Our guide to upgrading your caravan

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If you’re thinking of upgrading your caravan, read our helpful blog to ensure you’ve considered every aspect. Keep in mind that this year is a little different to most others due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the manufacturing industry.

As many of the big manufacturers had to halt production in March when lockdown started, fewer new caravans have been produced as a result. Some manufacturers - Bailey and Swift included - have decided not to produce any more 2020 models, so what is out there right now is all that is going to be available for the rest of the season.

The 2021 caravan season is due to commence in September, but depending on what happens with COVID-19, this may be delayed or affected. These are all things to consider when deciding when to upgrade your caravan, but it doesn't mean that you won’t be able to find what you’re after if you decide to go for it…

When’s the best time to upgrade your caravan?

If you bought your caravan new, the ideal time to upgrade it is when it is between 3 and 5 years old. This is the most cost effective time to trade it in as it will have passed its depreciation peak and it will be holding its value nicely. Plus you’ll also feel like you have enjoyed its ‘newness’ and had your money’s worth from it as well.

If you bought a pre-owned caravan, you may wish to think about upgrading when it gets to a certain age or it no longer meets your needs as your circumstances have changed. Pre-owned caravans hold their value well until they are around 10 years old, when they drop off a little. If you began your caravanning journey with your kids in tow, they will eventually grow up and will stop coming along, so you may wish to upgrade your caravan to one with a different layout or a little more luxury!

Purchasing 2020 models

In a ‘normal’ year, July and August are good months for getting deals on the current year caravans as discounts are often offered as dealers look to clear stock to make way for new season’s models that will be released in September. Due to this year’s extraordinary circumstances, demand is higher as not only is stock limited, but also, foreign holidays are not an option so caravanning and camping bookings are in much higher demand too. With that in mind, if you are keen to upgrade your current caravan to a 2020 model, the sooner you do it the more choice you’ll have.

Purchasing new season models

People who buy new usually start looking in early September when the manufacturers launch their new models. Placing your order in September/October means you will normally take delivery of your new caravan before Easter, which is the unofficial start of the caravanning year. Things may be different this year, but you can rest assured that the manufacturers will be doing all they can to ensure 2021 production is affected as little as possible, whilst also ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their staff. Keep an eye on your manufacturer of choice’s social media accounts for updates over the summer...

Purchasing pre-owned models

In a standard year, February-June is the best time to purchase pre-owned caravans as this is when the biggest choice of stock is usually available. This next year will be different as we see the knock-on effects of the halt to production caused by the pandemic. Stock of pre-owned models is likely to be tight over the summer months due to higher demand and lower supply levels.

There may be more available in the autumn if the production lines get going again, allowing new models to start coming through. This may encourage people to sell their current vehicles on and await delivery of their new ones.

Top 5 things to consider when upgrading

Why are you upgrading?

Why do you want to upgrade your caravan? Make a list of the reasons why so that you can take a step back and ensure that you’re doing it for the right reasons. Trading your caravan in at the wrong time may not make financial sense and if you rush into it, you may not make the best decision with your next purchase either. Just make sure it’s definitely the right choice for you!

Manufacturer

Which brand of caravan are you hoping to upgrade to? If you’re moving away from what you currently have, what are the reasons for this? If you’re sticking with the same brand, why have you decided to do so? By giving this some proper thought, you are more likely to end up with a brand and model of caravan that you will be happier with for longer.

New or pre-owned?

When you upgrade are you going for new or pre-owned? Do you always go for one or the other? If so, have you considered the other option and all it has to offer? There are pros and cons to both new and pre-owned so be sure to investigate fully and maybe even leave it open and instead look for the models that you like most and let that be the decider.

What are your top must-haves?

If one of the reasons that you’re upgrading is because your current vehicle isn’t quite what you wanted, or doesn’t have the features you’d ideally like, make a list of your most important ‘must haves’ and stick to it! That way, you’ll end up with what you wanted and you’re more likely to remain happy with your purchase in the years to come.

Get the best price

Upgrading over the next year may be trickier as demand is high and stock is lower than a normal year. However, try not to let this affect your bargaining power too much and make sure you get your new caravan for a price you’re happy with. Also keep in mind that if you’re trading in your current caravan, pre-owned models are in high demand too, so you can use this to your advantage to get a good price.

Whatever you’d like to know - just ask!

If you have any questions about upgrading your caravan, just get in touch and ask! Browse our new and pre-owned caravans from a range of manufacturers including Swift and Bailey. And did you know that we buy pre-owned caravans? So if you’re looking to sell your caravan prior to buying your next one, or you wish to trade it in, give us a call on 01962 714 844 to discuss.

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