Factors to consider when buying off-road caravans
When you’re in the market for an all-terrain camper, the sheer variety of these camper vans can be confusing. Since these caravans look a lot like regular caravans (the ones that are meant for the roads), things can get even more confusing. What sets off-road caravans apart from their on-road counterparts is the fact that they have been modified to handle unpaved roads, desert roads and bushland with ease. In addition, these modifications allow the camper to carry a lot of load as a result of undulations, potholes and ruts. Since there are many different types of modifications, it is important to choose an RV that has the modifications you need. Common modifications include increased ground clearance, strengthened chassis, off-road tires, and off-road suspension kits.
Full height is important
Full-height off-road campers are much like their conventional counterparts in terms of features, liability, and size. When choosing a camper, there are a number of modifications and features to consider that contribute to its overall height:
- Galvanized frame.
- Bigger water tanks.
- Stronger cabinets that are mostly reinforced.
- Larger chassis members.
- Articulated coupling for the trailer.
- Off-road suspension, there are several types to choose from.
- Stud pattern and wheel size to fit both vehicles.
- Much better ground clearance.
- A slightly higher rear end for a better angle.
- A rock guard that is designed to protect both your tow van and caravan from rocks.
- Heavy duty bumpers.
- Low consumption lights.
- tandem axles
Many high-end caravan manufacturers use these inclusions as part of their standard features. That being said, some off-road RV manufacturers only have a basic list of features and additional ones like heavy-duty bumpers, energy-efficient lights, etc. will need to be added.
The disadvantage usually associated with buying all-inclusive off-road caravans is that, despite being durable, they are large and heavy. Therefore, using a powerful trailer is very important. Some tow vehicles worth considering are the V8 Land Cruiser and the F250. Also, a diesel powered 4WD is much better compared to a gasoline powered trailer due to better torque.
The pop off top caravan
The detachable off-road caravan is extremely popular in wet climates because it allows good ventilation and is not as heavy as regular off-road caravans. People don’t need an expensive and powerful tow vehicle to pull the camper, which can easily accommodate five people. The lower height of this camper makes it suitable for higher speeds and better fuel economy. Its smaller size allows it to slide into any garage or parking space. However, the disadvantages include not being able to go on all types of terrain. These should not be used on shrub paths with low overhanging branches. Also, there is not as much storage space as in the normal heavy off-road caravans.
So as a general rule of thumb, open top campervans are much better suited for previously carpeted roads and desert environments, get one if you don’t have a powerful vehicle as its 1.5 ton weight isn’t much. However, go for the fully loaded 2.5-tone ATV if you want true versatility.