T
he main difference between off road and on road is in where the vehicle can take you. Off road trailers are built tough to withstand the roughest terrain the country has to offer, whereas conventional caravans and camper trailers are often restricted to tar, gravel roads and caravan parks. If you plan on getting off the beaten track, and want the freedom to go where you want, you may need to consider the benefits of choosing an off road rig. The features you will find typical to off road caravans and camper trailers are: a better built stronger chassis usually constructed out of hot dipped galvanized steel, some of which are built to specifications that conform to norms and standards. Look for manufacturers that offer a lifetime warranty with a strong framework using quality materials such as thick aluminium or treated flexible timber longer drawbar for more stable towing and easier manoeuvring over difficult terrain. Also greater departure angle at rear to prevent bottoming out when travelling over river banks and deep ruts and heavy duty suspension and quality off road wheels and tyres preferably to match the size and stud pattern of the tow vehicle allowing tyres to be interchanged and provides equal ground clearance making for safer and easier towing. Use quality electric braking system especially designed for off road work and a quality coupling with a broader articulation angle to increased protection including front end stone guard, under body stone protection, chequer plate brush panelling, heavy duty front and rear bumper bars, side protection brush bars, protector shades for front and rear windows and dust and water seals to protect the van's interior In addition to these features, off road caravans in particular include independent equipment for extended stays away from the usual amenities on offer at caravan parks. Some of these include larger water tanks, solar panels, larger batteries and gas cylinders. Off road trailers incorporate additional storage particularly externally. The longer draw bar enables additional fuel or water to be carried as well as things like a boat motor, bikes, etc. Internally, off road caravans look similar to on road caravans. However, off road doors, cupboards and drawers are constructed out of quality timber and are usually fitted by gluing and screwing compartments into place. The unfortunate disadvantage of off road caravans, is that with all of these fantastic features comes a lot of extra weight. If you choose to go for the off road option you may need to upgrade your tow vehicle. At the end of the day, the major consideration is the price tag. Off road caravans and camper trailers are much more expensive than on-road caravans and trailers. However, off road rigs do hold their value much better than on road's. You may have to let your wallet decide this one. CaravanCamping