Caravan Makeover: Essential Tips for a Successful Renovation

Fads and styles in the camping world come and go with the seasons, but one factor took hold in recent years and remains constant. Taking vintage camper vans and turning them into modern but retro vehicles took Australia by storm and is a trend that has continued to grow. So much so that it has artificially skewed the value of used vans to some extent, pricing some people out of the game. However, not to be deterred, people have embraced old caravans as alternative but equally perfect candidates for modern makeovers and a subsequent new lease on life. 

Here at RV Parts Express, we love the idea of tired, worn-out caravans being born again and stock many accessories and gadgets to help facilitate this. In this article, we have gathered our experienced team’s thoughts on this exciting trend that does not look likely to subside any time soon. Their knowledge, tips, and tricks represent a valuable resource we proudly share with anyone contemplating renovating an old caravan. 

Are you up to the task?

You certainly don’t need to be a trained mechanic to renovate an old caravan successfully. There’s no dirty, complex engine in a caravan, as it’s little more than a box with wheels. However, you will need a few things, namely:

• Time and patience
• A budget of some kind
• Basic DIY/decorating skills and tools
• A creative vision
• Enthusiasm

Sourcing your caravan

The main issue with renovating an old caravan does not lie in finding one. There are more ways than ever to locate used vehicles of all kinds, and we will assume our readers know more than we in this department. No, the problem with older vehicles is that they hide issues and potentially catastrophic failures all too easily. Especially if presented in a certain way by those with a less scrupulous attitude to selling. Some suggestions when sourcing the perfect caravan include:

• Give yourself plenty of time to do the job.
• Trust your instincts and eliminate any caravan without hesitation if something feels wrong. Dismiss obvious non-starters rapidly and make a general, easier-to-manage shortlist.
• Make sure the caravans on your list are still available. We are no strangers to convincing ourselves that we’ve found the perfect solution only to give them a call and find out it was sold weeks ago. People often neglect to remove posts and advertisements when an item is sold, so reach out to them and make sure. 
• Pay particular attention to any descriptions of the condition. Beware phrases like ‘needs TLC’ (tender loving care), as these are often a way to avoid having to say that a vehicle is in terrible condition. 
• Ask for more photographs. If you’re dealing with somebody on the level, they should have no problem sending you a few extra pics. 
• Continue to eliminate options. Whittle that original list down to a few promising potentials. Do lots of online research about common issues with any given make or model, and ask the seller as many questions as it takes to satisfy you that no funny business is going on. 
• Show your shortlist to a friend or family member with more knowledge and experience. Older guys are almost always a mine of information in these matters. A strategically placed stubby or two might help ‘persuade’ them to give you a hand. 

Essential questions to ask before purchasing a carava

Is it towable?

Before you view a caravan, you must know it can be towed away if you spontaneously decide to purchase it. Australia is a big place. You might drive for several hours to view a promising specimen, and leaving without it because you don’t have the requisite towing vehicle or some other avoidable reason is pointless and soul-destroying. 

• Ask the seller specifically whether the caravan can be towed immediately. Flat tyres can be pumped up, but broken axles are another issue. 

Is the frame solid?

Almost anything inside a caravan can be patched or replaced relatively easily/inexpensively. From broken windows to holes in the walls, these are some of the issues you will encounter, and they can be a fun challenge to rectify. Discovering your chosen caravan is not structurally sound is significantly less entertaining. Welding additional girders and steel panels to strengthen your unit should not be on the list of desirable things for typical amateur renovators. 

• Check the steel girders of the frame and the drawbar at the front for rust. Minimal surface rust can be dealt with, but anything eating into the metal in any meaningful way spells disaster. Walk away.

How strong is the floor?

Naturally, most old caravans will have a few leaks here and there. However, if the floor is not sound, you may bite off more than you can chew. Check carefully and reject anything you feel is beyond your capabilities to fix.

Are the electrics and lights functional?

Ask the seller if you can plug the caravan in to check the electrics. Carry a caravan extension lead with you on these forays and find out because working lights and electrics are a blessing in disguise. 

• Don’t neglect the external lights like indicators and brake lights. Internal lights are one thing, but you cannot even tow the caravan home if the rear lights are not road-legal.

Renovating your caravan

Now you have secured the perfect vehicle to express your creative vision, the fun can begin!

Seek inspiration

We all want our customised vehicles to be unique and innovative, but there’s no harm in seeking inspiration from others. Spend time researching styles, colours, and methods of renovating your caravan. 

• Follow your nose online. You will find an endless supply of great ideas ready to adapt and incorporate into your project. 

Have a major clear-out

If the budget allows, ditch everything inside the caravan you don’t want or need and start afresh. If you need to retain items like fridges, cookers, and sinks, remove them and thoroughly clean them. Aside from making them your own, this will give you space to manoeuvre inside and facilitate painting and other processes. 

Deal with the structure of the caravan first

List the DIY jobs you need to tackle chronologically. You cannot start to create your artistic vision if there are still holes in the walls, so mend those first and fight the temptation to jump ahead. 

• Only consider tackling the decoration and furnishings once the caravan is in good shape.

Paint everything

Pale colours are a good idea to brighten your interior, and one trick is to paint all the walls white, then one area in a crazy, vibrant colour like hot pink or orange.

• Use an oil-based undercoat and at least two coats of your chosen colour for the best results. Semi-gloss works well for this. 

Choose a new floor

Modern vinyl tiles are sensational and come in a dazzling array of colours and finishes. With such limited floor space, a small number of packs should do the trick, so be prepared to splurge if the budget allows it and pick your favourite. 

• Non-slip finishes are recommended

Focus on the kitchen

Allocate as much of your budget as possible to creating an attractive, practical kitchen. It will repay you many times, not only because it will be pleasant to use but because it will add significant value to the caravan, should you decide to sell it. 

• The range of options for caravan kitchen surfaces and equipment is staggering and can be the difference between success and failure when renovating an old caravan. 

Fabrics

Choose materials that will last a while without looking jaded or out of style. Roller blinds are a fantastic option and are easy to install, but curtains sometimes feel cosier. 

• Covering the sofa with matching material is one way to tie everything together.

Paint the exterior

A relatively simple step that can have the most dramatic of effects. Again, oil-based paints are preferable and will be more weather-resistant. Not everybody wants to stand out from the crowd and draw attention to their vehicle, so stick close to the original colour (probably some version of white) if you want your caravan to remain innocuous among all others. 

• Alternatively, you can go wild and choose any colour you wish, creating maximum impact and catching the eye of passers-by. 

Add some personal finishing touches

Upgrade Your Access Doors:

Don't overlook the importance of quality access doors for your caravan's transformation. RV Parts Express provides a range of access doors, meticulously designed to fit most makes and models. With competitive pricing and enduring quality, our access doors are a must-have for a revamped caravan that stands the test of time. Remember to measure accurately, as manufacturer specifications may not always align with your needs.

Maxxfans for Superior Ventilation:

For those who demand the best, consider the Maxxair fan – a technological marvel that outshines the competition. Elevate your caravan's ventilation with Maxxfans, setting the standard for comfort on the road. If you're eyeing the Maxxfan deluxe, be assured there's nothing comparable in the market. Questions about its suitability for your caravan? Reach out; we're here to assist you on your journey to enhanced mobile living.

Underbunk Air Conditioning – Furrion 2.6kw BTU Unit:

Introducing the Furrion 2.6kw BTU Underbench Air Conditioning Unit – the ultimate solution for small to medium-sized RVs. Concealed under a bench, bed, or cabinet, this AC unit optimizes space while ensuring year-round comfort in the Australian climate. As you embark on your caravan renovation, consider upgrading to the Furrion AC unit for efficient cooling and heating capabilities. Elevate your camping experience with the epitome of convenience and efficiency.

Transforming your caravan is a thrilling adventure, and RV Parts Express is here to provide the essential upgrades that will make your renovation a success. Contact us to explore these products and more from our extensive selection – because every caravan deserves a new lease on life.

All kinds of vinyl decals and stickers are available to give your caravan its finishing touches. For a personal feeling, you might even choose to create custom-made ones.

Contact us

If all this exciting talk of renovations has enthused you and made you keen to learn more, contact us here and we’ll gladly discuss your plans. We love nothing more than waxing lyrical on all things camping-related and can direct you towards any items and supplies you might need from our vast selection.