What are the hallmarks of a true offroad caravan? We threw it open to Facebook – here is a sample of the responses.
Larry Newbury: What is your definition of ‘offroad’? The surface and shoulders of many of our so-called major routes are far worse than many of the places I have towed a van.
John Butler: Beauty or, in this case, resilience, is in the eye of the beholder. Horses for courses. You get what you pay for. You must have a manufacturer that you trust to build your van. Design and construct it to suit your needs.
Bob Coventry: Light, strong, and tracks within the [tracks of the] towing vehicle, storage space for tubs (no fancy cupboards or drawers). Above all, well balanced when loaded with sufficient water and stores and able to tow equally well on the road as off it.
Roy Wyss (owner of Sunland Caravans): A true offroad van should be able to handle whatever is thrown at it dependent upon the size and weight of the van. It should offer self-sustainability, keep out the dust and dirt, it should be able to handle thousands of kilometres of corrugated dirt and gravel roads. It should tow as well in the rough as it handles the blacktop. It should be equipped with enough water and supplies to enjoy long periods off the grid. It should have good protection and be well insulated. It must be warranted for the intended use. It must have a decent payload.