We are looking for a caravan for the holidays

Own caravan allows you to feel independence and visit even several countries during the holidays. This solution is definitely cheaper than buying a motorhome. In addition, we do not have to decide on the latest model. Proper maintenance and use mean that we can enjoy the caravan for a long time.

When deciding to buy a used caravan, you should take into account several factors, but age is not the most important factor here.

We should remember that the trailer must be fitted to the car that is to be towed. Before buying a trailer, it is worth checking in the registration certificate (item O.1) how heavy a trailer can be "attached" to our car.

If we only have a category B driving license, the permissible total weight of the set consisting of a trailer and a car must not exceed 3.5 tons. Besides, the car should always weigh more than the trailer .

In addition to determining the approximate needs of the number of people who will use it and the budget we have, the first and most important criterion is the reliability and safety of our home on wheels.

What to check before buying?

When viewing a vehicle, it is worth checking the tires, the condition of the shock absorbers and brakes . In addition, there should be no musty smell inside. Too nice smell should also worry us. Excessive "freshness" may mean that the owner has used a large amount of fragrance to mask decaying furnishings. It is especially worth paying attention to the edges of windows, doors and ventilators as well as the condition of the floor . If it sags, the trailer has probably been used very heavily.

To be sure that the water system is tight , it is a good idea to pour some water into the tank and then start the pump. The pump should run continuously. If not, it is possible that the tank is not tight.

What else should we check? Of course , the gas installation , which unfortunately many people forget. After opening the gas cylinder container, we will see a sticker informing about the working pressure of gas in the trailer. Check that the gas reducer corresponds to the installation parameters. The reducer must have a built-in safety valve, which is most often covered with a red cap and marked with a certificate starting with the letters CE, eg CE 085.

Important note here. Until 2000, there were different pressures in Europe depending on the country, e.g. in Germany 50 mbar, in the Netherlands 28-30 mbar, in France 28-35 mbar, and even 500 mbar in Denmark. The receivers were prepared for this pressure. We have one common standard since 2000. All newly produced camping vehicles have the same pressure: 30 mbar . However, receivers with different working pressures are still available for sale.

It is also worth paying attention to the gas hose . It should be screwed "on the thread" and not on the clamps. Then we check the condition of the gas pipes under the floor to make sure that they are not corroded. It's also good to look at the slam-shut valves . Each gas consumer: stove, refrigerator, heating, etc. should have its own separate valve. The last thing we need to check is whether the room with gas cylinders has a ventilation grate in the floor.

Altogether that's all we judge for ourselves. For other things that affect our safety and comfort, you need specialized tools, so it is so important to purchase in a professional company.

It is worth using the help of specialists

Caravans-MIKA ( campingi.net.pl ) is a team of professionals who specialize in caravans, campers, accessories and camping equipment. The company from Katowice deals with the rental and sale of trailers - both new and used. Interestingly, the trailers they have on the square can also be found on Allegro, at https://allegro.pl/uzytkownik/cawelli07?order=m .

What distinguishes this seller is the fact that each trailer is carefully checked before sale . The inspection includes the assessment of the condition of the structure, installation and gas instrumentation in accordance with the G607 standard (the company also issues special stickers). This is not the end.

The company also provides caravans and motorhomes service as well as installation of devices and equipment on board. The vehicle can be purchased in a lease, in installments, and even leave your old trailer in the settlement. Detailed information can be obtained directly from Caravans-MIKA .