Buying a used caravan is a smart way to get value for money, but only if you know what you are looking at. A caravan can look tidy in photos and still hide issues that only show up once you start inspecting it properly. That is why a little preparation goes a long way.
At Find My Van, we help buyers every day who want confidence that the caravan they choose is safe, solid and worth the investment. You do not need to be a mechanic or a caravan expert. You just need a clear game plan and an understanding of the key things to check.
Let’s walk through this step by step.
Start with understanding what you actually need
Before stepping foot inside any caravan, take a moment to think about the way you want to travel. The right caravan for someone doing weekend getaways is not the same as the right caravan for a family doing the Big Lap.
Ask yourself things like:
- Do you want bunks or a couple’s layout
- How important is a separate ensuite
- Are you planning free camping or mostly holiday parks
- Does your tow vehicle limit the size of caravan you can consider
- Do you want solar, lithium or big water tank
- How much storage will you realistically use
Knowing your must haves and deal breakers makes choosing much easier and stops you getting distracted by shiny features that do not actually fit your lifestyle.
Research valuation so you know if the price makes sense
Before attending a viewing, take a few minutes to look up similar caravans and compare price ranges. Knowing the market gives you a strong advantage.
Check:
- What similar makes and models are selling for
- Whether upgrades justify a higher price
- Brand reputation and build quality
- Age, condition and real-world demand
A realistic valuation helps you walk into the inspection with confidence, knowing whether the van you are about to see is fair, overpriced or a potential bargain.
Now it is time to inspect the caravan in person
Once you understand your own needs and have a sense of what each type of caravan should cost, you are finally ready to start inspecting real vans. This is where all the preparation pays off.
You are no longer looking at every caravan online.
You are now looking at caravans that meet your needs, fall into your budget and seem like genuine options.
A proper inspection helps you separate the good ones from the ones that will cause headaches later. Here is how to do it properly.
Start by looking at the overall condition
Before going straight into cupboards and appliances, take a step back. Look at the caravan as a whole. Does it look loved or neglected? Are there dents, scratches, patchy paintwork or rust spots that stand out?
Your first impression is often surprisingly accurate.
A caravan that looks cared for on the outside usually reflects similar care inside.
Check for water damage, the biggest deal breaker
Water damage can be extremely expensive to fix, so this should be one of the first things you check.
Look around:
- Walls and ceiling corners
- Window frames
- Inside cupboards
- Under beds and cushions
- The bathroom and shower area
You are looking for bubbles, stains, softness or musty smells. If something feels spongy, walk away or get a professional opinion.
Inspect the chassis and underbody
This is the structural base of the caravan, and repairs here can be costly.
Check for:
- Heavy rust
- Cracks
- Bent components
- Fresh welds
- Suspension damage
Surface rust is normal. Structural rust is not.
Look carefully at tyres and suspension
These parts give away how well the caravan has been maintained.
Check:
- Tyre age and tread depth
- Cracks or uneven wear
- Sagging or damaged suspension
Worn suspension can be a sign of rough use or poor maintenance.
Test all external fittings
Walk around the van and test anything that opens, moves or locks.
- Roll out the awning
- Check gas bottles
- Try the front boot
- Test windows and doors
- Lower the stabiliser legs
- Check the jockey wheel
Anything that sticks or feels rough might need attention.
Step inside and test every appliance
Turn everything on. A clean interior does not guarantee things to work.
Test:
- Air conditioner
- Fridge
- Oven and cooktop
- Microwave
- Hot water system
- Lights and fans
- Heating
- TV and stereo
- If anything fails to start or struggles, make a note.
Check plumbing and electrics
Run the taps.
Check water pressure.
Inspect under sinks for leaks.
Run the toilet flush.
Turn on 12V and 240V where possible.
Make sure the batteries hold charge and that the solar system is actually working, not just sitting there for decoration.
Look closely at interior condition
This part is simple but important.
Check:
- Flooring for soft spots
- Cupboards for damage
- Window frames for signs of leaks
- Curtains or blinds for wear
- Upholstery for tears or mould
Little details can reveal a lot about how the caravan was treated.
Ask for service history and receipts
Good owners keep paperwork.
Ask for:
Resealing records
- Tyre receipts
- Electrical work
- Solar installation
- Annual servicing
- Suspension repairs
- Appliance replacements
A well-documented caravan is usually a well-cared for one.
Always check the weights
Make sure the caravan suits your tow vehicle. Check Tare, ATM and ball weight, and compare these to your vehicle limits.
There is nothing worse than falling in love with a caravan you cannot legally tow.
Consider a professional inspection
If you are uncertain or do not want to miss anything important, a professional pre-purchase inspection can give you peace of mind and protect you financially.
Or let Find My Van take the stress out of the entire process
Inspecting caravans can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to avoid hidden issues but still want the right van at the right price.
At Find My Van, we help buyers by:
- Shortlisting caravans that match your travel needs
- Helping you understand valuation
- Guiding you on what to look for
- Arranging in person or online viewings
- Helping assess real condition
- Supporting negotiations
- Ensuring you avoid common traps
- Matching you with vans that hold value
And once you are ready to buy a caravan through us, there is always a current independent presale inspection report included. You know exactly what you are buying before you spend a single dollar.
Buying a used caravan should feel exciting, not stressful.
Ready to find a caravan you can trust?
If you want help choosing the right caravan or making sure the one you love is a solid buy, Find My Van is here to guide you every step of the way.
Click the button below to schedule a call and start your buying journey with confidence.
