Single vs twin axle front bed size

[JapanRed]

Hi all,

As per my previous posts we are looking to buy our first caravan. We are going for something with fixed single beds for the little one, and we will sleep on the front sofa bed made up into a double. My question is, are the front beds all the same size, or do they vary by manufacturer? Would we be best going for a twin axle if these give extra room, if so, how much extra room could we expect from single vs twin axle front beds.

We are almost ready to go and have seen 2 single axles and 1 twin axle that would be suitable. Unfortunately the twin axle is 2hrs drive from us and we didn’t think to measure the front bed when we viewed it.

Thanks all

[Pedro Raynard]

In my experience, I find all the seat sizes vary. If you are comparing the same make and layout from the same year, then you might well expect to find the front seats are longer on a twin axel compared to a single. But don't bet on it.

If what you are looking at is only a few years old, googling the make and model usually throws up brochures with the specifications, which usually give front seat lengths and other lengths so you can see any advantage in the twin.

Regarding twin versus single - a twin is very stable tow. Singles do move about more, even when the towing vehicle is large.

The down side of twin is manoeuvring. You either have to reverse it on the car, or have twin motor movers fitted. (more expense) A single is so much more easier to move and rotate within it's length, even by hand.

[JapanRed]

Thanks Pedro. I’ve tried google but not had much luck. Can anyone recommend a ‘van with a decent size front bed?

[shovelheadrob]

I have a Buccaneer Clipper twin axle with fixed single beds, I use it for site work so normally just 2 blokes on the singles which are a proper size. I've only used the front bed once & I didn't think it was that comfortable, this is often the problem with higher end caravans imho, entry level vans have flat square cushions that aren't comfortable to sit on, but make nice flat beds. The higher spec vans get nice comfy contoured cushions that make lumpy beds.

[JapanRed]

shovelheadrob said:

I have a Buccaneer Clipper twin axle with fixed single beds, I use it for site work so normally just 2 blokes on the singles which are a proper size. I've only used the front bed once & I didn't think it was that comfortable, this is often the problem with higher end caravans imho, entry level vans have flat square cushions that aren't comfortable to sit on, but make nice flat beds. The higher spec vans get nice comfy contoured cushions that make lumpy beds.

Thanks Shovelhead. Guess I’ll need to see these beds made up.

[Chrisgr31]

Might be worth checking the insurance costs of singles via twins. Some might believe twins are more likely to get stolen.

[snake_oil]

Go to a few caravan places and get the feel for some layouts. It's the only way.

[JapanRed]

snake_oil said:

Go to a few caravan places and get the feel for some layouts. It's the only way.

We have done. Looked at probably 20 different caravans. We know which layout we want but unfortunately didn’t pay as much attention to the front bed as we probably should have.

[JapanRed]

Chrisgr31 said:

Might be worth checking the insurance costs of singles via twins. Some might believe twins are more likely to get stolen.

Thanks will do.

[JapanRed]

Chrisgr31 said:

Might be worth checking the insurance costs of singles via twins. Some might believe twins are more likely to get stolen.

Just checked and it’s £280 for the year for a twin axle and £275 for single.

[littlebasher]

Bear in mind, some sites especially those abroad don't accept TA caravans

Plenty of properly large single axle caravans around these days. Best bet is to go to a dealer and look at a range of different layouts. It took me 3 caravans to find something that actually worked for us!