Collecting a new(er) caravan.

This is a follow-up piece on Nigel’s earlier article: Buying a new caravan.

Collecting a new (to you) caravan is something to really look forward to. You are not simply buying a caravan but hopefully with that caravan you’ll be creating fantastic memories.

By the time that the day arrives to collect the caravan you’ll already have done your homework, especially in terms of finding a good dealership; they can make or break the whole caravanning experience. You’ll also have sorted out insurance for the caravan (although not a legal requirement in the UK, but should the worst happen, you’ll not be out of pocket if it does) and have notified your car insurers that you’ll be towing a caravan. In 99.9% of cases, you’ll also need a set of towing mirrors to keep the outfit legal. If you haven’t already got them, don’t worry, your dealer will have a variety on sale.

When you arrive at the dealership on the day of collection, your new caravan should be presented in a spotless condition. Someone from the dealership will give you a FULL tour of the caravan, both inside and out. As you’re going around both, check for any damage and if you spot any, point it out there and then. If you’re buying a used caravan, it’s almost inevitable that there might be the odd little mark here and there but ensure that there’s nothing of which you weren’t already aware.

Only when you’re completely happy with the caravan should you pay for it and deal with any relevant paperwork. Again, a good dealer will want to make sure that you’re happy because they’ll want you to be a repeat customer.

When it’s time to hitch up to the car, if it’s your first time make a note of everything and the order in which it’s done, because unhitching when you get home is the reverse procedure. I know that I keep repeating myself, but if you have any doubts, ask to be shown again (and again if needs be). Before leaving, make sure that all the windows and door are closed and locked, that you have the correct number plate on the caravan and that your towing mirrors are attached properly (you need to be able to see down the sides of the caravan all the way to the rear corners). And of course, ensure that all the corner steadies and the jockey wheel are fully wound up.

If it’s your first time towing a caravan, TAKE YOUR TIME. It will feel very different, and you WILL be aware of the caravan’s mass behind you.

If you have any doubts about anything, do not be afraid to ask either your dealer or another caravanner. Caravanners are generally a very friendly and helpful bunch, so will only be too willing to offer advice.

Above all, enjoy your caravan and go and make those fantastic memories!

Nigel Hutson

Nigel Hutson, a lifelong caravanner from Chesterfield, Derbyshire in England. Purchased his first caravan in 1984 and has since then toured the UK and Continent on a regular basis, alongside his wife Kay. In addition to being a husband, he is also a father and grandfather.

Since retiring from the police in 2011 Nigel has become a regular contributor to various caravan and motorhome publications, as “someone who enthusiastically writes about their hobby rather than a journalist”. Nigel is also a keen musician, enjoys travelling and has a great interest in all forms of transport… and he is a Manchester City fan.