Bailey’s Phoenix was launched in 2019 to replace the Pursuit, a lightweight range that superseded the Orion, a quirky range of tourers.

The Phoenix was the next generation of entry-level vans and can be tempting for those who are looking for the best used caravans. It came with good storage lockers and better soft furnishings than the Pursuit. Spec included Truma blown heating and LED spotlights plus integral lighting. A Status TV aerial was also part of the spec and, with a fridge, oven and microwave, the equipment levels were good overall. A radio was a standard fit, too.

A dealer special can be worth a look, with added extras and soft-furnishing upgrades. The standard Phoenix is a decent lightweight tourer, though.

Model history

The 420 was launched as part of the initial 2019/20 Phoenix range and is popular model in the line-up. It also features in the 2026 model year, joining the likes of the Phoenix Black 640.

It is a sought-after range for those who are looking at buying a used caravan, with models from the 2019 line-up appearing on used forecourts.

The lounge
Twin single beds, or use pull-out slats to make a double bed

There are dealer specials but you don’t see many – the most popular and well known was the Jive, a Ropers Caravans production that featured bolder graphics and, of course, a specification upgrade.

The side kitchen
Side kitchen has good storage, though worktop is limited

The Phoenix 420 offers good overhead locker storage which will be useful when packing a caravan, as well as underseat and night lighting, and there are integral roof locker lights, too. The Phoenix – with its new profile over that of the Pursuit – still didn’t come with a front locker (a side access locker was the norm), while the gas locker remained on the offside, in keeping with Bailey tradition. The end washroom doesn’t have a window, but there’s light and ventilation from the roof vent.

The four-burner hob and the sink in the kitchen
Four-burner hob is like new. The sink is quite large and in excellent condition, too

Elsewhere in the Phoenix range there are a number of different floorplans available, from the 420 two-berth to the 760 twin-axle six-berth (see what I made of a 2019 Phoenix 760).

Price checker

We found several 420s for sale; the cheapest was £13,995, but although the model we saw was more expensive, it came with a 12-month warranty, a free service and discount voucher of 10%, plus it was in really nice condition. It’s worth having a good look around, because a one-year warranty and free service add peace of mind.

  • 440: £14,495-£15,595
  • 640: £15,995-£16,145
  • 642: £16,495-£16,995
  • 644: £15,995-£17,495
  • 650: £16,995-£17,495
  • 760: £16,995-£17,995

What to look out for

  • GRP side panels for repair
  • Damp problems around window seals
  • Damp behind wheel arches
  • Floor rotting
The end washroom
End washroom here was in good condition – check for water ingress in the floor
  • Tyres and alloys damage
  • Furniture fixings
  • Squeaky floor areas
  • A full service report

Verdict

The Phoenix can make a great used buy but, as with any older tourer, check it carefully – floor rot has been a problem with some caravans of this age.

A close-up of one of the sofas and the curtains
Upholstery is comfortable. All windows get curtains as well as flyscreens and blinds

The 420 we looked at was in super condition and, with the extra warranty and free service, would be a sound buy. Light in weight and with a spacious lounge and decent washroom, this tourer would really suit a couple trading up.

Interested in a more modern tourer instead? Then check our review of the Elddis Whirlwind 554, a caravan which offers a generous yet affordable spec.

Alternative models

If you want more space, luxury such as Alde heating, and a later model, try the Elddis Affinity 520 two-berth from 2021. You’re looking at £17,995 as a typical base price. The large end washroom is a big plus on this model, but it’s 200kg heavier than the Bailey.

Or check-out an Xplore 422; this model from 2020 had an L-shaped rear kitchen but its side washroom is a good size. It’s lightweight, and offers a large front gas locker – the Xplore costs around £13,995 and has an MTPLM of 1099kg.

See what I had to say about the 2021 Bailey Phoenix Plus 420 too, a lightweight and comfortable tourer that could be a good choice for couples.

Technical specification

  • Price (model seen here): £14,999
  • Berths: 2
  • MiRO: 1022kg
  • Payload: 117kg
  • MTPLM: 1139kg
  • Internal length: 4.01m
  • Width: 2.21m

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