Owning a caravan opens up that spectacular Aussie road-trip lifestyle — but the finance must make sense.
LoanCalculator.com.au is here to help. We’re a trusted comparison platform supported by industry experience, helping Australians compare and understand caravan finance options. With transparent tools, we give you the power to budget, compare lenders and make informed decisions before committing.
LoanCalculator.com.au helps you find the best deal with 5 simple steps:
Input your proposed loan amount (which may be purchase price minus deposit/trade-in), estimate the interest rate you expect, and select a loan term (often 1-7 years for caravan finance). References show terms of 3 to 7 years are common.
Choose weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments. Many Australians favour fortnightly as it often aligns with pay-cycles and can reduce total interest.
If you know what interest your lender offers, enter it; otherwise try a realistic ballpark. Industry sources note secured caravan loans often carry fixed rates in single digits to low double digits, but the actual rate depends on factors like credit history, loan size, and purpose.
You’ll instantly see:
• your estimated repayment amount per payment period
• total interest payable over the term
• how repayment frequency or term changes affect cost
Once you’re comfortable with the estimate, you can explore which lenders match your needs—secured vs unsecured, new vs used caravan—and then proceed to apply. At LoanCalculator.com.au, we make the comparison clear and transparent.
Secured vs Unsecured caravan loans
Secured caravan loans means your caravan (or in some cases trailer/camper) is used as collateral. Because of this security for the lender, interest rates are typically lower. Many specialist caravan finance providers operate this way.
Unsecured loans or personal loan means that no asset is offered as security, meaning higher risk for the lender, and thus higher rates. Good for smaller loans or if you don’t want to use the caravan as collateral.
New vs Used caravans
Purchasing a new caravan often gives you access to better rates because the asset value and condition are clearer, perhaps warranties etc.
Used caravans may still be financed but lenders may apply tighter criteria (age of caravan, condition, depreciation) and possibly higher rates.
Fixed vs Variable rates
Most caravan loans in Australia come with fixed rates so your repayments remain predictable. Variable-rate options may exist but carry more variability and risk. Planning for the term you choose helps you budget.
Make a deposit/trade-in
Lowering the amount you borrow reduces your repayments and total interest cost, and signals financial discipline to lenders.
Select the right term
A shorter term means higher repayments but less total interest. A longer term reduces repayments but increases total interest. Use the calculator to test trade-offs.
Compare multiple lenders
Even a small difference in interest rate (say 1 %) can add up notably over 5-7 years. Our platform lets you compare options side-by-side.
Extra repayments if allowed
If your loan permits extra repayments (and ideally no penalty for early repayment), making additional payments when you can helps offset interest and shorten the overall term. Always check if there are early payout or redraw fees.
Credit history & score – A stronger credit profile usually means better rates.
Income & employment stability – Regular documented income, minimal other debt, positive financial history improve chances and more favourable terms.
Loan-to-value ratio (LVR) – Borrowing a smaller percentage of the caravan’s value lowers risk and may yield better rate.
Caravan type, age & condition – Newer caravans or popular models hold value better; older or unusual vans may attract higher rates.
Loan term & repayment frequency – Longer terms often mean higher total interest; choosing repayment frequency matching your income helps.
Fees & charges – Some lenders have establishment fees, monthly fees, balloon payments, etc. Always factor these in (via comparison rate) to gauge full cost.
| Caravan type | Typical loan amount* | Common term | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entry-level pop-top / small trailer |
~$10,000 – $30,000 |
2–4 years |
Lower cost; may be unsecured |
|
Family caravan / off-road cruiser |
~$30,000 – $70,000 |
3–7 years |
Likely secured; full features |
|
Large RV/motorhome |
$70,000+ |
Up to 7-10 years |
Higher asset, specialist finance needed |
Buying the caravan is just one part of the cost. Make sure you account for:
Registration, insurance & compliance costs – Depending on size and state, could be hundreds to thousands annually.
Towing vehicle & equipment – You may need a tow-capable vehicle, hitch, braking system etc. You will have to ask if your vehicle is capable of towing any sort of caravan or RV.
Maintenance, servicing & depreciation – Caravans depreciate; used ones may need more upkeep.
Storage / site fees – If you’re not always towing, storage or park site fees may apply.
Usage costs – Fuel, camping fees, maintenance, upgrades.
Budgeting all this ensures your caravan lifestyle doesn’t become a financial burden.
From instant calculations to trusted lender comparisons, we make it simple to find the right loan for your needs.
Find clear answers to the most frequently asked questions about caravan loans
Use our free Caravan Loan Calculator now and compare caravan and RV loans from over 40 top and trusted Australian lenders in minutes.
Find a loan that fits your budget and your dream — then get out there and explore!
