We Bought a NEW CARAVAN!! | Caravan Vlogs from Mac & Sarah
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- čas přidán 26. 01. 2024
- Well OK, the title says it all, we bought a new caravan, can't keep it a secret now! But in this video we're going to take you through our process, from discussing what our needs are, researching and viewing caravans and of course, revealing our ultimate decision.
For us there were a few factors we kept at the front of our minds: Layout, Size & Weight and of course cost. We did lots of research on line, pouring over Auto Trader and caravan websites before we went to look at some for real. but once we got inside some it really helped settle our minds about what we wanted.
Some of the channels we think do great caravan tours:
Here we tow
/ @herewetow
Andrew Ditton
/ @andrewjditton
Caravan Vlogger
/ @caravanvlogger
Come with us as we go through the process of choosing our next caravan.
We want to give a special mention to Sussex Caravans, especially Erin and Justine, for looking after us so well. We really can't recommend them enough, absolutely first class service!!
If you're joining us for the first time and caravan vlogs are your thing, then stick around, we have loads in the pipe line! If you enjoy travel content, why not check out some of our other playlists.
In any case, we're happy you're here and really hope you enjoyed this video, thanks so much for watching!
All the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
Why not follow us on Instagram: @towing__home
#caravan #caravanlife #caravaning
This is probably THE MOST IMPORTANT VLOG when buying a caravan on youtube ..working out whats best for you and how to make a caravan work for you without wasting your hard earned cash.If anyone asks me about buying a caravan just gonna tell them to watch this ...and subscribe ...WELL DONE!!!!
Wow, thank you so much, that's awesome feedback!!! We never go into anything lightly so always do our homework 🙂 we'd be so happy if the video is of some help to others choosing a caravan.
Thanks again, we really appreciate it and thanks for taking the time to leave us a comment 👍
All the best, Mac & Sarah
We bought a cheap Elddis Avante 2004 and apart from a few things that needed doing, it is serving us well. Spending umpteen amounts on a caravan seems a little silly to me, considering there are hundreds of thousands of cheap second-hand ones. Originally we were going to go for a campervan but on realising that the area you get with a caravan, and for far less spondoolies, wasn't a difficult choice. It is big enough for our needs and I recently fitted a motor mover on it which helps things a bit when having to micro - move it around. Having service pitches too is a huge bonus as you have everything from running water to electricity, a real home from home. The new caravans are nice but they certainly come at a cost that's for sure.
Hi Dave, thanks for watching! Yes totally agree with you about space in caravans vs campervan, especially as we have a big doggo. And the cost of campervan and motorhomes is so high. For us the brand new van ensured we got exactly what we wanted at the right time and from the right dealer, it was a huge expenditure for us for sure but we're really happy with our choice.
Thanks again, all the best
I'm typing this before I see the end. And what you've chosen
Around 8yrs ago. We wanted a bigger caravan with a fixed bed.
My 2 priorities. Where island bed & end bathroom as they are all in 1 full width of van
But I ended up buying because of price
Twin axle island bed with centre bathroom. I was so glad I did. It's by far best arrangement
I always got up way before my wife. Can't sleep more than 6 hrs
If been end bathroom. Would have to continually go into bedroom to get to bathroom.
Centre washroom far more practical. 2 doors between lounge & bedroom. So could make drinks etc without waking wife.
French bed was a certain no no. Climbing over wife or wife climbing over me for loo.
3 yrs ago my wife sadly died. So bought a Campervan (I'm 79)
And thoroughly enjoying it.
I
Hi David, thanks so very much for watching and for telling us about your process for finding the right layout. It's definitely something very specific to each of us isn't it?
For now we don't mind having to clamber over each other 😂
We're so sorry to hear about your wife but please to hear you're enjoying your campervan now.
Thanks again and all the best
Mac & Sarah
congrats enjoy your adventures in your new van.
Thank you 🙏
Aww, I'm so happy for you guys. I simply can't wait for you to show us around your new "home!" 💖😊💖😊💖
Awww thanks so much, we appreciate it. The next video in a couple of weeks will be the first trip and full tour 😀
Congratulations hope you love your new caravan.❤
Thanks so much Sean, much appreciated 👍
We looked at a lot of caravans like you have done deciding what works for us. We have been caravaning forover 20 years and the caravan we have know is a 2021 Coachman Laser 675 twin axle with a fixed bed. This we bought new in 2021 the van is our perfect van. Will not be changing it again aldi central heating and a host of other things with a wheal mover fitted. We tow it witha Toyota Landcruiser. Good luck with the new caravan.😀👍
Hi Brian! Oh that's a fabulous van, definitely no need to change!! Sounds ideal. When you've got it right, that's great. Hopefully our new van will give us a good few years of adventures 😀 Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment.
Ah wow! Congratulations! Exciting times ahead! We bought a new van for exactly the same reason! So our dog could come away with us.. we found staying in hotel that took dogs that you were given the dregs of rooms that no one else wanted.. having your own caravan is perfect solution! Well done! Xx
Hey Janet, thanks for watching!! You're so right about hotels, caravanning means you have your home from home with you all the time, gotta be right for the doggos 😀
Good morning, I have had two Swifts and they are great vans and I make you right making the bed up every night does get a bit tiresome and your right fix bed is the way to go. We went over to fix bed some years ago and it makes the whole experience so much better. You will love it. Enjoy and I get it. We have an elderly dog. He is now 10 and it’s all about the love of the the dog gary and karen
Hey Gary & Karen!! Oh my goodness you're so right about the bed, this is going to be a game changer for us and we're so happy with our choice!! Dozer's going to love it too 😀 Thanks for watching and all the best 👍
Congratulations mac and Sarah on your new caravan I enjoyed this video looking forward to seeing the next video in your new caravan glad you could have your caravan early
Thanks so much, as always Sally!! Can't wait to share our first trip in the new van 😀
Great video. Our Bailey Phoenix Vogue is a dealer special, great value and we'll worth buying. I hope you get on with the French bed, we never did on a previous Lunar. In my opinion French beds are the worst things to come out of France apart from French people. 😂😂
Haha are they really French? What makes a French bed French 😂
Congratulations 🥳🥂🍾 Looking forward to seeing your new ‘van!
Ah thanks guys 🙏 can't wait to share it with you in our next video 😀
I too went through exactly the same as you. I bought a sprite alpine 4 6yrs ago. Best thing I ever did. So versatile. I love it. Now I’m on my own it is easy to drive and set up alone. I have 2 dogs and grandchildren. We love it. Hope you enjoy yours as much as we do. Xx
Hi Leslie!! So great to hear how well suited your van is, we're hoping the same is true for us too. Can't wait for the first trip next weekend 😀
im so happy for you both buying your new caravan well done look forward see your new videos of it bet your doggy love it so much thanks for sharing it guys xx
Thanks Craig, our next video will be a full tour. Yes Dozer's going to love the extra space!! Thanks for watching and for your support 🙏
Absolutely brilliant, well done you two. We love your channel ❤️
Ah thanks Paul 🙏 we appreciate it, all the best
As a couple thinking about buying our first caravan to spend more time travelling with our dog, your channel couldn’t be more perfect for us. Your practical, fun and realistic advice is always so clearly and authentically delivered. Looking forward to seeing you happy in your new van!
Wow thank you so much, that means so much to us! 🙏 It's great to hear you're thinking of buying a caravan for the same reasons as us, we can honestly say it's the best decision we've made, we've had soany great trips with Dozer!! We'd love to hear how you get on in your search and if you decide to take the plunge 😀
Thanks for watching, all the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
Hay Great news loved following this vlog supper happy for you looking forward to seeing your next one
Good luck
Katie & Gary 🎉🎉
Thanks so much Katie & Gary ❤️ can't wait to share our first adventure and tour of our new van!! All the best x
Congratulations, exciting times ahead 😊, looking forward to the new next video from the new caravan. Take care 😁
Thanks very much Trevor!! All the best 👍
Congratulations guys! That's such a cool choice - having a side bathroom instead of the end bathroom means you get so much caravan without it being too long! Can't wait for content in it!
Thanks very much Andrew! Yes exactly, the length is perfect for our driveway lol. And the French bed looks cosy too.
Thanks for watching and all the best 👍
We bought a Elddis Penshurst Special Edition (the first one you viewed) from Sussex Caravans. Your new one looks lush. Never know, we may bump into each other on a site somewhere on the South Coast. We love Concierge…
Hey Dominic! Oh fantastic, that's a great van, we really loved the Penshurst but it was a tad on the heavy side for our car.
Yes that would be cool, if you see us about just shout 😀
Thanks for watching and all the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
@@MacSarah - Yes, we never knew the weight issue would be such a thing. We tow with an EV, so luckily they are quite heavy and can tow a fair bit. We probably looked at 15 caravans before deciding on the Penshurst…
Love the Vlogs and the updates from your adventures. Dozer is a legend too…
Congratulations guys on your new caravan! And thank you for sharing your journey! My parents had the same layout in an older caravan, and really loved it. We had a Swift Challenger 540 up until last year, which is pretty much the same but the bed is on the opposite side.
We’d come from another Swift with bunks at the back, which worked well for us when our girls used to come along. We upgraded to the 540 as we’d also got fed up with making up and putting down the bed. We did find though, that we also lost quite a bit of ‘lounge’ room due to the fixed bed, and the fixed bed was nowhere near the size of the bed in our previous ‘van, but it was definitely worth the upgrade.
After a several years of great holidays in the 540 though, we’d found we’d had enough of the French bed. I always slept near the window, as my partner is much shorter and the cut-out didn’t affect her, but being a bloke, I was also the one getting up in the night for toilets as well 😂 Also, as we use the shower quite often, found it a bit of a faff having to dry it all out after we’d used it in order to be able to use the toilet again without getting wet feet. So last year we bit the bullet and replaced it with a Bailey Unicorn Vigo, with transverse bed, and bathroom across the back with separate shower cubicle, and also a tall fridge. We were a bit unsure going with Bailey after Swifts, but we’re over the moon with it.
It’s so exciting choosing and looking at new vans, we always love the experience, and like you guys spend weeks on all the websites and sending each other listings 😂
We hope you love your new caravan, and look forward to following your adventures! Keep up the great work, Simon & Sally 😊
Hi Simon & Sally, thanks so much for watching and leaving a great comment 😀
Yes we totally get the point about the smaller lounge area, we did debate that quite a bit, especially with a big dog 😂 But overall we felt that for right now it was the right layout for us. We can definitely see us wanting something slightly bigger in the years to come especially as you say to get a separate shower cubicle.
So glad you're loving your Bailey, that's awesome 👍
Thanks again and our very best wishes to you both 🙂
Congratulations, a beautiful caravan, we look forward to seeing it in your next adventure.
There’s always a compromise with our homes on wheels but I’m sure you will have many a happy holiday in her/him 😊
Thanks so much Theresa, we can't wait for our first mino adventure 😀 thanks for watching
Congratulations mac and Sarah. Great to hear you bought a Swift. We have an Alpine 4 and absolutely love it.😀
Hi John, oh that's great to hear!! We're so happy with our choice 🙂 thanks for watching
We also have a large Labrador and changed from a two birth to a Sprite Alpine 4 for very similar reasons, we are loving our new van
Ah it's a great layout isn't it? We're also loving ours, it was the right choice 😊 thanks for watching 👍
@@MacSarah ours is also the dealer special, so it seems strange to see you guys in “our van”. We are off to Eye Kettleby Lakes today. I highly recommend it
@@shpadam oh brilliant, have a great time!! We're were there the other week, what a great site 👍
Really happy for you guys, cant wait to see your new adventures!
Thank you so much! Can't wait to share them 😀
Just had your channel recommended to me, can't believe I'm not subbed (I have watched your vlogs before) Anyway, corrected that wrong.
I do love getting a new caravan 😀
Ah thanks for Subscribing Graham, much appreciated 👍 I looked out for you at the NEC on Weds but our paths didn't cross. Oh yes that new caravan feels huh? We're stoked with our new van. Take care, all the best 😀
Congratulations Mac and Sarah 🎉🎉
Beautifull new caravan and à very well explain vidéo about buying à New caravan.
Fixed bed are the Best once you have tried it you never look back.
Did you managed to get the front chest draw built in ?
Thank you for this very good vidéo 🥳
Big kisses to you both from France 🇨🇵😉
Thanks so much, oh we honestly can't wait to experience our fixed bed for the first time 😀 Thank you so much for watching!!
Best wishes from the three of us 🙏
Good luck with the new caravan. was hoping you were going to go down the dealer special route with the ones you were looking at😀👍. We started off with a 2 berth, then to fixed french bed and now to a island bed with end wash room.
Thanks Neil! So we've been on a similar journey then? Nice one. Thanks for watching 👍
Congratulations on your new Swift caravan Mac and Sarah. We are hoping to get our new Swift Campervan this year and will be going to all the places you have visited. Looking forward to seeing your new adventures with Dozer. You two are truly amazing in what you do and how you present. Fab couple. Ken and Lee
Aww thanks Ken and Lee! Ooh a Swift Camper van? Awesome 👍 maybe we'll bump into each other at one of the sites 😀 thanks for watching
So please for you both guy's.
Like yourselves, we bought a caravan, as it was easier to take our Chocolate Lab Bonnie away with us.
We started off with what turned out to be a bit of a money pit van and then made the decision to buy new.
Our first new caravan was also a French bed layout and it certainly worked for us.
The only downside for me , was getting an elbow in the head when the wife wanted to use the loo in the night 😅
Ah thanks so much! We bet Bonnie loves it! So great to get away with our doggos huh?
Oh 😂 yes I think an elbow in the head is in my future too 😂
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment, much appreciated 👍
Funnily enough, we bought our first 'NEW' caravan based on the same specs, back in 2019. and of course January was our collection date. also of note is that we bought a dealer special 'Exclusive' based on the same model as you have chosen.
We love ours and have had several great holidays in it already. it tows brilliantly and is light enough to be man-handled on site, however a Motor-mover, makes things a lot easier and simpler, as I'm now an old pensioner. (sly chuckling to myself). Be prepared for a couple of teething troubles, as with most new things, but on the whole, it's worked out really well for us as we are both retired and I am still able to tinker and sort minor issues out for my self. Am sure you will have many great times in your new 'van and look forward to seeing you enjoy it on the channel..
Hi Chris! Oh that's really interesting that we had the same requirements. The Goodwood was just the natural choice once we'd weighed it all up and we couldn't be happier. We did add a motor mover as we have to maneuver it a bit to get it down the side of our house.
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment, we appreciate it 👍
All the best, Mac & Sarah
"The smallest caravan on the site" - I know that feeling 😂 Congrats on your new caravan, looking forward to seeing it.
😂 we've never had the pleasure of pitching next to a pod 😀 Thanks so much, can't wait to share it. Dozer sends Winston some boops ❤️
Wow amazing van congrats
Thanks so much!!
Your channel has had massive impact on me iv have picked up my new van today I actually keep looking out the window and laughing to my self
A great choice. We had a Sprite 500 Sport Alpine 4, was a very comfortable Van. I did extend the under bed heating tube into the bathroom. Bought the Y junction and pipe work including the butterfly vent off Ebay. As yours is new, might be worth asking the dealer if they can do it. On a cold night the bathroom chills down and towels do not dry. We also ordered a front chest via our local Swift dealer. Again if yours is still at the factory, you could only ask.Towed perfectly, once balanced. Awning in the bathroom when driving seemed to help the weight distribution Like you, we had to juggle cost, size (for our drive way) and the tow weight. We had a great 6 years touring UK and Europe and Doris became our office during COVID and yes, we did spend a few nights in desperation to get away, caravanning on the drive. At the Feb 2023 NEC and 10 mins before the show closed. Walking through the Bailey stand area, with no previous thoughts of changing Vans. We did.
Hi David, thanks for watching and your detailed comment. that's so interesting because we noticed that there wasn't a heating outlet in the bathroom and wondered if we could do that. Someone else also mentioned that they had too. We've now collected our new van so maybe a DIY job or when it next goes back to the dealer. We definitely agree that it's a good idea.
Sounds like you had lots of great trips in yours before changing. Sounds like we had very similar reasons for the choice too.
Thanks again and all the best
Mac & Sarah
Absolutely brilliant so happy for you both cant wait to see next video 😀
Thanks very much Paul 👍 much appreciated
Thanks for sharing your process and congratulations on your new caravan!! We went through something similar, but because the search narrowed down to several different brands, we took that list to the NEC last October and have been doing all the background bits whilst waiting for delivery e.g. new car to allow the tow, although that was allowed for in the search and it is a relatively light model Elddis Affinity 574. Looking forward to your travels in the new caravan!
Oh that's great, must have been really helpful to look round the NEC at your short list! So exciting to be awaiting your new van!!
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment 👍
All the best
Mac & Sarah
Nothing like a new caravan, congratulations to all 3 of you, exciting times ahead, we changed to a fixed bed , it’s a game changer 😅👍🏼
Ah that's so good to hear Trevor, it definitely feels like a game changer to us too!! Thanks for watching, much appreciated 🙂
Great vlog so pleased for you both. It’s so exciting picking a new caravan. Good luck and happy holidays xxx
Ah thanks Diane, we're so excited! Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment 👍 all the best x
congrats guys, great video. happy adventures ahead !
Thanks very much Dave, much appreciated 👍
We are located in Leicester, however, on holiday last year in East Sussex we fell in love with our current Coachman VIP 460 at Sussex caravans. Erin also conducted our exchange and purchase. Have nothing but good things to say about the company. Also got a stuffed doggy. 😂 Neil and Sue
Hi Neil. Oh that's brilliant, yes they're fab aren't they, especially Erin!! Wow Coachman VIP is a wonderful van, congrats 👍
Thanks for watching 😀
Our first caravan was a two birth which we loved everything about except putting the bed up and down! Upgraded to a fixed bed and life is soooo much easier and the bed alot more comfortable! Do think two births are a great starting point though for first time towing. Enjoy your new caravan. 😊
Hi, thanks for watching. Yes we agree that a two birth is a great starter van for a couple of newbies as we were. We're so looking forward to the fixed bed though 😀
Loving your content guys.
As newbies ourselves (we bought a Coachman Amara 4 berth in Nov 2023) we haven't been away yet but have our 1st trip booked for March.
We also have our Labrador Luna who is 4 who goes everywhere with us so your content is relevant to us.
Keep up the good work.
Hey Rob, thanks for watching! Oh an Amara 4 berry, fantastic!! What a great van. We'd love to hear how your first trip goes!! Dozer sends Luna some boops! Thanks again and all the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
We got our Coachman Ashington VIP from Sussex Caravans and we love it. They were so helpful even when we had a small issue. We have had quite a few stays in it already and many more planned for this year with our pup
Hi Suzanna! Oh they're great at Sussex Caravans aren't they? Wow the Coachman Ashington is a lovely van, so glad you've had some great trips so far. And many more to come we hope!
Thanks for watching, all the best 👍
Well done we also buy our caravans from Sussex Caravans it really is a first class dealership, you won’t regret it. Brian
Thanks Brian!!! Yes are they a great bunch? We've always had such great service 👍 thanks for watching
Congratulations on getting a new caravan. We love watching your posts and look forward to seeing more of your adventures. I am sure it is well deserved. Enjoy.
Thanks so much Ian, really appreciate it 🙏 thanks for watching 😀
You are so lucky Mac because Sarah is extremely stunning
I completely agree 😀
Woo amazing.looking forward to seeing your caravan.Good luck😍
Thanks very much 😀🙏
Its so interesting to follow caravanning in England, your vans are so light and compact. We have had a European van which we have loved and are now about to downsize from 17ft to a 16ft thats semi off road and slightly heavier. Caravanning is just the best holiday wherever you are in the world and of course we love to take our dog with us too, can't wait to see your trips, Dozer included
Hey Kaz! Ah so interesting to get your take on things, where in the world are you? We've seen some very cool off road / rugged type caravans in the USA and Australia. They look very cool and just the thing for touring wherever you wanna go.
Thanks so much for watching, hope you enjoy the content
All the best, Mac, Sarah and Dozer x
Congratulations! How exciting and what a perfect way to begin the new year! I'm looking forward to seeing the first adventure in your new caravan. 🎉🎉🎉
Ah thanks so much Erin, we hope you're both keeping well 😀 all our best ❤️
Great video - and congratulations on the new caravan… can't wait to see it! 😀
Thanks very much Michael 😀
Yet another AMAZING video you two 🎉😅 So glad you’ve got your new dream van! Hope you’re enjoying it . Justine xxxxxxx
Awww thanks so much Justine, for everything!!! ❤️ Think you're gonna really enjoy the next video 😀 all the best xxx
Hi Mac&Sarah. Just stumbled across your fantastic videos over last few days and we are hooked by you both ,more or less binged watched loads of van vids and love the enthusiasm from both ,we are sited with our twin axle but love these . Thanks both for the laughter 😃. Ryan&Ave
Hi Ryan & Ave! Ahh thanks so much, we really appreciate it 🙏 All the best, Mac & Sarah
Great video👍congratulations on your new van x
Thanks very much Gaynor 😀
Congratulations guys .. enjoy it to the max
Thanks very much 👍 we certainly will 😀
Wow how exciting just in time for Easter good luck guys
Thanks very much Martin!!
Your videos are just fantastic. They get better and better. We are a couple with a dog and your videos give us great ideas. Keep them coming guys, looking forward to seeing the new van
Ahh thank you very much, we really appreciate it 👍 all the best
Brilliant guys looks amazing 🤩
Thanks Steve!! We're so happy with our choice! Thanks for watching 👍
I pick up our new to us caravan tomorrow. Very excited. Have enjoyed watching your videos as part of the process.
Hey Rob!! Oh that's awesome, congratulations!!!! So glad you enjoy the videos, thanks so much for letting us know!! Happy Caravanning 😀
Can’t wait to see you guys in your new caravan, my wife and I are going to be getting a caravan towards the end of this year/ beginning of next year and stumbled across your channel a few weeks ago and are now hooked and can’t stop watching your videos, keep up the good work and look forward to many more of your videos
Hi James!! Oh that's fantastic, so you'll be shopping for a caravan this year then! We're so glad you found our channel and enjoy the content, thano you, we really appreciate it 🙏
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment 👍
All the best
Mac & Sarah
Congratulations both, it looks a lovely caravan, I am looking forward to your new cocktails to go with the new caravan. 🍹🍹
😂 thanks Mike, we'll have to look for a suitable cocktail recipe for the new van 👍 thanks for watching
Great video as always we have a swift dealer special and it’s a great van few teething problems nothing major as you get with anything brand new only really annoying thing is the usb port above the bed has annoying blue light but it’s a good caravan great choice 👍
Hey Phil, glad to know you like your van. Yea were expecting some snags to be honest, like you say, comes with the territory I guess.
We didn't even think it might have a light on the USB socket lol, that might be a nuisance lol
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment, we appreciate it
All the best
Mac & Sarah
@@MacSarah yes it’s not a big deal it’s only when you use it when removing the cover nothing a black marker can’t sort I’m excited for you enjoy 👍
Can’t wait to see the next video guys
Ah thanks Janey 😀
Such an exciting time 🎉 look forward to the big reveal 😊
Ah thanks very much! We can't wait to film the tour on our first trip in a couple of weeks 😀
You both look so happy! The graphics on your new caravan are the nicest I’ve seen.
It’s lovely! Love the vanity area.
The little shelf in the kitchen is fab and you can plug your kettle in through the little hole, shelf handy for tea & coffee.
We bought a new swift sprite in 2019 ( transverse island bed ) and remember the excitement.
Bet you can’t wait to get it home and add your bits and bobs.
Think this is the best video you’ve done, so interesting and seeing which you chose and how happy you were .
Then to get it early , how lovely xx
Hey Vicki 😀 aww thanks so much, that's lovely of you ❤️ We're so excited to start our adventures in the new van!! The Sprite range is great isn't it? Hey a transverse island bed is lush!!
Thanks for watching and leaving such a lovely comment, we really appreciate it ❤️
All the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
Congratulations on your purchase. Lot’s of fun trips ahead with it.
Thanks so much!! Hope you're both well
Hi both of you,congrats on the new purchase,been enjoying your content, especially reviews for a while. Amazing how having a dog changes life. We bought a lunar 3 years ago and like you ordered a new van in October for delivery in a few weeks time , many more trips planned so keep the reviews coming ,good luck.be great to see your new set up. Neil and Sue.
Hey Neil & Sue! Oh fantastic, best you're excited to get you new van!! Yes, totally, having Dozer changed our lives big time, for the better of course!! Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment, we really appreciate it. All the best 😀🙏
Brilliant
Thanks Tracy 🙏
Congratulations on your new van. Loved watching your purchasing journey.
Thank you very much, so glad you enjoyed the video. All the best 👍
congratulations on your new purchase, looking forward to seeing your first trip 😊
Thanks Mandy!! We can't wait to share the first mini adventure 😀
Congratulations to you both on buying a Swift Caravan, cant wait to see your next Blog
😃😍💖
Thanks so much Linda 😀🙏
We have enjoyed following your journey from newbies to experienced caravanners. We returned to caravanning in early 2023 after a break of some 33 years to find things had moved on considerably! We think your videos are superior to many others we have watched - always entertaining, fresh and informative with a good mixture of content. Very much looking forward to following your experiences and travels with your new home from home!
Hello, that's very kind of you to say, thank you very much!! Not sure we're yet qualified as 'experienced' caravanned 😂 but we're getting there!
We are very much looking forward to sharing our new adventures.
Thanks for watching, Mac & Sarah
Mac and Sarah great choice of caravan I'm looking forward to seeing your first trip. Thanks for sharing. (Geoff)
Thanks Geoff, much appreciated 👍 we're looking forward to sharing our first trip soon 😀
Nice one guys👍👍👍
Cheers Steve,much appreciated 👍
Great video guys. So helpful for anyone looking to buy a caravan first time round or upgrading. We did exactly this last year, we went for single beds! 😂 our little Jack Russell certainly does, even with a small dog where to put his bed is a big consideration. Hope you love your new van.
Thanks so much Sandra, much appreciated. Oh of course, dog beds are a very important consideration aren't they? haha
Thanks for watching, all the best
Great Vlog, we too changed how we holiday after pandemic and have doggy come with us , pick up new Bailey Discovery 4-4 next week .. happy travels 👍🏼
Ah Nice one Lee, enjoy your new caravan. It's a great way to holiday with doggos huh?
All the best
Mac & Sarah
Hi
Just come across your channel and subscribed 😀
Great video and a nice insight in how you ordered your new caravan, which is very nice by the way 😀
Take care, Trev Debz and Tyler
Hey!! Thanks so much, so glad you found our channel and enjoyed the video 🙂
All our best, Mac, Sarah and Dozer
Hi Mac & Sarah, fantastic news, so looking forward to seeing you both enjoying your new 'home from home' We have also just upgraded our caravan from a lovely little 2 berth to a four berth with a fixed bed for exactly the same reasons as you, we also have a beautiful labrador who turns like the Titanic! 😂😂 also have another rescue dog that likes her own space so the extra room is fantastic 😊 can't wait to see your vlog, take care, love to Dozer ❤xx
Oh wow so we're in the same boat 😀 "turns like the Titanic" 😂 Brilliant. Aww we hope you're enjoying the upgrade, we certainly can't wait to get out for our first trip!!!
Thanks so much for watching and leaving us a comment.
All the best
Mac, Sarah & Dozer
Yay, congratulations to the 3 of you. It's so difficult to find the right one, transitioning through campervans to caravans and getting the right one. We've found as we've used ours for a year or so, we start to find out what works and what really drives us (mostly me) insane! We're currently 1.5 years in with an Adria Action 361LT and love it....but your video has prompted discussions probably a year earlier than we anticipated 😂 looking forward to your new video x
Oh really? That's great that our video has got you considering a change 😀 oh yes, layout is everything isn't it? We're fairly confident we've found the right layout for our current circumstances and needs 👍
Thanks for watching and all the best
Ah, many congratulations on the purchase of your new Swift Goodwood. Can’t wait to see where you go in it. Really hope you get to visit one or some of the sites that we recommended on a previous comment. Love to see you two getting around with Dozer and enjoying lots of yummy food.😋🤗 from Amanda and Paul.
Hey Amanda and Paul 😀 thanks so much for watching! Ah ok sure we'll bump into each other sooner or later!!
Brilliant and well done Mac and Sarah…. Exciting times ahead. Had 3 Swift vans over the years (loved them all) and then changed to a Static caravan. But missed touring and decided to return to caravanning again at the end of this season and like you, are considering either a dealer special version of the Sprite Alpine 4 or the Alpine 2. Can’t wait. Take care and best of luck
Hey Tony, Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment 👍 So you're a great ambassador for Swift then, good to hear! We found the dealer special a great deal so we're very excited to get it out for the first time! Would love to hear how you get on and what you decide on 😀
All the best
Mac & Sarah
Congratulations on the new van it looks fab!!!... we got a new van last year and it really did feel like we were newbies again for a while 😊... enjoy and look forward to seeing you pick it up... bet Dozer loves it too 👍
Thanks Dave!! Oh hell yes we're definitely gonna feel like newbies!! Dozer's going to love the extra space and the fixed bed of course 😂
Thanks for watching, as always we appreciate it.
All the best!
Aww congratulations on your new caravan 🎉 can't wait for you to show us around 😊 it looks a lovely caravan, I want one 😃
Hehe thanks Sam, can't wait to film the full tour on our first mini trip 😀
@@MacSarah we have the Swift Sprite Compact, it's perfectly formed but with a golden retriever space is tight , have looked at the alpine 4 so I'm keen to see how you find it 😉 then I may twist hubby's arm 😉
Great videos and this one reminiscent of our process last September. Having both had caravans previously we had a fairly clear idea of our ideal layout (centre bathroom, island bed). Like yourselves the next big decision was new or second hand and having never had new before, we bit the bullet and bought a new Swift (Icon, Kimberley Caravans special based on the Sprite Major 4EB). Our first was trip three weeks in Cornwall during storm Agnes!!! It went really well in a ‘testing in extreme conditions’ sort of way 😂 and our trip to Chatsworth in two weeks will be our 5th trip. Happy to report that despite a few snags (all sorted without fuss by Kimberley Caravans), we’re very happy with our Swift and look forward to comparing experiences as you get on the road! 😊
Hi Richard, thanks for watching 👍 Oh that's really interesting, yes layout is so important isn't it? So glad it worked out well on your first trip, especially weathering storm Agnes, crikey 🌪️ We're away as we type this, on our first trip and so far so good, loving our choice 👍
Thanks again and all the best
So exciting for you both - enjoy many happy memories in your new caravan
Thank you very much 🙏
@@MacSarah looking forward to to meeting you at Old Oaks in April and to meet Dozer and introduce you to our two Shih Tzu who we love bringing on holiday in our caravan too
@@kezangart look forward to it 😀
Hi
Good choice of new caravan ,we have had two Swift Sprite Alpine 4 now and think as you mentioned tick the right boxes.
They are very nice to tow and plenty of storage space and having the fix bed is great, hope you enjoy your new van and look forward to hearing what you have to report about it.
Hi Phil. Ah that's great to hear, glad you've had good experiences with the model. We can't wait to get out for the first time and get used to it
Thanks for watching 👍
Aww we’ve had 2 coachman Sussex specials from Sussex caravans, amazing service and well looked after with the lovely Erin 😊
Oh really? That's wonderful!! Oh are they brilliant up there? Erin and Justine looked after us so well. 😀
Thanks for watching Maxine, much appreciated x
@@MacSarah the handover we had for both caravans was amazing, took at least 2 hours, nothing was to much agro, enjoy the wine (if they still do that) and the cuddly dog likes looking out the front window😉🤣 enjoy your new adventures in your new caravan 😊😊
Congratulations an exciting time. We bought out first caravan 18 months ago from new at that time there was little differential between a new and nearly new price so we went for a new so we could get exactly the layout and options we wanted. We went through a similar process to you wanting a small easy to tow van but added the residual price after 5 years, we went to the NEC show and looked at lots eventuallyfell in love with the Eriba troll 540. Finding a good dealer is so important we went with Kool classics in East Sussex. Their pre and post sales service is excellent. It has taken us a while to find Wilma our whippet the right place to sleep but now we’ve cracked it and Wilma loves it. Looking forward to your new adventures.
Thanks very much Graham!! Ah and Eriba Troll, that's a very cool caravan!! Nice one! Great idea to go to the NEC I reckon, not better place to see lots and lots on offer and get inside them. Glad your doggo has found the perfect snoozing place too 😀
Thanks for watching, all the best 👍
Lovely video guys, after four Bailey Unicorns since 2012 we picked up our 2023 Swift Challenger 580 Se Grande in September, however, we don’t get to get our first shakedown trip away until the end of February due to my wife breaking her wrist in October 😩
Hope you have some great times with Dozer in the new van! Really looking forward to your next video 👍👍
Oh we wish your wife a speedy recovery 🙏 Wow a Swift Challenger is a great van, you must be looking forward to your first trip!! Thanks for watching, our first trip is coming soon 😀👍
We went through the same thought process as you but with a different outcome by going for the single beds ! Wally the lab is a bit of a lump and the thinking behind it was he could lay in between the beds if we was sitting in the lounge area and it works well , but we had to pull the door across at night to avoid getting an ear deuce at 5 in the morning ! Great video Mac and Sarah and looking forward to seeing your new van with Dozer in it.
Hi Andrew, hope you're well. Yes layout is everything isn't it? Just the right layout for our individual needs is so important, especially when it's such a big investment!!
Thanks for watching and all the best 👍
We have a motorhome and tow a Jeep Wrangler behind it. It solves the problem of needing to pack up camp to go anywhere and the Wrangler is a lot more maneuverable than the 42 foot coach.
Sounds like a sweet outfit you have there Rich 👍
@@MacSarah It definitely eats the miles.
Well done guys, we are sure you will love it.
By the way Mac….. buy that girl some new jeans for goodness sake… hers are torn at the knees😂😂😂
Take care both and love to Dozer
Steve n Jeanette
😂 that's high fashion Steve!! Thanks for watching both,much appreciated 👍 we're really happy with our choice!! All the best
Now you just need to give it a name ( our Bailey Unicorn Valencia is called Doris😅😅😅).
So exciting, I bet you are like a couple of kids at Xmas!!!
Looking forward to seeing your travels.
Steve n Jeanette
My wife and myself are in the same position as you, bought a small van to see if we liked it and now looking for a 4 birth, fixed bed for exactly the same reasons. Great video and we may take a trip to Sussex caravans to see what’s on offer.
Oh really, that's brilliant. The fixed bed is going to be a game changer I think. Yes do go and see Sussex Caravans, they'll look after you very well 😀 thanks for watching, all the best 👍
Great choice! We picked up a new Swift Alpine 4 Last year. Very pleased & have no regrets. Agree with all your points.
Enjoy! Just have to work out which is the cocktail cabinet(s)!!!! Look forward to you sharing your adventures. x
Haha very good point, where will we put the cocktail equipment? 😂 So good to hear that you like your Swift, we can't wait to get out in ours!! Thanks for watching 👍
Wow, a side of traveling I haven't experienced yet. One day, we'll have to travel by caravan. It sounds like such a fun time!
It really is fun and suits us just right. Thanks for watching 👍
@@MacSarah I don't plan on buying one anytime soon but I definitely want to someday. I'll keep watching your channel for tips for when I eventually do get one and start traveling in it 🙏
Lovely van and were out for the first time in our new van this weekend, it is like starting over again lol
Oh really? That's so cool, how did it go?
@@MacSarah we go this friday so will let you know, we got an 8ft wide van so is a little different having that on the back of the car,. 😬
Congratulations to you both, I’m sure you’re going to be delighted with your new Swift. Definitely fixed bed is the way to go, ours is the Phoenix which we toured Southern Ireland with last June. Looking forward to your next video. Great quality videos BTW👍
Thanks Stewart, much appreciated! We'd also love to tour Ireland one day, such a beautiful country! We're very excited to crash out in the fixed bed for the first time 😀
Thanks for watching, all the best
Mac & Sarah
A thought - you may be able to get a plate weight up plate for more payload. You don’t have to use the extra payload, but it provides a safety net! You might find the axle is rated at 1500kgs which is common across brands. Not expensive (£70ish) your dealer might even throw it in the deal🤔
A pleasure dealing with you both as always. So pleased we could find you something that ticked all of your boxes! We are so looking forward to seeing yours and Dozer's adventures in your new Goodwood caravan! 🥳🐶🎉
From Erin & the Sussex Caravan Centre team ❤
Thank you so much Erin, we could not be happier and cannot wait for our first trip! Thanks for looking after us so well ❤️
All our love, Mac, Sarah & Dozer x
Finally watched this one. Great and helpful vlog. Made us want to go looking for a new caravan again ourselves!!!! NO!!! Only had the current one less than a year 😂😂😂😂
🤣 you can always go window shopping lol. Thanks for watching guys, hope you're all well x
@@MacSarah all good. Still Caravanning! Still vlogging! 😀
@@heyholetstow crushin it 👍
@@MacSarah ha thanks! One day we aim to have as many subs as you guys! Keep up the good work!
@@heyholetstow that will definitely happen, this is a great and supportive niche 🙂 just keep making great content 👍
Good evening to you both,
You have made a cracking purchase in that caravan 😊.
We have moved from a 2 berth recently to a local dealer special Alpine 4.
What a game changer the fixed bed is and the smaller wet room is no issue it works just great.
The only thing we have had done is to have the blown air duct run into the wetroom, this is easily done from the outlet in the bedroom under the bed hope this little tip may help.
Maybe something your dealer can do before collection.
If you need to ask anything pls feel free
All the best with the new van.
P and J 👍 😊
Hello!!! Ahh that is very interesting and something we'd discussed doing!! Good to know it's a simple job, definitely a good idea to have some warm air into the little room!!
They're great vans aren't they? We simply cannot wait until our first trip!
Well definitely be in touch if we have any questions! Thank you very much 😀
All the best, Mac & Sarah
@MacSarah
Hi,
I'm glad to have been some help,
Yes, a cracking 4 berth van, enjoy .
Hopefully, the dealer may let you do a handover video, always helpful for people to see.
All the best 👍
Paul and Joanne 👍 😊
Watching your channel really makes me want to go out and buy a caravan (and Sussex Caravans are my nearest dealer !). However I live in a new build with restrictive covenants which don't allow caravans to be kept on drive and I wouldn't want to keep it in storage miles away . Just wondered how/where you keep yours - do you have to put it in storage or are you lucky enough to be able to keep it on your drive ?
Hi there Bert! Oh we so wish you could buy one, especially from Sussex Caravans, but totally understand your situation. Yes, we are very fortunate in that we are able to keep ours on the driveway. It works very well. We have had a motorhome in the past which we kept at a storage site, which was OK on the whole, but an additional cost that needs to be taken into account.
Thanks for watching and leaving us a comment. All the best
Mac & Sarah