Second Hand Camper Vans; Are they Worth it?

Are you planning to buy a second hand camper van? We have compared price and models and assessed whether second hand camper vans are worth it. Read on!

Introduction

There’s no doubt that camper vans are a fun and convenient way to take road trips, but they can also be expensive. If you’re not careful, you could easily spend more money than you need on your van.

One way to save money on your van is to buy a second hand one. It can be an exciting process, but it is essential to know what you’re getting into. Used camper vans can be a great way to save money, but there are some things you need to consider before making your purchase.

This blog post will explore the pros and cons of buying a used camper van from an RV trader and help you decide if it’s the right option. So, whether you’re just starting your research or ready to buy, read on for everything you need to know about second hand camper vans!

second hand camper vans
Hyundai iLoad Pop Max Campervan
Photo credit: Australian Motor Homes & Caravans

How much are second hand camper vans?

A second hand van has a lot of pros over buying a new one. The most obvious is the price. You can usually find a used van for half the price of a new one or even less. This means you can save a lot of money.

However, it’s important to remember that you often get what you pay for with second hand camper vans. They may not have all the features of a new van, and they may not be in as good condition. Inspecting and doing a quick search before buying any used camper vans is essential.

Some things you’ll want to look for include:

●      Rust or other damage on the body of the van

●      Leaks

●      Broken windows or further damage

●      Mold or mildew

●      Engine problems

If you’re not mechanically inclined, it’s a good idea to take the van to a mechanic to have it inspected before you buy it. This can help you avoid any expensive surprises down the road.

The cost of a second hand RV will definitely vary depending on the make, model, and age. An RV is generally built to accommodate two adults.

Expect to pay in the range of AUD$20,000 to $130,000 for a used camper van.

Many good websites offer used campervans for sale; here are a few examples of used camper vans with their prices:

1- Hyundai iLoad Pop Max Campervan1

●      Manufacturer: Hyundai

●      Model: iLoad Pop Max

●      Odometer: 143,682 km

●      Transmission: Manual

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Build: 12/2009

●      Cost: $49,990

2- Motorhomes & Campers2

●      Manufacturer: Ford

●      Odometer: 210000 km

●      Transmission: Manual

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Build: 1994

●      Cost: $25,000

3-Caravan and Motorhome3

●      Manufacturer: Fiat

●      Transmission: Automatic

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Build: 2013

●      Cost: $76500

second hand camper vans
KEA 2 berth Freedom Campervan
Photo credit: Australian Motor Homes & Caravans

4- KEA 2 berth Freedom Campervan4

●      Manufacturer: KEA

●      Model: Freedom

●      Chassis: Ford Transit T350

●      Odometer: 229,758kms

●      Transmission: Manual

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Build: 03/2008

●      Cost: $69990

5- Mercedes Benz Sprinter – Two-Berth Campervan5

●      Manufacturer: Custom Campervan

●      Model: Two-Berth Campervan

●      Chassis: Mercedes Benz Sprinter 313

●      Odometer: 213,338kms

●      Transmission: Automatic

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Build: 08/2011

●      Compliance: 09/2011

Is there a huge price difference in getting a second hand camper vans compared to a brand new?

Yes, there are some great deals when buying a used camper van. You can often find a van that’s half the price of a new one or even less.

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However, It’s crucial to note that the quality of second-hand camper vans varies widely, so you may get a lot more than what you bargained for.

They may not have all the features of a new van, and they may not be in as good condition. Therefore, it’s important to inspect any used van carefully before making a purchase.

When it comes to a new van, you know exactly what you’re getting. It will have all the features you want and need and will be in excellent condition.

If price is your main concern, a used camper van is a great option. However, if you value quality and peace of mind, a new van is the way to go.

Here are some of the best new camper vans with features:

second hand camper vans
Avida Motorhome- Longreach C9536SL
Photo credit: Australian Motor Homes & Caravans

1- Avida Motorhome – Longreach C9536SL6

●      Manufacturer: Avida RV

●      Model: Longreach C9536SL Motorhome

●      Chassis: Isuzu NQR 450

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Transmission: Automatic

●      Seats up to 6

●      Sleeps up to 6

●      Medium Rigid Truck Licence

●      Slide Out x 2

●      Price: $402,043

2- Jayco All Terrain Campervan7

●      Manufacturer: Mercedes Benz Sprinter

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Transmission: Automatic

●      Seats up to 2

●      Sleeps up to 2

●      5-year Structural warranty

●      2 year manufactural warranty

●      Price: $158,990

second hand camper vans
Avida Motorhome – Birdsville B7452SL
Photo credit: Australian Motor Homes & Caravans

3- Avida Motorhome – Birdsville B7452SL8

●      Manufacturer: Avida RV

●      Model: Birdsville B7452SL Motorhome

●      Chassis: Fiat Ducato

●      Fuel Type: Diesel

●      Transmission: Automatic

●      Seats up to 2

●      Sleeps up to 2

●      Dry Bathroom

●      Price: $199,833

Where can you buy second hand camper vans?

There are a few different places where you can buy second hand camper vans. Here are a few of the most popular options:

1. Online classifieds: Websites like Gumtree and TradeRVs.com.au are great places to start your search for a used camper van. You’ll be able to find a wide variety of vans listed for sale, and you can contact the sellers directly to ask questions or arrange a viewing.

2. Dealerships: Many dealerships specialize in selling used camper vans. This is an excellent option if you want to buy from a reputable source. However, be prepared to pay more than you would if you bought it from a private seller.

3. Private sellers: Buying from a private seller is often the cheapest option, but it comes with some risks. It’s essential to scrutinize the van before making a purchase and be sure to get all the paperwork to avoid any problems down the road.

“My husband & I brought a Iveco Avida Esperance Motorhome from Aust. MHC last March. We have been impressed with all staff involved in this purchase & getting us on the road”

Margaret (australian motor home testimonial)

List of websites that sell second hand camper vans:

What are some common problems with buying second hand camper vans?

There are a few potential problems that you should be aware of when buying a used camper van:

1. The van may not be in the condition as advertised: It’s essential to examine the van before making a purchase. Pay close attention to the bodywork, the tires, and the interior to ensure everything is in good condition.

2. The van may not have all the features you want: Make sure to ask the seller about all the features and amenities included. If there’s something you’re hoping for that’s not included, you may be disappointed.

3. The price may not be negotiable: When dealing with a private seller, be prepared to pay the asking fee. Many sellers are unwilling to negotiate, so it’s essential to have your budget in mind before making an offer.

4. You may not be able to get financing: If you’re buying from a private seller, you may have difficulty getting financing. It’s essential to have the cash to pay for the van outright or get a loan from a bank or credit union.

5. There may be hidden costs: Ask the seller about additional expenses, such as registration, insurance, and maintenance. These costs can add up, so it’s important to factor them into your budget.

second hand camper vans
Mercedes Benz Sprinter- Two Berth Campervan
Photo credit: Australian Motor Homes & Caravans

How can I fix or improve my second hand camper van?

There are a few common problems that anyone can solve in a camper van. Here are a few tips:

●      Check the fluid levels and top them up if necessary. This includes the engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. You may do it independently if you believe the procedure is too complicated, or you can take the vehicle to a garage; it won’t cost you much.

●      Inspect the tires and replace them if needed; look for cracks or splits in the rubber. It would be best if you also checked the tire pressure and inflated them to the correct level. If you encounter any such issue, you may replace a new tire yourself, saving a good amount of money.

●      To avoid water from entering the van, repair any leaks in the bodywork and seal any fractures or holes. If you notice a crack, go to a mechanic immediately rather than attempting it yourself.

●      Clean the inside of your van and remove any built-up filth or dust. This will ensure that your vehicle appears clean and remains hygienic. You may do it yourself once every journey.

●      Ensure that the brakes are working correctly. Talk to a mechanic if they need to be replaced or require brake oil.

“Australian Motor Homes carries a huge range of motorhomes and RV vehicles so it can be daunting for a purchaser to work their way through what they are looking for and what products will best match their needs. We couldn’t be happier with the motor home that you, rightly, recommended for us”

Mark & Karen (satisfied customers)

Is a second hand camper van worth it?

A second-hand camper van is worth it, especially if you know what to look for and how to negotiate. Just be sure to research and inspect the vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase.

You can find an excellent deal on a used camper van with a little effort.

Focus on these five main points, and you should have no problem getting a great deal on a used camper van that will serve you well for years to come:

●      Do your research

●      Inspect the vehicle

●      Ask about additional costs

●      Ask for service report history

References :

●      https://australianmotorhomes.com.au/used-motorhomes/hyundai-iload-pop-max-campervan/

●      https://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/items/motorhomes-campers-category/new-south-wales-state/for-sale-salestatus/under-40000/

●      https://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/banksia-beach/campervans-motorhomes/motorhome/1300514969

●      https://australianmotorhomes.com.au/used-motorhomes/kea-2-berth-freedom-campervan/

●      https://australianmotorhomes.com.au/used-motorhomes/mercedes-benz-sprinter-two-berth-campervan/

●      https://australianmotorhomes.com.au/new-motorhomes/avida-motorhome-longreach-c9536sl/

●      https://www.jayco.com.au/range/jayco-campervans/jayco-all-terrain-campervan

●      https://australianmotorhomes.com.au/new-motorhomes/avida-motorhome-birdsville-b7452sl-my21/

Ken

I’m originally from the bush, but I currently live in the big smoke of Sydney, Australia. I am based out of here for work, where I fly Cargo operations all over the world. I am no stranger to the open road and have previously road tripped my way all around Australia in a station wagon and a tent as I progressed from job to job building flying experience for my Aviation career. This blog is all about detailing my journey as I seek to trade my city life for Van life. Things that really attract me to Van life are the Freedom, Minimalism and Financial Independence it brings.

Ken has 61 posts and counting. See all posts by Ken

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