Choosing the Best Family Caravan For You
A family caravan can be a great option for comfortable and convenient travel if you’re planning a family vacation in Australia. But with so many caravan manufacturers, models and styles to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is right for you and your family.
In this post, we’ll go over some key factors to consider when choosing the best family caravan for your family.
What's Your Budget?
First and foremost, consider your budget. Family caravans can range in price from relatively affordable to quite expensive, so it’s important to have a clear idea of how much you’re willing to spend before you start shopping. Remember that a higher price tag doesn’t always mean a better caravan, so make sure you look into what’s included for your money.
Snowy River Caravans have been recognised as the best-value caravans for a few years now. In fact, we have won the Caravan of the Year Award for ‘Best Value For Money’ from 2019-2022.
What Can You Tow?
Before setting out to purchase a family caravan, it is vital to understand your tow weights. This means knowing the maximum amount of weight that your car can safely tow and the total weight of the caravan (including accessories and any gear). Exceeding the maximum towing capacity of your vehicle can have serious safety implications for your family and others on the road.
Check out our guide on caravan towing weights for all the must-know information to get you tow-ready.
What Size Family Caravan Best Suits Your Family?
Next, think about the size and layout of the caravan. How many people will be travelling with you, and how much space do you need? Do you need a triple bunk or double bunk caravan?
A spacious family van will obviously provide more living space and comfort, but it will also be heavier and more difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, a smaller caravan might be more maneuverable and easier on your vehicle, but it could feel cramped when your family is inside.
Consider the size of your family, the amount of gear you’ll bring, where the van will be stored, and your personal preferences to determine the right size and layout for your caravan.
What Type of Caravan Should You Buy?
Another important factor to consider is the type of caravan. There are three main types of caravans: pop-top, camper trailer, and full-size.
Pop-top caravans are small and lightweight, making them easy to tow and store. They’re also relatively inexpensive, but they often have limited space and amenities.
Camper trailers are usually lightweight and easy to tow but require a lot of set-up and pack down, making it hard to make the most of short stays like long weekends.
Full-size caravans are the largest and most luxurious option, with all the comforts of home, but they’re also the heaviest and are harder to manoeuvre.
What Features Will You Need?
Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on budget, size, and type, it’s time to think about the features and amenities that are important to you and your family.
Some key things to consider include the quality of the main bed and bunk beds, the size and functionality of the kitchen, the availability of heating and air conditioning, and whether there’s enough storage space for all your gear.
Considering an ensuite in your family caravan is also an important factor for many caravanners. Ensuites can provide a much more comfortable and private experience but come at the cost of internal space.
Do You Need an Off-Road Caravan?
Off-road caravans are designed to handle rough terrain, making them ideal for travelling on off-road adventures. If you’re planning on doing a lot of caravanning in rough or unpaved areas, then a multi-terrain caravan is definitely the way to go. But if you’ll mostly be sticking to well-maintained roads and camping grounds, then our semi off-road caravans will suit your needs just fine.
Snowy River Should Top Your Best Family Caravans List
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the best family caravan. The right caravan for you and your family will depend on your budget, the size and layout you need, the type of caravan that suits your lifestyle, and the features and amenities that are important to you.
Take the time to research and compare different models, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced caravaners in our owners group. With the right caravan, your family vacation in Australia will be comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. Start by downloading a brochure below.