Calculate monthly repayments, total interest, and the real 5-year cost of caravan ownership including running costs — for both personal and business-use caravans. Compare secured loan, chattel mortgage, and personal loan side-by-side.
Beyond loan repayments, caravans carry ongoing ownership costs that most buyers underestimate.
Running cost estimates are indicative averages. Actual costs vary significantly by state, usage, and caravan type.
The right finance structure depends on how you use the caravan. Here's a quick comparison for a $65,000 caravan over 5 years:
Australians bought more than 30,000 new caravans in 2025, with the average purchase price surpassing $70,000 for the first time. Financing has become the norm — but there's a big spread between the best and worst rates available in the market, and using the wrong structure can cost you thousands over a 5-year term.
Lenders classify caravans as consumer assets (for personal use) or business assets (if used in your business — e.g. tradesperson accommodation, rental income). The classification affects which products you can access and your interest rate.
Yes. Most lenders offer lower rates on new caravans. Used caravans over 5 years old attract a margin loading of 0.5–1.5% as the lender's security risk is higher. Caravans over 10 years old may not qualify for secured finance at all — in which case an unsecured personal loan is the only option.
A balloon payment (residual) at the end of your term can significantly reduce monthly repayments. For a $65,000 caravan on a 5-year term, a 30% balloon payment of $19,500 reduces monthly repayments from approximately $1,336 to around $970 — a saving of $366/month. However, you will owe $19,500 at the end, which you'll need to refinance, pay in full, or use a trade-in to cover.
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Reviewed by David Blackman — Specialist Asset & Equipment Finance Broker, 20+ years banking & fleet experience. Last reviewed: 8 July 2026.
This page is general information only — not tax, legal or credit advice. Tax outcomes depend on your circumstances; confirm with your accountant and see the ATO on the instant asset write-off, the ATO on claiming GST credits and Moneysmart (ASIC).