A new caravan???.... Which one?

DSB replied on 22/02/2023 10:43

Posted on 22/02/2023 10:43

We are currently wondering if we should 'upgrade' our caravan, and are considering a double axle....

Our main reason for upgraging is that we want a fixed 'island' fixed bed with access from both sides.  Arthritis and 'general oldness' (😀), means that it is becoming increasingly difficult for either of us to get to the 'wall' side of our fixed bed.  (We currently have a Bailey Valencia 2016).

Other things we need to condider is the permitted user payload.  Generally speaking, double axle caravans have a greater user payload, but, the possible need for a motor mover device on each wheel would eat into the payload.

Also, we do like our Thule windout awning.  To add one of these to the roof of the caravan, not only would (again) eat into the payload, but some manufacturers may well consider this as a reason to void possible warranty claims.  From past experience and conversations with retailers etc., we know that it doesn't impact on the warranty of Bailey caravans - and we like the alutech construction.

So:

  • A Bailey alutech caravan
  • An island fixed bed
  • To be able to install a Thule windout awning to the roof of the caravan
  • The greatest user payoad available after adding a motor mover
  • We do like the Alde heating
  • Prefer rear end washroom, but wouldn't dismiss central washroom.

At present we are considering an Alicante Evora, Porto, Unicorn Cartagena or Pamplona, Vigo, Cabrera.  Haven't yet checked the weights...  (towing not a problem... we have a disco)

How easy is it to get around the bottom of the fixed bed in 'night mode'...

Only ever towed a single axle caravan... what do folks think about double axle 'vans?

Any thoughts??

David

Juschilling replied on 08/03/2023 15:32

Posted on 08/03/2023 15:32

As much as I enjoy climbing over the wife we have also decided we want a fixed bed that we can get around both sides. After going to the NEC last October, visits to different dealers and hours on the interweb we have finally ordered a new van. Like most people we were also restricted by budget and didn't want to change our current car a Ford Kuga ST diesel auto 2Lt. 

We wanted a end bathroom so that ruled out a end bed. We finally went for a Elddis Afinity 554 but Robinson caravans special the Sherwood. Of all the caravans in this class we found this was the only one with enough room at the end of the bed to get around when extended. Don't get me wrong there is not a lot of room but enough. Like most things in life compromises have to be made unless money is no object.

It should be ready by the summer so looking forward to no more early hours having to climb over my wife '🤔😁

viatorem replied on 08/03/2023 19:19

Posted on 08/03/2023 19:19

 

A left field suggestion.

My Bailey 2015 Bailey Valencia experience was poor enough that after 3 Baileys I have jumped ship in 2022 to Adria Altea. You may think ah that's bottom of the range, It is but with the money saved ( about  £8K)   I've upgraded with my own selection of sensible solar and interior accessories. Loosing Alde heating hasnt been a deal breaker I thought either. A well installed blown air as Adria have done is in fact better than the Bailey Alde installation. No more cold floor or bathroom, even the shower cubicle has a heat outlet. OK the interior is a bit Ikea compared to the Bailey bling but it is very practical. 

I would recommend a look at the Adria Dart, with a weight upgrade giving 366Kg payload to add your own favorite options. or if you like a wider van with all bells and whistles a Tiber. Regards twin axle I've towed 3 large twins, I think the main advantage would be safety in the event of a tyre blowout (luckily never had one), to be honest I've not really noticed any greater stability on modern vans, back in the 70s-90s a twin was distinctly more stable than a single.

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