A caravan is one of the best ways to see Australia. It gives you the freedom to travel wherever you choose and the independence to stay anywhere in the country in comfort and style. It can open a whole new world, from an overnight stay a few hours’ drive away to interstate travel (once borders open) to enjoy the many sights and destinations that our country offers.
Short overnight trips into the country become so much more accessible and cost-effective when you go by caravan. Also, that longer exploration of Australia that you’ve been planning for years can be done by selecting the right caravan for the task.
However, matching the caravan for the adventure you want is the key to fun (and comfortable) travel. Nothing can beat the experience of visiting the caravan dealership in person to look through the caravans yourself and to ask the experts any questions you may have. But online research also has its place, and there are many ways to shop for your dream caravan online before you buy.
Primary online caravan research
Before checking out models, it’s important to know the type of caravan you want.
For example, will you and your family be taking the caravan off-road for extended periods? Perhaps your idea of a great adventure holiday is taking your caravan into the bush, on poor-quality dirt roads. Maybe you’ve always dreamed of exploring those tracks that you read about in off-road magazines and blogs.
If so, it’s vital to know the difference between off-road, semi off-road, and on-road caravans. Online research on blogs and websites will give you a better idea of what caravan will suit your requirements for your road adventures.
Or perhaps you’re planning on an extended road trip?
Your goal may be to travel around Australia, the “Big Lap,” to take in as many places and experiences as you can. Extra living space, additional bunk beds and storage rooms may be an important consideration for such a trip. Your van may be your only home for many months on such a trip, so having that extra living space will be appreciated.
Likewise, if you want to do the majority of your cooking while you travel, make sure the kitchen facilities are adequate for your needs.
Caravan online research can be invaluable in helping you work out the type and model that will best suit your travel plans, which models are recommended and which caravans to avoid.
Delve into brands and models
Once you’ve got an idea of the type of caravan you want, whether on-road, semi off-road, or off-road, it’s time to dig deeper.
Check reviews and recommendations for specific models. Start with blog posts from respected experts in the caravan field, as well as specialist social media pages, groups, and Instagram influencers.
Reading through the history of the blog posts and checking reviews on a recommended caravan & travel blog will give a better insight into the range of models available. Having worked out what you want the caravan to do, you can now search specifically within the blog for recommended models.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions online.
Either leave messages on respected social media groups and websites or contact dealerships’ sites. Ask the experts for their advice and recommendations.
Talking to experts and influencers online who go on trips similar to the one you are planning is of great benefit. They will understand the terrain and be able to guide you towards the range of caravans best suited for your purpose.
Check dealer websites for virtual tours
A virtual tour is an excellent substitute for walking through the caravan in person.
At Lewis RV, you can find these on models such as our range of Crusader Caravans. Simply click on the “read more” on each entry to go through to an extensive and informative 360-degree view of the interior of the van. The virtual tour highlights the storage areas, the seating/sleeping beds, and the kitchen facilities.
This online tour will give you an idea of amenities, space, and suitability for the task you want it to perform. For example, you may be considering purchasing a caravan to travel around Australia. However, you’re unsure which will be spacious enough for your needs.
By simply clicking through to the virtual tour, you’ll get a full look around the inside, and this will give you an idea of whether or not it will be suitable.
Talk to the dealership
Once you’ve worked out the type and model you need, it’s time to talk to the dealership.
Here at Lewis RV, we pride ourselves on our customer service and will answer any questions you may have about the models, the construction, and which one would be better for your needs.
We will guide you on selecting the best caravan to match your car’s towing capacity, a vital prerequisite, as well as other vital measures, such as ensuring it has adequate room for your family. We’ll also help you with advice on how to get the best out of your caravan and how to make running repairs if needed.
We have a long history of excellent customer service with a reputation for honesty, reliability, and friendly service.
Caravan holidays lend themselves to taking your time, exploring the sights, sampling local produce, and meeting people. Planned correctly, a caravan holiday can be one of the most enjoyable breaks you’ll ever experience. The mobility the vans offer gives you the independence to go where you wish.
Researching specifications and models online through blogs, websites, and social media is an excellent way to prepare yourself for one of the biggest purchases you will make. However, while doing the research online is an excellent alternative, we recommend dropping by our dealership to walk through the various types of caravans.
