Quick answer: Caravan finance is a loan used to buy a new or used caravan, usually structured as a secured consumer loan with the caravan as security. Terms commonly run 2 to 7 years, and you can finance through a dealer or a private sale. What you are offered depends on the caravan’s age and condition, whether it is new or used, the loan structure, and each lender’s rules — some cap the age of the van at the end of the term, or lend differently for private sales. A broker compares lenders so the structure fits the van and your budget.
Apply online → · Call 1300 390 390
What is caravan finance?
Caravan finance lets you spread the cost of a caravan over a set term rather than paying up front. Most caravan loans are secured — the caravan itself is the security — which typically means a sharper rate than an unsecured personal loan of the same size. Because it is a consumer purchase for most buyers, a caravan loan usually comes with a comparison rate and standard consumer protections. If you are buying through a business (for example, a hire fleet), the structure can differ — talk to us about the right setup.
New vs used caravan finance
Both are financeable, but they are assessed differently:
| New caravan | Used caravan | |
|---|---|---|
| Security value | Easier for the lender to value | Valued on age, condition and make |
| Typical rate | Often the sharper end | May be higher, especially older vans |
| Age-at-end-of-term rule | Rarely an issue | Lenders often cap the van’s age at the end of the term |
| Documentation | Dealer invoice | May need photos, condition or valuation |
The key used-caravan trap is the age-at-end-of-term rule: a 12-year-old van on a 7-year loan may fall outside some lenders’ limits even if the buyer is strong. This is exactly where matching to the right lender early avoids a wasted application.
Dealer vs private sale
Dealer purchase is the simplest path — the dealer supplies the invoice and funds usually settle straight to the dealer. Dealer finance offered on the spot is one option, but it is worth comparing against a broker-sourced loan. Private sale is very common for used caravans and is financeable, but with more checks: lenders want to confirm the seller, the van’s identity and that there is no money owing on it (a PPSR check). Some lenders lend less readily on private sales, so confirm a lender will fund a private purchase before you commit to the seller.
Loan structures for a caravan
- Secured consumer loan — the standard for most private buyers; caravan as security, fixed term, regular repayments.
- Unsecured personal loan — possible (for example for a cheap older van a lender will not secure against), usually at a higher rate. See secured vs unsecured.
- Balloon or residual — a lump sum deferred to the end to lower monthly repayments; more common on business or vehicle deals, and it means a larger final payment.
- Business use — if the caravan is a business asset, chattel mortgage or other business structures may apply; ask us.
Lender rules that catch caravan buyers out
Lenders vary more on caravans than on cars. Common restrictions to check up front:
- Maximum age of the van at the start and/or end of the term.
- New vs used rate and deposit differences.
- Private-sale willingness and extra verification.
- Minimum loan amount — very small loans can be harder to place.
- On-road vs off-road, pop-top vs full van — some lenders treat types differently.
- Fixed on-site or relocatable vans — a van you live in permanently may be treated as home or alternative-housing finance, not a standard caravan loan.
We compare these rules across lenders so you are matched to one that funds your van and purchase type — rather than finding out after you have applied.
How to apply
Tell us the caravan (new or used, age, price) and whether it is a dealer or private sale. We check which lenders suit that van and what they will need, then give you an indicative structure and next steps before a formal application when you are ready.
Apply online → · Call 1300 390 390
Related reading: Camper trailer finance · Campervan & RV loans · Motorbike finance · Buying a caravan with bad credit · Car finance
Frequently asked questions
Can I finance a used caravan?
Yes. Used caravans are financeable, usually as a secured loan. The main thing to watch is the lender’s age-at-end-of-term rule — an older van on a long term can fall outside some lenders’ limits. We match you to a lender that suits the van’s age and condition.
Can I get finance for a private-sale caravan?
Yes, though lenders apply more checks on private sales — confirming the seller, the van’s identity and that there is no money owing (PPSR). It is best to confirm a lender will fund the private purchase before you commit.
What loan term can I get on a caravan?
Terms commonly run from about 2 to 7 years. A longer term lowers repayments but increases total interest; the right term depends on the van’s age and your budget.
Is a caravan loan secured?
Usually yes — the caravan is the security, which typically means a sharper rate than an unsecured personal loan of the same amount. Very old or low-value vans may need an unsecured loan instead.
Do you finance new and used caravans, and dealer or private sales?
Yes to all — new and used, dealer and private. The structure and lender options change with each, which is what we help you navigate.
Written and reviewed by the Finance Director at Alpha390 Finance.
This article is general information only and does not constitute credit or financial advice. Alpha390 Finance operates under Australian Credit Licence 506065 (Five Tees Pty Ltd). Lending is subject to approval, lending criteria, terms, conditions and fees. Any rates or examples are indicative only and subject to change; where a consumer rate is quoted a comparison rate applies.
