Elddis vs Buccaneer vs Bailey: Which Is the Best Caravan for You?

When it comes to caravanning, there are a few key things that you need to consider before making your purchase.

One of the most important things is choosing the right caravan for you and your family. There are many types and brands of caravans on the market, so it can be tricky to know which one is the best fit for you.

To help you make your decision, we’ve compared three of the most popular caravan brands on the market: Elddis, Buccaneer, and Bailey. Read on to learn more about each brand and what they offer.

What to Look for When Buying a Caravan?

Finding the right caravan for you and your family can sometimes seem daunting. There are so many types that it’s not always easy to tell which caravan is the best option for you. A caravan or camper van is an excellent way to travel and explore new places. For many people, caravanning is the perfect way to get away from it all and spend some time with their loved ones.

Those considering buying a caravan should consider what caravan is right for them. The two main styles of caravans are the touring caravan and the static caravan. Touring caravans are usually cheaper to buy and easier to tow, but they require gas and electricity hookups at a campsite. Their layout includes a double bed and a kitchen area with a separate washroom. If you’re new to caravanning, you should consider the type of caravan that’s right for you.

Touring caravans can be perfect for people setting off on their first trip across the country without a vehicle to tow them. When buying a caravan, you should look carefully at the size and see what you need for your holiday. You’ll also need to consider the number of people you’ll most often need to accommodate and what extras you’ll want to ensure you have on your trip.

If you aren’t sure which caravan size is right for you, plenty of handy online charts show you which size will best suit your needs. Once you have decided which caravan size is right for you, it’s time to look at your chosen model’s different features.

A good place to start is the storage that the caravan has to offer. If you want to store long items like bikes and fishing rods, you should ensure the storage area is big enough to accommodate these. The next thing to consider is the materials used to construct the caravan’s body. You’ll want to make sure it’s made from hardy materials so your investment lasts many years.

Lastly, you’ll want to look at the caravan’s interior and consider which layout and furniture options suit you and your family. The layout of any caravan is crucial, and one of the most crucial parts is the kitchen. You want to ensure you’ve enough cupboard space to store all your food and cooking equipment, so checking the measurements carefully before purchasing is vital.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Elddis, Buccaneer, and Bailey Caravans?

Elddis

Let’s start with Elddis caravans, one of the UK’s most popular caravan manufacturers.

Elddis caravans are suitable for family holidays and couples looking for a romantic getaway. Their prices start from around £6-8,000, though they can regularly go on sale, so look out for these to grab a great price.

Elddis caravans are known for their solid construction, good performance, and impressive range of accessories. If you’re looking for a larger living space, Elddis offers 2 and 3-bedroom models. All the models come with comfortable sleeping areas, with enough room for 4 adults or a family of 5 to sleep easily. Elddis has a variety of layouts on their ranges.

The layout of a typical Elddis caravan consists of a large living area with several big windows. The living area includes all the modern conveniences needed for a more comfortable holiday, including fridges, gas hobs, ovens, and a decent-sized sink and kitchen sink.

The living area includes a cosy sofa area and a foldaway table that doubles as a breakfast bar when not needed. For extra convenience and comfort, Elddis also offers the option of a kitchen extension that effectively adds another 1 or 2 feet to the kitchen area. This extra space is ideal for those who enjoy cooking on holiday and who want to be able to prepare numerous dishes at once. It’s also ideal for caravans that have a lot of storage space.

Elddis caravans also have plenty of storage space, so you can store and hide away all your excess equipment and other items without running out of space.

Buccaneer

Next are the Buccaneer caravans, known for their value for money and excellent value for money.

They are the most popular German caravans in the UK, and many Buccaneer owners enjoy taking their caravans on trips to places like Scotland and Wales. Buccaneer caravans are built to last and designed to take on some of the most challenging country roads out there.

They feature the AM-KO German chassis and top-quality materials to ensure many years of safe use without problems or breakdowns. In terms of design, Buccaneer caravans have a modern look and feel. The materials used are all top quality and ensure a long lifespan for the caravan. The 2015 model range features lots of wood panelling, which gives it a more classic look. They feature the classic curved roof, which is popular on caravans and gives them a more luxurious feel. Some caravans also feature floor-to-ceiling window areas.

In terms of design, Buccaneer caravans’ interiors have more space than most other models, making them a perfect option for larger families. They also offer a wealth of storage options to ensure you don’t run out of space on your travels. Water tanks can be found above the driver and passenger seats; some models even feature twin water heater tanks. Of course, storage space isn’t everything when it comes to a caravan or camper van.

The layout of your caravan is also crucial, and this is certainly the case with Buccaneer caravans. The caravan’s layout includes a lounge with a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious washroom containing a WC and wash basin.

Buccaneer offers plenty of clever space-saving options for families with children, meaning you can take the whole family on the road with you. Each model includes a spacious bunk area in the living area, so you can sleep up to 6 people without giving up too much space.

Bailey

Lastly, we’ll take a look at the Bailey caravan range. Bailey caravans are known for their unbeatable value for money, making them ideal for people looking for a low-cost camper van but unwilling to forego any of the luxuries of a high-end model.

The Bailey Caravan range features a selection of high-quality caravans designed to take on all types of terrain. The interiors are spacious and comfortable; many choose them for their stylish aluminium exteriors. In terms of storage space, it’s more than enough for 4 or 5 people. Like most other high-end models, the Bailey offers various layouts and sizes. These range from compact 3-person models to large 6-person models, so there’s something for every type of family and trip.

Regarding interior layouts, Bailey offers models with a lounge and kitchen area towards the front of the van (usually on the left), meaning the driver or passenger can enjoy privacy when travelling. The lounge space features plenty of seating, including a large sofa, a table, chairs, and a fold-out bench seat. Bailey models have a “tucked away” kitchen towards the van’s rear for convenience and comfort. The kitchen is typically not the biggest, but it’s roomy enough for most people to prepare meals and snacks on the go comfortably.

When it comes to cooking, Bailey caravans include a decent-sized gas hob and oven, as well as a fridge and sink area. The kitchen also typically includes a microwave, handy for taking meals on the road in true caravan style. Bailey also offers a wide range of optional extras that can be fitted to almost all models, so you can customise your caravan to suit your needs and preferences. This includes adding air conditioning, solar panels, and other useful features such as towbars, spotlights, and bike racks.

How to Decide Which Caravan Is Right for You

So, are there any important things you should consider when choosing a caravan? Yes, there are.

First, it’s critical to pick a caravan that is specifically designed to take on the type of terrain you are travelling on. For example, if you plan on taking the caravan on frequent trips down to Devon or Cornwall, you’ll need a model designed for the weather that frequently occurs in that region. In the winter months, when there is heavy rain, it can frequently flood.

If you decide to select a caravan purely on price, you may face many problems in the short term. For example, suppose you are buying your first caravan, and you manage to snag it at a bargain price. In that case, you may find that you will have to buy additional equipment and accessories later on, as the caravan is poorly equipped for certain environments. If you are buying a cheap model, you may not be able to add these accessories later on due to the cost of doing so, so bear this in mind when making your decision. It’s worth investing in a model designed for rougher terrain, so you won’t have to deal with any leaks or issues in the future.

It’s also wise to purchase from a company that has been selling caravans for a long time and has a good reputation in the industry. If you’ve spent a fortune on your new model, you don’t want your caravan to be unreliable and break down after a few months of use. Make sure you buy from a reputable company that has a proven track record within the industry.

If you’re on a tight budget but still want a high-quality model, then it may be worth looking at used caravans. Used models don’t have the same running costs as brand-new models; in fact, many second-hand models are already more than 2 years old, so there won’t be any depreciation to worry about. These models are also often cheaper than new ones, so that you can pick up a decent second-hand model for around half the price of a new one. If you’re buying a used model, it’s a good idea to ensure that a trusted mechanic or technician has checked over the caravan to ensure no problems or leaks. It may also be worth paying for a warranty in case the van goes wrong in the future, just in case of any existing concerns.

It’s a good idea to do your research before buying a caravan for the first time. Read up on NACO (National Association of Caravan Owners) and their code of practice before making a purchase. You should also read customer reviews online to get a general feel for the quality of a particular model you are considering. A reputable company will go above and beyond to ensure they answer any questions or doubts and will be sure to best advise on the right caravan for your needs.

Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Caravan

Let’s look at some mistakes people make when choosing a caravan.

You and Your Family Do not Believe the Caravan Is Large Enough to Accommodate you and Your Family

One of the most common mistakes people make when choosing a caravan is selecting a model that is too small and won’t accommodate the number of people travelling.

For example, some people buy smaller camper vans thinking they’re ideal for taking on a weekend trip away with friends. Still, they soon realise that the camper van is cramped and uncomfortable for the number of people travelling. Some people also make the mistake of looking for a small model to save on costs, but they don’t realise they won’t be able to fit everything that they need inside.

Over Researching When Choosing a Caravan

Some people spend a lot of time researching their purchases and don’t decide.

It’s easy to spend hours looking at caravans online and comparing different makes and models. Still, deciding if you get overwhelmed with all the information you come across online is important. A good rule of thumb is to pick a caravan that meets your requirements and budget and decide which model you want to look at in more detail later.

Not Doing Enough Research When Choosing a Caravan

On the flip side, some people are guilty of not researching enough before purchasing.

For example, some people look at the price alone and assume that a cheap model will provide a good standard of service. When, in fact, it could be cheaper, in the long run, to buy a better model from a reputable company. You must research to find and select the caravan model that best meets your requirements.

Not Properly Checking the Caravan

Always thoroughly check a pre-owned caravan before making a purchase.

This includes checking the main components of the caravan, such as the motor, chassis, and roof, for rust or other significant problems. The chassis is particularly important to check, as it’s vital for the smooth operation of the van.

If you leave any small issues in the chassis unaddressed, they may become much larger issues in the future.

Being Misinformed When Choosing a Caravan

Some people choose their van based on the online information of manufacturers or retailers.

For example, some people pick models based on the warranty information alone but are not told of the exclusions. For example, if a van manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty on a new model but doesn’t mention the terms and conditions, such as the van must be serviced regularly. If they keep to the original manufacturer’s recommendations, they may void the warranty within the first year due to the van being serviced outside their recommended schedule.

Always read the terms and conditions of any warranty offered carefully to avoid accidentally voiding the warranty.

The Vehicle’s Tow Capacity

Some models come with optional extras that can increase the van’s towing capacity.

For example, some models come with towing packages that include additional equipment. These additional options can increase the cost of a new caravan by thousands, so it’s important to consider this carefully before making a purchase. If you are buying a used caravan, always check its towing capacity. Any changes in its towing capacity may have been made at a later date, and this will affect the van’s safety and performance on the road.

Not Understanding the Weight Distribution System

The weight distribution system of the van is very significant for customers who need a low-towing weight van.

A weight distribution system allows the van to distribute the load evenly across the axles, reducing the stress on the van and improving its handling and stability while on the road. Many people don’t realise that the rear-mounted spare wheel can impact the weight distribution and handling of the van, so it’s wise to avoid vans that have them fitted as standard.

Caravan Accessories to Consider Before Making Your Purchase

You should consider only the extras you need when buying a new caravan.

Some accessories are expensive and may not add value to your van, which can be a waste of money in the long run. Some accessories can be too heavy for your van and won’t affect its performance on the road. Many accessories may need to be installed by a professional, which can be time-consuming.

Many people also forget that some optional extras may void their warranty. Avoid buying extras you don’t need and choose accessories that will add value to the van and make your life easier in the long term.

Where to Find the Best Deals on Caravans

The best place to find great deals on new caravans is online at reputable dealers.

Some dealers offer great discounts on their stock and will price match any like-for-like deals you can find online elsewhere. Always check the dealer’s terms and conditions before making a purchase, as some restrictions exist.

Here at Northam Farm Caravan Sales, we are a family-run company that can help you find the best deals for your needs. Alongside a fascinating and constantly-changing exhibition of pre-owned tourers, we feature some of the newest touring caravans from some of the most renowned UK manufacturers, such as Bailey, Elddis, and Buccaneer.

Whether a first-time buyer or an experienced caravanner, you can browse our range of caravans online at your own pace, giving you a comfortable and stress-free environment. Then, once you feel like you are ready, you can come and join us for a nice cup of coffee in our very own purpose-built sales centre.

Once here, our friendly and knowledgeable sales team will be more than happy to answer all your questions and provide you with all the advice you require.

Conclusion

So, what should you look for when buying a caravan?

The pros and cons of Elddis, Buccaneer, and Bailey caravans are different for everyone. How to decide which caravan is right for you will vary depending on your needs and wants.

However, some common mistakes people make when choosing a caravan can be avoided by taking the time to consider all of your options and accessories before making your purchase. Where to find the best deals on caravans may also depend on your location, but it’s always worth doing some research online before buying.

We hope this blog post has helped you as you begin your journey into the world of caravanning! If you have any questions or queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us.