good research = good decisions.
brought to you by CHECK WEIGHT – Mobile Caravan Weighing
Here are 90 tips for buying a caravan at a caravan show in Australia, specifically geared to help buyers make smart, informed choices:
Pre-Show Preparation
- Set a clear budget.
- Research caravan types (pop-top, off-road, hybrids, etc.).
- Make a checklist of must-haves and nice-to-haves.
- Check the show website for the exhibitor list.
- Download the event map ahead of time.
- Pre-book tickets to save time.
- Plan which days you’ll attend—weekdays are usually quieter.
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Take a water bottle and snacks.
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down notes.
What to Bring
- Tape measure for checking storage and bed sizes.
- Phone charger or power bank.
- Photos of your tow vehicle with specs.
- The towing specs of your vehicle.
- Sunglasses and a hat (outdoor displays can be hot).
- Your partner or co-traveller to help assess liveability.
- Bring a list of questions to ask dealers.
- USB stick or folder to collect brochures.
- Get a smartphone for taking pics/videos of your top picks.
- Bring a bag or backpack to carry flyers and free merch.
At the Show – Researching
- Visit different dealers to compare prices.
- Ask about show-only deals or bonuses.
- Look closely at build quality—check joins, seals, and drawers.
- Ask about chassis, suspension, and brakes.
- Check tyre brand and date codes.
- Ask if it’s off-road capable or just off-road looking.
- Find out what brand the appliances are.
- Ask how long the warranty is and what it covers.
- Check if the warranty is Australia-wide or limited.
- Ask about the frame—aluminium or timber?
Interior Inspection
- Lie on the bed—check comfort and size.
- Open every cupboard and drawer.
- Check the fridge and storage capacity.
- Test the shower for size and head height.
- Check how easy the toilet is to access.
- Sit at the dinette—can you comfortably eat there?
- Check for USB and 12v outlets.
- Make sure air conditioning and heating are included.
- Look for ceiling fans or vents.
- Check the window and blind operation.
Towing & Specs
- Ask for TARE, ATM, GTM, and ball weight.
- Compare with your tow vehicle’s towing capacity and GCM.
- Ask if weights are verified or estimates.
- Find out where the water tanks are located.
- Ask about stability features like ESC.
- Check the drawbar length and clearance.
- Look at the hitch—standard or DO35/off-road?
- Ask about brake controller requirements.
- Make sure it’s compliant with ADRs (Australian Design Rules).
- Ask about towing lessons or handover sessions.
Power, Water, & Gas
- Ask how many water tanks and capacities.
- Check if it has grey water capacity.
- Look for gas storage—2 bottles minimum is ideal. Can you change to 4.5 kg ?
- Ask how many batteries and what type.
- Check if it comes solar-ready or with panels.
- Ask what type of charger or inverter is included.
- Test the electrical control panel for ease of use.
- Ask how long it can run off-grid.
- Check if gas is plumbed to outside BBQ point.
- Ask about hot water system—gas, electric, or both?
Build Quality
- Tap the walls—listen for hollows or rattles.
- Look under the van—check welds and protection.
- Ask who manufactures the chassis.
- Look at panel joins—are they neat and sealed?
- Check for silicone blobs or poor finishing.
- Ask about water ingress history or prevention.
- Look at the insulation and underbody coating.
- Ask if it was built in-house or subcontracted.
- Compare local vs. imported builds.
- Ask for customer reviews or feedback.
After-Sales & Servicing
- Ask about servicing intervals and costs.
- Is there a service centre near your home?
- Who does warranty repairs?
- Check for road service or emergency support.
- Ask what’s included in the handover checklist.
- Look into dealer reputation online.
- Ask about common faults and how they’re fixed.
- Confirm access to spare parts.
- Ask if manuals are included for all appliances.
- Check online for owner’s groups or forums.
Show Specials & Finance
- Ask for written quotes—show pricing should be in writing.
- Check if there’s a show-only freebie (annex, towing gear, etc.).
- Ask about payment terms or deposits.
- Enquire about finance options at the show.
- Read all the fine print before signing anything.
- Don’t let urgency pressure you—sleep on it.
- Ask how long the offer is valid after the show.
- Compare the show deal with normal pricing online.
- Take photos of the price board or inclusions.
- Negotiate! Don’t accept the first offer.
Post-Show
- Organise your notes by brand/model.
- Research feedback on your shortlisted vans.
- Follow up with sales reps who were helpful.
- Book a second inspection if unsure.
- Ask to see the build process if custom ordering.
- Request a pre-delivery checklist.
- Consider an independent caravan inspector.
- Check insurance quotes for your shortlisted vans.
- Join online groups to ask real owners for opinions.
- Take your time—this is a big purchase. Buy smart.
This guide brought to you by CHECK WEIGHT – Mobile Cravan Weighing
We recommend weighing your vehicle prior to buying a caravan. By knowing your vehicle weight you can then (with the help of CHECK WEIGHT) estimate the effect of the caravan’s, tow ball weight on the vehicle’s GVM and rear axle weight. Vehicle weigh consultations are just $200, and may save you heaps of $$$$$$$$$
You may not need everyone of these 90 tips but hopefully this helps you make better buying decisions.
100% of our clients do research – however around 70% of our clients exceed at least one legal limit.
GOOD RESEARCH = GOOD DECISIONS – ENSURE YOUR RESEARCH IS THE RIGHT RESEARCH !
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