There are a wide array of vans on the market and it can sometimes feel tough knowing how to buy the right caravan. Luckily, we’re here to help! To set you on your way, we’re taking a look at two models from two of the best caravan brands out there – the Sprite Compact and the Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport.
Both caravans made it onto our shortlist for the best two berth caravan at the Practical Caravan Awards 2022 – so how do they compare? Let’s find out…
The basic spec:
Sprite Compact
- Price: £18,195
- Berth: 2
- MiRO: 980kg
- Payload: 114kg
- MTPLM: 1094kg
- Shipping length: 5.37m
- Interior length: 3.68m
- Width: 2.02m
Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport
- Price: £15,995
- Berth: 2
- MiRO: 700kg
- Payload: 50kg
- MTPLM: 750kg
- Shipping length: 4.26m
- Interior length: 3.10m
- Width: 2.03m
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Pitch and set up
The Sprite Compact comes on an Al-Ko chassis, with an AKS hitch stabiliser and alloy wheels. The stylish van has GRP front and rear moulded panels, with the service points all located on the offside.
In comparison, the Freedom Jetstream has a one-piece shell that is all GRP. Coming on an Al-Ko chassis, you will not need a huge tow car, thanks to the MiRO of only 700kg – as a result, the absence of ATC is unlikely to be noticed. However, the payload of only 50kg is the trade off.
A great touch in this van is the main light switch – this has been placed by the door and can be reached from the ground. It’s a particularly useful feature when you’re returning to the caravan in the dark.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Lounge
The designers of the Sprite have really managed to make the most of the space, successfully creating a lounge that is both bright and airy. This is achieved despite the absence of a sunroof, thanks to the midi-Heki.
A central chest is also found in here which is useful, providing a drawer and slide-out occasional table. The seating may be narrow but it’s also comfortable. The LED spots are practical, although they would be even better if they were adjustable.
The Jetstream also has a comfortable lounge – five are able to comfortably sit in this U-shaped area, with front and side windows allowing light to flood in. Something to note is there is no dedicated storage option for the foldaway table, so when you’re on the road, you will have to be careful with how you store it.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Kitchen
The Compact’s kitchen is also well thought out, with touches such as the placing of the fridge over the axle in the dresser providing more cupboard storage. A three-burner gas hob and oven/grill will allow you to cook up a treat, while a large sink is another welcome addition.
A large window makes the Jetstream’s kitchen a well-lit area, while you can turn to a spotlight to provide light in the evening. A two-burner gas hob, combined oven and grill, and a large sink are to hand in the kitchen, as is a 60-litre fridge.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Washroom
We’re impressed by what is fitted into the Compact’s washroom – features include an electric-flush toilet and large wall mirror. The floor area for showering is a bit tight, but despite this, is manageable. Our favourite thing in here is the sizeable window.
The opaque window lets light stream into the Jetstream’s washroom too. You will find a separate showerhead with an unobstructed tray, while an adequate foldaway basin is also to hand.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Sleeping
There are two settees in the Compact which can either be used as single beds or made into a double. The former could be a bit on the small side if you’re over 5ft 11in but we found the double easy to put together, which is always welcome.
Like the Compact, the Jetstream has two settees that can either be used as two singles or a large double. The foam walls provide a comfortable headboard, but it’s worth noting that if you’re making up the double, the backrests and base cushions are a bit bulky to put in place.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Storage
Despite being on the small side, the Compact still offers plenty of storage, with the easily-accessible underseat areas and kitchen cupboards all welcome. The wardrobe is also ideal for two.
The Jetstream has six overhead lockers and a wardrobe with good half-height hanging space, while three more lockers can be found in the kitchen. A large front locker is capable of storing more than just gas bottles too.
Sprite Compact vs Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport: Overall
Both caravans are definitely worth considering, coming in at reasonable prices and also providing some nice touches.
There are things that could be better in both – for instance, adjustable spotlights in the Compact, or storage for the table in the Jetstream – but they both have their merits. Perhaps the deciding factor will be how you feel about the payload – the Jetstream’s payload of 50kg will need careful watching. However, it’s still an intriguing option well worth considering.
One thing is certain with both though – they present a great base for making some wonderful memories. You can find out more about each model by reading our reviews of the Sprite Compact and the Freedom Jetstream Twin Sport.
Alternatively, you can head to our best caravan round-up, where we share our pick of the top models currently on the market.
If you liked this, why not read these:
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