Hi, I'm a caravanner for 8 years now, following 20+ years as a tenter (family tent with wife/2 kids). I agree that a caravan is a shock to the system in many ways, but could I give some top tips. 1 - when I first towed after picking up the van I spent the first hour in total panic, convinced the thing would fly off from the towhitch. The way the car reacts is also unnerving until one gets used to it. Thinking it through though, given the average age of caravanners is 106, why aren't these old geezers crashing all the time? So trust your caravan to follow you; if they can do it, you can do it. 2 - Store as much as you can in your caravan. We keep aquaroll/wastemaster in the shower in transit, and a stock of kitchen basics, utensils, pans, bedding and caravan paraphernalia in the van. Less packing than with a tent. 3 - a 30Kg object should be stowed on the floor over the axle for stability. An unstable caravan trying to snake is an avoidable nightmare. 4 - if you're taking your awning as a communal space, let your friends help put it up. 5 - A caravan is expensive: the price of a cordless drill is worth it to lower/raise steadies. 6 - be organised: do a check sheet for setting up and breaking camp. Not only will it make it easier and quicker, you won't do silly things like trying to fill your truma boiler with the drain valve open (I still do this) or driving off with wiindows/hatches open or jockey wheel down. Lastly, I wonder if basecamps get sold quickly because many become smitten with the lifestyle and fancy moving into something a bit less utilitarian and a bit bigger, perhaps with proper shower, carpets and a fixed bed for example.
Some good solid tips there and thanks for taking the time to write such an extensive update.. I don’t personally put the aqua roll or grey tank in the shower room. Wouldn’t want to risk causing damage to the units. The Base Camps come up for sale on the Base Camp social groups and it’s rare the reason for sale is for something else/bigger. The Base Camp is normally sold to first timers like myself that didn’t want a ‘traditional’ looking caravan. That said I always say don’t assume the base camp lacks space…. It’s a tardis and that’s what everyone says!
I wonder if maybe it's the under bunk storage - having everything 'on show' that becomes tiresome? I must admit that put me off. I'd no need for tethering hooks for bikes but I did have a need for conventional under bunk storage 😉
Hallo aus München, Germany. Als neue Besitzer eines Base Camp 4 folgen wir Deinem Vlog regelmäßig und bedanken uns herzlich für die Tipps. Wir sind 2 Personen und 2 kleine Hunde und wollen demnächst 6 Wochen nach Spanien. Wir üben 1x die Woche Wasser, Toilette, ankuppeln, Mover, etc.;-)) Wir haben kein Zelt, der grosse Tisch und das Kinderbett bleiben zu Hause und es ist so viel Platz ! Das Bett bleibt aufgebaut und unter dem Bett ist genügend Platz für grosse flache Kisten. Schade dass die Khederleiste für ein Tarp nur über dem Eingang ist. Seitlich auf der Dachreling wäre sie wohnlicher für den Süden. Wird schon klappen, Saugnäpfe tun es auch. Liebe Grüße in das Base Camp Land !!
This is a really good informative look into the reality of caravanning and i have to say i agree with you completely! When you actually look at the list of jobs that goes into a caravan holiday its a lot of work! But as you said it definitely does get easier and more pleasurable.👍🏼
Never Caravanned but often wondered. Excellent thorough, logical and helpful presentation - very informative. The Base Camp 2 looks a cracking caravan too - very neat. Thanks very much for this view and advice - really good
Great video. I have a 38 year old vw camper and the pain is similar. All great fun though. And just makes that first sit down and a beer all the better.
Wish I’d seen this before we bought! There is a lot to do, and to learn. Fortunately we have loved our first two trips. I think packing your ‘learning curve’ and sense of humour every time is essential! I think this vlog is great, and would help people have a more realistic sense of what caravanning involves before making a significant investment.
Thanks Sara. This is why I made the video. I think it’s a shame when owners sell up prematurely and then miss out on all the adventures. The Base Camp is awesome and caravanning is a great hobby. As we all find out…. It does get easier🙂
Great vlog Nick. Couldn’t agree more with your comments. Coming from camping we were already used to the time it takes to set things up. The first few trips the stress was mainly from towing but now after 12 months I really enjoy it! It’s all really about the organisation and my wife takes care of setting up inside whilst i do the outside jobs. That way in around 30 minutes we are done. We dont stress too much about the awning on short 2 to 3 day trips but if going for 5 days or longer then we’ll put the kampa 200 awning on at leisure.
Thanks Jon. Sounds like you’ve got it all sorted! We use an awning on most trips as it’s helps keep the BC interior clean with having the dog. The Kampa 200 is brilliant. A personal favourite.
Just put the deposit down on a Basecamp 4 today. Great video, cemented what I was kind of expecting. The panic of towing for the first time, all the prep and jobs to be done, and the new caravans seem quite complex bits of kits. But think like you say, that after some use it will become routine, and I will really enjoy caravanning
Excellent and original video, presenting the reality of camping/caravanning. As you say, there's a learning curve and then it gets easier. Caravanning actually helps develop organisational skills. Towing becomes quite enjoyable, and forces you to be a more careful, thoughtful and skilled driver. Its rather satisfying and primal to take a home with you, live in it and then return.
An interesting video. This is why I’ve ended up with a vintage caravan. Significantly easier/better to tow, quicker to set up, less to go wrong and a lower financial investment. Pure simplicity in a neat caravan that still makes you feel pretty special when you arrive on site.
Yep…. That sounds like a lot boxes being ticked. That said, I’m currently planning a trip round northern Scotland (the towable parts of the NC500). I wouldn’t have dreamed this possible a year ago when we got the Basecamp. Just so much easier now we have got properly settled in with it.
I've got me self an Adria Action 361 LH, very nice camper to tow and very nice to camp in. I live in Norway and this summer I was camping out one month with it. I absolutley loved it. This was an informative video I wished I saw before I bought my Action camper, not because the camper is hard to setup or anything, but all of the things you need to remember.. For the legs to stedy the camper I went for a drill with the correct socket for lowering and raising the legs, saved my back for alot of work..
Excellent video, opened my eyes in regards towing holidays. I get the title as I have only ever pitched up and camped, I’m looking into towing holidays and this particular manufacturer with its various models appeal due to the dimensions as a first time buyer ( as I imagine it does with other first time buyers ), as stated within the video. Thank you
am I missing something here ? everything and I do mean everything you described is simple called caravanning ! so the title of this clip was about why a certain type of caravan seems 2 reappear back on the market so soon as a resale ?well I am still at a loss 2 know
@@davekelly9345 ah I get it! People who sell those things because it's not 'practical' should book a hotel room or spend a night in a apartment I guess😂
@@DNN88 lol , I was not saying it was a bad vlog , just saying it did'nt at all answer the question posed in the title thats all ! perhaps the guy should of called it RENT BEFORE YOU BUY AS CARAVANNING CAN BE A PAIN IN THE ASS ! and yes i did tour and live in a caravan for about 2 years , so I do know about such things lol
I think what he is saying that people who are new to camping have no idea how much work goes into it! And many decide to get rid of the camper..Many I've met decide to go to a van instead 🙃 because you don't have to tow.. Everything is self contained..Or many find that it's rather expensive! Especially since 2020 and think it's actually cheaper to do a holiday let 🙄
Whilst there is a bit to do, I don't think it is anywhere near as laborious as you make it sound. We have a Go Pod so there is actually a bit less to do than with a Basecamp. We don't keep it at home but keep it on a storage site so we pack our car at home - clothes, food for the next day, awning etc. We then go to the storage to collect the Pod, check it over and hitch up and off we go. We are just very organised so there is no faff. We have a cupboard at home full of everything for the Go Pod and simply get out the stuff we are taking and pack some of it the night before, which doesn't take long. We camped for many years and also did some motorbike camping, festivals and bike rallies. Go Pods are much smaller than a Basecamp so very easy to tow. We only felt a bit of trepidation the very first time we towed but we found it super easy so pretty much enjoy most of our journeys (not all, depends on the other road users at the time, like any journey). You can get virtually any driveaway awning to go with a Go Pod so you can get a smaller one for shorter trips or just put up a canopy. Our small awning is about 10Kg and our large awning is 14.2Kg. We both have specific things we do with the setup and also just do what needs doing and work round and do it quickly. We are so used to setting up our awnings now that they go up so quickly I am wondering whether it is time to get a different one to have a bit more of a challenge as I enjoy the setup. I don't mind the packing up other than it means we have to go home so that's a bit of a bummer LOL We've used our Go Pod many times for overnight stays without the awning, with the Go Tarp Canopy and we've toured around like that. We often do two or three place stays and use a combo of the Go Tarp and the awning and don't really find it hard work but our awning is so much lighter than yours. I am sure I've seen other awnings for Basecamps that are a lot lighter that might make things easier? Great vid in many respects but, if I felt that things were such hard work, I think I'd give up ;-) So glad you did get over it all rather than giving up but "pain barrier"? Really? LOL
This is a great video and I totally agree with you on the pain barrier point. We bought our first caravan earlier this year and didn't realise how much prep and setting up there was. Been away 3 times (one week plus two long weekends) this year and are currently at that pain barrier point. Many times I ask "what have we done?" It's not the get in the car and go experience we were looking for. Since our caravan is at a storage yard, it takes us another hour or more after leaving home before we can actually get on the road. I'm really hoping it will be easier next year.
Thanks for your comment Tracey. We are into our third year now and the pain barrier is a distant memory. Lots of newcomers give up at the point you’re at now which is a tragedy because of the adventures that await. I promise you from experience it will get easier if not by repetition alone. I also questioned myself but now my only regret is I didn’t buy a caravan earlier in life. Good luck and keep going.
That explains it well , We have just come home from our second trip and it does seem so much easier this time. Having sold our VW California for a BC2 I reckon I’m set up much quicker on site- One tip I would have, I use an extension socket on my Battery drill for raising and lowering the steadies , takes a lot of work and time from setting up. Enjoying the Vlogs Nick 👍 Vince
Good tip Vince. I was using a drill at first but found it’s another bulky item to pack. My dream set up would be a T6.1 Cali towing my BC2. Just can’t afford one😂
Nice video 👍 my simple steps are legs, power, water, gas, loo and a brew job done😁. You test all the main bits by making a cuppa water running, electric for the kettle and fridge. Gas for hot washing up water, caravan level (legs) you don't want to spill ya tea and the loo for afterwards. If it's windy we'll the awning can wait. One thing I learnt was to have a second home set up in the caravan, cleaning bit, toiletries, dry goods, etc. My family of 6 all love it.
Really good informative video for all caravaners. Would just mention placing the awning at the front may take your nose weight over Swift guidlines for optmum towing and safety, I always place mine in the boot of the car or over the caravan wheels.
Agree. All our heavy stuff ( including the food, clothing and bedding) goes in the car to make the c'van as light as possible. I even stick the Aquaroll and waste tank in there It seems to make the c'van so much easier to tow. I also empty the Truma water tank and that made a huge difference !
I think you may be right because most buyers of Basecamps will be new caravaners. We were Lightweight cycle campers for years but moved to a small camper van (Autosleeper Duetto)as we've aged. That meant local travel from a site was by bike. Now we've aged even more we decided it would be handy to have the car so we got a Basecamp so we could still take our bikes. It's taken us a while to organise the Basecamp and adapt storage (surprisingly less than the Duetto) but we have the car to take the extra. We've had a few problems with the new van which I've repaired and I've done a few modifications - like a shelf in the cupboard and lips on the built-in shelves to stop stuff falling out in transit. The problems? The solar panel wasn't charging the battery and I eventually found a blown fuse in the big control panel after I'd removed it for inspection - I suspect the guys who installed the motor mover shorted something out as they fitted it. We had a water leak in the bathroom when we went out for the first time this year because one of the water pipes wasn't fully home on the shower tap. Easily accessible if you remove the sink (4 thumb nuts, reachable from the front). Also, the screw holding the front storage hatch catch/lever came loose - easy, except it's impossible to access with a normal screwdriver but, luckily, I have a right angle ratchet driver which did the job. I've made up a short lightweight mains hook-up with a 13amp plug I connect in the garage so I can keep everything running on low power on the drive. That's why it took a year before I discovered the solar panel wasn't charging the battery - stupid but we are all stupid sometimes :) I was nervous towing because of the width but the van is actually no wider than the car including the door mirrors. The compulsory extra mirrors don't really help that much - I can see quite well with standard ones and rarely turn my head enough to use the extensions. I am thinking of installing a rearview camera so I can see vehicles that are so close behind I can't see them with the door mirrors. I used to tow racing dinghies which are narrow and very light as well as a modified camping trailer for my trials motorcycle but it's not the same. We have the smaller Vango awning but I gave up trying to fit it because of the weight for a couple of 82 year olds. It's stuck in the garage unused I'm afraid. I enjoy your vlogs when I get round to YouTubing occasionally.
Great comment. I did miss out the crucial update that Basecamps generally sell to newbies (like we where). Sounds like your very handy on the tools. Thanks for such a detailed update.
Like your comment. I have driven all over Europe. It's hardly surprising that bits and pieces shake loose and need to be fixed when the van is new. Look at the stat of the roads. Long term vibration is inevitable.
Fantastic video we have found people who have had tents first then upgraded to caravans find it so much easier than people who have gone from hotel holidays to caravans struggle at first but it’s well worth it
Handy video but I would check the nose weight before towing as this can cause problems towing or even damage to the car or caravan. Always do a last walk around the caravan before towing checking the tow hitch is engaged (I have seen caravans comes off tow bars when going over speed bumps) and check the power cable is disconnected as these can snap or detach and whip across the drive or pitch causing a lot of damage. Remembering to attach the power 240V plug to the caravan first and then to the camp site socket 240V supply so you are not holding a live cable when connecting to your caravan. When leaving the camp site disconnecting / detach the 240V site supply before disconnecting the caravan connection. Always inspect the cable before using it to make sure the orange outer insulation along the cable is in good condition.
its the same for everyone when you start caravaning, you either love it or leave it, i never thought it was a pain barrier to push through just something to adapt to. Setting up is worth all the effort.
Thanks for your comment. You are right this applies to all caravans however the base camp is generally bought as a first caravan by newbies like myself hence the relevant.
Hi, we’ve had our basecamp 2 now for 4 years ! We love it. I can safely say we’ve been out each season @12 plus trips . Yes, you need to go through the pain for a few trips to learn . Remember blue jobs for boys, pink jobs for girls, then there’s no arguments……ish 🤣 We’re off soon to Bordeaux for 5 weeks 👍👍😁😁 Hopefully see some basecampers along the way Dave D .
We have found that the nose weight is too light unless we put our awning at the front. We don't use the Vango awning(s) but chose a Kampa Dometic Air Rally Pro instead. It is lighter than the RVA1 though isn't a perfect fit on the back of the van.
And the answer to why basecamps come up for sale so soon is……….unanswered. It’s a good vlog for anyone who’s never used a tourer, but it applies to all vans
I'm guessing it is because it is a typical first time buyers caravan. Some don't realise all the hassle that is involved (as per the video) and just give up.
My wife and I bought a caravan (not a Basecamp) and received a lot of advice from our dealers about what we needed, and how to set everything up. However, when we first used the caravan, it was all very new (but we had tent camped previous) and took us a while to get used to it all... Fast forward to now - 11 years later! We are on our 4th caravan, use it as much as we can)although not as much as we may have liked this year.) My niece has come with us in the caravan, and she liked the idea, so looked into getting her own - but, when she found out ALL the other bits she would need, and everything she needed to know and do on her own, she cancelled the purchase, and wants to come away with us again! 😂
After being a caravan owner for quite few years I enjoy all the routine jobs with the major exception of dealing with the awning. I used to have a really heavy thing weighing 37 Kg which was a nightmare to carry let alone erect. I sold that and now have a very light porch style awning which cost me £150 on Amazon, is a doddle to put up and stow away and does most of what I want an awning for. Often I don’t even bother putting it up but I have quite a large caravan compared to a Basecamp, so the extra space isn’t really essential.
I’m with you on that. The awning is a pain. We have a dog so it’s essential really for drying her off, cleaning paws etc before going into the caravan. On the forthcoming Scotland trip I really don’t want to take the Vango RVA-1. It’s just not ideal for multiple site touring being so bulky but it’s such a great space for us to use with our friends. I prefer our Kampa Dometic 200 porch awning.
Yep….after three minutes of the video I’m ready to sell my Base Camp caravan (and I don’t even have one! But at least I know now that’s not for me) thanks for the video, very informative.
Thanks for the comment. There is a reality to caravanning which is blinded by the sense of freedom and adventure a caravan like the Basecamp brings. It takes a while to get into the routine and I think newbies buying a Basecamp sell to early. We’ve had ours for over two years now and had to go through the pain barrier as newbies but now we absolutely love it. Can’t imagine life without it now. There is always something to look forward to.
men... its the women that cause the issues.. last year at the expo she wanted the caravan "it would be great to explore"... this year... "i don't really like it"
Hi mate. Been looking at the base camp at threeways. Was wondering if you'd do a video on arriving and setting up the base camp and packing away. Loving the videos and adventures
Use a cordless drill for the corner steadies and awning drill in pegs. But agree its a lot more to do than having a motorhome especially if you are alone with kids
Fit your hitch lock and wheel clamps / locks every time you leave the caravan unattended, whether there is a barrier or not. If your caravan isn't secure and it is stolen, your insurer will not pay out. As regards levelling, we use a blow up lock and level, it turns an arduous task into a quick simple one. A steady driver socket / bit and drill is quicker and simpler as well, instead of turning yourself into a sweaty windy miller for 1/2 hour. We started off tent camping, then we bought a lwb campervan, which is good but after a while we wanted more space for static holidays, as opposed to the touring type holidays, like the NC500, which the campervan is ideal for, especially on single track roads. So our next step was a 4 berth, fixed bed 7.5 metre caravan, which we both adore. We started towing it with our E Class Mercedes saloon but even at 50 mph, there was caravan tail waggle and passing large vehicle suck . We have now fitted a tow bar to our campervan to tow with and all the towing problems have gone, right up to the legal speed limit. It has proved a very flexible and useful combination having meal and drink facilities, out and about at attractions and still have the spacious caravan to come back to the camping site to.
I think many people buy into the wonderful lifestyle and adventure shown inY the sales brochure but find the reality is different. There are lots of things to do as you've outlined but with practice it becomes second nature. The Caravan and Motorhome Club course was a very good introduction. Now after 15 years of caravanning my wife and I working as a team have cut the time from arriving on the pitch to having the kettle on to 30 minutes excuding erecting the awning.
Hmmmm…. Good feedback. I don’t create click bait content so I may need to change the title and thumbnail? I’ll mull that one over. It would be hard for me to find fault with the BC being the number one fan😂
My biggest problem has been hit up the arse twice in the last 10 years of caravanning. Both have been 'hit and run' so had to use my caravan insurance to get the caravan fixed. I have now fixed a rear view camera at the back of caravan (record-able and wireless type), so I can get the cars numberplate if hit again.
Your right some people are blinkered by pictures of people sat in sun with a drink 😂 There is lots to do set up / pack up and it can be tiring. People either love the lifestyle or find it’s not for them. I’ve been Caravanning over 30 yrs now and still get excited at prospect of getting away. And remember the van has to be washed and polished too. Enjoy your Caravanning 😁👍
Not sure I agree as what you describe is what all caravan owners go through. Just my thoughts as I looked at the base camp, love the looks externally but they are expensive for what looks like the set of prisoner cell Block H inside. But horses for courses and hope you enjoy your van 👍
Valid point. Base Camps are generally bought as a first time caravan by total newbies like we did. It’s attractive for its functionality and snappy looks but the reality of ownership can come as a surprise. That said I’m not saying my comments are right… it’s just my thoughts. Comparing the interior to prisoner cell block H is a bit harsh but I agree they are expensive. Thank you for taking the time to post the comment 👍🏻
I really dislike it when people can't comment without being rude. I'm not keen on the looks of a Basecamp personally but we get similar (but different comments about our Go Pod) sometimes. I think the first Basecamps looked very utilitarian but they look a lot smarter now and, after all, they are for people who might like to take mountain bikes with them and do active stuff.
Some people like the idea of caravanning but not the work that goes into it. Fellow Basecamp 2 owner here, first time caravan owner though we have had 3 weeks campervan touring experience in New Zealand. We love ours. We spent about 2 YEARS researching various caravan and campervan options before deciding on the Basecamp. I would imagine that some people don't put in that level of research and then discover it isn't quite what they want. Last time we went away we didn't even bother putting the awning up - it spent the entire week stashed under our caravan!
Hi Carol. I think you’ve summed that up perfectly. Thank you for the comment.
4 месяца назад
To echo what others have said you haven't answered the question (I wanted the answer as I was thinking of getting a basecamp as a downsize), what you have done is just describe what you need to do for all caravans. If it was called what you need to know when thinking of getting a caravan then its a good video.
The critical narrative I missed from this video is that Basecamp’s over index with newcomers to caravanning. Buying a Basecamp as a first caravan then discovering there is a lot to do and learn hence the caravan is placed for sale.
Cheers for the video. Looking at being first time buyers soon so doing the due diligence now. Went to see a 2022 Basecamp 4 recently and were impressed with the simplicity of it for possibly being our first caravan. Any other makes or models you can suggest for a first time caravan? Must be a 4 berth. Thanks in advance. Will follow you now. All the best 👍
Have a look at the Eldis Xplore. It’s a similar concept to the Base Camp 4 with a dinette which converts to a bunk bed. It’s a lot cheaper than the Base Camp but not as quirky:- elddis.co.uk/models/xplore-304
Correct nose weight is crucial for safe towing. You seem to have a lot of weight in your front locker and you placed the heavy awning right at the front of the van. Do you check your nose weight?
This was two years ago when I was a newbie however in the locker I only have one gas bottle. I use the 14kg saving from not having a second bottle to store the gear I need. Good spot on the awning, I now secure that as near to the axle as I can these days. Thanks for the comment. You’ve raised good points👍
My wife and I looked at a new Basecamp recently downsizing from our family van. We were shocked at the quality of the fittings and the external trim. We liked the layout but a definite "no" from us.
That’s a very interesting comment and a valid observation. I have covered this in a video where I discuss the quality perception and what the Basecamp is actually designed for:- ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-cxhrc-JFWzA.html
I have owned 2 caravans. A Sprite 474 and and a Swift Challenger 580 that I still own. So everything you have said you have to do with any size of caravan. Where the Basecamp 2 comes into its own is its compact size and lighter weight. I’m trying to convince my wife that a Swift Basecamp 2 would be so much better apart from the massive amount of storage we have with the Challenger. Great video about the Basecamp too.
Yes you are right. I crafted this video a couple of years ago (ish) now. I should have said at the outset that Basecamps over index with newbies to caravanning and this would have provided the context for the rest of the video. With your thoughts on storage something to consider is that Basecamp’s are more of a camper than a traditional caravan so leans more towards basic camping albeit with the creature comforts of a hotel room.
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales The Basecamp has all the amenities of my Swift Challenger 580. It’s just that I have a bit more storage and carry more rubbish 😂 I think a Basecamp 2 would be the perfect combination with my Toyota Proace campervan.
That doesn’t really explain why Basecamps owners get rid of them so quickly as not all of these owners can be newbies. Having looked at basecamps my problem with them would be lack of space. We leave a lot of stuff in our caravan between trips so loading and hitching takes about 20 minutes. Setting up on site takes another 15 minutes unless we put up our full size awning then its30 minutes. Going out for the day, nothing todo unlike MH. Returning home everything done in 15 minutes. Unhitching and security at storage yard10 minutes. BTW you need to look at your insurance T&C’s as most require 1 security device when you are unhitched
Good points you make. The vast majority of BC’s that come up for sale are from newbie’s hence the content of the video. I’m not saying my thoughts are right… I’m just sharing my thoughts as a recent newbie to help build confidence for first timers like I was.
I suspect you are spot on these Base Camps appeal to a younger new audience as they are modern and funky. But as newbies like myself initially the whole caravaning process can be a little overwhelming as I found it at 1st with setting up and towing etc etc. Absolutely you are correct it gets easier and easier the more you do it. However I do hate the bloody awning, I find every escuse I can not to take it. If we ain't going away for atleast a week the awning ain't coming 😂 A fair and honest vlog on caravaning 👍
Just a bit of advice. Just like a pilot, have packing and unpacking checklists. Then everything should be put away properly and nothing left behind etc. Simple to do. But you will probably regret not doing so. We used to have a motorhome/tent and there were six of us. Two parents and four teenage boys. Pretty much, the boys were camping, the motorhome was the parents bed and everybody’s resting and eating area. The lads had their own tasks we could normally set down and pick up again within 20 minutes. We actually spent more time arguing with Caravan staff about whether our tent was an awning or not. Once we set up and proved to them we took up less space than any two person caravan/awning setup they always seemed quite happy. And they made an absolute fortune out of us - being charged for four adults and two children each time. As opposed to the “average” two adult caravan/awning set up where they paid for only two adults per night and yet took up acres of ground-space to accommodate the three bedroom bungalows they established for up to two weeks at a time. And they needed additional parking space for their vehicle(s). (yes often they had two cars for two people in one caravan!!). Whereas our vehicle was part of the camp set and we didn’t need additional car parking space.
That’s really good advice, especially when you’re new and just starting out with caravanning. Now after over a year I’m personally in the routine of it all so wouldn’t really need a list now.
We got rid of ours after six months of ownership. Basecamp 4 - bought brand new. About 3 weeks into our ownership, on the second trip, we noticed watermarks inside as if it had a leak (it did) and the fridge stopped working completely. The water leak worsened. The dealer tried to fix it and failed. Loads of other faults, all smaller but still irritating on something that was new and cost nearly £25K. In the end, we rang Citizens Advice, followed what they said and ended up getting a full refund. It wasn't caravanning that was the problem - we're buying another - it was the poor quality of Swift caravans. I wish I'd read the google reviews on Swift (currently 2 stars out of 5) before we made our purchase. We're not the only ones this has happened to - I know of 2 other BCs that were returned in 2022 because of faults.
That’s an awful experience and I have also heard of similar experiences but not all relating to the Basecamp. The whole industry needs a shake down as sending out products that bad is completely outrageous. Congratulations on securing a positive outcome and it’s encouraging to hear that you’ve purchased another leisure vehicle. Before buying the BC I was aware of stories like yours across the industry and it did make me think twice before buying one. We’ve not looked back as the adventures have been awesome so I hope you have a great time with your new one. It would be great if you could come back the channel and give us an update.
Just watched your video and was expecting to know why the basecamps go for sale after a year, specifically to the basecamp, not just reasons of general caravanning. We did consider the Basecamp and joined a facebook group, and looking at the posts, which was just more like a problem solving group. We felt that there were quality issues and for the size of it, it was over complicated and not put together that well. I did receive a PM on facebook from someone who sold after just 1 year and their reason was sell before it falls to bits. They went for the Adria German small caravan. We went for the Eriba, although they are more expensive.
This is point that comes up on this video regularly. The reason it relates to Basecamps is because Basecamps generally over index with newcomers to Caravanning. On reflection I should have mentioned this in the opening clips. We’ve had our Basecamp for over a year now and been away in it 17 times including two tours of Scotland and it’s no where near falling apart! That said the Basecamp is not a luxury or a standard caravan. It’s more of a camper and when viewed through that lens will not appeal to everyone.
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales Totally get the camper approach, similar to the Eriba, as we have come from camping. There are a lot of traditional caravaners who buy these campers and then try to replicate their house (including taking the Royal Albert) and turn it back into the caravan and complain of not enough space.
Hi Kaine. For the best value buying private is of course the way forward. We bought ours privately through the Swift Basecamp owners group on Facebook. This group is amazing, very active and has over 4.5k Basecamp enthusiasts. There are used Basecamp’s advertised regularly:- facebook.com/groups/swiftbasecampowners/?ref=share
Thank you we are trying to decide between a camper and a caravan - did you have any experience with campers and if so what made you choose a caravan instead?
Yes we have experience with campers. The VW California ocean and a VW conversion as well as hiring several motorhomes several years ago. The main reason we went for a caravan was cost primarily. We couldn’t and still can’t afford a campervan. Now that we have the base camp I wouldn’t go back to a campervan on its own because the caravan is so comfortable and practical. Also having a full wet room means I don’t have to use facilities at Campsites which I’ve never enjoyed.
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales lovely thanks. We are looking at early retirement and want to travel US for which we will hire, but also Europe for a few months before we decide where to settle...never know I may be able to convince hubby into tiny home living for a while 😀
A caravan is a lot of work it has to be said but it gets easier the more you do it. Without an awning we can be set up in 15 minutes ish. With an awning it can take over an hour plus plus depending on the weather.
Having owned one for As long As you have now. Do you still recommend? You’ve remind us that it’s not a hook up and drive off deal. Quite a bit of ferreting. Would this impinge on a Friday to Sunday trip do you think?
This is a good question. Now I am well and truly in the routine of it all I find it all easy. However it does take time to get to that stage. So I would definitely recommend a caravan as there is so much fun to be had but there is hard work to put in first and the ropes need to be learnt. We use the van regularly for weekends so doesn’t impinge. A Motorhome or campervan would be easier but the compromise would be less freedom to move around compared to a caravan where the car is always available.
Regarding your comment on not fitting the hitch lock if the site has a barrier. Check with your insurance on the hitch lock and wheel locks. My insurance requires a hitch and wheel lock to be fitted to the caravan at all times when not being towed. One insurance I spoke to, wanted 1 lock per axel as we have twin axel.
Or better still choose an insurance company that doesn’t insist on you making your van like Fort Knox. It may cost a bit more but at least you have the option to use your judgement on the security level required on a particular site. Caravan and Motorhome Club is one such company. I for example have never fitted the supplied wheel locks on our Twin Axle but do use a top of range hitch lock when on site but I would never ever leave the van unattended in a motorway services for example. Insurance companies who insist on ridiculous amounts of security, trackers, locks, 24 hour video surveillance, armed guards, dobermans etc. and still want to charge £700 annually (Camping Club, looking at you👎), are taking the biscuit frankly. I prefer to make a risk judgement myself.👍🙂
@@richardhorry I used to make a judgement calls. Then on a "so judged" nice camp site, my £3000 road bike was taken from inside my awning. Great, the insurance payed out but, supply and demand, I could not replace it in a timely fashion. Net result, no summer cycling. I dont want to make the same mistake gambling the family holidays for 6 to 12 months. I do agree with you that making the caravan like Fort Knox is bit much but, you also have to make yours not the easiest one to take.
@@ashhammond Ouch! I bet that hurt. There is definitely some 'pond life' around. Do you care to share the site in question, out of interest. It's not Ferry Meadows CAMC site by any chance. In twenty years of camping and 4 years of caravanning this site is the only one I have heard of or stayed on which is a bit tasty for the light fingered. I understand your pain, we had both our 'locked' bikes stolen from our 'locked' shed years ago. We replaced the bikes with better but it wasn't the same thereafter. Hence my attitude to risk. How far does one go in the battle?👍🙂
I was just about to buy a Basecamp 4 today. I’ve decided not to do it… and I’d rather just stay in serviced huts at holiday parks here in NZ. I’ll save $70,000 NZD in upfront cost… and can just pay for accomodation as I go… and not have to deal with the “pain barrier”. Thanks for the video.
What you are describing, is of course valid for all caravans and not just for the Swift Basecamp. I cannot imagine that people buy an expensive caravan, without even informing themselves and being prepared.
Thanks for your comment. I made this video a couple of years ago now before I fully understood RU-vid and content. I failed to mention that Basecamp caravans over index with newcomers to caravanning. I don’t think anybody can be prepared fully for what is involved with a caravan when you’re a complete newbie as we were, and that was the purpose of this video.
Last year I crafted a review following 2 years of ownership which maybe of interest. Also I’ve have uploaded lots a videos about or including the caravan in the playlist:- ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-iPjZ4ZhKbUs.htmlsi=3eOCxMRjB20nEXAx
Would be interested to know if anyone has had problems with the build quality on Basecamps? I’m keen to buy but seen bad reviews about build quality, damp, general lack of response from Swift on warranty issues, etc. We had a bad experience renting a Swift motor home for a week and quality on that was very poor. Rental company said they were getting rid of it because of the amount of complaints they’d had. They believed had got worse in last 2 years as Swift were too busy rushing out vans and caravans to sell quickly.
This is a question that comes up a lot. There is some truths behind your comments being that there have been reports about Base Camps but also some misconceptions too. I think I’ll do a video on this very question. Do you mind if I highlight your comment in the video? Also, can you give me some detail on your experience with the Motorhome you mentioned?
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales Yes, no problem. Keen to hear what people’s experience is as we’d buy a Basecamp if we knew there were no concerns with major items such as window and panel seals, electrical systems, etc. The van we had was Swift Select 122 built in 2021. It was a new van, only a few weeks with rental company and all previous renters had complained. Electrical systems, heating system, water pump were fine but fixtures and fittings were poor quality and tended to break. In week we had it, bathroom cupboard door hinge pulled out of cabinet wall, toilet door handle came off, screws missing and loose on the bed support brackets, clamp to hold table on wall broke, cupboard handles came off. Door seals came out, window blind clips came off. Easy enough to fix but annoying considering what we were paying for the van for a week’s rental.
@@rossmcwhinnie5318 thanks for sharing that. We’ve owned our Base Camp for a year now and had no issues anywhere near that. We’ve practically had trouble free camping with it. A good place to start would the Base Camp Facebook page. There are over 4000 members and the page is very active. You will find lots of information on the page and plenty of opinions from owners who should be able to give you the confidence your looking for. Link to Facebook page:- facebook.com/groups/swiftbasecampowners/?ref=share
Hi, really interested in the basecamp 2. I've already got a 4 berth coachman with a MTPLM of 1330kg. Yours has a MTPLM of 1043kg. My question is, what's it like to pull with your car?
Doesn't really explain why specifically Basecamps come up for sale so quickly after new (if that's true) . ALL the stuff you describe applies to ALL caravans surely?
I think caravan newbies often buy the BC, as it's so compact and they believe it's relatively easy to tow. They then find that caravanning is not for them.
I have never had a problem with doing any of these jobs. Camping is not for the lazy, you dohave to be organised. Other campers are always happy to help if you are having problems. It's a g4eat holiday for children. We all have our jobs. Izzy and George on water. Callie on bathroom and gas, we all do the stedys /legs. Me on kitchen. All of us on the awning. Tables etc. We work as a family something that doesn't happen much these days.
I was all set to buy a base camp but after seeing demonstrators at two different dealers changed my mind ,the build quality was really poor on both ,loose screws, blinds adrift ,rear door is poor design with weak strut ,the hinges had pulled out on both of them
I understand your concern but Its a shame to have had to walk away. The adventures that you’re going to miss out on but you never knew you had in the first place! All caravans and motorhomes are built the same. What you were describing can be common. It’s down to the lightweight design, materials and build. We’ve had ours for a year now and I’ve had no problems. Last week I towed it over 1000 miles touring Scotland and during that time we had all the whether you can imagine thrown at us and the base camp performed impeccably. That said we are very careful with our Base Camp making sure not to be heavy handed with it. If you do reconsider, look at going down the used route like we did. Not only will you save an absolute fortune on the van and accessories but any teething problems with the build would have already been sorted out under the warranty.
It's the same with every caravan, it's not specific to Base camps. If you get exhausted from your first trip you are doing it all wrong. I am 72, been towing (and still caravanning) over 40 years, my first experience was towing a single wheelbase 18 footer with no stabiliser!!, No motor movers then. Caravaning is not for everyone but get it right and it's a wonderful way of seeing Great Britain and having cheap holidays. The biggest and most expensive mistake for first timers is buying new. The stress of towing a £20,000 + rig must be horrendous, then selling at a huge loss.
Thanks, very good Info for a newcomer like I am. I want to buy one ☝️ what I don’t understand is this with the water for shower ect. Where is your Tank ?
There is an external fresh water tank called an Aqua Roll. I’ve done a video about the shower and I cover the water tank in the it. See here:- ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-IY5MuNIBm1M.html
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales but I think that this camper is the right thing for outdoor activities. I’m going Gravel biking and canoeing in the Austrian alps and in italienischen Alpen
My work colleague paid £65k! for a new VW campervan. The pop up roof type. T6 I love them. I love the VW culture. However, for 1/3 and less you could buy a BC2 and new car for price he paid with shower/bathroom. I just don't get spending that amount of money. I like the BC and hope to view one. I'm 6ft 2" and need to see if it's enough room inside. I just don't think many buyers have thought things through. They don't have enough time off to justify using caravans. When the winter comes that's 6 months off the road when they could jet off to somewhere hot. I think the BC is a good investment. Why sell it when they're not that expensive to buy. You can take off anytime across the UK or Europe. Just a weekend away. Our winters aren't that bad. I think they panic and think sitting on drive or storage for months is wasted money.
You make some good points. We use our Base Camp all year so get the use out of it. Base Camping is very addictive so we are always planning the next trip! I am 6ft 4” tall and I fit comfortable in the Base Camp. Standing height is 6ft 5”. The only compromise for being over 6ft tall is that I can’t sleep on the bench seats as a single bed. To lie flat I have to pull out the bed. It makes a super king bed. I have to say I love the VW campers. If I could afford one I’d have one as my tow car. A Base Camp with a VW camper is my dream outfit.
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales thanks for your reply. I've watched your videos. Really good. Reassuring you're taller than me and that the BC can accommodate tall people. The only thing that would concern me with a 2 berth is if I brought my daughter with me who is 15. It might just be us or 3 or 4 of us! I'm looking forward to looking at options. 👍
@@FlyCampCaravanNorthWales only just read the last bit..I was thinking of part exchanging my car for VW transporter with tailgate. Then slowly converting it. Windows, pop up roof etc as would make extra storage and 2 berth for daughter etc. She'd have her own space with friend. Current car is not practical although a SUV. Let's see what's around the corner. 👍
the set up and take down are similiar if not the same for any rv/trailer/camp site. even if one stay in a hotel/motel, there is some set up involved. i guess lazy ppl shouldn't camp???
Your right it is. The reason I think this is a key point is because Base Camps attract newbies. The vast majority of Base Camps sold are to people brand new to caravanning as I was. The reality of ownership can be a surprise.
That’s a good point to make. They are targeted at newcomers as a crossover into a caravan. That said, after 18 months of owning it so far I wouldn’t want something bigger as it’s perfect for us. But never say never…… I used to say I would never buy a caravan!
Yes, you are absolutely right. I failed to mention in the video that the basecamp over indexes with newcomers. First time buyers in caravans like we where.
What I learned from 4 years of caravaning was before you set off say to yourself, there are going to be problems, so shrug your shoulders and laugh it off.
