Longer caravans are usually recommended for larger groups, with some caravans accommodating up to 7 people.Ĭheck how easy your caravan will be to store, particularly if it needs to be parked in a garage or another kind of enclosed space. An 11ft camper usually sleeps 1 one person, while couples can often be comfortable in one between 19 to 20ft.

Most caravans in Australia are somewhere between 11 and 24ft (even here, we generally measure caravans by feet). If you find that most caravans don’t suit your current towing capabilities and you don’t want to upgrade your vehicle, you may want to consider opting for a more lightweight camper trailer. You can also weigh both at a public weighbridge. The ball weight, which is the maximum amount of pressure you can put on your vehicle’s towball.Ĭheck with both your vehicle and caravan manufacturer about weights.This is the maximum combined weight of the car and the caravan. Your vehicle’s Gross Combination Mass (GCM).This is the legal maximum weight of your caravan with a load, and is the combination of the tare weight and its payload (the maximum weight of cargo that can be loaded onto the trailer). The Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) of your caravan.This is the weight of an empty trailer (but including 10L of fuel). Your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.These are the measurements you’ll need to check: All of these weights are to ensure you can legally and safely tow your caravan. What to consider when choosing a caravan Weight and towing capacityįirst-time caravan buyers will likely be confused at all the weights they need to consider when buying one. Off-road campers are pricier, heavier, and more difficult to tow, so don’t overestimate your bravery - only opt for one if you really think you’ll need it. Will you mainly be on paved roads, or will you need something that can tackle a dust road, rougher trails and even the odd river crossing? Think about the type of adventures you plan on setting off for. They also sometimes have larger water tanks, solar panels, and a more powerful battery system to allow for greater self-reliance when you’re off the grid. Off-roaders have more ground clearance, larger wheels, a more durable chassis, and suspension that can absorb road shock and tackle rough terrain. If you’re itching to get off the bitumen, then you might find an off-road caravan is more suitable for you.

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