THE JURY is still out on whether the government’s decision to reduce VAT to 15% managed to stimulate the UK economy but one thing is for certain: the rate will go back up to 17.5% at the start of next year, so anyone thinking about buying a big ticket item, such as a caravan, needs to get a move on.

Buying your first caravan could seem daunting, even without the added pressure of making that decision before the taxman pushes up the cost. But the caravanning community prides itself on being friendly and welcoming, and this is reflected in the number of organisations, publications and events which can help you make the right decision.

The caravan industry is worth an estimated £6bn per annum to the UK, so its trade and consumer bodies are well funded and respected. The Caravan Club has been representing the caravanning public for more than 100 years, and has more than 370,000 member households.

The club’s web site, www.caravanclub.co.uk, offers a wealth of information, with a free downloadable “Getting Started” guide which is a great way to begin. Some of its more specialised services and advice lines are for members only, but the £37 a year membership fee, allowing access to these feature, would prove a worthwhile investment and once you start caravanning, there are more benefits to membership as well.

Caravanners take to the road for a number of reasons, so it is vital that your caravan will do what you want it to do. If you plan to stay at well-equipped authorised camp sites you might not need as many facilities as if you were planning to get out into the wilds a bit more. Similarly, if you’re an occasional-weekend-away type of caravanner, storage space will be less of an issue than if you’re planning regular longer trips.

There are caravans to suit all tastes and budgets. The widest selection of caravans, gadgets and advice can be found at industry events, with the biggest of them all - International Caravan and Motorhome Show (www.caravanshows.com) - taking place this October at the NEC. The show is attended by all the major manufacturers and retailers and represents a great opportunity for novice and experienced caravanners alike to see what the industry can offer. Visitors will be able to get free, expert advice from exhibitors on all the technical aspects mentioned above.

There are a number of exhibitors vying for the unofficial “star of the show’ billing. Expect a lot of interest around the Bailey stand - the UK’s longest-established manufacturer is unveiling its Pegasus range of caravans. The range features construction and design innovations which have been two years in the making.

There will also be a new kid on the block, with the Stealth caravan range making its debut with the tag line, “A Caravan To Aspire To”. It is designed and built by Dunster House, a business best known for its log cabins, garden offices and carports.

All the manufacturers and retailers will be offering deals and discounts on their 2010 models, and anyone placing an order at the show will benefit from the 15% VAT rate.

The most important technical consideration is what is known in the industry as outfit matching - making sure your car is able to tow the caravan you want. The simple answer is that the caravan should weigh no more than 85% of the empty or kerb weight of the car. However, first-timers in particular are advised to go into a bit more detail. The Caravan Club regularly reviews the towing efficiency of leading motor vehicles in its members magazine.

Another legal consideration concerns the driving licence. If you passed your test before 1 January 1997 there are less restrictions, but it’s worth clarifying your position with the DVLA. Certain combinations are car and caravan might require recently qualified drivers to take an additional test. The Driving Standards Agency runs courses specifically for this, while the Caravan Club, as well as the Camping and Caravan Club, also offer caravan first-timers manoeuvring courses and driving guides.

It might be easy among all the admin and acronyms to lose sight of the fact that caravanning is great fun. Spending some time thinking about the technical aspects should pay off when it comes to the enjoyable part - using the caravan.

The peace-of-mind which comes from the warranties and after-sales service when buying new from an established manufacturer or dealer is a persuasive argument for the first time caravanner. However, as with the pre-owned car industry, there are a many reputable dealers who can offer a comparable after sales service when it comes to buying second-hand.

Private deals are maybe not the best place for a beginner to start - one wonders who exactly buys a caravan for 99p on eBay. But if buying privately is an option you’d like to consider, there are classified ads in most of the caravan magazines, available from most newsagents.

Overall, the joy of caravanning will soon become clear once you have taken to the road. Putting the leg-work in beforehand will help make that journey a lot easier, safer and enjoyable.

For more information on how to buy a caravan and to book tickets online visit www.caravanshows.com or call the ticket hotline number 0871 230 5575