Choosing the Best Family Caravan For You
A family caravan can be a great way to explore Australia with your loved ones and is an option that families across the country are embracing. But with so many models, sizes, and features available, how do you choose the right one for your family?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting the best family caravan, and we’ll introduce some of the top family models from Snowy River to help you make an informed decision.
What's Your Budget?
Budget is one of the most important considerations when choosing a family caravan. Prices for family caravans vary widely, and it’s essential to balance affordability and the features that matter most to your family.
Snowy River Caravans have earned a reputation for offering some of the best value caravans in Australia and were recognised with the Caravan of the Year Award for ‘Best Value For Money’ from 2019-2022. From award-winning designs to feature-packed family models, you can find a caravan that fits your budget without compromising on quality.
What Can You Tow?
Before buying a caravan, you must consider the towing capacity of your vehicle. Make sure you know how much weight your car can tow, and be aware of the total weight of the caravan, including any extras like water tanks, gear, or accessories. Choosing a caravan that’s too heavy for your vehicle can lead to safety risks and complications.
Need more information on towing? Check out our Caravan Towing Weights Guide for everything you need to know to get your vehicle tow-ready.
What Size Family Caravan Best Suits Your Family?
When it comes to size, consider how many people will be travelling with you and how much space you’ll need. Some families may need a larger caravan with multiple bunk beds, while others might prefer a more compact layout that’s easier to manoeuvre.
The layout is also crucial—having a full ensuite, a well-designed kitchen, enough storage space, and sufficient sleeping arrangements can make a huge difference in how comfortable your trips will be.
A spacious family van will obviously provide more living space and comfort, but it will also be heavier and more difficult to manoeuvre. On the other hand, a smaller caravan might be more manoeuvrable and easier on your vehicle, but it could feel cramped when your family is inside, especially for young families with high-energy kids.
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?
There are a few different types of family caravans, and the best one for you depends on your lifestyle and travel plans:
- Pop-top caravans are compact and easy to store, making them great for shorter trips or for families who prefer a more lightweight setup.
- Full-sized caravans offer maximum space and amenities, ideal for extended trips or a large family who wants more comfort on the road.
- Off-road family caravans are perfect for adventurous families who want to explore the great outdoors, with added durability and rugged features to handle tough terrain.
What Features Will You Need?
Think about the features that are most important to your family’s comfort and convenience. Some families prioritise spacious living areas, while others may value a high-quality kitchen, ensuite bathroom, or additional bunk beds.
Caravans with features like air conditioning, ample storage, and modern appliances can make your travels much more enjoyable. If you plan to spend time off the grid, having solar panels and larger water tanks can also be a big advantage.
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, so weigh up whether the trade-off is worth it.
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. With the right caravan, your family vacation in Australia will be comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. Start by exploring our range of family caravans below.
SRC-20F
The SRC-20F is the ideal family caravan for those seeking adventure. This 20ft bunk bed caravan offers plenty of space for a family of four and is packed with features, including an east-west queen bed, two bunk beds for the kids, a full ensuite, and a well-equipped kitchen. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for family road trips.
SRC-22F
For larger families, the SRC-22F is a standout choice. With a spacious 22ft layout, this model includes triple bunk beds, making it perfect for bigger families. It features a modern kitchen, an east-west queen bed, and a full ensuite, ensuring you have all the comforts of home while on the road. The SRC-22F is designed for families who need space, convenience, and style.
SRT-18F
The SRT-18F is an 18ft off-road caravan designed to meet the demands of adventurous families seeking comfort and capability. Built to handle rugged terrains, it features off-road suspension, a compact layout with double bunks, and an ensuite. Inside, enjoy a well-equipped kitchen, zoned sleeping areas, and modern conveniences. The SRT-18F ensures your family travels in style, wherever the journey leads.
SRT-22F
The SRT-22F is the ultimate off-road family caravan. Designed to accommodate up to six people, this model is packed with off-road capabilities, from its reinforced chassis to its rugged exterior protection. Inside, it offers a spacious living area, bunk beds for the kids, a full ensuite, and plenty of storage for your family’s gear. This is the caravan for families who love to explore remote areas without sacrificing comfort.
SRP-18F
Compact yet incredibly functional, the SRP-18F is the smallest family van in the Snowy River range. It features a cosy east-west master bed, two rear bunks for the kids, and a full ensuite. The pop-top design helps keep the van light and easy to tow, while the thoughtful layout makes it perfect for family adventures.
SRP-19F
The SRP-19F is a 19ft family pop top caravan that offers double bunk beds, a full ensuite, and an inviting living area. It’s designed for easy towing while providing enough space for the whole family. With its compact design and well-planned interior, this caravan ensures that you can enjoy your travels without feeling cramped.
SRC-20F
The SRC-20F is the ideal family caravan for those seeking adventure. This 20ft bunk bed caravan offers plenty of space for a family of four and is packed with features, including an east-west queen bed, two bunk beds for the kids, a full ensuite, and a well-equipped kitchen. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for family road trips.
Up to 4
Tow Ball (Dry): 161 Kg
Tare Weight: 2248 Kg
ATM: 3000 Kg
Find Your Perfect Family Caravan Today
Choosing the best family caravan is a significant decision, and with Snowy River’s range of feature-packed, high-quality caravans, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a compact pop-top or a spacious off-road caravan, there’s a model for every family adventure.
Explore our full range of family caravans or contact us today to learn more about which model is right for you. Start planning your next family adventure with confidence, comfort, and style!