The appeal of caravan holidays and travel has surged in the past 2 years as the coronavirus pandemic shut down many of the usual alternatives – air, interstate and international travel in particular. As 2021 closes out, restrictions are easing somewhat and potential buyers and owners are getting on with their caravan travel plans. We provide RV buying updates and reminders for those setting their caravan travel plans, intending to purchase a new caravan and those interested in buying a caravan with finance.
Interstate Border Situation
It was a great relief to many holidaymakers and travellers to have the Queensland border reopened, with criteria, on 13 December. Hordes crossed over by road and air to enjoy Christmas in the sunshine state. But for those with the eyes set on going west, the Western Australian Government has kept their border firmly shut. Travellers from other states looking to explore WA in their caravan or RV have been eagerly awaiting news of when they will be permitted into the state.
The WA Premier Mark McGowan recently announced the date and the criteria for those wanting to enter the state. From 5 February 2022, the state will embark on what it has named ‘Safe Transition’. This signals an easing of both international and interstate borders.
There are conditions depending on which jurisdiction the traveller has been in during the previous 14 days and a G2G Pass will need to be completed. Proof of vaccination will also be required.
The conditions will no doubt change and vary as the Omicron variant impacts Australia. Those seeking to travel to WA should stay across the border conditions and ensure they meet the criteria.
Caravan Travel in WA
For those looking to purchase a caravan for a specific tour of WA, they may be wise to consider an off-road RV. Travel conditions include unsealed roads and there are many remote locations that are well worth a visit. Conditions that would not be suited to a traditional on-road caravan.
Our Secured Caravan Loan is equally suited to all types of caravans and RVs – fully and semi off-road as well as traditional models. The vehicle is used as security against the loan and with our cheap fixed interest rates, buyers have a simple equal monthly repayment schedule.
When engaging Jade Caravan Finance to source caravan finance, buyers also have the opportunity to discuss including numerous extras and accessories in their loan package. For travel into more remote areas, these may include additional solar panels, larger water tanks, high-grade communications and other equipment to make the vehicle and the travellers self-sustained for an extended time.
Most caravan manufacturers have at least one off-road model in their range and there are makers that specialise in this type of RV. When comparing prices also compare possible loan repayments by using our Caravan Finance Calculator. With the current low interest rate scenario, that better-equipped, more upscale van may be more affordable in terms of repayments than you think!
The Omicron Outlook
Just when the caravan contingent thought it was safe to hitch up and head off along comes Omicron. While state leaders have to this point resisted re-instating restrictions and lockdowns, the situation does remain questionable. Caravan travellers need to stay across updates to ensure they comply with what is required in the areas they are visiting.
If buying a caravan for an upcoming holiday or travel plan, it could be worth considering ensuring the vehicle has all the added extras to enable stays at free campsites. As mentioned above, the costs of many accessories and extras to set up the caravan adequately for this purpose can, in many instances, be included in the caravan loan.
New Caravan Manufacturing Laws
From July 2022 some of the biggest changes ever experienced in the Australian caravan manufacturing industry will come into effect and to the benefit of buyers. This is a significant part of the shake-up of the standards in the sector and a proactive strike at driving out shoddy importers and builders.
The new compliance laws are around the new Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) legislation as seen over by the Federal Department of Transport. The laws apply to trailers with 4500kg or less aggregate trailer mass.
For those seeking to purchase a caravan, this is seen as good news. At least for those buying after July next year. It should mean that their vehicle meets the new standards for design and manufacturing, is properly built and most importantly, is fit for purpose.
Manufacturers that do not meet the standards will not be approved to build/sell after the cut-off date. It is expected that all the major Australian manufacturers will be compliant with many already promoting their approval status.
Buyers however are warned that there are potential loopholes in the approval/certification process and they should be aware. Potential buyers may find information on which manufacturers are certified by staying across news from the industry association.
When buying a caravan with finance, it is not the role of the lender to necessarily advise buyers of these issues or to do verification checks of such matters. At Jade Caravan Finance we provide PPSR and other checks, especially for used caravans.
If a buyer does take on finance to purchase a caravan and it is found to be non-compliant or a lemon, they will still be required to make the scheduled repayments and resolve the issue with the seller.
So it is important to do all the necessary checks when purchasing a new or a used caravan. By engaging Jade Caravan Finance as your lender you can enjoy the benefit of our professional expertise and knowledge as much as possible. We will be staying across news relevant to caravan buyers and posting regular updates.
Call 1300 000 003 to discuss your caravan finance requirements with a Jade Caravan Finance consultant.
DISCLAIMER: THE DETAILS AND INFORMATION IN THIS CONTENT ARE PREPARED AND PRESENTED PURELY FOR INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED IN ANY WAY AS THE SOLE SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR CARAVAN PURCHASING. IF ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL ADVICE IS REQUIRED, READERS SHOULD REFER TO A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY ERRORS, PRODUCT DESCRIPTION VARIATIONS, OR OTHER MISREPRESENTATIONS OF INFORMATION AS PRESENTED.
