Caravan Types
If you're new to the world of caravanning, the sheer number of caravan types available can be overwhelming, not to mention all the features! To make things simpler, we've created this comprehensive guide to caravan and camper-related terms to help you understand exactly what you're scrolling through in our listings.
Campers
Camper Trailer
Camper trailers are lightweight and highly portable, designed to pack down compactly for easy transport and storage. Typically constructed with durable canvas or synthetic fabric, these trailers unfold at your destination to provide generous living and sleeping areas without the bulk of a full-size caravan.
Forward-Fold Camper
Forward-fold campers open towards the tow vehicle, with the bed positioned above the tow bar and storage toolbox. Featuring a hard floor, forward-fold campers often come equipped with built-in furniture like lounges or dining areas inside the trailer.
Hard Floor Camper
A hard floor camper refers to any camper trailer with a solid floor. Forward-fold campers are a prime example, offering additional stability and comfort.
Hybrid Camper
Hybrid campers generally have a solid body but also have pop-up, extendable, or slide-out sections to form an internal living or sleeping area. They're usually durable, low maintenance, and easy to tow. Since they're designed to be self-sufficient, they are also a great choice for off-grid adventures. Check out our detailed article on the benefits of hybrid campers.
Off Road Camper Trailer
Off road camper trailers are built tough for Australia’s most rugged adventures. These campers boast a lightweight yet durable build, high ground clearance, heavy-duty suspension, and off-grid essentials like water tanks and solar panels.
Rear Fold Camper
Rear-fold campers open towards the tailgate, with the bed fixed within the tray. These campers usually have a shallower tray compared to forward folds and typically don’t include built-in furniture.
Soft Floor Camper
Soft floor campers feature flexible flooring made from canvas or PVC. These campers often include a bed within the tray and a spacious tent that folds out onto the ground to create the living space.
Teardrop Camper
Teardrop campers are compact, fixed campers with a distinctive teardrop shape. Inside, they feature a cosy bed accessed through a side door, often complemented by a small rear kitchenette.
Slide-on Camper
Slide-on campers are designed to mount onto the back of a ute or truck. They range from low-profile options with a simple bed to more spacious designs resembling mini motorhomes.
At Only Vans, we have a wide range of camper trailers for sale.
Caravans
Caravan
Caravans are towable homes on wheels, offering all the essentials for comfortable living on the road. Ranging from 10ft to over 25ft in length, caravans can include everything from a basic bed and storage space to full-sized kitchens, ensuites, and climate control systems. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a long-haul trip, there’s a caravan to suit every travel style.
On-Road Caravan
On-road caravans are designed for paved roads and established caravan parks. They range from compact options ideal for weekend escapes to larger models suited for extended journeys. On-road caravans offer convenience, comfort, and the freedom to roam without compromising on the home-like experience.
Dual-Axle Caravan
A dual-axle caravan features two axles for increased stability and smoother towing, especially over longer distances. These caravans are typically 17ft to 23ft in length and are ideal for families or travellers who need more living space and want to tow with confidence.
Single-Axle Caravan
Single-axle caravans are lighter and easier to manoeuvre, making them a popular option for solo travellers or couples. These caravans usually range from 10ft to 16ft in length and are perfect for those who want a simpler towing experience.
Small Caravan
Small caravans are compact yet versatile, generally measuring under 16ft. While they may skip some amenities found in larger models, many small caravans still offer essentials like a kitchenette, seating, and a comfortable bed, making them ideal for short trips or those who prefer a more minimalist setup.
Expander Caravan
Expander caravans feature expandable sections that unfold from each end to create additional sleeping or living space. These compartments fold back in during transit, keeping the overall footprint small. Expander caravans are an excellent solution for families who want more space without committing to a larger, heavier caravan.
Family Caravan
Family caravans are designed to accommodate parents and kids comfortably, often featuring bunk beds, extra seating, and other kid-friendly features. Whether you’re taking the whole family on an annual road trip or setting off for a longer adventure, these caravans provide the space and amenities you need to make lasting memories.
Quad-Bunk Caravan
Quad-bunk caravans come equipped with four bunks, making them ideal for larger families or groups. Common layouts include a triple-bunk stack with a fourth bed elsewhere, or two twin-bunk stacks on opposite walls. The clever use of space ensures everyone has a comfortable place to sleep without feeling cramped.
Triple-Bunk Caravan
Triple-bunk caravans feature three bunks in addition to the main bed, often arranged in a vertical stack at the rear. These caravans provide a practical solution for families with multiple kids, offering comfortable sleeping arrangements and smart layouts.
Luxury Caravan
Luxury caravans are designed to impress, featuring premium finishes, high-end appliances, and spacious interiors. They often include full kitchens with stone benchtops, ensuites with quality fixtures, and panoramic windows. These caravans redefine travel comfort and are perfect for those who want to travel in style.
Slide-out Caravan
Slide-out caravans have expandable compartments that extend from the side or rear to increase interior living space. Whether it’s a larger dining area or an expanded bedroom, slide-outs transform the caravan’s interior into a more open and spacious environment.
Pop Top Caravan
Pop top caravans feature a roof that rises to provide extra headroom and ventilation at your campsite. Their lower travel height improves fuel efficiency and makes them easier to store. Pop tops are a great choice for travellers who want flexibility without sacrificing comfort.
Semi-Off-Road Caravan
Semi-off-road caravans are built for versatility, handling dirt roads and mild off-road conditions with ease. They feature sturdier suspension and reinforced frames while still maintaining the comfort and style of an on-road caravan.
Off-Road Caravan
Off-road caravans are designed for rugged conditions and remote journeys. They come equipped with features like heavy-duty suspension, all-terrain tyres, higher ground clearance, and articulating couplings for ultimate off-road performance.
Hybrid Caravan
Hybrid caravans combine the sturdy, weatherproof build of a caravan with the off-road capabilities of a camper trailer. They often feature fixed walls, bathrooms, and kitchens, making them the perfect blend for travellers who want to explore both caravan parks and remote off-grid locations.
Toy Hauler
Toy haulers are built for adventurers who want to bring their gear along for the ride. These spacious caravans have a dedicated garage area with a drop-down ramp for loading motorbikes, kayaks, or other large equipment. Inside, they often feature adaptable layouts with beds that can be raised or lowered to maximise space.
5th Wheeler
5th wheelers attach to a tow vehicle via a hitch mounted inside the ute tray, offering greater stability and weight distribution. Their gooseneck design allows for spacious interiors, often including split-level living areas and generous storage.
See our extensive range of caravans for sale.
Motorhomes
Motorhome
Motorhomes are self-driven, self-contained travel homes that eliminate the need for a tow vehicle. Ranging from 3m to 7m in length, motorhomes come equipped with kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. They’re a popular choice for retirees and Grey Nomads seeking long-term adventures and a lifestyle of freedom.
Bus
Buses offer the ultimate in motorhome living, providing the most spacious interiors available. These converted vehicles often feature multiple living areas, full-sized kitchens, and plenty of storage. Though rarer in Australia than in the US, they’re a standout choice for those who value comfort and space.
Campervan
Campervans are smaller than motorhomes and built on a van chassis. They typically feature a comfortable bed, basic cooking facilities, and storage, making them ideal for shorter trips or solo travellers. While they may lack a full kitchen or bathroom, their compact size makes them easy to drive and park.
Check out our full range of motorhomes for sale.
Start Your Adventure at Only Vans
We have a great selection of caravans, campers, and motorhomes for sale at Only Vans! We have thousands of caravans in stock, including dealer caravans and caravans for sale by private sellers. Get easy caravan finance for your dream van and start your adventure today!
For a great deal on financing your new purchase, contact Australia's best reviewed finance broker on 1300 Credit (1300 273 348) today or visit CreditOne.com.au
