Is the Zone RV Caravan Worth Upgrading?

[@karavanningdownunder]

Great video. They sure are a quality product. Can you please share what product you use to shine up the composite?

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thank you! Purewax link is here. The blue stuff, it’s a waterless wash product. Spray on, wipe dirt off then buff. I use it on the inside and outside - great for everything including plastic and windows. Smells like apples and makes the next clean easier also. Sorry I don’t have any discount codes to offer you but there are promos and packs on their site. purewax.com/products/madness-kit-free-upgrade?variant=724117611&country=AU&currency=AUD&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACZyDhuKw93yGBwPiQnAqsda32oKF&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvvO7BhC-ARIsAGFyToXkvTB_iuEfMveqoQxCMw26RIa8cQOokWRHz8r0Rpy1hbboKUX3KF8aAu2SEALw_wcB

[@karavanningdownunder]

@ awesome thank you 🙏 will check it out.

[@jacquelinebrincat3112]

Hi Guys new siverline looking good time for another review ❤

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks! I agree, Jayco won’t let us look at anything so I’ll have to find a new one to hire - I’ve seen the new ones - getting better!

[@jactoaust]

I wish my 4 year old JB @ 8500km looked in as good condition as your Zone. I made a mistake in not pursuing the Zone when I was researching what to buy. I will continue to follow your adventures❤

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@jactoaust the Gator we reviewed was excellent - in fact I still see it around, the interior is immaculate but the outside certainly looks dated - it’s done at least 100,000kms. Cheers for the comment

[@ShanePearson-p1e]

I can feel a summit coming on 😂😂

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Ok, buy 2 and send me 1 😂😂😂

[@BPS-h9b]

G’day Craig & Tracey, love your work. The 2025 Silverlines have some significant upgrades including airbag option, colour choices inside etc. I think this time Craig needs his Van. You will love the space of the 21-65-4. Happy hunting.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@BPS-h9b ok, about time - I’ll drag the boss lady for a look 👀👍😂😂

[@terrenceodgers5866]

Love the banter guys! Plus some food for thought with this edition of Tracy and Craig's caravan adventures.I think you are both very cluey people, so, you won't need my opinion to know what to do with the van.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@terrenceodgers5866 Thanks for the comments. All opinions do have something to offer and I’m flattered - Tracey is just naturally clued up 😂😂😂😂

[@RobOwen-vn3bi]

Have a 2022 Base zone wouldn`t change it unless its another Zone love the product - Merry Christmas

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@RobOwen-vn3bi hard to go past from everything we’ve seen and experienced. Tracey thinks it’s the one and only! 😂😂. Thanks for your comment - cheers and merry xmas

[@Suzcam023]

Keep it ! Wouldn’t trade my Base for a Gen 2 . The Gen 1 are hot property . Love that 18.6 ,❤️

[@JaneSavage-o7c]

We are in the process of looking at vans. Hope we can get something soon and watching your videos have given us plenty to think about with our choices. Merry Christmas and Happy 2025 for travelling guys.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks for your comments! Much appreciated. Good luck with your search! Send a direct message at anytime if you want to know anything.

[@ladysusanjane2682]

Always something better for everything in life. 😊 it’s a great van. Keep it x

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ladysusanjane2682 thankyou - I feel another 20 years it has in her so you could be right!

[@stromdogy]

Hey Team (Roy & Hg...) I loved the review. I have a 5yr old Jayco Optimum Motorhome the big one 29.5. If the quality was 1/2 as good as the Zone I would be over the moon. I really want you to but that Silverline for some great content on your chanel. Keep up the reviews ....love em !

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@stromdogy thanks - as you can see I’m still working on it - I could have a blast in the Silverline! Cheers for the comment and merry Xmas!

[@alandejong5611]

Merry Christmas and a happy new year. I love the channel. Being from Queensland biased stick with Zone rv. No substitute for quality. Looking forward to 2025

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@alandejong5611 cheers to you to and thanks for watching. I tend to agree with you!

[@ladysusanjane2682]

We built a 15m massive carport for our van to protect it so we added that cost to our van when we bought it. So we will changeover at some point but maybe keep our van longer as it’s stored well.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ladysusanjane2682 that’s a great idea, storage is key - well done

[@Philipk65]

You are going to keep it, no doubt about it. The white interior is so cold though.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@Philipk65 agreed, I’m always calling to the nurse!! 😂😂😂 it does however let you colour the van using the other decor so you can mix it up. We have rented this van out so it’s not exactly how we’d be rolling with it. Might have to keep it another 20 years!

[@Philipk65]

@@caravansbythecampfire Maybe get some draw and cupboard door fronts in warmer tones. That would be an improvement.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@Philipk65can’t disagree with that!

[@stephenmathieson1647]

I say keep it. We’ve got the same van ZB056 with no complaints. My reasoning is purely from self interest. Where else am I gonna get quality info for mods and upgrades. Love following and getting practical and useful ideas. So keep it!

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@ ok, just for you!

[@rickrock479]

Hey Tracey and Craig, another very informative video, thank you very much….I was wondering if you could let me know what the actual “Pure Wax” product is that you use to polish your van with? Thanks in advance….. 🍻

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thank you! Purewax link is here. The blue stuff, it’s a waterless wash product. Spray on, wipe dirt off then buff. I use it on the inside and outside - great for everything including plastic and windows. Smells like apples and makes the next clean easier also. Sorry I don’t have any discount codes to offer you but there are promos and packs on their site. purewax.com/products/madness-kit-free-upgrade?variant=724117611&country=AU&currency=AUD&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACZyDhuKw93yGBwPiQnAqsda32oKF&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvvO7BhC-ARIsAGFyToXkvTB_iuEfMveqoQxCMw26RIa8cQOokWRHz8r0Rpy1hbboKUX3KF8aAu2SEALw_wcB

[@rickrock479]

@ thank you, that sounds awesome…… Appreciate the detailed and prompt response….. 👍

[@paulwebb2097]

Keep it. Great van . Love you Vids. Best for 2025.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Thanks mate - and to you too!

[@Truck_Van_and_Tinny]

Upgrade, the market is still ok. Not fantastic but selling it sooner rather than later will realise a better return. As with all things it depends on your finances etc, but I always sell before the car, van, boat whatever gets too long in the tooth. Just my opinion. Cheers guys.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@Truck_Van_and_Tinny thanks for the advice - has merit. Cheers and thanks for the comment - merry xmas!

[@rachelash7299]

Came here to see if youve had any offers yet 😆. Id keep it - i get sick of having to move in/out...but my husband would sell (he'd have sold it at 12 months 😂).

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@rachelash7299 😂😂😂 I’m with you - moving is only marginally better than painting! Might have to stick until I see the ultimate something. Thanks for comment - cheers

[@lindaneumann3301]

If it's not broken, why change it? The van looks amazing. You've just settled into it - don't change it. Who cares how old it is or how many is it's done - everything is amazing. If anything, put what you would send with upgrading on more solar and battery. Because in reality, that is all you'll gain by upgrading.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@lindaneumann3301 I do tend to agree with you. It is good and is nearly a perfect fit. A tad small in the bathroom and I’d like the door at the other end. Apart from that 👍

[@RingoTravels]

Love my 12yo Coromal - no plans to upgrade. Not a fan of the white interior - too much like an operating theatre.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Haha - apparently it is perfect for any decor colour options, a different theme each season! I have a good nurse on duty.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

And the Coromal - champion. I admire those everytime I see them.

[@iangoodwin345]

Great van. What you need and what you want are different beasts. Do you need another van.? Probably not? Do you want another van? Can you afford the changeover price? Only you can answer that. For me, the Zone Expedition is on my dream list. Best wishes for Christmas and the adventures to come.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@iangoodwin345 you too! I love the expo externals but not overly the inside - we are looking again and have some different brand reviews coming up so I guess we’ll see. On the other hand I could keep this one for another 20 years!

[@zoezoe610]

In life you make decisions when you are sure about it. You are not sure about selling it so not the right time to sell. Always wait until you are sure.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@zoezoe610 great advice- worth making the video just for your contribution! Cheers.

[@tnexm660]

We think its time to buy a Zone Peregrine or Sojourn, now that you can tow a block of flats with your GVM upgrade (Btw, we have ordered a Zone Expedition).

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@tnexm660 maybe - yes I love the outside of the expedition they just need to let me tinker with the inside. Well done and good luck!

[@user-tq4zm9yr6l]

Better the van you know.Nothing drastically wrong with it.Replacement cost will be 160k up

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@user-tq4zm9yr6l agreed, it does the job and will probs go another 20 years easy!

[@WendyDavies-y3l]

Can you tell me where you got the containers in the freezer and what size fridge. Thanks 😊

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Plastic Containers are from KMart, the fridge is 190Ltr Bushman - excellent performance we have had. Thanks for the comment - cheers!

[@ianmoone2359]

The new Prado is rated to tow 3.5 tonnes so you could tow the Zone RV with it.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ianmoone2359 Not sure I’ll get boat on that car with a full touring set up in the back. Rear axle? I’ll check it out - cheers and thanks for the comment!

[@ianmoone2359]

@@caravansbythecampfire No you won’t get a tinny on the roof as well. Probably going to need a Yank Tank tow vehicle with 4.5 tonne towing to do that legally. The 200 & 300 series cruisers won’t legally do both the van & boat on the roof. Couple from WA did a 300 series GVM upgrade, chopped & extended chassis with Ute tray, added their 24 ft van & boat on the roof, had a after market engine tune & added a oil catch can. Their engine failed at 27,000 kms while touring over east & Rockingham Toyota took one look at their overloaded and modified 300 series and said “no warranty, your on your own” or words to that effect, but offered to sell them a new crate motor at full retail plus removal & fitting. 🙄 Good luck with which ever way you end up going.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ianmoone2359 thanks for all the info - some people go to beyond what their car is setup to do - I'll stick with my old 200 series, 330K kms, no engine mods apart from a throttle controller, also never had any engine attention other than religious servicing every 10K - just does what it needs to, a little primitive now but it will do us. GVM upgrade to 4.2T and rear axle capable of what's needed now - GCM 7.7T so we can cope with nearly everything without straining things. I'm a big fan of the tow vehicle being heavier than the van so that works too. Thanks for your comments, cheers.

[@ianmoone2359]

@ No worries at all. Sounds like you have it sorted, & we agree on heavier tow vehicle than van if you don’t want the tail wagging the dog. 👍👍👍

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ianmoone2359 yes I can’t stand that feeling of being out of control with the lighter tow vehicle 🚗

[@SaltyVoodoo]

We have just spent the last two years investigating several options. We were in the market for a couples van and wanted to maximise solar, weights and build quality. After hour upon hour of looking we got it down to three companies (3) that we really liked. Zone, Rhinomax & Mountain Trail RV. As we all know its a massive financial commitment so you want quality & after sales service as its taken a lifetime of hard yakka to be able to afford these vans. We don't have a bad word to say about either Zone or Rhinomax as they were both absolutely superb but we found Mountain Trail RV build quality was next level, it is just superb. MTRV is real hard to beat, yes they are not cheap but we feel you get the complete package.Just some food for thought if you decide to upgrade MTRV for the WIN in our view ! P.S love the channel you both actually add real world insights and love the maintenance tips. The key is to just be out there living Life what ever brand I guess and your van still looks amazing just saying. Thanks & safe travels

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@SaltyVoodoo you are on the money with MT I think - not as much load capacity as this one but I agree with everything else you say. They are a winner.

[@boblewis4529]

@@caravansbythecampfire Hi, I've just looked on both web sites Zone Sojourn and MT 6.5 Added options so that both have just about the same fitout and at 3500kg ATM. Zone Sojourn Tare 2,927 kg Ball 195 kg. MT 6.5 Tare 2,940 kg Ball 180 kg. Zone approximately $5,000.00 less, but in saying that it was as close as I could get to comparing apples to apples.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@ great job mate - that gives everyone a solid comparison - cheers for your effort and comment.

[@nathanlenehan6128]

Hi mate, i see you haven't gone the sizzler bbq again. Any reason for that? Im in the market for a portable bbq and tossing up between the sizzler and ziggy

[@caravansbythecampfire]

I do love the Sizzler but I just happen to have a Webber Q in the shed just waiting for an opportunity to show itself - my kids gave it to me a couple of Xmas’ ago - simple as that really. Sizzler feels more usable if you ask me.

[@TheTripleDubya]

Well, I was thinking of selling the Sojourn and buying a Summit (if they build it with a King Bed)😂😂😂 . . . yes the Missus is away for a few days, sorry 😬

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@TheTripleDubya that would be a custom option, at Zone?? 😂😂

[@stimo1076]

Buy the new Lotus equivalent 👍🏾

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@stimo1076 when they make a full Composite van I’ll consider it - I do like some of their layouts!

[@whitedog7897]

So how old is it and how many kms has it done??? Asking for a friend. 😂

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@whitedog7897 😂😂😂

[@richardcharlton8259]

The only thing I would sell it for is another ZONE

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@richardcharlton8259 I can’t disagree, they are impressive!

[@ausguy4385]

Stop drinking and thinking 😂 you'll be right then

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ausguy4385 😂😂😂😂Yes, Interesting. No decisions are made around here when drinking of any kind, they are banned! - this is a good rule. 👍 Cheers 🍻

[@GrantBennett-vb2nk]

The only thing I can say is as your van get older the gap $$ for a new van gets bigger. ie as your van gets older the van is worth less and each year new vans increase in price. So 2020 model maybe worth $110k and a new 2025 model say $170k but in 2 yrs your van maybe worth $80/90k and a new van $200k so the gap has opened dramatically.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@GrantBennett-vb2nk yes, good maths - hence we are considering the options for sure. Thanks for your comment - cheers!

[@GrantBennett-vb2nk]

@@caravansbythecampfire why not have two vans the zone as a rental and something better for your own personal uses say a Red Centre Caravan 😂😂

[@jeffreyshepherd8680]

@@GrantBennett-vb2nk ..not everyone has the Prime Ministers bank account.......!!!!!

[@ianbailey4114]

Are you still hiring your van out . Can't expect people that give to take good care.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@ianbailey4114 yes we are - it only has two months to go. On Point Caravan Hire are very careful who it’s hired out to and many of the hirers are considering buying a zone. Stuff can happen unfortunately to anyone but it definitely showcases the quality of the product in our opinion which has had only very minor issues from lack of knowledge. Thanks for your comment!

[@gregheath6252]

Don’t Zone have a carbon fiber option the cost is eye watering 😢I believe 65,000. Also some manufacturers are moving to 48v systems but I’ve seen Utube videos showing they don’t last any longer. Don’t do caravan parks often but here I am all the Jaycos can’t use their electric awnings above 30 kilometers winds two vans 6 months old and the awnings are torn up.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

Their Carbon Fibre is the new Summit - better ad 200K to that figure you mentioned. I'd rather a bigger boat! I prefer 48 volt but most manufacturers are staying away - we reviewed a van with a 48 volt system and the efficient use of power and its recharge ability was next level - we just ran the entire van on 240 volts whilst off grid and it was way better than the 12 volt system. Long term I don't see it aging any better or worse. Those with electric awnings need to pay attention - again, from experience they are so much more convenient when on the move. Thanks for the comments, much appreciated - cheers.

[@boblewis4529]

@@caravansbythecampfire FYI with the electric awnings, they're magic, but make sure the sale track used to hold the awning has rivet mounts on both sides of the track, as per the installation instructions, or you could find it pulling out of the van body.

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@ yes, that’s the way to do it for sure- no point taking short cuts with the install. Thanks again for the info and comment.

[@JustAnotherReviewwithAlek]

Keep the zone. Do NOT go for a Jayco Silverline! Zone is made of 100% quality products. Jayco, well. Just look how many are for sale online. Compare that to Zone. And that will tell you everything. People keep their Zone caravans

[@caravansbythecampfire]

@@JustAnotherReviewwithAlek probably the best idea. Thank you for your comment