Vintage Caravans:
Too Cool For (Old) School

We’ve all been driving on the highway when something cute catches our eye. It causes you to do a double take and stare until you’ve driven far away enough that whatever it was, is nothing but a blur in your rear-view mirror. You know what I’m referring to, those too-cool-for-school vintage caravans being towed by either a Landcruiser or a too-small Hyundai i30 on their way to their favourite campsite, an organic craft market or hobby rally. These vintage campers are becoming more and more a sight and they have gals and guys of all ages awing over their hipster-like chicness.

 Keeping up with the cool kids

 It’s not just the grey nomads loving caravans anymore, hipster millennials (turned campervan hobbyists) are spending their weekends fitting out their retro-loves from various op-shop bargains and visiting their local caravan repairs and restoration centres. With months of hard work they are fist-pumping when they get the chance to post their before and after pics to Snapchat, Pinterest, Facebook and of course Instagram too. What we are seeing is a huge increase in ‘cool’ when it comes to caravans and we want to see more. 

Coffee, burgers and donuts, oh my!

 These vintage caravans aren’t just for sleeping in either. They are a versatile little accessory with their owners using them to start all sorts of little business ventures. From portable coffee shops, burger joints, and donut vans these little guys are growing by the dozen at local markets and events. You may even see a vintage caravan front and centre at the next wedding you attend shaking and stirring cocktails for all of the guests. If they aren’t for the food and beverage industry you may even catch a glimpse of one being specifically fit out for a clothing or accessories store (dressing room and all). These vintage vans are paving their way to business stardom and everyone wants a piece.

Buy new to look old

 Although you may think a 1977 Viscount might be a catch to restore, it’s important to think practically in terms of costs. Buyers beware that the age and significant restorations that may be instore for you simply may not be worth the investment and time. If you don’t think you have the time or funds available for a retro caravan renovation you can buy a new van that looks vintage. Sounds obvious right? There are several specialist custom design caravan brands that design and build brand new vintage caravans that look rustic but promise you the no-fuss van you’ve bargained for. While it may not be as hipster-chic as an authentic swinging 60’s van you will know it will go the miles you intended for without all the heartbreak and hassle of an old bomb.

If you haven’t had the chance to cast your eyes on one of these vintage (or maybe not so vintage as it turns out) caravans with your own eyes, simply head to the local markets. As these vans popularity is on the rise, there is also a high chance you will come across one in a caravan park, with either people travelling in their retro vans or with a number of parks and camp grounds having one of these vintage caravans on offer for accommodation. Just take a look at Kookaburra Park, for a vintage glamper van experience. These cool little additions to the caravanning industry aren’t going anywhere and we’re praising the efforts of all owners who have really got the young’uns just as gaga over caravans as the generations ahead of them. Should you want to take on one of these projects but not sure where to start, the team at Caravan Repair Centre can help. Simply get in touch with us to discuss.