Our Used Caravan Checklist

Buying a used caravan can be a great way to save money, but it also comes with its own set of risks. Without the right information, you could end up with unexpected repairs, hidden damage, or safety concerns that turn your dream caravan into a money pit.

To help you steer clear of a lemon, we’ve put together this handy checklist that will walk you through all the key areas to inspect before you buy, so you can have confidence in the caravan you’re choosing. From the bodywork and electrics to the interior and the documentation, our used caravan checklist will show you exactly what to look out for so you can be confident that your future caravan is ready to hit the road for your next adventure.

Exterior Inspection

Bodywork

The bodywork is your caravan’s first line of defence against the elements, and is probably what you’ll spend the most time checking. Start by inspecting the bodywork for any obvious and visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or discolouration – these not only indicate that the caravan has not been cared for properly, but also create an opening for rain to get beneath the panels.

Although minor dents (such as those caused by hail or gravel) are to be expected for a second-hand caravan and are nothing to stress about, anything larger than a 50 cent piece could be evidence of larger structural damage, and warrants close attention.

You will also want to pay special attention to the front and rear panels, as these areas are often more vulnerable to wear and tear. Additionally, be wary of stickers or patches on the exterior—they could be hiding a repair or cover-up done by the previous owner that might lead to future problems. Inspect the paint for any inconsistencies in colour or texture, as this can also indicate previous repairs that haven’t been done properly or that the owner is attempting to hide.

Windows and Seals

After the bodywork, the windows are the next line of defence and play an essential role in keeping your caravan secure and weatherproof. Windows are also the most likely place for leaks to occur, so check them carefully and look for any scratches, cracks, or condensation build-up, which may suggest the window seals are faulty, and check the seals themselves for any signs of wear or splits that could lead to leaks. Additionally, test that all the windows open and close smoothly.

Doors and Lockers

Next, check that all exterior doors and lockers are in good working order. Open and close each one to check if the hinges are intact and that there is no stiffness or rust. Be sure to also check any external locker doors and ensure they are free from cracks and lock securely. Damaged seals or locks can be a costly repair down the track, so it’s important to check their condition before you commit to buying the caravan.

It’s also a good idea to make sure that the current owner has all the keys for the doors and lockers and that they function properly. Although you might look a little odd, don’t be afraid to stick your head inside any lockers and have a sniff, as any unusual smells could indicate mould or damp issues that may not be immediately visible. You will definitely want to be aware of these before a caravan purchase instead of after.

Wheels and Tyres

There’s an old saying that you should invest in anything that goes between you and the ground, and the same is true for caravan. For everything that goes into designing and building a caravan, it’s ultimately the tyres that are responsible for keeping you on the road, and safely, at that.

When you’re doing your inspection, check the tyre tread depth (which legally must be at least 1.6mm) and look for any signs of cracks, bulges, or uneven wear that could affect towing. Because caravans sit unused and exposed to the elements for so much of the year, their tyres are far more prone to perishing than cars, putting them at greater risk of blowouts while you’re on the road, so it pays to look closely at the rubber and see if it shows any signs of perishing.

Tyres with uneven wear or damage to the rubber or rims can indicate poor maintenance, so be sure to ask how old the tyres are and whether they have been replaced recently. Finally, don’t forget to check that the caravan comes with a spare tyre in good condition and that all the wheels match, as using mismatched wheels can cause serious issues when towing and presents a major risk not only to your safety, but everyone else on the road.

Chassis and A-frame

While the tyres keep you on the road, the chassis, and especially the A-frame are what keep the caravan connected to your car and allow you to tow in the first place, so check these areas for any signs of rust, cracks, or damage. Although the chassis and A-frame are almost always galvanised to prolong their lifespan, they are still constantly exposed to the elements, and their components are often the first things on a caravan to rust, especially considering so many Aussies live on the coast.

When you’re inspecting these components, ensure the tow hitch moves freely and that the handbrake operates smoothly. Press down on the hitch head to test if the damper compresses properly, as this applies the brakes when you brake in your vehicle. The jockey wheel should also wind up and down easily, and the tyre on the jockey wheel should be in good condition. If you notice any serious wear or rust on the A-frame or its components, you’re better off walking away from the purchase, as these will require extensive and expensive repairs before the caravan can be safely towed.

Roof

The roof of the caravan is another key area to inspect, even if it’s a little difficult to get up there. If you can get up, you’ll want to look for any signs of water damage, such as stains, cracks, or leaks around the roof fittings and the joints between the panels.

If the caravan has solar panels, get up close and check for any cracks or discolouration that may indicate they are not functioning properly, and also inspect the electrical connections feeding into the caravan’s interior for any visible damage.

Roof issues can be difficult and expensive to fix, so take your time when checking for potential leaks or damage. Remember, water always flows down, and leaks in the roof will easily find their way into the caravan’s walls and floor. If you do find a leak, think carefully about whether you want to proceed with the purchase, because that leak will cause you trouble for the life of the caravan.

Internal Inspection

Dampness

One of the most common issues in used caravans is dampness, which can lead to mould and structural damage, especially in timber-framed caravans. If you have access to one, use a damp meter to check for moisture levels, particularly around windows, corners, and cupboards, as this is where moisture builds up in caravans.

Readings under 20% are ideal, but anything higher could indicate an issue. When you’re looking for dampness, it pays to trust your nose – take note of any musty smells and identify where they’re coming from if you can, as these could suggest hidden damp problems. Water stains around the windows and joints are also red flags, as water and dampness will be a persistent problem once it has made its way into a caravan’s cavity, especially on timber-framed caravans. Finally, watch out for a seller trying to pull the wool over your nose by using air fresheners, as this likely means they’re trying to cover up the smell of damp.

Flooring and Upholstery

Although many modern caravans have moved to enclosed, composite flooring, older second-hand caravans are likely to have wooden flooring over a wooden frame. If this is the case, you’ll want to test the flooring throughout the caravan. What you’re looking for here is spongy or uneven areas that could indicate hidden damage beneath the surface, whether that’s water damage or damage to the frame. Loose carpets also can be a sign of wear and should be lifted to check the condition of the floor underneath.

Next, examine the upholstery for signs of wear, such as stains, tears, or flattened areas that could point to broken or damaged seat bases. If the caravan comes with removable cushions or mattresses, take them outside and inspect them from all angles for signs of dampness or mould, especially if they’ve been kept in storage areas under beds.

Furniture, Cabinetry and Storage

While you’re less likely to find any major damage to the furniture or storage, it’s worth checking that they’re in good working order. Check that all cupboards, drawers, and lockers open smoothly and close securely, and inspect the hinges and latches for any signs of wear or damage.

Perhaps most importantly, look for any peeling laminate or signs of water damage on the cabinetry, especially on kitchen surfaces and around sinks.

Appliances

Check that all the appliances in the caravan work properly, going through them one by one with the seller. Caravan appliances can be very expensive to replace, so don’t be shy!

For each, ask the seller to demonstrate that each appliance turns on and functions as expected, and let things like the oven, microwave, and washing machine (if you’re lucky enough to have one) run for a minute or two to make sure there are no issues.

While you’re looking over the appliances, check for missing components like shelves or trays and make sure things like the oven and microwave are clean don’t have any unpleasant odours. Test the control panels and buttons on each appliance to ensure they work and aren’t damaged. It is also worth asking the seller when the appliances were last inspected and signed off by an electrician, in case that is something you’ll need to shell out for.

You should also be sure that the appliances are properly fitted into the interior of the caravan. (This is an often-forgotten check!) If not, they can pose a serious safety risk.

Lights and Electrics

The electrical systems in the caravan should be checked thoroughly to make sure that it’s safe and in working order. Ask the seller to connect the caravan to mains power and test all internal and external lights, and ensure that all switches and control panels work without error and that the fuse box is in good condition.

Plug in multiple 240V appliances to check that the power doesn’t trip, and keep your nose out for any burning smells that could indicate faulty wiring. Make sure the battery charger is operational, as replacing it could add a major unexpected cost, and if possible, test the batteries to check that they still hold a charge and don’t get depleted too quickly.

While you can do a lot of initial tests and checks yourself, if you’re really considering the caravan and want extra peace of mind, it’s worth the money to pay a registered electrician to come and do a proper test.

Water and Gas Systems

Water System

Having a properly functioning water system is essential for any caravan, while a dodgy system can cause you all sorts of headaches. Firstly, check for leaks in the lines by turning on all taps and the shower and listen for any odd noises when the water system is turned on, and make sure all fittings are secure. Additionally, don’t be afraid to crawl underneath the van and make sure the water tanks and connections are in good condition.

Look closely at the sinks, shower trays, and seals for any cracks or damage that could cause water to escape into the caravan’s cavity and cause problems down the line. Also, check that the water pump is present and operational, as replacements aren’t cheap.

Heating and Hot Water

The heating system and water heater should be fully operational before you consider buying the caravan, unless you enjoy spending your trips away feeling cold and miserable. Ask the seller to turn on the heater and water system and check for any unusual rattles, leaks, or signs of damage.

A working heater is a must if you plan to get away for anything more than a night or two, and a hot shower is one of the greatest luxuries after a long day on the road, so make sure that both systems are in good condition and function smoothly when in use.

Gas Bottles and Connections

If the caravan you’re looking at has a gas connection, then gas safety needs to be your top priority. Start by inspecting the gas bottles, hoses and fittings for any signs of damage or excessive wear, including bent or dented connections.

Next, move onto the gas appliances inside the caravan, such as the oven, hob, and heater, and test that they are working correctly, taking your time to listen and smell for any leaks. Next, check that the gas bottle is full and that the gauges are in good condition. Finally, check with the seller when the system was last inspected and signed off. Gas systems that haven’t been properly maintained pose a serious risk to your safety, so this is an area where you should be particularly vigilant.

Additional Considerations

Towing Capacity

Before buying a used caravan, double check that it is within your vehicle’s towing capacity. This includes checking the Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM) and Gross Combination Weight (GCW) to ensure that your vehicle can tow the caravan safely. If the caravan is too heavy for your vehicle, you may face legal issues, risk damage to both the caravan and your car, and endanger your own safety and that of other road users. Full weight information can usually be found on the caravan’s compliance plate, but if you can’t find it, a visit to a weigh station can help clarify whether the caravan is the right fit for your towing setup.

Documentation

Before buying a used caravan, you need to make sure that the seller has all the relevant documentation. Ask for service records, ownership history, and certificates for gas and electrical compliance. Make sure the caravan’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the paperwork, and check with relevant authorities to confirm there are no outstanding financial claims or liens on the caravan.

Start Your Journey to Caravan Ownership With Credit One

Whether you’re working with a caravan dealer or buying a caravan privately, we hope this guide has helped you make an informed decision and that you’ve found the perfect caravan for you! And, if you are looking to finance a used caravan, we can help with that to.

With extensive access to lenders and a range of caravan finance options, including secured caravan loans and private sale caravan loans, Credit One offers a quick pathway to loan approval and a loan that fits your financial situation and needs. Contact our team now and take your first step towards caravan ownership.

If you’ve got your eye on a secondhand caravan and are wondering what it will cost, use our caravan loan calculator to set your loan term, loan amount, and interest rate, and find out just how affordable financing can be. And if you’re still wondering what to get, explore the range of caravans, motorhomes and camper trailers for sale at Only Vans and find your dream model today.