Thanks for a nicely balanced video. I've been caravanning and campervanning for 30 plus years. I think 42k to spend is nice but unrealistic for many. Fortunately you can have a brilliant holiday or weekends away in very reasonably priced caravan (under 1000) . Also despite what many people seem to think, it's quite easy and cost effective to insulate a panel van well and fit a simple double bed. There's tons of inspirational self builders on TH-cam now. Think of it as a rolling hotel room. Everything else can be added later - or not. At the end of the day its the journey AND the destination that matter - whether solo or with loved ones - not how posh or well appointed your outfit is. Happy travels everyone. John
One reason I prefer a van over a trailer is that, as a solo female in the U.S., it's good to have the option of jumping into the front seat and driving off if someone or something is skulking around your vehicle.
Loved your video Andrew. We have a caravan and a tow car and still can’t decide, we would love to tour Europe in a Motorhome in the future. It’s expensive to change and with covid19 it’s not safe for my husband.
My best setup was a van with a motorcycle on the back - kind of combined the best of both worlds. I adventure which means parking in some dodgy areas where I can just get up and drive off at a pinch or leave the van locked up knowing that no-one can just hitch it to a car and steal it. Oh, and particularly when you're stuck in traffic, nothing tastes better than freshly ground and brewed "road coffee". Not easy, but all the tastier for it!
Great video. I've just started my nomadic campervan life and have an old campervan. Although, I'm still sticking with the 'campervan' over 'caravan' options, one disadvantage of the campervan is that your entire home with belongings are in the garage when the engine needs fixing. Have had to stay at a hotel or friend's place when the campervan is in the shop which can add to costs (hotel if not friends in the area) and be without your stuff while the vehicle is inaccessible to you.
I agree with Andrew, it is all about what you need or want to get out of your caravan or camper or motorhome. It took my wife and myself 6 years of research, thought and experimenting before deciding on a the right vehicle for us. A motorrhome.
Good video, thanks for sharing. It maybe a little different in Australia, being so big. But have found the caravan better. As set up takes the same time, water hose, sullage drain for grey water, and connecting to 240v power. Then we can go and site see with our car, or shopping etc. But the camper van when set up, the owner's stay put and walk to what's close. So what they usually end up doing is buy a small car and tow behind a motor home. So still end up towing.
I wish Andrew would start doing more of these videos, He is still the best on YT when it comes to Tips and Reviews. I don't always agree with him But he is the Best of the Best without a doubt.
I've had both ..started with VW T5 went to an Elddis motorhome ...actually decided that although the campervans are useful for touring ...the main issue is that you have to take the campervan everywhere! bit like a tortoise with your house on your back .. also car parks are a problem...so for home comforts & overall convenience, it's a caravan for us!
As always, an excellent video and a reasoned and useful discussion of the two options. One thing that sways lots of women here in the U.S. to a van is the safety when traveling alone--so easy to jump in the driver's seat if you have a bad feeling or get creepy visitors--especially when boondocking/wild camping. Not as easy or safe to get out, hook up, and drive off if you're in a caravan :)
@@stuartelms3005 it's larger and more isolated. So someone can kill you and throw you down a forested ravine and you'll might never be found. Especially where most people RV, the western USA is very sparsely settled. It's more like interior Australia or parts of Russia, than anything found in the UK. There's no one you can call for help. Which breeds predators that take advantage of this.
Hi Andrew, you have produced a very valuable and informative vlog. Many folks can benefit from your comparison but most importantly your emphasis on their individual needs. As always, thank you for offering a wonderful vlog.
We looked at both campervans and caravans. Our low budget and the fact that we already have a car that can pull a caravan made it a no brainer for us. If you've only got a couple of grand to spend, your only option is a caravan in our experience.
As someone whose family travelled around The British Isles and Europe, I have to say that the caravan is the only way to go, for families. We all crammed into the Ford Zephyr - I (being the youngest and smallest) had to hide in the footwell, going through passport control in Switzerland, as there needed to be an allocated seat for each passenger. We rocked up, pitched up (awning needed) and then, bomb-blasted in different directions until tea was ready. We did this from 1973-1983 - all 7 of us. Then, the older ones started to get married. First, there was 7, then 6, then 5, then 4. And that's when hotels became affordable - but, they were never as enjoyable, because the journey is the thing. My mother always regretted selling the caravan. It's a funny old world. We always looked with envious eyes, on those people who could afford to eat at service stations/aires, until we could afford it. Then, we realised that mam's scotch eggs, or cooked chicken, or home-cooked ham, or slab of cheese with home-made coleslaw and crusty bread rolls were infinitely superior. In short, get a caravan. Unless, you're a solo traveller, or a couple, then get a campervan - you'd be mad not to. ;)
If you are on an extended trip with a campervan or motorhome and your vehicle breaks down and parts or repair time is substantial, then you have also lost your dwelling. If you are towing a trailer and your vehicle breaks down,you could get your trailer towed to a campground and have your own place to stay with all your belongings while you are waiting for your vehicle repair.
Andrew, what a really good Vid, we have just changed from Caravanning to a Motor Home so I have some insight. I think that the choice between one or the other to some degree depends on how you want to use you caravan or MH. As you say a MH is about the journey, so it's more about journeying than holidaying in one place. I have gone on holiday so many times in our caravan, you get to your destination set up and that's you for a Week or maybe 2. Your holiday radiates from the hub that is your van. I would never stay more than a couple of nights in one place in a MH as its really designed to travel not sit on a site. But a couple of points, with a camper van you pay one insurance policy with a car and caravan you pay 2 and in my experience the caravan insurance was more than the tow car. The most important thing for me is usage, I find I am now using our MH for day trips. We take our home with us for the day and have our facilities with us, I would have never towed our caravan to use for a day trip. You have made a really good vid here, this is the biggest 👍I can give you.
Cheers Martin! Yes, that was kind of touched on with my last point... you have it all with you all the time, not just when you're hitched up. Thanks for the top tips!
Good point about the day trip. Also a lot of sites make you vacate by twelve, which is a bit of a pain. We've also done a lot of touring with our caravan (spending two or three days at each site and exploring the surrounding area by car).
But insurance costs will be much greater for campervan owners if they also want (or need) to have a car for the rest of the year, which I suspect is the majority.
Some good points there. My camper trailer insurance is $350 pa, my 4x4 is $715 pa, but the registration is $150 on the camper and $680 on the 4x4. We are finding even parking a large 4x4 is getting difficult with some car parks now 2 metre clearance and where we had timber houses and open car parks we now have multi storey shopping centres and unit blocks and car parks like rabbit warrens. We wouldn't be ableto use a campervan or motorhome as a daily drive so trail a camper trailer. We do see quite a few motorhomes towing small cars. The Suzuki 4x4's are very popular for that.
I am a committed caravanner, but it really boils down to you holiday choice - if you want to stay for longer periods a caravan is decidedly best, if you want to move on every few days, a campervan is maybe best.
We had caravans for many years but have had motorhomes for around the past 15 years. Your observations were quite good and I agree there is no right answer, its personal preference. One thing we have enjoyed is on our return home journey ( the worst part of any holiday 😁) we can usually stop at an attraction (National Trust etc.) and break the journey.
Setting up was the thing that turned the decision towards motorhome rather than campervan for us. Both of us have bad backs and I have bad legs and setting up the caravan was getting harder and harder. It started out as a way of extending our caravanning and opened a whole new set of experiences to us. Another great video.
I think you have hit on what works for you. We are facing the same issues. Two serious back operations and now I can't use my camper trailer for at least 3 months. We were looking at a caravan as being easier than a camper trailer, but I'm not so sure. We do have a boat, but it steadfastly refuses to go inland.
@@philgray1023 That works too! (until he's not available) My caravan is quite small, but it weighs in at 1050kg (empty). It's nigh on impossible to move unless on a flat surface, hence the mover. The only downside is the price and added weight (about 900€ & 70kg)
" BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY IT'S NOT ABOUT THE CARAVAN OR THE CAMPER VAN IT'S ABOUT WHAT' S BEST FOR YOU" RIGHT ON ANDREW YOU SPEAK THE TRUTH CHEERS😑
We have both, a MWB Sprinter camper for weekends and 'car' and the caravan for longer breaks. We love the day van feature of the camper. Great for dogs as so much more space. Great video as always.
You pretty much summed it up at the beginning and end of the video. It is what suits our needs best. You've had a foot in both camps so you can see both sides of it. I worked my way up from a tent to a caravan. MPVs make for great towing vehicles with the extra height, interior space and still feel like a car when out on the road.
Having had both I can confirm I am a committed motorhomer. I have also travelled extensively around Europe. A motorhome can be parked overnight at countless aires in Europe. We spent many weeks wild camping in Scandinavia where it is perfectly legal and tolerated in a campervan.
Looking at lots of campervans and caravans at the show made us realise that we are definitely caravan people - although a lot of the campervans were very lovely quite a lot of the seats in the back were high and our feet were dangling (we are average height) we found the caravans were more comfy for lounging and more spacious. Great video setting out the pros and cons of both.
Excellent video Andrew. We used similar pros and cons as you explained when choosing to get our Caravan. With regards winter touring and as you showed in your videos of the Isles the camper van was better in the high wind than a caravan would have been.
I think this is an excellent comparison of caravan versus a campervan. Something people might like to consider as a variation is a really compact caravan. The compact caravan loses some of the advantages of the caravan you described, of space, but you get a quite a lot of the campervan advantage of feeling like you can just go anywhere. You can wild camp fairly easily etc. If you already own a car then you can very probably tow the compact caravan with it. Also the compact caravan is much easier to store somewhere than a regular sized caravan. I really like the Barefoot caravan. It is not cheap but I think very well designed. Another great one is the Go-Pod.
Compact caravan can be a really good way to go. I tow a T&B 400 with a truck. It is very stable, you just have to remember you are towing something. When towing gets too much I will probably get a demountable like the TISHER.
This is the point I’m at, having found I was towingnthe Family tourer and doing all the setting up alone, i think for me the compact caravan is the closest I can get to a motorhome. Looking at the freedom jetstream range
I’ve not long got back, I sat down with a cup tea to watch something quickly before I do dinner. I then discover you had uploaded this - perfect!😃 It was great meeting you yesterday xx
Great comparison 😊 no doubt extremely helpful for those who can’t decide which would’ve best for them. We love our campervan but there’s no denying that stretchy-outy space would be awesome 😁
I must say that you are a natural presenter and your video blogs are very compelling. If you make 'em I'll watch 'em. Girlfriend not so keen but you can't have everything! I've just bought a Buccaneer so I need all the tips I can get. I live in a village one mile from the NEC so I should really make the effort to go to the show.
I don,t own either of these but this came up on my feed so I watched it anyway. Never knew there were so many pros and cons to consider.I would keep it simple myself, buy one and if that don,t work, buy the other.
Me too, considering a medium transit style van with seats, part conversion for weekend or day trips, low roof for car parking,. Possin bly economical, good for towing and good payload I think. Any thoughts anyone?
my friend does that. the tows his caravan with a VW T4 day/campervan. It works for him. gives him a space to relax or eat in when at the beach for example.
Number 11 Camper over Cara : Spontaneity. If you're interests includes fishing, mountain biking, day trips to the beach etc. The Camper allows you to go at a moments notice with very little fore-planning. Just as you say Andrew, measure you're lifestyle first and decide what matches you.
Ken MacIver where I live, you would NOT be able to park, a camper, boat etc , in your OWN HOME, there is a perpendicular street from mine, there ARE 4 BOATS, INSIDE GARAGE out of site, but car parks in the driveway., in my case the work van I had there bothered nobody, NEVER GOT A COMPLAINT , but then you COULD NOT SEE IT FROM THE STREET EITHER, let’s see, 5 different contractors in the years, now here 48 years, retired.. Cheers from NJ
Hello! Very glad to here you taking about THE fact, someone of us (like me) is disabled or special needs person, for me and my wife a van is THE only god working choice! But AS you said: ITS about your personal needs you should make right choice! Happy times on THE road and safe driving IN both vans or Caravan , from DonPedro IN Norway.
I'm a tourer rather than a stayer so rarely stop more than a couple of nights maximum in one place so the faf of having a set up and take down routine would be just that - something I wouldn't value. I spend a couple of months a year in France touring round and the free motorhome aires mean that apart from my ferry costs (cheaper for just the van rather than a vehicle and trailer) the rest of the time it is the same cost as home - just drive into the local supermarkets and stock up. There are 1000s of aires throughout France in some lovely spots, very many of them are free have electric and often wifi. There is often a 3 day max stay but I rarely stay more than 2 days so it's perfect for me. I also stop on the mountains to watch the Tour de France and having a base to stay with all the facilities for around 4 days up in the Alps or Pyrenees is fabulous. For the activities I want to do it's a no brainer. I also use it as day van in the UK - again after doing a sporting event and getting back to base with the shower etc waiting is just great - something I've never seen anyone using a caravan for. It I had a family it may be different but for a couple the space is easy to live in. I love the high driving position and I'm far more relaxed driving now than when I previously towed my power boat with a car. The van cruises comfortably and legally at 70 mph on the motorway / autoroutes.
We have a campervan. Main advantage for us was ability to store on the driveway. Main disadvantage was that you can't abandon the "home" on a site and go touring. Not actually used it yet in anger but looking forward to some great times ahead.
Excellent video Andrew, you pretty much summed it up in the first 30 seconds - do whats best for you. We went with a caravan because a car is much easier to fit down the country lanes that Wales / Yorkshire etc are known for, but we can also see what draws people to a motohome (campervan). Keep up the good work Regards, Michael
First of all, thank you for a great video. One advantage a car and caravan has over a campervan is fuel economy. If you are using a campervan as your only vehicle, you will have heavier fuel bills all of the time. With a car and caravan you only have heavier fuel bills when towing. The campervan has the advantage when it comes to depreciation, as cars usually lose their value quickest.
Both of those points are situational. Depends how much travel you do hitched/unhitched with the caravan. If you travel large distances to your camping destination, campervan fuel economy works out quite a lot cheaper than towing. 2) car and motorhome depreciation rates aren't that different, while caravans deprecate much slower (no major mechanical systems to deteriorate)
We looked at a vw camper van, ver nice indeed! New £50k, shocker. But have decided to go for a adria caravan + awning + powrtoch motor mover + storage, just up the road from where we live. All brand new for 20k including extras etc. My bmw has a max tow of 1’600kg, the new caravans are so much lighter today................ easy choice for us.
I tow with a "soft hybrid" 2015 320i - they are great tow cars and mine tows a Hymer Eriba Nova L 442 with a total loading of around 1300 kg no problem - lots of low down torque. I think conservative outfit matching is key to successful towing - nothing worse than a car struggling up and down the gears, as I had to contend with when I had an older outfit., you end up exhausted just getting to your destination! I would advise going much lower than max allowed towing weight and there are plenty of great lightweight caravans on the market now. I don't understand the trend for larger, wider and heavier caravans when the trend is towards hybrids and eventually electric/hydrogen powered vehicles.
Some good points for both Caravan and Campervan. I think for me though, building my own campervan will be the way to go. That way I can build to my own spec, so have superior insulation and equipment and a layout to suit my own needs and I think that is really the main message....there are so many options these days, you can pretty much have whatever you want.
A very valid point - I think vans are better for a self-conversion or self-build project than a caravan. I'm just not clever enough to do that and am in awe of anyone who is!
As the comment by Martin Davis has summed it up nicely in that its down to usage and either visiting an area then travelling out in the car in a star pattern or going on a voyage stopping off here and there as you go. Still liking the Cool Blue graphics and the overall style of the vid and its a big round of applause for the return of the LEATHER PANTS - TaaDAAHHH!!!!
I think you were more distracted by outside activity than we were, so don't be hard on yourself.... the video went well. Honesty is always more important than production value. I'm not sure that valuables are any safer in one or the other if you're actually away and there's a break-in… but, hey maybe you, or your peers, have more actual direct experience to draw from than I can only imagine. But overall, that was very a well-balanced comparison and a great summary for people who are just starting off to research the pros and cons of Campervans versus Caravans. I think you covered-off all the major points quite well.
Main advantage of a caravan for many is affordability. My caravan is 26 years old, I've had it 2 seasons and paid less than a grand for it. I'm a hard working single mum and caravanning is the only way I can afford to have a comfortable holiday with my 2 teenage sons. I'm sure you will agree that a 26 year old campervan for less than a grand would be almost impossible to find and wouldn't be a reliable option. Even if I sold my car and my caravan, I would have a small budget. Campervans under 5 grand are very old, very tatty and unreliable.
I found myself in the same situation and it was the only way I could afford to take my daughter on holiday, first in a tent and then in a cheap caravan. She's all grown up now and I have a Campervan and we still go away together once or twice a year, but I'm glad I was able to give her some great memories in that old caravan. Doesn't really matter how you do it, just that you get out there and do it. :-)
Same for us. Ours is 37 years old, but we are the second owner, it has been very cared for. It does mean we can save a lot on many holiday costs, still having the car to run around in, to places which probably wouldn't fit a campervan !
Definitely some good points there. Our camper trailer is undercover with a cover over it. After 3 years it is in pristine condition. We can get a cheap small caravan 14 years old that has been used 10-11 times for a couple of thousand dollars. No motor homes come close in the price range.
All good points, although I would add a couple. Towing a caravan has to be more stressful. On the other hand, even used camper vans of a decent standard cost an absolute fortune compared to a caravan of the same standard. Finally, the increasing popularity of seasonal pitches provides a further option for a caravan, more so than for a camper.
Thanks for sharing. You came up several advantages I didn’t anticipate thanks. Here are a few more advantages. Boon-docking is easier in a motorhome. Driver sharing for long distances is easier in the motorhome. For example there are plenty of motorhomes doing the Alaska to Argentina journey. Replacing white goods in caravans is cheaper and easier because they are usually standard sized whereas white goods, fittings and fixtures in a motorhome are bespoke, expensive and less reliable. With the advances in inverters, lithium batteries and solar panels , the motorhome is a better off-grid option.
Another great video. I have a home built campervan very similar to the one in the video. My brother in law has a caravan (young family) but he has to pay storage for the entire year...I don't know what this costs. The ability to wild camp is a big saving, even if you only use a camp site once every three or four days. As you say, its all about choices.
Extremely well explained! It is 6 of one and half a dozen of the other and as you say personal choice. We are just about to purchase an Eriba Touring caravan so we were really interested in what you had to say. Thank you very much. Really enjoyable 😊
Andrew. Thanks for this. As I get older I take ages deciding on anything never mind a big purchase. Lots of things I could send to you to list the pros and cons of lol. Cheers.
Bit late commenting on this - one important thing to mention is breakdowns - when a campervan breaks down on a trip, it might need to go off to a garage for a few days or longer, leaving you with no accommodation! This happened to us in France a few years ago - we were wishing we were in a caravan on that trip!
Thank Andrew, you even had an Adria man looking through the window..so funny...anyway I've learnt over the years that as lovely as they some motorhomers prove to be "clingons" !
Excellent analysis. One advantage of most campervans and some coach-built motorhomes is they can legally travel at 70mph on a motorway, whereas caravans are limited to 60mph. And in strong crosswinds most single axle caravans will need to travel slower still. But that's a little theoretical because I've occasionally been overtaken by caravans travelling at 70mph.... And I'm not sure about campervans being easier to get around. It depends on where your going. We have three friends with 6 metre vans who rarely use them as day vans, because most rural uk car parks are too tight or have height restrictions. If I wanted a campervan as daily transport I would probably limit it to 5.4metres length. It really depends on the user, not on the vehicle, as you say Andrew.
Quite an excellent video Andrew. I have been looking for EXACTLY this type of video to help us make our decision. You covered the most important points of each and are a wonderful presenter. We are state side and all these attributes apply here too. I still am in the evaluation stage but this helps greatly. Thank you again SO much for this video.
Personally I choose the Caravan because they are cheaper than the equivalent motorhome, and for what we use it for we set up the van and use it as a base for a week or two using the car for trips. Our car is a Mitsubishi Shogun which tows anything with ease so it was logical to get a caravan. I enjoy towing actually, it's daunting initially but a fun challenge!
Before i Even Watch this Vid, A BRILLIANT IDEA = Which is Best & for what Purpose & Usage ? C'van / Camper ? EXCELLENT. I was thinking of Asking that Question, As to Which Is Best & When. Once Sited, A caravan can be left SET UP & you Have a Separate Car to Travel around in. Campervan, You have to pack everything away just to run to the shop for a pint of milk or a pkt of cigs etc. Driving, The Camper will be Far better than towing. So Caravan, = Take it somewhere & Site it up. = Job Done. Camper van You have everything there Wherever you go at all times. ? Now i willsee what you Say in your video.
I quite like what you have said and your style. I have been lucky enough to get a relatively new Boxer based Camper van at a very cheap price. Like many such campers it is based on the H2 L2 format..... 5.4m long 2.5m high but with 1.9m headroom. I now prefer driving it everywhere to a car, everywhere. Modern vans are great to drive. My partner loves her Golf GTI. The van, though, always puts a smile on my face. No contest.
I have both a caravan and T30 camper. I use my caravan if im staying onsite, or using that site as a base to explore the area for a few days or a week. . I use the camper if im travelling around to different places every day, even a bit of 'wild' campervanning. . Ive never understood someone with a large motorhome, pulling a car. !!
I’ve never used a motorhome ( I’ve used 6 or 7 over time) that didn’t have a 3 way fridge. Anyway, to me they are different things. Never had a caravan, we used to have family holidays in self catering places - bungalows, lodges, static caravans,gites, etc.We would explore the immediate area then drive out further each day exploring a wider area. Just seemed to make sense that when we arrived somewhere we could stop and drive on somewhere else the next day. So although a motorhome holiday might include a lot of travelling not really any more ( and often less) than we would have done from a self catering place or caravan ( which is just carrying your own self catering accommodation with you). Motorhomes really come into their own once you get outside the U.K. as well where you are better catered for and the French aires de camping car ( and equivalent in other countries) are where you want to be not five miles away with no bus service like U.K. campsites. I’d only consider a caravan if I never intended to leave these shores.
Why is it now am seeing this. Caravans or camper van? Andrew well said it’s what suits you as a person family or single and space you need. What you said about the fridge,towing,and setting up very important. I really do love camper vans but love the space in caravans and the luxurious look and feel a caravan has inside. The new camper vans and caravans are so amazing. Andrew Bitton today is the first time seeing this video of yours I have watched a couple of your videos and enjoy watching them. This opened my eyes a bit.
all good points, i've always preferred a caravan because you can park and connect, then have your tow vehicle to site see or go to the store. of course you need a camper van if your going to be pulling a trailer, boat, motor bike. here in the states, so many times, you see a motor home, the size of a house, pulling a towed vehicle, usually with just two old folks on board
Hi Andrew. Last October we purchased a caravan after watching this video and it helped us to make the choice. So ... Thank you! One thing we experienced only a week later, after purchase, and booking to go to a site in Wales, which we didn't think about and you didn't mention in the video. Maybe because you have a robust heavy Airstream ... Was ... The Wind! The weekend we booked, it was blowing a gale! We decided to cancel 3 nights out of the 4 booked. We went for just the one night instead, just to get the experience. We would have gone in a campervan. Wind is a biggy in the Autumn and Winter months. I also find towing to be a bit scary too. Thanks for your videos Andrew. We watch them all. Steve 😀👍
Done the caravan, great for families, but moving on to the camper van to suit this new phase of life. Of course, I still love my bell tent as well! Loved the discussion.
Very few Motorhomes have fixed beds which can also be a disadvantage, as well as having to road tax the Motorhome especially if you don't use it as an everyday vehicle. The thought of having to pack everything away on a cold rainy day to go shopping or to a pub put's us off swapping from one to the other.
If you are a family, especially with teenagers, a caravan means that not everyone has to go on every outing because they still have a base back at the campsite. In a campervan, if one person wants to go sightseeing and another wants to stay and relax at the campsite, it's a problem.
It is a point but thinking about it now, I remember families with teenagers would often have a tent in addition to the campervan which they'd pitch if staying more than a couple of nights anywhere. So that could be a solution to the problem.
Thanks for this - I still can't decide which one and there is also the option of a tiny caravan, much easier to tow and connect/disconnect. Here in the US there is the TAB trailers (as we call them) but between larger motorhome, caravan or van the truth is they are all wonderful!
Another point is if you have a company car or a motabilty car a caravan is better as you do not need to loose these benefits I thought this was a very important point as it involves quite a few people
Pretty decent little video. Much of it comes down to personal circumstance. However, it also depends on whether you like driving vans. Many folk might be surprised at how good modern vans are. They certainly don’t handle like a car but the driving position and the front seats are really good on long journeys.
Pros and cons with both. The biggest drawback with a camper van, is having to pack everything away when you want to go out for the day. Then finding somewhere to park it when you get to your destination.
Very good explanation of the difference between the both items. You can always put a caravan behind your campervan !!!😄😄 I think that it depends how you wanna go on holidays. I am a real "globetrotter ". I stay no longer than a day or two at one destination so the Van is for me the best opportunity. I changed my old car and my bigger Coral motorhome last year for the Adria Twin 600 SPT Van. It was the last Silver Edition 50 years full option Van available in Belgium. I use him everyday, because he is also my car, and i can just say........he is really great for me.
Ooo La La, swanky leather pants made the show! I miss mine so much. I wore them to bits and never replaced them. So comfortable and useful. 😁😁 Good points on the comparison. Food for thought. Thanks Andrew. Hope you have a wonderful week.
Nice video!. My setup is an small campervan (Dodge van 1988) , and an old sprite caravan. So depending on where to travel , and how many peoples want to follow , its flexible :) The van and caravan has each own disel heater , and with the 2 way remote I can see the temperature in the caravan and start the disel heater from the van when driving. Higly recomend! Cheers! Ps solar on both and permanent bed in van. 5 passengers can travel in the van, but a 3 way sofa is easily detatchable if not needed, leaving more space in the van aswell :) ds.
I slightly prefer a caravan because I can 1) only run one vehicle. 2) Once set up I can go out in the car knowing my pitch won't be occupied when I get back. 3) When not towing the van, I obtain significantly higher mpg 4) The car is easier to find space for in supermarket car parks. It is a personal choice of mine but I respect campervan owners for their choice.
very good video giving some very good valid advice. we feel we have the perfect setup VW transporter camper van and a twin axel sprite quottro, camper van for wends away and carvan for longer main holidays. the campervan tows the caravan. each to there own but after many years caravaning we found this to work for us best, best of both worlds, now friday afternoons are so easy to shoot away with the kids for the wends, then when on main holiday we have the campervan down on the beach.
did take a lot of saving andrew LOL, purchased caravan first then 7 years hard saving for the vw transporter and the conversion!! well worth it though. keep up the good work mate .
I only changed my outfit to a motorhome because my other half used to get really upset and emotional while towing, don't get me wrong it's a decent sized mh at 7 metre but from my own stand point i would gladly swop back, we tend to be stuck in one place when we get there, and i miss the fire being left on the low setting at night...no noise from blower heating that i my mind blows to much cold air to help circulate it around the mh.....and your spot on about the heat in a van compered with a mh....i've been away with the van and it has been snowing really bad and well below zero...and was snug as a bug in a rug.....in the mh i'm never really warm enough....plus i had lots of better times being able to use the van as a base point and going all over devon with the car....some thing i really, really miss....cheers for the well thought out information.
Very good format and points both ways. I haven’t been caravanning long, 9 months, but I’ve been on the road full time, so that may qualify as “long”. I made to decision to sell my house and drastically change my retirement and lifestyle rather quickly, more in reaction to being priced out of my condominium by new owners wanting the character of an old house but then wanting all the amenities of high end urban living and having the money to afford special assessments to get their way more than wanting to live in a caravan and travel full time. I suppose I knew I’d love it, though, so without looking around or educating myself a lot, I most a small trailer I knew was well built and thought was cute
And..., though cute, I find myself longing for more flexibility about where I can park out on the wild and in the cities and towns. And I have educated myself on the vanlife side, and avidly devour everything I can find about small class B motor homes. I thing your analysis is instructive and bears out what I’ve learned about caravanning in my TAB vs how I think I could live in a class B van. I wish I knew how to go about making the switch, selling my truck and trailer for enough to afford a van. I haven’t much of a clue how to go about it.
Definitely camper van for me .Its all in one and as you say you can travel anywhere in Scotland and take your animals with you.A home all in one especially if you’re planning a night or couple of nites in one place, and just set off on your travelling journey without any fuss.
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Thanks for a nicely balanced video. I've been caravanning and campervanning for 30 plus years. I think 42k to spend is nice but unrealistic for many. Fortunately you can have a brilliant holiday or weekends away in very reasonably priced caravan (under 1000) . Also despite what many people seem to think, it's quite easy and cost effective to insulate a panel van well and fit a simple double bed. There's tons of inspirational self builders on TH-cam now. Think of it as a rolling hotel room. Everything else can be added later - or not. At the end of the day its the journey AND the destination that matter - whether solo or with loved ones - not how posh or well appointed your outfit is. Happy travels everyone. John
One reason I prefer a van over a trailer is that, as a solo female in the U.S., it's good to have the option of jumping into the front seat and driving off if someone or something is skulking around your vehicle.
Unless you have bullet proof tyres
Tracey, I'm researching vans or campers. I'm an older (61) year old female and will be traveling (living) alone. Would love to hear any advice.
@@melissapolom3075 It's better to have a licensed gun and a friendly 🐕
Loved your video Andrew. We have a caravan and a tow car and still can’t decide, we would love to tour Europe in a Motorhome in the future. It’s expensive to change and with covid19 it’s not safe for my husband.
My best setup was a van with a motorcycle on the back - kind of combined the best of both worlds. I adventure which means parking in some dodgy areas where I can just get up and drive off at a pinch or leave the van locked up knowing that no-one can just hitch it to a car and steal it. Oh, and particularly when you're stuck in traffic, nothing tastes better than freshly ground and brewed "road coffee". Not easy, but all the tastier for it!
Great video. I've just started my nomadic campervan life and have an old campervan. Although, I'm still sticking with the 'campervan' over 'caravan' options, one disadvantage of the campervan is that your entire home with belongings are in the garage when the engine needs fixing. Have had to stay at a hotel or friend's place when the campervan is in the shop which can add to costs (hotel if not friends in the area) and be without your stuff while the vehicle is inaccessible to you.
good point that
I agree with Andrew, it is all about what you need or want to get out of your caravan or camper or motorhome. It took my wife and myself 6 years of research, thought and experimenting before deciding on a the right vehicle for us. A motorrhome.
Good video, thanks for sharing.
It maybe a little different in Australia, being so big. But have found the caravan better. As set up takes the same time, water hose, sullage drain for grey water, and connecting to 240v power.
Then we can go and site see with our car, or shopping etc.
But the camper van when set up, the owner's stay put and walk to what's close.
So what they usually end up doing is buy a small car and tow behind a motor home. So still end up towing.
I wish Andrew would start doing more of these videos, He is still the best on YT when it comes to Tips and Reviews. I don't always agree with him But he is the Best of the Best without a doubt.
I've had both ..started with VW T5 went to an Elddis motorhome ...actually decided that although the campervans are useful for touring ...the main issue is that you have to take the campervan everywhere! bit like a tortoise with your house on your back .. also car parks are a problem...so for home comforts & overall convenience, it's a caravan for us!
Horses for courses, eh Trevor? Cheers!
As always, an excellent video and a reasoned and useful discussion of the two options. One thing that sways lots of women here in the U.S. to a van is the safety when traveling alone--so easy to jump in the driver's seat if you have a bad feeling or get creepy visitors--especially when boondocking/wild camping. Not as easy or safe to get out, hook up, and drive off if you're in a caravan :)
yes in USA Van is better but in Uk is more safe thanks God we don't have so much problems
Shanna Trenholm swift door handle
This makes America sound scary...
@@stuartelms3005 it's larger and more isolated. So someone can kill you and throw you down a forested ravine and you'll might never be found.
Especially where most people RV, the western USA is very sparsely settled.
It's more like interior Australia or parts of Russia, than anything found in the UK.
There's no one you can call for help. Which breeds predators that take advantage of this.
@@pahwraith Its reason i love europe ..even most unsafe west or east europe country is much safer then most safe north or south american continent
Hi Andrew, you have produced a very valuable and informative vlog. Many folks can benefit from your comparison but most importantly your emphasis on their individual needs. As always, thank you for offering a wonderful vlog.
We looked at both campervans and caravans. Our low budget and the fact that we already have a car that can pull a caravan made it a no brainer for us. If you've only got a couple of grand to spend, your only option is a caravan in our experience.
As someone whose family travelled around The British Isles and Europe, I have to say that the caravan is the only way to go, for families. We all crammed into the Ford Zephyr - I (being the youngest and smallest) had to hide in the footwell, going through passport control in Switzerland, as there needed to be an allocated seat for each passenger.
We rocked up, pitched up (awning needed) and then, bomb-blasted in different directions until tea was ready. We did this from 1973-1983 - all 7 of us.
Then, the older ones started to get married. First, there was 7, then 6, then 5, then 4. And that's when hotels became affordable - but, they were never as enjoyable, because the journey is the thing. My mother always regretted selling the caravan.
It's a funny old world. We always looked with envious eyes, on those people who could afford to eat at service stations/aires, until we could afford it. Then, we realised that mam's scotch eggs, or cooked chicken, or home-cooked ham, or slab of cheese with home-made coleslaw and crusty bread rolls were infinitely superior.
In short, get a caravan.
Unless, you're a solo traveller, or a couple, then get a campervan - you'd be mad not to. ;)
Completely apt and true, thanks for your lovely comment!
Gracie thank you advice!
graceygrumble love your story and you are so right, infinitely superior 👍
Aaaqq
If you are on an extended trip with a campervan or motorhome and your vehicle breaks down and parts or repair time is substantial, then you have also lost your dwelling. If you are towing a trailer and your vehicle breaks down,you could get your trailer towed to a campground and have your own place to stay with all your belongings while you are waiting for your vehicle repair.
Excellent point!
Andrew, what a really good Vid, we have just changed from Caravanning to a Motor Home so I have some insight. I think that the choice between one or the other to some degree depends on how you want to use you caravan or MH. As you say a MH is about the journey, so it's more about journeying than holidaying in one place. I have gone on holiday so many times in our caravan, you get to your destination set up and that's you for a Week or maybe 2. Your holiday radiates from the hub that is your van. I would never stay more than a couple of nights in one place in a MH as its really designed to travel not sit on a site.
But a couple of points, with a camper van you pay one insurance policy with a car and caravan you pay 2 and in my experience the caravan insurance was more than the tow car. The most important thing for me is usage, I find I am now using our MH for day trips. We take our home with us for the day and have our facilities with us, I would have never towed our caravan to use for a day trip.
You have made a really good vid here, this is the biggest 👍I can give you.
Cheers Martin! Yes, that was kind of touched on with my last point... you have it all with you all the time, not just when you're hitched up. Thanks for the top tips!
Good point about the day trip. Also a lot of sites make you vacate by twelve, which is a bit of a pain. We've also done a lot of touring with our caravan (spending two or three days at each site and exploring the surrounding area by car).
But insurance costs will be much greater for campervan owners if they also want (or need) to have a car for the rest of the year, which I suspect is the majority.
@@gerrycollins7079 Not necessarily. I pay quite a bit for my caravan too.
Some good points there. My camper trailer insurance is $350 pa, my 4x4 is $715 pa, but the registration is $150 on the camper and $680 on the 4x4. We are finding even parking a large 4x4 is getting difficult with some car parks now 2 metre clearance and where we had timber houses and open car parks we now have multi storey shopping centres and unit blocks and car parks like rabbit warrens. We wouldn't be ableto use a campervan or motorhome as a daily drive so trail a camper trailer. We do see quite a few motorhomes towing small cars. The Suzuki 4x4's are very popular for that.
I am a committed caravanner, but it really boils down to you holiday choice - if you want to stay for longer periods a caravan is decidedly best, if you want to move on every few days, a campervan is maybe best.
We had caravans for many years but have had motorhomes for around the past 15 years. Your observations were quite good and I agree there is no right answer, its personal preference. One thing we have enjoyed is on our return home journey ( the worst part of any holiday 😁) we can usually stop at an attraction (National Trust etc.) and break the journey.
Setting up was the thing that turned the decision towards motorhome rather than campervan for us. Both of us have bad backs and I have bad legs and setting up the caravan was getting harder and harder. It started out as a way of extending our caravanning and opened a whole new set of experiences to us. Another great video.
Thanks Andrew, I would go for a t@b .
Desmond's Donders You could always use a mover and a power drill for the caravan legs! ;)
I think you have hit on what works for you. We are facing the same issues. Two serious back operations and now I can't use my camper trailer for at least 3 months. We were looking at a caravan as being easier than a camper trailer, but I'm not so sure. We do have a boat, but it steadfastly refuses to go inland.
@@mick2d2 I use the bloke next door and the wheels on garage trolleys, but he's going away when I need the camper moved.
@@philgray1023 That works too! (until he's not available)
My caravan is quite small, but it weighs in at 1050kg (empty). It's nigh on impossible to move unless on a flat surface, hence the mover. The only downside is the price and added weight (about 900€ & 70kg)
" BECAUSE AT THE END OF THE DAY IT'S NOT ABOUT THE CARAVAN OR THE CAMPER VAN IT'S ABOUT WHAT' S BEST FOR YOU" RIGHT ON ANDREW YOU SPEAK THE TRUTH CHEERS😑
We have both, a MWB Sprinter camper for weekends and 'car' and the caravan for longer breaks. We love the day van feature of the camper. Great for dogs as so much more space. Great video as always.
You pretty much summed it up at the beginning and end of the video. It is what suits our needs best. You've had a foot in both camps so you can see both sides of it. I worked my way up from a tent to a caravan. MPVs make for great towing vehicles with the extra height, interior space and still feel like a car when out on the road.
Having had both I can confirm I am a committed motorhomer.
I have also travelled extensively around Europe. A motorhome can be parked overnight at countless aires in Europe. We spent many weeks wild camping in Scandinavia where it is perfectly legal and tolerated in a campervan.
Thanks for useful info Andrew. The choice is a dilemma for many and this does help.
Cheers Neil!
Looking at lots of campervans and caravans at the show made us realise that we are definitely caravan people - although a lot of the campervans were very lovely quite a lot of the seats in the back were high and our feet were dangling (we are average height)
we found the caravans were more comfy for lounging and more spacious. Great video setting out the pros and cons of both.
We are currently in the dilemma of switching from a caravan to a campervan or motorhome, so thanks for the vlog.
Excellent video Andrew. We used similar pros and cons as you explained when choosing to get our Caravan. With regards winter touring and as you showed in your videos of the Isles the camper van was better in the high wind than a caravan would have been.
Yes, good point Iain!
This comparison was exactly what I needed. Really good points. Nice to see it layed out like that.
I think this is an excellent comparison of caravan versus a campervan.
Something people might like to consider as a variation is a really compact caravan. The compact caravan loses some of the advantages of the caravan you described, of space, but you get a quite a lot of the campervan advantage of feeling like you can just go anywhere. You can wild camp fairly easily etc.
If you already own a car then you can very probably tow the compact caravan with it. Also the compact caravan is much easier to store somewhere than a regular sized caravan.
I really like the Barefoot caravan. It is not cheap but I think very well designed. Another great one is the Go-Pod.
Compact caravan can be a really good way to go. I tow a T&B 400 with a truck. It is very stable, you just have to remember you are towing something. When towing gets too much I will probably get a demountable like the TISHER.
This is the point I’m at, having found I was towingnthe Family tourer and doing all the setting up alone, i think for me the compact caravan is the closest I can get to a motorhome. Looking at the freedom jetstream range
I’ve not long got back, I sat down with a cup tea to watch something quickly before I do dinner. I then discover you had uploaded this - perfect!😃 It was great meeting you yesterday xx
Cheers Mads, it was great meeting you too. Good luck finishing the course and getting back out in the van :)
Great comparison 😊 no doubt extremely helpful for those who can’t decide which would’ve best for them. We love our campervan but there’s no denying that stretchy-outy space would be awesome 😁
I must say that you are a natural presenter and your video blogs are very compelling. If you make 'em I'll watch 'em. Girlfriend not so keen but you can't have everything! I've just bought a Buccaneer so I need all the tips I can get. I live in a village one mile from the NEC so I should really make the effort to go to the show.
Thanks Ian! Maybe will see you here.
I don,t own either of these but this came up on my feed so I watched it anyway. Never knew there were so many pros and cons to consider.I would keep it simple myself, buy one and if that don,t work, buy the other.
Really really useful. Still struggling to decide as I want both!
Me too, considering a medium transit style van with seats, part conversion for weekend or day trips, low roof for car parking,. Possin
bly economical, good for towing and good payload I think. Any thoughts anyone?
my friend does that. the tows his caravan with a VW T4 day/campervan. It works for him. gives him a space to relax or eat in when at the beach for example.
Number 11 Camper over Cara : Spontaneity. If you're interests includes fishing, mountain biking, day trips to the beach etc. The Camper allows you to go at a moments notice with very little fore-planning.
Just as you say Andrew, measure you're lifestyle first and decide what matches you.
Ken MacIver where I live, you would NOT be able to park, a camper, boat etc , in your OWN HOME, there is a perpendicular street from mine, there ARE 4 BOATS, INSIDE GARAGE out of site, but car parks in the driveway., in my case the work van I had there bothered nobody, NEVER GOT A COMPLAINT , but then you COULD NOT SEE IT FROM THE STREET EITHER, let’s see, 5 different contractors in the years, now here 48 years, retired.. Cheers from NJ
Hello! Very glad to here you taking about THE fact, someone of us (like me) is disabled or special needs person, for me and my wife a van is THE only god working choice! But AS you said: ITS about your personal needs you should make right choice! Happy times on THE road and safe driving IN both vans or Caravan , from DonPedro IN Norway.
What a nice and honest man
I'm a tourer rather than a stayer so rarely stop more than a couple of nights maximum in one place so the faf of having a set up and take down routine would be just that - something I wouldn't value. I spend a couple of months a year in France touring round and the free motorhome aires mean that apart from my ferry costs (cheaper for just the van rather than a vehicle and trailer) the rest of the time it is the same cost as home - just drive into the local supermarkets and stock up. There are 1000s of aires throughout France in some lovely spots, very many of them are free have electric and often wifi. There is often a 3 day max stay but I rarely stay more than 2 days so it's perfect for me. I also stop on the mountains to watch the Tour de France and having a base to stay with all the facilities for around 4 days up in the Alps or Pyrenees is fabulous. For the activities I want to do it's a no brainer. I also use it as day van in the UK - again after doing a sporting event and getting back to base with the shower etc waiting is just great - something I've never seen anyone using a caravan for. It I had a family it may be different but for a couple the space is easy to live in. I love the high driving position and I'm far more relaxed driving now than when I previously towed my power boat with a car. The van cruises comfortably and legally at 70 mph on the motorway / autoroutes.
As a complete novice to caravanning -v- motor home I found the comparisons between the two informative and helpful.Thank you
Thanks Pam!
Your brilliant explaining to a newcomer deciding.. thank you..
Another top vid. It’s magic how you changed clothes half way through !! 👍👍
AND how I started in Edinburgh and ended up in Birmingham! ;@)
We have a campervan. Main advantage for us was ability to store on the driveway. Main disadvantage was that you can't abandon the "home" on a site and go touring. Not actually used it yet in anger but looking forward to some great times ahead.
Good points made, thanks ☺ glad to still see Dougal 😉
Good video sensible discussion. I think both products are great as you said it's what suit your needs. J&P
Great vlog, but now I want both. lol
And you can with a camper van.
Excellent video Andrew, you pretty much summed it up in the first 30 seconds - do whats best for you. We went with a caravan because a car is much easier to fit down the country lanes that Wales / Yorkshire etc are known for, but we can also see what draws people to a motohome (campervan).
Keep up the good work
Regards,
Michael
First of all, thank you for a great video. One advantage a car and caravan has over a campervan is fuel economy. If you are using a campervan as your only vehicle, you will have heavier fuel bills all of the time. With a car and caravan you only have heavier fuel bills when towing. The campervan has the advantage when it comes to depreciation, as cars usually lose their value quickest.
Excellent points, David, cheers!
Both of those points are situational. Depends how much travel you do hitched/unhitched with the caravan. If you travel large distances to your camping destination, campervan fuel economy works out quite a lot cheaper than towing.
2) car and motorhome depreciation rates aren't that different, while caravans deprecate much slower (no major mechanical systems to deteriorate)
We looked at a vw camper van, ver nice indeed! New £50k, shocker. But have decided to go for a adria caravan + awning + powrtoch motor mover + storage, just up the road from where we live. All brand new for 20k including extras etc. My bmw has a max tow of 1’600kg, the new caravans are so much lighter today................ easy choice for us.
I tow with a "soft hybrid" 2015 320i - they are great tow cars and mine tows a Hymer Eriba Nova L 442 with a total loading of around 1300 kg no problem - lots of low down torque. I think conservative outfit matching is key to successful towing - nothing worse than a car struggling up and down the gears, as I had to contend with when I had an older outfit., you end up exhausted just getting to your destination! I would advise going much lower than max allowed towing weight and there are plenty of great lightweight caravans on the market now. I don't understand the trend for larger, wider and heavier caravans when the trend is towards hybrids and eventually electric/hydrogen powered vehicles.
Nice overview! Just one addition: You can expand your caravan on the spot really easy with an awning. It gives you a lot more space on rainy days.
Some good points for both Caravan and Campervan. I think for me though, building my own campervan will be the way to go. That way I can build to my own spec, so have superior insulation and equipment and a layout to suit my own needs and I think that is really the main message....there are so many options these days, you can pretty much have whatever you want.
A very valid point - I think vans are better for a self-conversion or self-build project than a caravan. I'm just not clever enough to do that and am in awe of anyone who is!
As the comment by Martin Davis has summed it up nicely in that its down to usage and either visiting an area then travelling out in the car in a star pattern or going on a voyage stopping off here and there as you go. Still liking the Cool Blue graphics and the overall style of the vid and its a big round of applause for the return of the LEATHER PANTS - TaaDAAHHH!!!!
The big problem we have here is .. they're both great. Gah
Appreciate the Dougal shot.
I think you were more distracted by outside activity than we were, so don't be hard on yourself.... the video went well. Honesty is always more important than production value. I'm not sure that valuables are any safer in one or the other if you're actually away and there's a break-in… but, hey maybe you, or your peers, have more actual direct experience to draw from than I can only imagine. But overall, that was very a well-balanced comparison and a great summary for people who are just starting off to research the pros and cons of Campervans versus Caravans. I think you covered-off all the major points quite well.
Cheers Gary!
Thanks for a comparisons. Still debating within the family which is better, but at least we have something else to use.
Main advantage of a caravan for many is affordability.
My caravan is 26 years old, I've had it 2 seasons and paid less than a grand for it. I'm a hard working single mum and caravanning is the only way I can afford to have a comfortable holiday with my 2 teenage sons.
I'm sure you will agree that a 26 year old campervan for less than a grand would be almost impossible to find and wouldn't be a reliable option. Even if I sold my car and my caravan, I would have a small budget. Campervans under 5 grand are very old, very tatty and unreliable.
I found myself in the same situation and it was the only way I could afford to take my daughter on holiday, first in a tent and then in a cheap caravan. She's all grown up now and I have a Campervan and we still go away together once or twice a year, but I'm glad I was able to give her some great memories in that old caravan. Doesn't really matter how you do it, just that you get out there and do it. :-)
Van-gabond,Ramblin'Rose absolutely!!!!
Same for us. Ours is 37 years old, but we are the second owner, it has been very cared for. It does mean we can save a lot on many holiday costs, still having the car to run around in, to places which probably wouldn't fit a campervan !
Definitely some good points there. Our camper trailer is undercover with a cover over it. After 3 years it is in pristine condition. We can get a cheap small caravan 14 years old that has been used 10-11 times for a couple of thousand dollars. No motor homes come close in the price range.
It sounds like a bargain there. Great find.
Really useful thanks Andrew. Lots of food for thought.
As you have said, its a personal choice based on circumstances. For us at this time, caravan + car combo wins hands down :-)
Subscribed because of the gratuitous Dougal shot. And because it was a great video.
Most people subscribe for Dougal. I know my place... ;)
I loved your video, your style and almost all your other stuff. I do respect you, Andrew. Thank you for all the info. English Teacher from Turkey.
Thank you!
All good points, although I would add a couple. Towing a caravan has to be more stressful. On the other hand, even used camper vans of a decent standard cost an absolute fortune compared to a caravan of the same standard. Finally, the increasing popularity of seasonal pitches provides a further option for a caravan, more so than for a camper.
Good points thanks John!
Thanks for sharing. You came up several advantages I didn’t anticipate thanks. Here are a few more advantages.
Boon-docking is easier in a motorhome.
Driver sharing for long distances is easier in the motorhome. For example there are plenty of motorhomes doing the Alaska to Argentina journey.
Replacing white goods in caravans is cheaper and easier because they are usually standard sized whereas white goods, fittings and fixtures in a motorhome are bespoke, expensive and less reliable.
With the advances in inverters, lithium batteries and solar panels , the motorhome is a better off-grid option.
Cheers Jeff! Thanks for that :)
Another great video. I have a home built campervan very similar to the one in the video. My brother in law has a caravan (young family) but he has to pay storage for the entire year...I don't know what this costs. The ability to wild camp is a big saving, even if you only use a camp site once every three or four days. As you say, its all about choices.
Thanks for all of that! It has helped me with my ever lasting affection for our little campervan as our holiday vehicle
Thank you. Great comparison and given me food for thought 😊
Extremely well explained! It is 6 of one and half a dozen of the other and as you say personal choice. We are just about to purchase an Eriba Touring caravan so we were really interested in what you had to say. Thank you very much. Really enjoyable 😊
Thank you - and enjoy the Eriba! :)
Really good video 👍🏻
Lots of information, I’ve decided that after owning a camper for six months, I’m a fan of caravans. I miss my lovely car so much😭
Oh dear! There is no perfect solution is there?
Andrew. Thanks for this. As I get older I take ages deciding on anything never mind a big purchase. Lots of things I could send to you to list the pros and cons of lol. Cheers.
Bit late commenting on this - one important thing to mention is breakdowns - when a campervan breaks down on a trip, it might need to go off to a garage for a few days or longer, leaving you with no accommodation! This happened to us in France a few years ago - we were wishing we were in a caravan on that trip!
Good point Rick!
Thank Andrew, you even had an Adria man looking through the window..so funny...anyway I've learnt over the years that as lovely as they some motorhomers prove to be "clingons" !
Excellent analysis. One advantage of most campervans and some coach-built motorhomes is they can legally travel at 70mph on a motorway, whereas caravans are limited to 60mph. And in strong crosswinds most single axle caravans will need to travel slower still. But that's a little theoretical because I've occasionally been overtaken by caravans travelling at 70mph.... And I'm not sure about campervans being easier to get around. It depends on where your going. We have three friends with 6 metre vans who rarely use them as day vans, because most rural uk car parks are too tight or have height restrictions. If I wanted a campervan as daily transport I would probably limit it to 5.4metres length. It really depends on the user, not on the vehicle, as you say Andrew.
Quite an excellent video Andrew. I have been looking for EXACTLY this type of video to help us make our decision. You covered the most important points of each and are a wonderful presenter. We are state side and all these attributes apply here too. I still am in the evaluation stage but this helps greatly. Thank you again SO much for this video.
Thanks Kerry!
So dapper in the leather sand blazer 😍
Shucks, thanks! :)
Personally I choose the Caravan because they are cheaper than the equivalent motorhome, and for what we use it for we set up the van and use it as a base for a week or two using the car for trips. Our car is a Mitsubishi Shogun which tows anything with ease so it was logical to get a caravan. I enjoy towing actually, it's daunting initially but a fun challenge!
Before i Even Watch this Vid, A BRILLIANT IDEA = Which is Best & for what Purpose & Usage ?
C'van / Camper ? EXCELLENT. I was thinking of Asking that Question, As to Which Is Best & When.
Once Sited, A caravan can be left SET UP & you Have a Separate Car to Travel around in.
Campervan, You have to pack everything away just to run to the shop for a pint of milk or a pkt of cigs etc.
Driving, The Camper will be Far better than towing.
So Caravan, = Take it somewhere & Site it up. = Job Done.
Camper van You have everything there Wherever you go at all times. ?
Now i willsee what you Say in your video.
Thanks for this video Andrew... really helpful! .. we are off to the nec this weekend can’t wait 😊
I quite like what you have said and your style. I have been lucky enough to get a relatively new Boxer based Camper van at a very cheap price. Like many such campers it is based on the H2 L2 format..... 5.4m long 2.5m high but with 1.9m headroom. I now prefer driving it everywhere to a car, everywhere. Modern vans are great to drive. My partner loves her Golf GTI. The van, though, always puts a smile on my face. No contest.
out of interest where did you get your Boxer "at a cheap price"?? and which model do you have?
Hi Andrew. A very good Video indeed
Best wishes to you and beautiful doggie. 👍😊🚐🐕
Darren Hunt i
I have both a caravan and T30 camper. I use my caravan if im staying onsite, or using that site as a base to explore the area for a few days or a week. . I use the camper if im travelling around to different places every day, even a bit of 'wild' campervanning. . Ive never understood someone with a large motorhome, pulling a car. !!
To me you have the ideal set up. Just need to save up a good deal and get my dream Day Van to tow the Airstream!
@@andrewjditton hi Andrew. I've also got a motorbike. So in theory, you have another setup that would also suit me 😁
I’ve never used a motorhome ( I’ve used 6 or 7 over time) that didn’t have a 3 way fridge.
Anyway, to me they are different things. Never had a caravan, we used to have family holidays in self catering places - bungalows, lodges, static caravans,gites, etc.We would explore the immediate area then drive out further each day exploring a wider area. Just seemed to make sense that when we arrived somewhere we could stop and drive on somewhere else the next day. So although a motorhome holiday might include a lot of travelling not really any more ( and often less) than we would have done from a self catering place or caravan ( which is just carrying your own self catering accommodation with you).
Motorhomes really come into their own once you get outside the U.K. as well where you are better catered for and the French aires de camping car ( and equivalent in other countries) are where you want to be not five miles away with no bus service like U.K. campsites. I’d only consider a caravan if I never intended to leave these shores.
Yes, France, Germany etc all seem to be far more motorhome friendly than the UK :-/
Why is it now am seeing this. Caravans or camper van? Andrew well said it’s what suits you as a person family or single and space you need. What you said about the fridge,towing,and setting up very important. I really do love camper vans but love the space in caravans and the luxurious look and feel a caravan has inside. The new camper vans and caravans are so amazing. Andrew Bitton today is the first time seeing this video of yours I have watched a couple of your videos and enjoy watching them. This opened my eyes a bit.
Thank you!
all good points, i've always preferred a caravan because you can park and connect, then have your tow vehicle to site see or go to the store. of course you need a camper van if your going to be pulling a trailer, boat, motor bike. here in the states, so many times, you see a motor home, the size of a house, pulling a towed vehicle, usually with just two old folks on board
Hi Andrew.
Last October we purchased a caravan after watching this video and it helped us to make the choice.
So ... Thank you!
One thing we experienced only a week later, after purchase, and booking to go to a site in Wales, which we didn't think about and you didn't mention in the video.
Maybe because you have a robust heavy Airstream ... Was ...
The Wind!
The weekend we booked, it was blowing a gale!
We decided to cancel 3 nights out of the 4 booked. We went for just the one night instead, just to get the experience.
We would have gone in a campervan.
Wind is a biggy in the Autumn and Winter months.
I also find towing to be a bit scary too.
Thanks for your videos Andrew.
We watch them all.
Steve 😀👍
Cheers Steve, and congratulations!
Done the caravan, great for families, but moving on to the camper van to suit this new phase of life. Of course, I still love my bell tent as well! Loved the discussion.
Very few Motorhomes have fixed beds which can also be a disadvantage, as well as having to road tax the Motorhome especially if you don't use it as an everyday vehicle. The thought of having to pack everything away on a cold rainy day to go shopping or to a pub put's us off swapping from one to the other.
God point!
Andrew you’ve settled an18 month old quandary. Caravan it is thank you
If you are a family, especially with teenagers, a caravan means that not everyone has to go on every outing because they still have a base back at the campsite. In a campervan, if one person wants to go sightseeing and another wants to stay and relax at the campsite, it's a problem.
Excellent point Rachel!
It is a point but thinking about it now, I remember families with teenagers would often have a tent in addition to the campervan which they'd pitch if staying more than a couple of nights anywhere. So that could be a solution to the problem.
you also get stand alone awnings in various sizes which are more accommodating than tents
I didn't even think of that...good point.
Thanks for this - I still can't decide which one and there is also the option of a tiny caravan, much easier to tow and connect/disconnect. Here in the US there is the TAB trailers (as we call them) but between larger motorhome, caravan or van the truth is they are all wonderful!
Another point is if you have a company car or a motabilty car a caravan is better as you do not need to loose these benefits I thought this was a very important point as it involves quite a few people
Excellent point!
context_ required but might NOT be able to pull anything , with a company car, never know. Cheers from NJ , USA
Pretty decent little video. Much of it comes down to personal circumstance. However, it also depends on whether you like driving vans. Many folk might be surprised at how good modern vans are. They certainly don’t handle like a car but the driving position and the front seats are really good on long journeys.
As a dyed in the wool campervan fan it was still interesting to see advantages of caravans - nice one
Thanks Steve!
Pros and cons with both. The biggest drawback with a camper van, is having to pack everything away when you want to go out for the day. Then finding somewhere to park it when you get to your destination.
Very good explanation of the difference between the both items.
You can always put a caravan behind your campervan !!!😄😄
I think that it depends how you wanna go on holidays.
I am a real "globetrotter ". I stay no longer than a day or two at one destination so the Van is for me the best opportunity.
I changed my old car and my bigger Coral motorhome last year for the Adria Twin 600 SPT Van.
It was the last Silver Edition 50 years full option Van available in Belgium.
I use him everyday, because he is also my car, and i can just say........he is really great for me.
Wonderful! I love the Adria Twin... and I love touring in Belgium! :)
Excellent points. I decided to go on for a slide on (demountable) camper, which has the advantages of both!
Ooo La La, swanky leather pants made the show! I miss mine so much. I wore them to bits and never replaced them. So comfortable and useful. 😁😁 Good points on the comparison. Food for thought. Thanks Andrew. Hope you have a wonderful week.
Thanks Annette!
Nice video!. My setup is an small campervan (Dodge van 1988) , and an old sprite caravan. So depending on where to travel , and how many peoples want to follow , its flexible :) The van and caravan has each own disel heater , and with the 2 way remote I can see the temperature in the caravan and start the disel heater from the van when driving. Higly recomend! Cheers! Ps solar on both and permanent bed in van. 5 passengers can travel in the van, but a 3 way sofa is easily detatchable if not needed, leaving more space in the van aswell :) ds.
I slightly prefer a caravan because I can 1) only run one vehicle. 2) Once set up I can go out in the car knowing my pitch won't be occupied when I get back. 3) When not towing the van, I obtain significantly higher mpg 4) The car is easier to find space for in supermarket car parks.
It is a personal choice of mine but I respect campervan owners for their choice.
very good video giving some very good valid advice. we feel we have the perfect setup VW transporter camper van and a twin axel sprite quottro, camper van for wends away and carvan for longer main holidays. the campervan tows the caravan. each to there own but after many years caravaning we found this to work for us best, best of both worlds, now friday afternoons are so easy to shoot away with the kids for the wends, then when on main holiday we have the campervan down on the beach.
YES! A camper van towing the caravan, that would be my ideal set-up! Trouble is, buying a van would mean working more and.... nah! ;@)
did take a lot of saving andrew LOL, purchased caravan first then 7 years hard saving for the vw transporter and the conversion!! well worth it though. keep up the good work mate .
Brilliant video of pros and cons. My partner and I recently bought a caravan having spent a number of weeks deciding which was best way to go
I only changed my outfit to a motorhome because my other half used to get really upset and emotional while towing, don't get me wrong it's a decent sized mh at 7 metre but from my own stand point i would gladly swop back, we tend to be stuck in one place when we get there, and i miss the fire being left on the low setting at night...no noise from blower heating that i my mind blows to much cold air to help circulate it around the mh.....and your spot on about the heat in a van compered with a mh....i've been away with the van and it has been snowing really bad and well below zero...and was snug as a bug in a rug.....in the mh i'm never really warm enough....plus i had lots of better times being able to use the van as a base point and going all over devon with the car....some thing i really, really miss....cheers for the well thought out information.
Thanks Richard! And interesting to note you agree about the warmth thing. I did wonder if it was just me. All the best.
Very good format and points both ways. I haven’t been caravanning long, 9 months, but I’ve been on the road full time, so that may qualify as “long”.
I made to decision to sell my house and drastically change my retirement and lifestyle rather quickly, more in reaction to being priced out of my condominium by new owners wanting the character of an old house but then wanting all the amenities of high end urban living and having the money to afford special assessments to get their way more than wanting to live in a caravan and travel full time.
I suppose I knew I’d love it, though, so without looking around or educating myself a lot, I most a small trailer I knew was well built and thought was cute
And..., though cute, I find myself longing for more flexibility about where I can park out on the wild and in the cities and towns. And I have educated myself on the vanlife side, and avidly devour everything I can find about small class B motor homes. I thing your analysis is instructive and bears out what I’ve learned about caravanning in my TAB vs how I think I could live in a class B van.
I wish I knew how to go about making the switch, selling my truck and trailer for enough to afford a van. I haven’t much of a clue how to go about it.
It's tough when you have nowhere else to go while switching. Good luck Linda!
Wow 300 views in 30 mins. Logic with this quality content !
Definitely camper van for me .Its all in one and as you say you can travel anywhere in Scotland and take your animals with you.A home all in one especially if you’re planning a night or couple of nites in one place, and just set off on your travelling journey without any fuss.