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Motorhome vs caravan — Which should you choose

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    Motorhome vs caravan — Which should you choose?

    Caravan or motorhome? It’s a hotly debated topic among Australian caravanners. If you’re buying a caravan for the first time or upgrading, you may be grappling with which one to choose. To help you decide, here’s are the reasons some people are crazy about caravans and others are mad about motorhomes.

    Team Caravan

    The traditional caravan is a stand-alone mobile home that is pulled by a car. Caravans offer the following benefits:

    1. Variety

    There is a wider range of caravans than motorhomes, from small to large, basic to luxury, and everything in between. If you’re a first-time caravan buyer on a limited budget, you can easily buy a new caravan priced around $40,000 or a pre-loved caravan for $20,000.

    2. Mobility

    With a caravan, once you’ve set up camp you can explore the surrounding area in your vehicle, which is a lot more maneuverable than a bulky motorhome.

    3. Easier to store

    Motorhomes usually have more height. Is there enough space for a motorhome in your garage or under your carport? If not, a caravan may fit better.

    Downside: Your vehicle’s towing capacity must match the caravan’s weight. If you are keen to buy a large caravan and your vehicle is too small, then you will need to buy a bigger vehicle.

    Team Motorhome

    A motorhome is an all-in-one vehicle and mobile home. Motorhome fans like this type of vehicle for the following reasons:

    a motorhome or a caravan which should you choose

    1. Convenient travelling.

    Just get in and drive. No need to hitch and unhitch a caravan. You and your travelling companions can use the amenities while on the road. Keep the kids occupied watching movies on the TV and no need to make detours for bathroom breaks.

    2. Sturdier.

    Motorhomes tend to be more sturdily built. They handle rougher terrain better than a light caravan does.

    a motorhome or a caravan which should you choose

    3. Security.

    Because a motorhome is a vehicle, many have the same security features, such as alarms, immobilizers, and GPS trackers. Caravans that aren’t fitted with security features may be easy pickings for criminals.

    Downside: If your motorhome breaks down and the repairs take a few days, you’ll have to find alternative accommodation.

    So, which is right for you?

    Both caravans and motorhomes are great for road tripping. To help you make the final decision, here are few other factors to consider.

    The type of travelling you plan to do

    Do you prefer to arrive at a destination, set up camp and spend time exploring the area? Then a caravan suits your objective.

    Do you want to cover more ground or make a split-second decision to head off in another direction? WIth a motorhome, you can pull up and park more easily than with a caravan. When you’re ready to continue your journey, you can pack up and hit the road in minutes.

    Your budget

    Generally, caravans cost less than motorhomes. However, pricing depends on the type of caravan you buy. A small pop-top can cost less than $25,000 while a high-end luxury caravan could cost just as much as a mid-range motorhome. Shop around to find the best deal.

    Other financial implications

    Because they come with engines, motorhomes are more expensive to maintain and repair. Insurance rates also tend to be higher. On the other hand, they require only one license and registration.

    Whether you’re buying a motorhome or a caravan, finding a caravan loan at a competitive interest rate is easy with National Loans. Use our handy loan calculator to work out a monthly repayment that fits your budget. You can apply for a loan online or call us on 1300 358 358.

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