What to Look for When Buying Your First Caravan: A Beginner’s Guide

Buying your first caravan is an exciting step towards a new world of freedom and adventure.
But with so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

At Golden Castle, we’ve helped thousands of customers find the right caravan for their needs — and we’re here to make your journey simple, clear, and exciting.

Here’s everything you need to know before buying your first caravan.

  1. Think About How You’ll Use It

Before you even start looking at models, think about how you’ll use your caravan:

  • Weekend getaways or longer touring trips?
  • Solo travel, couples’ adventures, or family holidays?
  • Do you prefer staying on large holiday parks, or smaller quiet sites?

Knowing your style will help narrow down the size, layout, and features you’ll want.

  1. Understand Caravan Sizes and Layouts

Caravans come in all shapes and sizes — from compact two-berths perfect for couples, to larger six-berths ideal for families.

Key things to consider:

  • Berths: How many people will sleep inside?
  • Layout: Do you want fixed beds, a central washroom, or a large front lounge?
  • Axles: Single axle caravans are lighter and easier to manoeuvre; twin axles offer more space and stability for larger families.

At Golden Castle, we always recommend stepping inside different models to see what feels right. Layout really matters!

  1. Know Your Towing Capacity

Before you fall in love with a caravan, check what your current car can tow safely and legally.

  • Look at your car’s Maximum Towing Weight (in the handbook or V5C logbook).
  • Make sure the caravan’s MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) is within your car’s towing limit.

If you’re not sure — don’t worry.
Speak to our team at Golden Castle and we’ll help you find the perfect match.

  1. Set a Realistic Budget

Your caravan budget should include:

  • The caravan itself
  • Insurance
  • Storage (if needed)
  • Essential extras like motor movers, awnings, and safety equipment

At Golden Castle, we offer flexible finance options to help you spread the cost comfortably — and make getting started easier than you might think.

  1. Think About Storage and Servicing

Where will you store your caravan when not in use?

  • Some people have space at home.
  • Others prefer secure storage sites.

We also offer safe, convenient storage options at Golden Castle if you need somewhere to keep your caravan between adventures.

And when it comes to maintenance — every caravan we sell is fully serviced before it leaves us and comes with a warranty, giving you complete peace of mind from day one.

We also offer ongoing servicing and aftercare to keep your caravan in top condition year after year.

  1. View, Ask Questions, and Trust Your Feel

When you visit, take your time:

  • Sit in the lounge, stand in the kitchen, imagine living there.
  • Check storage space, bathroom size, bed comfort.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask all your questions — there’s no such thing as a silly one!

Buying your first caravan should feel exciting, not pressured.
Our team is here to make sure you find a caravan that feels right and fits your life.

Start Your Caravan Journey with Confidence

Choosing your first caravan is the beginning of incredible new adventures.
And with the right support, it’s simpler than you think.

At Golden Castle, we’ll guide you through every step — from choosing the perfect layout to offering finance, storage, servicing, and expert advice.

Ready to explore?
Visit Golden Castle today — and let’s find the caravan that opens the door to your best memories yet. (link to all caravans)