Choosing the best 4 berth caravan for your tours isn’t always an easy prospect. There are a wide selection of models on the market, so it can feel daunting to know how to go about picking the one for you. Luckily, we’re here to help. We’re taking a look at two four berths from the 2022 season – the Bailey Phoenix+ 440 and the Adria Adora Tiber.
These are two caravans made by two of the best caravan brands out there – Bailey and Adria. So how do these two models compare? We take a look…
The basic spec
Adria Adora Tiber
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 1800kg
- MiRO: 1647kg
- Payload: 153kg
- Shipping length: 8.24m
- Interior length: 6.19m
- Width: 2.46m
Bailey Phoenix+ 440
- Berths: 4
- MTPLM: 1347kg
- MiRO: 1197kg
- Payload: 150kg
- Shipping length: 6.88m
- Interior length: 5.35m
- Width: 2.21m
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Design
An immediate difference becomes apparent when you look at the length of these two caravans; the Adria model comes in with a shipping length of 8.24m and an interior length of 6.19m, while the Bailey model has a shipping length of 6.88m and interior length of 5.35m
The Tiber is also wider – it’s 8ft-wide, giving you that little bit of extra living space inside. However, the smaller size of the 440 could make it easier to manoeuvre.
Due to its size, you may also find yourself needing a hand when you’re getting the Tiber parked up at your pitch too.
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Lounge
It’s the lounge area that really highlights the size difference between these two caravans.
The lounge is where the Tiber shines, with that extra width really being felt. This means you get good legroom between both sofas, so if there are four of you touring together, you can all relax in comfort on the C-shaped seating.
The presence of a sunroof and five windows ensures this is a well-lit space too. It’s also incredibly useful being able to store the dining table in a cupboard by the door, making it easy to access.
While the 440 can seat four, it’s not as spacious as the Tiber. In fact, our reviewer suggested that if you ‘plan a party on site, you might need to think about an awning’ – in which case, our guide to the best caravan awnings is worth a look.
While four of you can also use the table, it’s stored against the wall in the aisle leading to the washroom, meaning you would have to get past the chef to access it.
It’s a well-lit and comfortable space though, with the big window at the front of the tourer letting light flood in. We also like the presence of two LEDs and two directional spotlights, especially as one includes a USB port.
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Kitchen
The Tiber’s kitchen area is a bit on the compact side, but despite this, we believe it has all you need to cook up a feast. This includes a large sink – complete with swivel mixer tap – and a Dometic three-burner hob that are a one-piece design, while you also get a Thetford Midi Prima MkIII duplex cooker.
You’ll also find a microwave in an overhead locker, and ample storage – perhaps our only criticism would be the absence of a folding extension, although even then, you get a cutting board that can go over the sink.
In comparison, the 440 has a four-burner hob, but it is gas-only. A separate oven and grill can also be found, along with a 98-litre half-height fridge.
We like the microwave that can be found up top – the built-in ceramic plate means you don’t need to worry about it falling out and breaking, should you forget to remove it before you drive.
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Washroom
In the Tiber, you have the option of closing off the entire rear area with the toilet door. The compact washroom includes a basin and a swivel toilet, while on the opposite side of the corridor, you’ll find a shower cubicle. While the wheel arch encroaches here, it can also double up as a seat.
We like the large mirror in the 440’s washroom, and the space is nicely lit, thanks to an LED and roof light. The shower cubicle may only have a single plughole but it’s also well-lit, as it, too, has an LED and roof light. Two handily positioned hooks can be found as well.
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Beds
You have the option of using the settees at the front of the Tiber as a vast front make-up bed or as two singles. The fixed longitudinal island bed that comes off the back wall is also ideal for relaxing on – the padded headboard is a very nice addition.
At the rear of the 440, you’ll find a comfortable double bed – we like the fact you get corner shelves, while the fabric headboard offers some luxury.
The two settees at the front could only really be used as a double, due to their size, but it’s simple to make up.
Adria Adora Tiber vs Bailey Phoenix+ 440: Storage
We think the Tiber has one of the biggest front gas lockers around – it houses an accessible spare wheel, has room for two gas bottles and also storage for a kid’s bike or barbecue. On the nearside, you can find a waterproof locker, perfect for storing walking boots or similar.
Internally, the C-shaped sofa offers only ‘average’ storage, as it’s only the front part of it that can be fully used. However, there are two large overhead lockers above each side. There’s vast underbed storage at the rear of the tourer, although you wouldn’t want to be placing too much weight at the back of your caravan.
The Bailey model also offers decent storage, with a central wardrobe more than capable of holding clothes for four. There are two shelved lockers above the bed, along with a decent space beneath it, which is externally accessible and stores the spare wheel. Kitchen storage is good, and includes, amongst other things, a large drawer, two overhead lockers and a shelved cupboard.
Verdict
The big difference between these two models is the length. This means the Tiber has much more space inside, as seen in the lounge area – is this something that you want your caravan to have? In contrast, the smaller 440 could be easier for you to tow.
One thing is certain with both models – they provide an excellent setting for an enjoyable touring experience.
You can find out more about both models by taking a look at our reviews of the Adria Adora Tiber and Bailey Phoenix+ 440.
Alternatively, if you’re also considering a pre-owned tourer, why not take a look at our guide to the best used caravans?
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