Five BEST used caravans for a summer staycation are revealed – and they're all under £5,000

Scottish Sun

7 hours ago

THE best second-hand caravans to buy for under £5,000 have been revealed - as Brit travellers look for UK getaways this summer.
Caravan specialists told The Sun the best brands to look for when RV hunting on a budget, as well as key tips for second-hand buyers across the UK.
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Caravaning can be a great way to holiday on a budget
Credit: Getty
Experts weighed in on which campers have the best value for money at the low £5,000 price point.
A handful of brands were mentioned by multiple sources, with each specialist detailing which caravans had the best quality at their estimated price.
Caravans For Sale told The Sun that shoppers should target "mid to late 2000s models".
And they gave tips on what to look for before buying used caravans, including reports and battery checks.
Bailey Senator
The Bailey Senator is made by Bailey of Bristol, one of the UK's most trusted and long-established caravan manufacturers.
Caravans For Sale spokesperson Linzi Oliver said it used to be in the "higher-spec range at the time [it was released]".
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The Bailey Senator is made by Bailey of Bristol, one of the UK's most trusted and long-established caravan manufacturers
Credit: Auto Trader
Once a flagship model, it is still known for its luxury touches, solid build quality, and spacious layouts.
She explained: "You'll find older Series 5 or Arizona models just scraping under £5k if well-used, and they still offer great quality for long-term touring."
Older models from 2001 can even be snatched up second hand for just over £2,500.
But they still boast decent sized rooms and extra premium features that aren't found in entry-level campers.
Watch the video to see inside the family-of-seven's caravan home
The line was discontinued in 2010, but lives on as a top choice for used caravan buyers in 2025.
Elddis Odyssey
The Elddis Odyssey is a well-built, mid-to-high-range touring caravan made by Elddis, a trusted British brand based in County Durham.
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The Elddis Odyssey is a well-built, mid-to-high-range touring caravan
Credit: Auto Trader
The Odyssey range was a popular step up from Elddis's entry-level caravans, offering more space and cosier interiors — without the sky-high prices of high-end models.
"This range has a strong reputation for being robust," Oliver said.
How much does it cost to live in a caravan?
LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here's a breakdown of potential costs:
Initial Costs Caravan Purchase: £8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition)
£8,000 - £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition) Caravan Insurance: £200 - £800 per year
Ongoing Monthly Costs Pitch Fees: £150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities)
£150 - £600 (varies by location and facilities) Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 - £120
£40 - £120 Maintenance and Repairs: £20 - £80
£20 - £80 Internet and TV: £20 - £50
£20 - £50 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 - £40
Other Potential Costs Waste Disposal Fees: £8 - £25
£8 - £25 Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance
Variable, depending on distance Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 - £1,600 (one-time)
Sample Monthly Budget Pitch Fees: £400
£400 Utilities: £80
£80 Maintenance and Repairs: £40
£40 Internet and TV: £40
£40 Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25
£25 Total: £585
Annual Estimated Cost Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020
£585 x 12 = £7,020 Insurance: £500
£500 Maintenance and Repairs: £480
£480 Total Annual Cost: £8,000
Tips to Save Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons.
Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons. DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself.
Handle minor repairs yourself. Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs.
While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK.
"And with larger 4 berth options, they're great for families."
The expert added: "2005–2008 Odyssey models can often be found for £4,000–£5,000, usually in good condition with full service history."
Though the line was discontinued in the early 2010s, it remains a favourite on the used market.
The Odyssey is ideal for summer staycations, festivals or long weekends on the coast.
Lunar Ariva
Oliver said: "The Ariva is celebrated for being lightweight, often around 970kg MTPLM, which makes it ideal for smaller tow vehicles.
"Older Arivas (2005–2009) are commonly available for £3,500–£4,800."
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The two-birth caravan may be small, but it still has a well-equipped interior
Credit: Auto Trader
The two-birth caravan may be small, but it still has a well-equipped interior, including a kitchen, living area and a bathroom.
It's a great choice for couples looking for an easy to handle caravan for short weekend trips away.
Swift Charisma
The Swift Charisma 565 is a great family-friendly caravan, with a 2003 model selling for between £4500 and £5000.
It features a washroom, a side kitchen and a dinette, with an L shaped lounge.
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The Swift Charisma 565 is a great family-friendly caravan
Credit: Auto Trader
"The seating is generally comfortable and the L shaped
lounge is a very sociable area and makes into a large double bed", said caravan expert Andrew Jenkinson.
This layout is ideal for four or makes a great 3 berth, plus it comes with a mover and an awning – not a bad buy at all."
This caravan is perfect for taking kids away to the beach on school holidays.
Compass Corona
The Compass Corona 505 is a five-berth caravan with 2003 models of the vehicle selling for around £4,750.
It's a lightweight family model with two double dinettes, giving it a spacious feel.
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The Compass Corona 505 is a five-berth caravan with 2003 models of the vehicle selling for around £4,750
Credit: Auto Trader
"The caravan has a large front layout, side kitchen with a wardrobe and a washroom opposite with a dinette at the rear which comes with a bunk bed too.
"This layout is ideal for families and with a spec that includes an oven ,heating, a fridge and a shower it's a great buy and it's also relatively light in weight too.
"This is ideal for a family of first timers."