If you're thinking of buying a new caravan, one of the first and most important considerations that you'll have to deal with is whether to go with a single axle or a double axle. The difference between the two styles is self-explanatory; a single-axle has one axle with a wheel on each end, while a double-axle uses two axles in close proximity to each other, with the number of wheels raised to four.

There's really no wrong choice when it comes to picking between these two variants; each one comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick overview to help you choose the right option to suit your needs.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Single Axle Caravan

Probably the biggest advantage that comes with using a single axle caravan is that they are much easier to manoeuvre, even compared to double axle models of the exact same size. This is because their setup allows you to almost turn the caravan within its own length. If you're going to be turning on narrower roads, a single axle model is ideal.

Single axle caravans also weigh less than double axles, meaning you won't burn as much fuel while towing them, and the fact that there are fewer tyres, bearings, and brakes means you won't have to spend as much on maintenance.

However, single axle caravans aren't without a few faults. The lack of a second axle means that stability suffers, so you'll sway more unless the trailer is fitted with a special sway control device. They can also carry less inside than double axle models.

The Pros and Cons of Buying a Double Axle Caravan

Double axle caravans are generally preferred for long-distance touring and longer stays. Because the weight of the trailer is distributed across two axles instead of one, you can fill them up with far more fixtures and pieces of luggage. They also tend to have better suspension, and will remain far more stable at highway speeds than a single axle. Additionally, getting a flat tyre isn't such a big deal when there are four others taking the trailer's weight. You might even be able to change a blown tyre without using a jack.

That said, double axles lack manoeuvrability and are not as economical as single axles. The initial cost is usually higher, but the extra weight will also mean having to spend more on fuel. You might even find that some caravan parks charge by the axle, so paying more for pitches is not uncommon.