What is the standard height of a caravan?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: What is the standard height of a caravan? We will explain why knowing the measurements of a caravan is important and how many caravan sizes are there. 

What is the standard height of a caravan?

The standard height of a caravan is between 2.7 and 3.2 meters, and must not exceed 4.3 meters. Not all caravans have the same height. Caravans do not usually measure more than 3.30 meters nor are they usually less than 2.50. The smallest camper on the market can measure 2.20, but the normal thing is to have a little more height.

Thus, a regular caravan is:

• Between five and seven meters long;
• Between 2.15 to 2.30 meters wide;
• With a 2.7 to 3.3 meters height;
• Between 2300 and 3000 kg weight. 

The height of a caravan is what usually brings us the most inconvenience to circulate since in addition to a consumption penalty, it forces us to be very aware of areas with height limitation or in which there are trees and we have to manoeuvre. Also smaller vehicles are more aerodynamic and therefore perform better in windy conditions!

How many caravan sizes are there? 

In essence, we can distinguish between three sizes of caravans, which in turn have different measurements. 

1. Mini campers or small caravans: Some examples of this group would be the Dacia Dokker and Nissan NV200 models. Its dimensions are around 4.40m long x 1.75m wide. They can be equipped with a gas cooker, a 40L fridge, a sink (with a 50L clean water tank), static heating, a solar panel or an awning.

2. Medium caravans: Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic campers is included in this category: The Volkswagen California. Other models of similar dimensions that also fall into the same classification could be Toyota Proace, Citroen Jumpy, Peugeot Traveler or the Mercedes Marco Polo.

The sizes of this classification vary a lot, more or less between 4.60 and 5.30m in length. The brands themselves have up to 3 different sizes of the same model, such as the Citroen Jumpy that has the XL (5.30m), the M (4.96M) and the XS (4.60M).

3. Large caravans: Although it is not a written rule, this size is also often called a camper van or home van. In reality the possibilities in this type of vehicle skyrocket. As a general rule, sizes range from 4.90m to 6.40m in length and from 2.25m to 2.80m in height. 

The terminology used by the brands is L1, L2, L3 and L4 for length and H1, H2 and H3 for height. From the H2 we will be able to stand up inside the vehicle without a problem. 

The most popular vehicles of these characteristics are the Fiat Ducato (Chrysler) and those of the PSA Group (Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper). Despite being different brands, they are most likely manufactured together, since there are very few differences between them. 

It should be said that the terminology of the classification is somewhat ambiguous, but this is the case throughout the industry. Sometimes they are called caravans, other times camper vans (since they come from van-type vehicles), and even motorhomes as well since, after all, they are technically motor homes.

Other questions you may be interested in

How can you tell how old a caravan is?

What percentage of damp is acceptable in a caravan?

How fast can I pull my travel trailer?

How to properly take the measurements of a caravan

If we want to measure a standard caravan, then we will have to first place the caravan on a flat surface and then measure the length from one end of it to the other. That is, count the meters from one point (A) to another (B) using a rope or a tape measure. The below drawing will surely serve as an example.

On the other hand, if what we want is to take the measurements of an aerodynamic caravan, then we must also put the caravan on a straight surface and measure the centimetres from the back of it (point A) to the front. However, due to the streamlined shape of the caravan, in this case, point B ends when the caravan starts to tilt.

Why is it important to know the length, weight and height of your caravan

Knowing the specifications is important for camping simply because some campsites do not have enough space for motorhomes over a certain length.

In general, campsites tend to be below the 4-meter mark for as long as a motorhome can last. Camping in National Parks, specifically, is a bit shorter than an average campground. Typically 7-10 meters long is a sweet spot for National Parks, so it’s something to keep in mind if visiting these parks often.

It turns out, sadly, that the numbers for many caravan companies are not always completely accurate. If you are concerned about that, bring your own tape measure when you go shopping, and make sure the length fits the campsites that interest you.

If you are towing a car, that will add length to your caravan. If you are lucky, you can find a campsite wide enough to accommodate both vehicles. However, when it comes to Class A and Class C motorhomes, it is generally not necessary to carry a car with you.

If you really like having that extra smaller transport, you might consider bringing bikes with you. If you really need the car, be sure to call ahead and make sure there is room for everything you bring with you.

The bottom line

As you probably realize, owning a caravan requires a lot of research. As always, having an internet connection will save you a lot of time, as it can help you to be fully prepared for your trip with a caravan!

Please let us know if you have any comments or questions on the content.

FAQ on What is the standard height of a caravan?

How many meters does a motorhome have?

The length of a vehicle such as a motorhome is usually between 5 and 7 meters, while the width is an average of 2.50 meters. For its part, the weight is about 2,600 kilograms on average when empty.

How tall is a caravan?

A caravan is usually between five and seven meters long, and a width between 2.15 and 2.30 meters. Regarding its height, the oscillation is between 2.70 and 3.20 meters. The weight varies between 2,300 and 2,900 kilograms

How tall is a van?

The cargo compartment of a van has a height of up to 2,196 m with the roof raised, with a total height of 2,798 m. Wheelbase up to 7.391m with an extra-long 4.49m wheelbase. 1,311 m wide opening in the sliding door.

How much does a motorhome weigh? 

The maximum authorized weight in most motorhomes is 3,500 kg, thus allowing it to be driven with the “B” license. However, the weight margins are decreasing, causing many drivers to travel overweight, without even knowing it.

What is the largest camper?

As for the large volume camper vehicle, the one chosen has been the Carado Vlow V600, since it is the one that by distribution and size (599 cm in length) most resembles the chosen motorhome, in order to limit the comparison to the aspects more technical.

References

• Height Of Touring Caravan? Standard Domestic Garage Door …
• Standard caravan height – is there such a thing? – Page 1 – Tents …
• Confused by Caravan Measurements? – CaravansPlus