Buying a caravan second-hand

Reasons for buying used

There are several arguments in favour of buying a used caravan. The most common reason is the lower purchase price compared to buying a new one. At the same time, used caravans are often better equipped. As a rule, the previous owner has already retrofitted various accessories. You may sometimes get a manoeuvring system, TV system and other extras included with the used caravan.

When buying new, there is often a long wait. This is because the supply situation in the caravanning industry has been strained for years. On the used market, on the other hand, caravans are available immediately – provided you secure the deal for your dream caravan. If you want to avoid long waiting times, it is worth taking a closer look at the used market.

Research individual caravan models thoroughly

The layout: a fundamental decision

The question of the right layout is essential. It is similar to looking for a flat and having to decide between a ground-floor flat with a garden or a penthouse with a roof terrace. The layout sets the framework within which you can make individual adjustments to the interior.

If children are travelling in the caravan, a layout with bunk beds can make sense. Particularly family-friendly caravans, including the Dethleffs Camper 700 MK and the Hobby Prestige 650 KFU, even have a separate children’s room.

You can find detailed advice on caravan layouts in this article.

The towing vehicle determines the caravan’s maximum weight

If you want to buy a used caravan, you probably already own a car with a towbar. Check the vehicle registration document early on, as this is where the maximum permissible trailer load is listed. For caravans, the relevant value is field O.1 (braked trailers). The caravan’s permissible total weight (kerb weight + payload) must not exceed the trailer load stated in the registration document. As long as you do not want to buy a new towing vehicle, the maximum weight – and therefore also the size – of the caravan must match the specifications of your car.

Used caravan from a dealer: warranty included

When buying used, you can choose between private offers and buying from a dealer. Commercial sellers usually charge higher prices. Of course, they also want to make a profit on the used caravan. For you as the buyer, however, going to a dealer offers more security. The seller must provide a two-year warranty (from the day the caravan is handed over).

Here you will find all caravans from the Berger Fahrzeuge range.

Buying a caravan privately: higher risk, lower prices

When buying privately, the rule is: bought as seen. As a rule, there is no entitlement to make complaints afterwards – unless there is a defect that the seller deliberately concealed from you.

If you want to buy a caravan through a private listing, you should be familiar with caravan technology. It can also be helpful to take someone with you to the viewing who knows about caravans or trailers. Inspect the caravan carefully and check whether the equipment (lights, water pump, fridge, etc.) is working properly. Also look underneath the caravan to check the condition of the underbody. A thorough inspection takes time. If the seller only allows you a very short viewing window, that is not a good sign.

The ADAC caravan used-vehicle check offers more security when buying used.

Used caravans from private owners can be found on online marketplaces and social media (e.g. in Facebook groups). But you should not ignore adverts in local newspapers either. These often include offers from older owners who are giving up the hobby because of age. They sometimes offer genuine gems at very attractive prices.

Private or dealer: the advantages and disadvantages at a glance

What you should look out for during the viewing

• Have it confirmed in writing in the purchase contract that the caravan is free from accident damage.
• Regular leak tests are important. Ideally, only buy a caravan that comes with proof of these inspections.
• Check the seals around windows and doors. If they are brittle or, in the worst case, no longer there at all, moisture damage is likely.
• Check whether the shower tray and plastic washbasin have any cracks.

Paying for a used caravan: cash or instalments?

Cash payment (this also includes bank transfer, PayPal and similar methods) is always the cheapest choice for used caravans. No seller will offer you zero percent financing on a used vehicle. However, used caravans can still cost 20,000 euros or more, depending on age and original price. Sometimes financing is the only option. In that case, it is important to compare interest rates.

Financing a used caravan

Many dealers offer instalment plans through their partner bank. This is especially convenient for the customer, as the purchase contract and financing agreement are handled by one provider. Financing is also possible for private purchases – for example, if the deal is arranged via a marketplace such as mobile.de or autoscout24.

You can also finance a used caravan in the traditional way with a bank loan. You should obtain offers from different banks in order to get the best conditions. Comparison portals such as Check24, Verivox or Smava can be helpful when searching for the cheapest loan. If you buy a used caravan with a bank loan, you must first sign the contract with the bank. Only once the agreed loan amount has been paid into your account can you sign the purchase contract for the used caravan and pay the seller the full amount in one go.

Conclusion: a reliable used caravan

No camper needs to feel embarrassed about buying a used caravan. There are plenty of good reasons for choosing second-hand. To reduce the risk of making a bad purchase to a minimum, you should take your time. Compare different offers and inspect your preferred caravan thoroughly during the viewing. Then you can sign the purchase contract for your new used caravan with peace of mind.