Hi. Tossing up wether to get into the 'go north young man' thing for winters. I'm in Tassie, quasi retired after having cancer treatment last year. Feel an imposter as I'm not grey, but I was going grey. After chemo it grew back with no grey! Bonus.
First - tossing up wether caravanning or campering (?) is for me. Second wether a caravan or camper is best for me. Pros and cons to each. Being in Tassie it seems a big factor is price on the ferry (cheap for camper under 6 metres) vs higher rego and engine maintenance. Plus all the usual things to toss up about that issue. I also have a cat for company (not sure if she'll like it).
Currently swinging toward a caravan small and light enough for my existing car which is a very good tow vehicle for lighter vans. Limited to 1600 or 1700 kg's. Something like a 21 foot Bailey or Geist.
If I went camper I'd possibly go for something the size of a VW Transporter as they're car price on the ferry, but maybe a bit squashed inside for an extended period. Maybe the Crafeter/Sprinter size would be worth going for?
G'day wfdTamar and welcome to the forum. Don't forget to try the two ongoing games here - 'Who is This' in the 'I Digress' section and 'Pick this Place' in the 'General' Section - a great source to find new places to visit. Don't know how to help on your decision as selection of den and vehicle are so personal. Caravan or motorhome allow aircon, although you need access to mains power to be able to use. Camper is probably more for shorter time trips in my opinion, also a pain if you have to put away when damp if you ask me. Having said which it has all been done before!
And its welcome from us two 2 wfdTamar once you decide where the most of your travel will be , on/ off road and weather you are looking long term owning this first van of thinking to upgrade once you have done some of the more adventourous stuff will help you decide which to go for
Woody
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When the power of Love becomes greater than the love of power the World will see peace ! 24ft Trailblazer 5th wheeler n 05 Patrol ute and Black Series Dominator camper trailer ( for the rough stuff)
Welcome to the gang wfdTamar, enjoy here and out in the playground.
IMO Weights of the van and car are just as important as your comfort so make sure all is under the max's listed as things are starting to happen out here in the playground in regards to checking vans and cars. It's not easy. That said, once you have done the hard yards up front it's a breeze from then on.
Who said it was an easy life out here in the playground Sheesh, no way known to man kind I will keep on keeping on out here though if it saves someones job
Keep Safe on the roads and out there.
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Live Life On Your Terms
DOUGChief One Feather (Losing feathers with age)
TUG.......2014 Holden LT Colorado Twin Cab Ute with Canopy
DEN....... 2014 "Chief" Arrow CV (with some changes)
It is a hard question to answer
I hope that you are happy with whatever you decide to get
From a bit of experience, I have had tents/caravan/motorhome
I believe that the secret is to adapt to whatever you have
Do not worry about something being small and a bit squashed
If you are travelling in the warmer areas, you will mainly be living outside, under the shade
The caravan/camper van, will probably only be used for cooking and sleeping, and when it rains
Sheesh, no way known to man kind 
I will keep on keeping on out here though if it saves someones job 
