Before you buy

Set a budget, but be flexible as your initial thoughts may change as you explore the possibilities. It is always better to pay that little bit extra to get what you want, rather than compromise on quality or features. You may also set out looking for a good late model used caravan, and find for not a great deal more money you are able to select a new caravan, one that is more suitable to your needs which will have a full warranty.

Selecting the appropriate product:

• Is towing ability an important issue to you (it is to most people). Consider the benefits of an independent suspension.
• Check the towing specifications of your vehicle in your owners manual. If it is not able to tow the caravan you are considering buying then look at a different size or model caravan. You may even consider updating your tow vehicle to suit the caravan you want. If your tow vehicle information is not available, then contact your local Coromal Sales Centre, in most cases they will be able to provide you with the information you need.
• Check the weight of the caravan you are considering buying and keep in mind the weight saving benefit of an aluminium frame.
• Do I require a Camper, Pop Top or Caravan? Call in to a dealership that has all 3 types and ask for advice.
• If Storage in a garage or carport is an issue? Check your storage height and look for a product that suits, a standard Silhouette Camper towing height is only 1770 mm. The standard Pop Top up to 5.4 meters in length is only 2080 mm high unladen (in fact one of the lowest profile pop tops available).
• Will you be camping out? If you are, then a 12v battery system is a necessity and is ideal if you decide to use solar power.
• Stoves are available with 1 electric element in addition to the 3 gas burners. This can be very convenient when staying in Holiday Parks on powered sites rather than using your gas.
• If you are considering long trips consider aerodynamic profiles for reduced wind drag and improved fuel consumption. Low profiles are not just something attributed to pop tops the Coromal Princeton, due to the rake of the roof at the front is very similar in height at the leading edge to most Pop Tops.
• Check out the features and how they benefit you, do the comparisons and understand that cheap is certainly not the most important factor.
• Ensure the caravan you are buying conforms with the Recreational Vehicle Manufacturers Association of Australia code of standards and practices. If it does it will have a "RVMAA" badge affixed to it.
• Towing aids. Ask your local Coromal sales centre for advice on the correct towing aids to fit to your vehicle. They will generally have these in stock and will be able to set them up correctly for you.

Buy a recognised and respected brand, one that will stand the test of time and one that is styled for the current era. This is most important, as this will have an effect on your future resale or trade-in value.