans
Can offer great value — but check:Damp and water ingress
Service history
Condition of tyres (especially if older than 5 years)
CRiS registration and ownership history
Working appliances (fridge, hob, heater, etc.)
First Trip Tips
Do a test run somewhere local to get used to towing and setup
Make a checklist for packing and hitching up
Don’t overpack, weight adds up fast
Practise using all the systems (heating, gas, water) before you really need them
Final Thoughts
Caravanning opens up a whole new way of life whether it’s long weekends in the countryside, coastal escapes, or European road trips.
Take your time choosing the right caravan, get to know how it all works, and most importantly, enjoy the freedom it gives you.
Looking for a quality used caravan?
At Complete Campers Southwest, we carefully select pre-owned touring caravans from trusted UK brands and offer honest advice, no pressure viewings, and support every step of the way.
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