Nigel Hutson
See other caravan reviews written by Nigel HutsonFall for the simple charms of this compact, light, front lounge, end kitchen caravan that could be perfect for two – read our Coachman Vision 380 review
Overview
Before end-washroom caravans were introduced in the 1980s, if you wanted a two-berth caravan, you pretty much had one choice of layout: a front lounge and an end kitchen, with a small washroom tucked into one of the rear corners. That’s basically what you get with the Coachman Vision 380 (plus a great deal more of course!).
The 380 is the smallest, lightest and least expensive of all Coachman’s caravans, and updates to the Vision range for the 2016 season are mainly tweaks.
All of Coachman’s caravans have panels that are bonded together rather than using traditional methods and joining the trend of using acronyms, they call this ABC (Advanced Bonded Construction). Having worked closely with adhesive manufacturer BOSTIK and Hull University, Coachman believes this method has virtually eliminated the threat of water ingress. And to see other Coachman caravans for sale, click here.
Pitching and setting up
Being Coachman’s entry level range, the Vision doesn’t get things like an external barbecue point or mains socket, but it does come with an Al-Ko AKS 3004 stabiliser, shock absorbers, an under-slung spare wheel and mud-flaps.
Lightweight corner steadies are standard, and all are easily accessible. We particularly like the rubber inserts on the front access holes which help prevent accidental body damage.
In addition, all the essentials are where they’re needed – the mains, fresh and waste water are on the offside, and the electrical controls just inside the entrance door.
Lounge
Six people could quite comfortably sit in the lounge of the 380, and using the front pull-out table together with the main one (stored conveniently between the wardrobe and washroom), they could dine, too.
The Vision doesn’t get an in-vogue sunroof, but there is a Midi-Heki over the lounge, so it certainly doesn’t feel at all dark inside. And when it’s dark outside and the blinds are drawn, there are reading lights in all four corners, together with overhead down-lighters and strip lights above the overhead lockers (all LED, of course!).
Kitchen
Usefully, a removable drainer is fitted, which leaves a decent 0.44m of work surface and, handily, the surface over the fridge is at the same height as the kitchen, although this also serves as the TV point. The microwave has its own dedicated cupboard above the fridge unit, but is at a fairly high 1.54m from the floor.
In addition, there’s masses of storage in and around the kitchen area, with drawers, huge cupboards and lots of small shelves.
Washroom
A shower is provided (with a wraparound curtain), although we think showering in here would be an exception rather than rule, as the room isn’t lined, and if the shower curtain is closed, then there’s nowhere to put shampoos etc.
A pop-up rooflight is the only ventilation in here, as there’s no window fitted (perhaps another indication that the washroom is intended for washing rather than showering?).
There’s a good amount of storage in here though, with several cupboards and lots of shelves, and artificial lighting is pretty decent too.
Beds
As the knee rolls are quite pronounced, it would be best to turn the seat cushions around to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
Whatever arrangement is used, each occupant has a reading light and a shelf to put books and the morning cuppa.
Storage
The wardrobe is of a good size, having a hanging depth of 1.42m. There are a couple of small shelves in here too, with a few deep drawers underneath the wardrobe.
The kitchen area is really well endowed with storage too, with two overhead lockers, a huge double-doored cupboard, a couple of drawers and shelves aplenty.
Technical specs
Berth | 2 |
MiRO | 1063kg |
Payload | 117kg |
MTPLM | 1180kg |
Interior length | 4.02m |
Shipping length | 5.65m |
Width | 2.26m |
Verdict
If you’re a caravanning couple looking for an easy to tow tourer (in terms of both size and weight), and generally use full-facility sites, then the Coachman Vision 380 shouldn’t be overlooked.
It has a lounge that is huge when compared to many other caravans (fixed-bed versions particularly), and we know there are a number of seasoned caravanners out there who like end kitchens – they certainly wouldn’t be disappointed with this one! And when it comes to bedtime, the huge double is very easy to make up thanks to the pull-out base system.
The only compromise really is the shower facility. In all other respects, the washroom is more than adequate.
Add all this to Coachman’s reputation for longevity, the ABC build and the contemporary design, and we think this caravan is surely a winner.
Conclusion
Pros
- It's light and compact
- The lounge is spacious and airy
- Cooks will love the well-equipped kitchen
- The double is easy to make up and comfy, too
Cons
- The washroom is probably only useable if you stay at full-facility sites