A beginner looking for advice on buying 1st pop top van

Hi Tony

My best advice is to buy a second hand one cheaply, use it and see what is good and bad about it. While holidaying, look at and ask others about the rigs that appeal to you. Most go through two or three different vans before deciding they have the right one for them.

If you are considering long stretches on roads such as the Tanami, get an off road camper trailer.

I prefer tandem over single for stability and safety (eg in case of a blow-out or lost wheel).

Motherhen

Hiya Tony,
I'm more than happy to give unbiased no B.S. advise, but don't wish to post my email address on an open forum.
You could email Oz Parks and ask them to foward an email to me so that I can reply direct to you.
info@ozparks.com.au
Cheers, ozjohn.

yep, as MH said, although you'd want to be happy with your 1st van, don't stress too much because no matter what, you'll almost certainly be changing it once you get a feel for vanning and it's very difficult to know without going through the experience. For instance, we would never bother with an annexe again and we have 2 x teen boys. Use a tent for them: easier and less expensive than an annexe - they still get to use the van in other ways.

Timber/alum? Some of the very best vans on the market have either. Personal choice.

You've basically answered your own question on dual/single axle.

Don't attempt the Tanami unless the van is of Bushtracker/Kedron/Trakmaster etc standard and even then, you'll probably cop some damage esp if you aren't that experienced. The other tracks you mention, without being specific should be ok.

Regarding brands? phew...how much have you got to spend and even then it's more shades of grey than black and white. Maybe I'm wrong but I doubt you'll still have your first van for say, more than three years because you'll have discovered it's shortcomings and be looking at options and upgrades by then. You have to go through the processes of discovery through experience. Still, I'm sure there'll be plenty of recommendations. Also, try here: http://caravanersforum.com/index.php?sid=ee7c153421934edbb1ee2ac347ec36ac plenty to keep you busy.

hi tony,,,,the other guys seem to have you covered on most of your questions,but you seem to have missed the most important item in your van and that is the fridge.
most vans have a three way fridge which is ok for the trips you have mentioned.
the thing to remember is that three way fridges have a climate rating eg.
sn = sub normal n = normal st = sub tropical t = tropical
if you like a cold beer at the end of the day dont settle for anything less than a sub tropical or tropical rated fridge or maybe a two way fridge.
a two way fridge (12v / 240v ) would require a solar panel/s plus an extra battery for bush camping
best of luck travel safe
ps half the fun is setting up your rig enjoy