I hope you like my gorgeous little caravan! I'm over the moon. In the next video I'll talk a little more about the heating and hot water, and about the effect that downsizing from the 1500kg Compass has had on the range when towing with the EV. Oh, and who's with me in that Elddis need to develop the Xplore 303? ;)
I totally agree with your comment on making this a 3 berth instead of a 4. I've often said lockers above the rear dinette would offer more useful storage than the bunk, which is only adding weight. Lovely shot at the end of you and Dougal.
Congratulations on your and Dougal's new van. My wife and I, retired, in our mid 60's and new to caravanning bought a used 304 model as our first van end 2020 and just LOVE it and caravanning. For sleeping my wife uses the front couch as a single bed, and I just fit on the lower bunk. The wider base fits my CPAP machine. And my wife doesn't have to climb over me at night with the horizontal double bed. We use the opened top bunk to store bedding when we move pitch. I use a £1 battery LED reading light stuck on the bottom of the lower bunk. But I agree, a 303 would be better. We also love the large front single window, the L shape lounge and large offside portrait window. The design of this 304 van is clearly perfect because it has remained unchanged for over a decade, and yet still won the Caravan magazine award for Compact Van of the Year for 2023! Proof enough. Just discovered your channel and videos as we head off in March on our first long tour to Portugal, following your advice on crossing, route and route planning. Very much enjoying your style and quality of videos. Keep up the good work. And thank you.
Maybe someone can do a "dealer special", remove the bunk and use the already fitted bunk supports to support a locker unit? Come on Kimberley! If Elddis won't do it, YOU CAN!
A ‘303’ makes a lot of sense. Great caravan and a hint at the future in my mind as mor people move to EVs. We have an Eriba Touring 530 and our ‘dinette’ end is exactly as you describe for your perfect ‘303’ - generous seats, table, lights, loads of lockers, huge windows and can convert to a single bed making it a 3 birth.
We have just taken possession of our 304. I removed the bunk which left me a really useful shelf and it is so easy to tow which I also love. Clearly it is compact but the large lounge and separate dining area make it feel quite big. I also love this van👍👍
Hi Andrew! Thanks so much for showing off the travel journal. It's so wonderful to see yourself and others gathering their memories within its pages 😁 Thank you also for showing us around your new caravan. I'm totally with you on the carpet runners over a fitted carpet, particularly with dogs and their muddy paws! I also like your idea for removing the bunk. Far too many caravans are built around family holidays, when in reality, a growing number are being used for long term travel and accommodation. We removed our side dinette bunk in favour of a long worktop many years ago and haven't needed nor missed it. Mind, come to think of it, it's so far from the original build, none of it recognisable from the plans! Looking forward to following your adventures closely this autumn! 🐕🐾
We do love the 304! Really goes back to "old" days where the aim was to pack in as much as possible into a short wheelbase, and some vans these days go to the other end of the spectrum. Cant wait to see what you get up to
I agree with your ideas re the bunk bed,window and extra storage. I recently travelled around that there Engerland for nearly seven weeks and have to say I needed every bit of storage I had. So, yes ditch the bed. 👍🖖🏴🏴🏴
Beautiful caravan Andrew! Love it, it's just right for you and Dougs! I agree there should be a 303 model, I would say it's probably more like 10-15% use the bunk beds. Anyway enjoy your new baby!! I'm sure you'll have many adventures in her! Enjoy Dusseldorf, I look forward to seeing what's new over there! Say hello to Camper Tobi, Petra and Andi too! Sending hugs xxx 😘🐕🥰
Since Erwin Hymer have taken over Elddis group have they rectified cracking panels on the Xplore range because i had a brand new Explore 5 yrs ago and apart from water ingress around the front window after 3 yrs the rear panels started cracking of which Eldiss weren't interested consequently i got rid
I assume you mean elddis haven't rectified your panel cracking? - If so, I absolutely agree. We have 10 cracks +water ingress on our Xplore 304 but elddis is not interested (would cost us £9000 to repair!!). We had the front window ingress problem at 4 yrs old too - that was corrected. Elddis reneges on their major cracking faults; all I can say "it's dreadful treatment of customers." Elddis is under financial strain, maybe disgruntled customers are not coming back for more of the same!
Hi we sold the rot box on we were treated terribly by Eldiss..hymer and I wouldn't touch a Eldiss caravan with a barge pole sorry to hear about your problem it's heartbreaking when you spend all that money and get treated like yourself. Can't blv watchdog on the TV have never got involved.
@@philipvayro6293 Hi totally agree- Yes, it;s an absolute scandal -we've been equally badly treated as you. I think the word has finally got out to new customers. Elddis lost £4.5m last year; dealers are shunning elddis vans because customers are voting with their feet. About time too!!
I'd love a 303. We're a family of 4 but my eldest is at the point of using an awning annexe anyway. Totally agree with the 3 locker idea too. Do it Elddis! Great content Andrew 👍
Love your new van Andrew, wish you and Mr Dougal many happy nights out. Nice layout and totally agree about ditching the top bunk and putting lockers up there which would weigh less anyway and weight wise my C3 Picasso could tow it. Good luck on your new adventures and looking forward to the vids.
Loved the video. I have exactly the same van. Bought from Kimberley Notts. I had their demo. I paid just over £18k but don’t have to bike rack etc. It’s just me and my dog Molly too. I even have blue check blankets very similar at the front! I’ve removed all the stuff I don’t need like the bunk mattress, ladder, curtain, shower curtain etc. I’ve also bought some mats to fit as carpets. I don’t have the issue with the catches on the fridge you do. Moving the plug around 45 degrees at the back is a great idea. In terms of issues, I’ve just had niggles really, one of the catches on the bolts holding the top bunk up keeps coming off but I never use it anyway. There were some screw hiding stickers under the front lockers not on where they should be. I also have dirty marks on the floor but I guess it was a demo. They were sold out everywhere I tried, even dealer specials. I think a 303 would be a great idea. I’ve slept quite comfortably without pulling the bed out. Molly then sleeps in the space by the worktop extension. I loved the L shaped lounge, big side window and tv shelf, that’s what’s sold it to me. I tow with a Skoda Karoq 2.0 petrol 4x4 so barely notice the caravan there it’s so light. I will invest in an awning at some point. Anyway, love the caravan and wish you many happy trips in yours. I’m off up to North Wales to get Molly to the beach this weekend!
I think Dougal is simply overwhelmed by the sheer brilliance of the caravan he can’t muster the words. He is such a gorgeous pup 💕. Great review by the way 👍
Yes! Elddis should definitely make a 303! As much as I really like the 'L' shaped lounge, my utter dislike for those types of bunk-beds really puts me off the Xplore 304 and why I gravitate towards the Bailey Discovery D4-2. That is despite seeing that the Xplore has some major winning features over the D4-2! The GRP underside being one of them!
Had our 304 2 years now love it We have removed the bunk matress and ladder and we store all our bedding in the gap that is left . 2 pillows the small ikea ones , a double sleeping bag, matress topper and 2 fleece blankets all fit in the gap. I also upgraded the front pull out piece of wood to a piece of teak any similar density would do. Ours split 1st time of use build error . Very easy to do
I agree about making a 303! That and putting a single piece wall board in the wash room to avoid needless extra maintenance. I love the L shaped lounge design and simple, modern upholstery. A brilliant little van!
A couple of other things we have done to ours is in the cupboard next to the microwave removed the metalwork put 4 shelf pegs in the holes that are already there cut a piece of hardboard pvc wrapped it much more usable space . We fitted a privacy curtain across the double bed with a few hook/ clips command strip and an extendable net curtain rail no drilling no tension. Laminated small piece of cardboard taped to top of fridge flip down at night. All removable before service leaving no trace for warranty voids
We had an Xplore 302. Loved it, Loved it, Loved it. My favourite caravan ever. Brilliant. Sadly succumbed to uneconomic to fix damp. Still miss it. Why don’t they make it now. ( last made in 2013). Never mind a 303: go back to the 302. I would buy it again ( in spite of the damp).
I went to view the 304 following your earlier review. I agree about needing a 303 in the range! That would be perfect for me as a 1-2 berth, without the bunk.
Hi, we bought a used 304 at the beginning of the year after watching your review you done last year. We absolutely love it! It's really easy to tow and the layout is great. We wouldn't swap ours for any other caravan.
HI Andrew thank you for this video. Made me go to Kimberley Caravans and I bought an Xplore 2019. Salesman Richard was extremely helpful and helped with my trade in .. am a very happy customer 😊
We had a 304 and loved it. As Becky of CaraVanOlogy mentioned we did remove our top bunk.The row of screw holes left behind were covered with those little round stick on covers that match the wood. This saved much weight and gave a very handy shelf for storing lots easy to get to things when pitched up. Then if you ever sell your van just screw the piano hinge back on and its back to standard. Hope your 304 Activ gives you as good a service and enjoyment as our 304 did.
Glad you are enjoying it, the colour scheme of the wood, the floor, plugs and switches are the same as our 2022 Crusader, it seems you have been lucky on niggles, we haven’t been so lucky with ours and do have a few faults which have warranty claims put in for, however I will say none of the faults are due to Elddis these are all parts that are bought in for it. Enjoy your new caravan and look forward to more videos!
Totally agree a 303 would be perfect for us as grandparents and one grandchild it would work so well. Lovely looking caravan Andrew well done look forward to your future videos.
I come a year late to this party, but I am now in the "research" stages for a light caravan to tow with my Tesla MY. Like you, single with 2 doggies, and I need some "office" as well as a bedroom. A 303 version would tick all my boxes. At the moment the Swift Sprite Alpine 4 seems to be in the lead for me with the fixed bed, but if Elddis could make this van's dinette area a bit better as suggested, I want one! I would definitely have the weight up plated as well.
Hi Andrew, I'm so pleased you love your New Caravan, it is Beautiful!! I love the 2 Part Door, nice to see a decent Catch for securing the Door when Open. Loving the L Shaped Lounge & the Long Side Window too! Dougal looks so at home sat there! I agree with You about the Dinette Area, it's ideal for when using a Laptop etc. but having the Small Window due to the Pull Down Bunk it's restricting the Light coming in! Wishing You & Dougal "Happy Travels", Thank You for sharing. Lots of Love to You & Dougal 💖 💜 XX XX
We ordered a 2023 Xplore 304 earlier this month for delivery (hopefully) in Feb/Mar next year. We went for this model so we could take grandchildren away with us on occasional trips. We would only take one at a time. I totally agree with your comments on the top bunk bed. I would much rather that it was an option as I would rather not have it.
Hi again Andrew... beautiful van.....really well styled... bit too small for us in real terms bit lovely none the less.....Dougal..well... he's hilarious lol.... cheers 'Paolo and Roger aka 'The Camp Caravanners'
Chuffed for you MrD... and Dougal. That looks an impressive set up at a fair price. I wish you many happy miles of travel and, as always, look forwards to future vids. Cheers, 😊👍
I’m in the same position as you, single with a dog. Had decided on a TAB 400 until you threw a spanner in the works with this beautiful little van! More thinking to do! I only work April to October so want to see how many campsites are available in the winter. I haven’t caravanned since I was child in the seventies growing up in Germany. It’s going to take a lot of courage to get started but I keep watching your videos and they will help me to achieve my goal. Please keep the videos coming, they are an absolute godsend for a newbie and entertaining to boot. Thank you! Sharon and her Princess, Sasha!
Thanks Sharon! I have yet to try the heating in this caravan in the winter so I can't compare yet to the Truma heating in the T@b. I'm sure once you take the plunge you'll be fine - people on campsites are ALWAYS willing to help! Good luck.
I am loving your new caravan, the corner sofa/bed is the best since it doesn’t take as much space as the U shape but you can still rest your back on it. Definitely one to consider. Thanks for the video.
Luv it! And yes, a 303 would be so perfect. Fingers crossed 🤞i wish you a happy and enjoyable time during the next weeks and can‘t wait to see your upcoming videos. Stay happy and healthy the two of you. 😊 greetings
For us (with 2 greyhounds, 1 of which is rather large admittedly 😅) the 304 is what we're looking at next, but the bunk is what is putting me off. Either a 303 or the option to spec it either as a 3 berth (with or without overhead lockers) or as a 4 berth with the bunk would be spot on for us. Anyway, great review and really helped us make our minds up as to what to aim for in the next van
We've just got our new elddis too with the same fridge and ours does that with the bottom latch. If you push it to the left a little bit more it clicks into place and doesn't re lock. Love your caravan. For being small it looks so spacious 👍
I love the inside and out of your new caravan. Bright and airy. Your suggestion of the 303 model would be really nice I agree. Love the big lounge window too.
Very nice indeed Andrew. Isn’t it amazing how the smaller caravans seem to offer so much useable space. I am sure you and Dougal will have many happy tours 😃 Trev n Sue
We bought this as our first caravan..and did us it as a 4 birth...had a great time...would highly recommend the explore 304 for a first time.e caravaner
Brilliant caravan. Much better width for towing. I remember going from a 7ft 2in to 7ft 6in and I was surprised how much of a difference it made for towing. Just a small thing but I'd prefer the door to be hinged on the left just in case it accidentally opens while moving.
It's a very handsome caravan Andrew. I've always had a sneaky admiration for what was the 302 and of course your new 304. Perfect ! Love the portrait window and the L shaped lounge. I too would have problems with the light carpets. I'm a bit of a mucky pup !
Hi there you two...we absolutely agree about the dinette/bunk...we said the same regarding the bunk etc...the dealer special is So much better than the original...it is a super caravan..Happy travels to you both..x
Love your caravan Andrew very impressive…very happy for you both I’m very envious of your life style 😂 I have to go back to my office desk after 2 weeks off. Love to Dougal 🥰
Dougal is such a good dog! There are time I feel the US manufacturers can learn much from the European caravans. Some of our brands are still stick built as we did 60 years ago! Wood frames, fiberglass insulation and corrugated aluminum siding. Dometic should build in an ambient light sensor for the indicator light brightness. Andrew, you have a beautiful caravan! I must confess to being envious!
Hari OM It's adorable! I would agree about the bunk berth; rather make that an option. Overall, though, it seems to have the Dougal seal of approval even if he is reluctant to confirm that!!! Have fun you two. YAM xx
I agree that the bunk should be an option or there should be a 303 model. The bunk makes me think of my first caravan: a sixties UK version Sprite 400 (another meaning to the expression suicide door using it in Holland :-)) This had a bunk made of two iron bars with a kind of textile hammock in between. Happy travels and enjoy your new caravan!
We have a 304 for 3 of us. The top bunk is used to store bedding from main bed during the day and only used for 3 nighters mainly. A removable bunk with large window would make sense as it would give top bunk a window if used
Yes, it's a brilliant little van, the layout with two sitting/eating areas, central kitchen etc. I agree a three berth version with a bigger window and overhead lockers would sell really well. The other thing is that the wardrobe could be made one to two inches less wide, and meaning the bunks at the back could be 1-2 inches longer, and rather more accommodating taller caravaners.
Thank you Andrew for the review. I really like your new caravan but i totaly agree with you with the bunk bed some cupboards and some Light will be more convenient. Enjoy your new caravan Andrew 👍🥳🥳🥳
Love this video congratulations to you and Doug all. I think that the single person caravan is an untapped market. Your comments re cupboards instead of bunks should be an option.
Nice little caravan Andrew, just a note on the bed support/ edge, I’ve seen two examples where the build quality was not as it should be for a bed, when you go back to dealer get them to strengthen it before it breaks completely & you end up on the floor 🤔🤔🤔 other than that I hope you & Dougal have many happy trips with it.
We have come on to this video as we are looking at this caravan as a option,we have spent the last 8 years motorhoming,but think its time for a change as we are now doing a lot of sites and think it would meet are needs theres 2 of us plus 2 dogs and I like the dinning at the back,is there any othere caravan that has the same lay out and size or is it unique,ie end dinner and L shape lounge just love the way its layed out
Good idea Rog. But why hundreds of people need to conjure up a workaround speaks for itself. Don't the designers actually use these appliances? Hope all good with you.
Looks like a lovely van, Andrew. There's a six year-old Xplore 586 with fixed rear bunks, an end washroom and separate shower currently for sale at a dealer local to me for a touch under £14k that would be ideal for us if we were in the market. Must say they're very stylish even in standard factory guise. And super-lightweight!
I hope you like my gorgeous little caravan! I'm over the moon. In the next video I'll talk a little more about the heating and hot water, and about the effect that downsizing from the 1500kg Compass has had on the range when towing with the EV. Oh, and who's with me in that Elddis need to develop the Xplore 303? ;)
Thank you Andrew and congratulations 🥳🥳🥳🥳😘
Yep, a 303 would be perfect. We use the top bunk for storage of bedding most of the time.
Have you a link to that update Andrew 😊 , water heating etc 😊
I totally agree with your comment on making this a 3 berth instead of a 4. I've often said lockers above the rear dinette would offer more useful storage than the bunk, which is only adding weight. Lovely shot at the end of you and Dougal.
Congratulations on your and Dougal's new van. My wife and I, retired, in our mid 60's and new to caravanning bought a used 304 model as our first van end 2020 and just LOVE it and caravanning. For sleeping my wife uses the front couch as a single bed, and I just fit on the lower bunk. The wider base fits my CPAP machine. And my wife doesn't have to climb over me at night with the horizontal double bed. We use the opened top bunk to store bedding when we move pitch. I use a £1 battery LED reading light stuck on the bottom of the lower bunk. But I agree, a 303 would be better. We also love the large front single window, the L shape lounge and large offside portrait window. The design of this 304 van is clearly perfect because it has remained unchanged for over a decade, and yet still won the Caravan magazine award for Compact Van of the Year for 2023! Proof enough.
Just discovered your channel and videos as we head off in March on our first long tour to Portugal, following your advice on crossing, route and route planning. Very much enjoying your style and quality of videos. Keep up the good work. And thank you.
Excellent! Enjoy Portugal - wonderful country!
Love this caravan. It’s my favourite EXCEPT for that upper bunk that is not required. Totally agree with you about this!
Maybe someone can do a "dealer special", remove the bunk and use the already fitted bunk supports to support a locker unit? Come on Kimberley! If Elddis won't do it, YOU CAN!
A ‘303’ makes a lot of sense. Great caravan and a hint at the future in my mind as mor people move to EVs. We have an Eriba Touring 530 and our ‘dinette’ end is exactly as you describe for your perfect ‘303’ - generous seats, table, lights, loads of lockers, huge windows and can convert to a single bed making it a 3 birth.
We have just taken possession of our 304. I removed the bunk which left me a really useful shelf and it is so easy to tow which I also love. Clearly it is compact but the large lounge and separate dining area make it feel quite big. I also love this van👍👍
Excellent. Yes, it's definitely bigger inside than out. Cheers Kenny.
Hi Andrew!
Thanks so much for showing off the travel journal. It's so wonderful to see yourself and others gathering their memories within its pages 😁
Thank you also for showing us around your new caravan. I'm totally with you on the carpet runners over a fitted carpet, particularly with dogs and their muddy paws! I also like your idea for removing the bunk. Far too many caravans are built around family holidays, when in reality, a growing number are being used for long term travel and accommodation. We removed our side dinette bunk in favour of a long worktop many years ago and haven't needed nor missed it. Mind, come to think of it, it's so far from the original build, none of it recognisable from the plans!
Looking forward to following your adventures closely this autumn!
🐕🐾
Thanks guys!
We do love the 304! Really goes back to "old" days where the aim was to pack in as much as possible into a short wheelbase, and some vans these days go to the other end of the spectrum. Cant wait to see what you get up to
I agree with your ideas re the bunk bed,window and extra storage. I recently travelled around that there Engerland for nearly seven weeks and have to say I needed every bit of storage I had. So, yes ditch the bed. 👍🖖🏴🏴🏴
Beautiful caravan Andrew! Love it, it's just right for you and Dougs! I agree there should be a 303 model, I would say it's probably more like 10-15% use the bunk beds. Anyway enjoy your new baby!! I'm sure you'll have many adventures in her! Enjoy Dusseldorf, I look forward to seeing what's new over there! Say hello to Camper Tobi, Petra and Andi too! Sending hugs xxx 😘🐕🥰
I will Anne, many thanks xx
Since Erwin Hymer have taken over Elddis group have they rectified cracking panels on the Xplore range because i had a brand new Explore 5 yrs ago and apart from water ingress around the front window after 3 yrs the rear panels started cracking of which Eldiss weren't interested consequently i got rid
I assume you mean elddis haven't rectified your panel cracking? - If so, I absolutely agree. We have 10 cracks +water ingress on our Xplore 304 but elddis is not interested (would cost us £9000 to repair!!). We had the front window ingress problem at 4 yrs old too - that was corrected. Elddis reneges on their major cracking faults; all I can say "it's dreadful treatment of customers." Elddis is under financial strain, maybe disgruntled customers are not coming back for more of the same!
Hi we sold the rot box on we were treated terribly by Eldiss..hymer and I wouldn't touch a Eldiss caravan with a barge pole sorry to hear about your problem it's heartbreaking when you spend all that money and get treated like yourself. Can't blv watchdog on the TV have never got involved.
@@philipvayro6293 Hi totally agree- Yes, it;s an absolute scandal -we've been equally badly treated as you. I think the word has finally got out to new customers. Elddis lost £4.5m last year; dealers are shunning elddis vans because customers are voting with their feet. About time too!!
As a couple with a large hound, we have removed the bunk, kept the useful shelf and have the perfect 3 berth....!
I'd love a 303. We're a family of 4 but my eldest is at the point of using an awning annexe anyway. Totally agree with the 3 locker idea too. Do it Elddis! Great content Andrew 👍
Cheers!
Love your new van Andrew, wish you and Mr Dougal many happy nights out. Nice layout and totally agree about ditching the top bunk and putting lockers up there which would weigh less anyway and weight wise my C3 Picasso could tow it. Good luck on your new adventures and looking forward to the vids.
Many thanks Stephen!
Loved the video. I have exactly the same van. Bought from Kimberley Notts. I had their demo. I paid just over £18k but don’t have to bike rack etc. It’s just me and my dog Molly too. I even have blue check blankets very similar at the front! I’ve removed all the stuff I don’t need like the bunk mattress, ladder, curtain, shower curtain etc. I’ve also bought some mats to fit as carpets. I don’t have the issue with the catches on the fridge you do. Moving the plug around 45 degrees at the back is a great idea. In terms of issues, I’ve just had niggles really, one of the catches on the bolts holding the top bunk up keeps coming off but I never use it anyway. There were some screw hiding stickers under the front lockers not on where they should be. I also have dirty marks on the floor but I guess it was a demo. They were sold out everywhere I tried, even dealer specials. I think a 303 would be a great idea. I’ve slept quite comfortably without pulling the bed out. Molly then sleeps in the space by the worktop extension. I loved the L shaped lounge, big side window and tv shelf, that’s what’s sold it to me. I tow with a Skoda Karoq 2.0 petrol 4x4 so barely notice the caravan there it’s so light. I will invest in an awning at some point. Anyway, love the caravan and wish you many happy trips in yours. I’m off up to North Wales to get Molly to the beach this weekend!
Great stuff Steve! Maybe we will see each other on site one day :)
I think Dougal is simply overwhelmed by the sheer brilliance of the caravan he can’t muster the words. He is such a gorgeous pup 💕. Great review by the way 👍
Many thanks Kirstie!
Yes! Elddis should definitely make a 303! As much as I really like the 'L' shaped lounge, my utter dislike for those types of bunk-beds really puts me off the Xplore 304 and why I gravitate towards the Bailey Discovery D4-2. That is despite seeing that the Xplore has some major winning features over the D4-2! The GRP underside being one of them!
Had our 304 2 years now love it
We have removed the bunk matress and ladder and we store all our bedding in the gap that is left . 2 pillows the small ikea ones , a double sleeping bag, matress topper and 2 fleece blankets all fit in the gap.
I also upgraded the front pull out piece of wood to a piece of teak any similar density would do. Ours split 1st time of use build error . Very easy to do
Top tip for the bunk, cheers Steve!
I agree about making a 303! That and putting a single piece wall board in the wash room to avoid needless extra maintenance. I love the L shaped lounge design and simple, modern upholstery. A brilliant little van!
A couple of other things we have done to ours is in the cupboard next to the microwave removed the metalwork put 4 shelf pegs in the holes that are already there cut a piece of hardboard pvc wrapped it much more usable space .
We fitted a privacy curtain across the double bed with a few hook/ clips command strip and an extendable net curtain rail no drilling no tension.
Laminated small piece of cardboard taped to top of fridge flip down at night.
All removable before service leaving no trace for warranty voids
Excellent ideas, cheers Steve.
Completely agree about a 303 version, Elddis please take note. Lovely van for Dougal and you, enjoy.
Hi Andrew. It looks lovely Caravan. I think the Bed Baton is a common fault. I hope make many happy memories. Thanks Phil:)
Cheers P&J!
I Upgraded bed baton to a piece of teak never going to split or break
We had an Xplore 302. Loved it, Loved it, Loved it. My favourite caravan ever. Brilliant. Sadly succumbed to uneconomic to fix damp. Still miss it. Why don’t they make it now. ( last made in 2013). Never mind a 303: go back to the 302. I would buy it again ( in spite of the damp).
Definitely 303 would be a winner
Looks wonderful! Especially the lounge is very cosy and perfect for the two of you ❤ Enjoy!!
I went to view the 304 following your earlier review. I agree about needing a 303 in the range! That would be perfect for me as a 1-2 berth, without the bunk.
Hi, we bought a used 304 at the beginning of the year after watching your review you done last year. We absolutely love it! It's really easy to tow and the layout is great. We wouldn't swap ours for any other caravan.
Phew! That's great to hear Arthur!
Agree with you Andrew. A 303 three berth with a bigger window in the rear and three locker overhead would be perfect for me and the mrs.
Completely agree with building the 303 - Fab vlog and give Dougal a cuddle from me
HI Andrew thank you for this video. Made me go to Kimberley Caravans and I bought an Xplore 2019. Salesman Richard was extremely helpful and helped with my trade in .. am a very happy customer 😊
Wowsers! Welcome to the Xplore Club! Glad you were looked after so well, but it doesn't surprise me given what lovely people they are.
Lovely caravan, agree it would be great as a 3berth with a bigger window. Looks right for you and Dougal, take care both and stay safe. x
I would like the fixed bed version. So glad your happy with it. I hope you have a great time in it. Xx stay safe xx
Thank you for sharing your happy day. Great to see you enjoying your new second home. Best regards from me and my own Jack Russell Holly.
Cheers Anthony!
You are spot on with the Eldis 303. I’d buy it for sure 😉
We had a 304 and loved it. As Becky of CaraVanOlogy mentioned we did remove our top bunk.The row of screw holes left behind were covered with those little round stick on covers that match the wood. This saved much weight and gave a very handy shelf for storing lots easy to get to things when pitched up. Then if you ever sell your van just screw the piano hinge back on and its back to standard. Hope your 304 Activ gives you as good a service and enjoyment as our 304 did.
Agree wholeheartedly re. the need for the bunkless version. A wasted storage opportunity if you have no need for that bunk. Great review 👍
Glad you are enjoying it, the colour scheme of the wood, the floor, plugs and switches are the same as our 2022 Crusader, it seems you have been lucky on niggles, we haven’t been so lucky with ours and do have a few faults which have warranty claims put in for, however I will say none of the faults are due to Elddis these are all parts that are bought in for it. Enjoy your new caravan and look forward to more videos!
Andrew the van is lovely, whilst you chatted about the bunk I thought I’d take it out, 303 is a great idea. Hugs to Dougal ❤️🐕
Cheers Colin!
Fantastic review Mr Andrew Ditton I would love a 303,303, 303, 303, 303, 303, Mr Elddis.
Totally agree a 303 would be perfect for us as grandparents and one grandchild it would work so well. Lovely looking caravan Andrew well done look forward to your future videos.
I come a year late to this party, but I am now in the "research" stages for a light caravan to tow with my Tesla MY. Like you, single with 2 doggies, and I need some "office" as well as a bedroom. A 303 version would tick all my boxes. At the moment the Swift Sprite Alpine 4 seems to be in the lead for me with the fixed bed, but if Elddis could make this van's dinette area a bit better as suggested, I want one! I would definitely have the weight up plated as well.
Hi Andrew, I'm so pleased you love your New Caravan, it is Beautiful!! I love the 2 Part Door, nice to see a decent Catch for securing the Door when Open. Loving the L Shaped Lounge & the Long Side Window too! Dougal looks so at home sat there! I agree with You about the Dinette Area, it's ideal for when using a Laptop etc. but having the Small Window due to the Pull Down Bunk it's restricting the Light coming in! Wishing You & Dougal "Happy Travels", Thank You for sharing. Lots of Love to You & Dougal 💖 💜 XX XX
Thanks Susan!
Haha! Toffee ALWAYS does that, sits anywhere but where his blankets are! The complete outfit is awesome Andrew, congratulations.
Thanks so much Simon!
We ordered a 2023 Xplore 304 earlier this month for delivery (hopefully) in Feb/Mar next year. We went for this model so we could take grandchildren away with us on occasional trips. We would only take one at a time. I totally agree with your comments on the top bunk bed. I would much rather that it was an option as I would rather not have it.
Hi again Andrew... beautiful van.....really well styled... bit too small for us in real terms bit lovely none the less.....Dougal..well... he's hilarious lol.... cheers 'Paolo and Roger aka 'The Camp Caravanners'
Totally agree with Dometic light's. Have exactly the same problem.
Chuffed for you MrD... and Dougal. That looks an impressive set up at a fair price. I wish you many happy miles of travel and, as always, look forwards to future vids. Cheers, 😊👍
Many thanks Mo!
I’m in the same position as you, single with a dog. Had decided on a TAB 400 until you threw a spanner in the works with this beautiful little van! More thinking to do! I only work April to October so want to see how many campsites are available in the winter. I haven’t caravanned since I was child in the seventies growing up in Germany. It’s going to take a lot of courage to get started but I keep watching your videos and they will help me to achieve my goal. Please keep the videos coming, they are an absolute godsend for a newbie and entertaining to boot. Thank you! Sharon and her Princess, Sasha!
Thanks Sharon! I have yet to try the heating in this caravan in the winter so I can't compare yet to the Truma heating in the T@b. I'm sure once you take the plunge you'll be fine - people on campsites are ALWAYS willing to help! Good luck.
Totally agree with you about the bunkbed enjoy
I am loving your new caravan, the corner sofa/bed is the best since it doesn’t take as much space as the U shape but you can still rest your back on it. Definitely one to consider. Thanks for the video.
Love your little van🤩!! But absolutely agree, a 303 would be even more perfect👍
Great caravan choice. No other manufacturer makes such a well spec’d spacious and thought out van
I'm inclined to agree Jonathan, it does offer exceptional value.
Luv it! And yes, a 303 would be so perfect. Fingers crossed 🤞i wish you a happy and enjoyable time during the next weeks and can‘t wait to see your upcoming videos. Stay happy and healthy the two of you. 😊 greetings
For us (with 2 greyhounds, 1 of which is rather large admittedly 😅) the 304 is what we're looking at next, but the bunk is what is putting me off. Either a 303 or the option to spec it either as a 3 berth (with or without overhead lockers) or as a 4 berth with the bunk would be spot on for us. Anyway, great review and really helped us make our minds up as to what to aim for in the next van
Another very profesional video. Well done Andrew!
Many thanks Craig!
We've just got our new elddis too with the same fridge and ours does that with the bottom latch. If you push it to the left a little bit more it clicks into place and doesn't re lock. Love your caravan. For being small it looks so spacious 👍
Thanks for the tip Heather!
A perfect compact touring caravan 👍🏻
I love the inside and out of your new caravan. Bright and airy. Your suggestion of the 303 model would be really nice I agree. Love the big lounge window too.
Very nice indeed Andrew. Isn’t it amazing how the smaller caravans seem to offer so much useable space. I am sure you and Dougal will have many happy tours 😃 Trev n Sue
Yep... Dump the bunk!!! Cracking layout!!!
We bought this as our first caravan..and did us it as a 4 birth...had a great time...would highly recommend the explore 304 for a first time.e caravaner
Great review as always Andrew and i’m pleased you love your new Caravan, and yes Elddis - listen to Mr Ditton and make a 303
That’s lovely Andrew! So pleased for you 😊 xx
Thanks so much Mads! 😊
Yes, a 303 version would be a really great idea!
Brilliant caravan. Much better width for towing. I remember going from a 7ft 2in to 7ft 6in and I was surprised how much of a difference it made for towing. Just a small thing but I'd prefer the door to be hinged on the left just in case it accidentally opens while moving.
Yes, I agree! But I guess they didn't want it opening into the kitchen window (although that could be made a sliding window).
Totally agree on the bunk bed. Great video!
So agree with you Andrew about the bunks,they will not be used. As for the fridge LEDS put a plaster on them.
Thanks Andrew, brilliant review. Agree your idea of a 303 … would be perfect for couples/singles.
It looks lovely and comfortable.
It's a very handsome caravan Andrew.
I've always had a sneaky admiration for what was the 302 and of course your new 304.
Perfect !
Love the portrait window and the L shaped lounge.
I too would have problems with the light carpets. I'm a bit of a mucky pup !
Great video on a great little caravan. We love ours and agree with a lot of your thoughts on it. We agree with the 303!
I would definitely go for this if as suggested they ditched the bunk, it would be perfect for us then. Still Interested in the current design!
Hi there you two...we absolutely agree about the dinette/bunk...we said the same regarding the bunk etc...the dealer special is So much better than the original...it is a super caravan..Happy travels to you both..x
WHAT YOU SAY IS SO TRUE ,BETTER AS A TWO BIRTH WITH MORE SPACE
Love your caravan Andrew very impressive…very happy for you both I’m very envious of your life style 😂 I have to go back to my office desk after 2 weeks off. Love to Dougal 🥰
Hi I agree a 3 berth would be a wonderful idea for reasons you mention.
Anna from Kawerau NZ
Dougal is such a good dog! There are time I feel the US manufacturers can learn much from the European caravans. Some of our brands are still stick built as we did 60 years ago! Wood frames, fiberglass insulation and corrugated aluminum siding. Dometic should build in an ambient light sensor for the indicator light brightness. Andrew, you have a beautiful caravan! I must confess to being envious!
Cheers Mark!
Hi Andrew I agree a 303 would be a great idea I have a explore 554 it's a great van look forward to watching you and Moore vloggs 🙂
Gorgois new van! Enjoy!
Hari OM
It's adorable! I would agree about the bunk berth; rather make that an option. Overall, though, it seems to have the Dougal seal of approval even if he is reluctant to confirm that!!! Have fun you two. YAM xx
Thanks Yam!
I agree that the bunk should be an option or there should be a 303 model. The bunk makes me think of my first caravan: a sixties UK version Sprite 400 (another meaning to the expression suicide door using it in Holland :-)) This had a bunk made of two iron bars with a kind of textile hammock in between. Happy travels and enjoy your new caravan!
Ah, the hammock bunks... Many thanks Rogier.
We have a 304 for 3 of us. The top bunk is used to store bedding from main bed during the day and only used for 3 nighters mainly. A removable bunk with large window would make sense as it would give top bunk a window if used
Yes, it's a brilliant little van, the layout with two sitting/eating areas, central kitchen etc. I agree a three berth version with a bigger window and overhead lockers would sell really well. The other thing is that the wardrobe could be made one to two inches less wide, and meaning the bunks at the back could be 1-2 inches longer, and rather more accommodating taller caravaners.
Good idea, but I do wonder if they are constrained by the width of a standard fridge which is underneath? Cheers.
or have the same layout but in the 422 shell?
Thank you Andrew for the review.
I really like your new caravan but i totaly agree with you with the bunk bed some cupboards and some Light will be more convenient.
Enjoy your new caravan Andrew 👍🥳🥳🥳
Merci Gaëtan!
@@andrewjditton
De rien mon ami Andrew 😉
Love this video congratulations to you and Doug all. I think that the single person caravan is an untapped market. Your comments re cupboards instead of bunks should be an option.
I would definitely buy a 303
Eldis please make that happen .Love the layout have the bunk and the small window.
303 would be an excellent idea.
Nice little caravan Andrew, just a note on the bed support/ edge, I’ve seen two examples where the build quality was not as it should be for a bed, when you go back to dealer get them to strengthen it before it breaks completely & you end up on the floor 🤔🤔🤔 other than that I hope you & Dougal have many happy trips with it.
No worries Pete, I'll be getting that done just as soon as I can. At the moment I'm being careful and avoiding the edge of the bed ;)
The 303 sounds like an upddated ABI adventurer. Great idea!
Yes! And the blue of the Activ even more so ;)
Awesome caravan. Enjoy it👍👍
Many thanks!
We have come on to this video as we are looking at this caravan as a option,we have spent the last 8 years motorhoming,but think its time for a change as we are now doing a lot of sites and think it would meet are needs theres 2 of us plus 2 dogs and I like the dinning at the back,is there any othere caravan that has the same lay out and size or is it unique,ie end dinner and L shape lounge just love the way its layed out
Love your doggy 💙
Hi Andrew, we have a fridge cover goes over the lights and avoids you touching it when next to fridge. Held with velcro.
Good idea Rog. But why hundreds of people need to conjure up a workaround speaks for itself. Don't the designers actually use these appliances? Hope all good with you.
Looks like a lovely van, Andrew. There's a six year-old Xplore 586 with fixed rear bunks, an end washroom and separate shower currently for sale at a dealer local to me for a touch under £14k that would be ideal for us if we were in the market. Must say they're very stylish even in standard factory guise. And super-lightweight!
Wow, they seem to be holding their value at the moment! Hope all good with you, chap.
Lucky man Andrew, your rig is awesome, happy travels! xx
I agree, the 303 would be great.
Lovely caravan, makes the most of a small space .
Andrew you got your self a very nice caravan, i hope you will make many videos with it because you do them so well 👍
Many thanks Jan!
Definitely agree that the bunk could be an option and a 3-berth version available.
Yes, I definitely agree with you, make it a three birth please Kimberley!