Camper Trailer Finance in Australia: A Complete Guide

Planning your next adventure on the open road? A camper trailer offers freedom and flexibility, but the upfront cost can be a barrier. This guide walks you through camper trailer finance options, interest rates, and how to choose the right loan for your needs.

What Is Camper Trailer Finance?

Camper trailer finance is a specialised loan designed to help you purchase a new or used camper trailer without paying the full amount upfront. You borrow money, agree to repay it over a set term (usually 1-7 years), and pay interest on the borrowed amount. Lenders work with multiple providers to offer competitive rates and flexible terms suited to your circumstances.

Who Can Get Approved?

To be eligible for camper trailer finance in Australia, you typically need:

• Age: 18 years or older

• Residency: Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder

• Income: Stable, consistent income (employment, self-employment, superannuation, or pension)

• Credit Score: Generally 600+ for standard loans; 750+ for lower rates

• Valid identification: Driver's licence or passport

Many modern lenders work with first-time buyers and non-homeowners, so don't assume you'll be rejected.

Types of Camper Trailer Finance

Secured Camper Trailer Loans

A secured loan uses the camper trailer itself as collateral. If you default, the lender can repossess the camper to recover their funds. Because of this security, lenders offer lower interest rates.

Key details:

• Interest rates: 5.50% to 7.50% p.a. for strong applicants

• Loan amounts: Up to $125,000+

• Loan terms: 1 to 7 years

• Approval: Easier, especially for first-time buyers

• Insurance: Mandatory—comprehensive coverage required by lender

• Best for: New caravans, dealership purchases, borrowers seeking lower rates

Unsecured Camper Trailer Loans (Personal Loans)

An unsecured loan is not backed by any asset. You own the camper from day one; the lender has no claim to it. Without collateral, lenders charge higher interest rates because they take on more risk.

Key details:

• Interest rates: 8.00% to 15.00% p.a. (higher for poor credit)

• Loan amounts: $5,000 to $60,000 typically

• Loan terms: 1 to 7 years

• Approval: Stricter eligibility criteria

• Insurance: Recommended but not mandatory

• Best for: Used caravans, private sales, borrowers prioritising ownership flexibility

Chattel Mortgage (For Business Use)

A chattel mortgage is for business owners using camper trailers for commercial purposes (50%+ business use).

Key benefits:

• Full GST claims on purchase price (if registered for GST)

• Interest on repayments is fully tax-deductible

• Claim depreciation as a business expense

• Instant Asset Write-Off may apply

• 100% finance available—no deposit needed

Always consult your accountant on tax implications before pursuing this option.

Interest Rates and Loan Costs (2025)

Here's what you can expect in today's market:

Loan Type	Interest Rate	Comparison Rate	Loan Range	Best For
Secured (Strong Credit)	5.50% – 7.50%	6.00% – 8.50%	$5K – $125K	New caravans, good credit
Secured (Average Credit)	7.50% – 10.50%	8.50% – 11.50%	$5K – $100K	Standard applicants
Unsecured (Personal Loan)	8.00% – 15.00%	9.00% – 16.00%	$5K – $60K	Used caravans, flexibility
Non-Bank/Higher Risk	13.00% – 20%+	15.00% – 22%+	$2K – $50K	Credit challenges

Lowest rates: Starting from 5.50% to 6.00% p.a. for excellent credit profiles.

Average rates: The median interest rate across camper finance requests is approximately 13.87% p.a.

Cost Comparison Example

For a $50,000 loan over 5 years:

Interest Rate	Monthly Repayment	Total Interest	Total Repaid
6.00% p.a.	$943	$6,580	$56,580
8.00% p.a.	$983	$8,980	$58,980
10.00% p.a.	$1,061	$11,642	$61,642

The difference: Between 6% and 10%, you pay an extra $5,062 over 5 years. Getting the best rate matters.

Comparison Rate vs. Interest Rate

Always compare comparison rates, not just headline rates. The comparison rate includes the interest rate plus most fees and charges, showing you the true cost of credit.

Loan Terms and Repayment

Loan Amounts and Terms

Camper trailer loans typically range from 1 to 7 years, with some lenders offering up to 10 years for larger loans.

How loan term affects repayments:

• 3 years: $1,537/month (total interest: $5,332)

• 5 years: $983/month (total interest: $8,980)

• 7 years: $738/month (total interest: $11,892)

All on a $50,000 loan at 8% p.a.

Repayment Frequency

Most lenders offer flexible repayment options:

• Weekly repayments (align with weekly pay)

• Fortnightly repayments

• Monthly repayments (most common)

All payments are set up via automatic direct debit.

Balloon Payments

Some loans include a balloon payment—a larger lump sum (10-50% of camper value) due at the end of the loan term. This reduces your monthly repayments but requires you to have the funds available when the loan ends.

Extra Repayments

Most camper trailer loans allow extra or additional repayments without penalty, helping you save interest and pay off the loan faster.

Insurance Requirements

For secured loans: Comprehensive insurance is mandatory. This protects both you and the lender's security.

For unsecured loans: While not mandatory, comprehensive insurance is strongly recommended.

Insurance Costs

Comprehensive caravan insurance typically costs $500–$1,500 per year depending on the camper's value and coverage type. Budget this into your total financing costs.

Coverage Includes

• Loss or damage to your camper

• Property inside the camper

• Damage to other people's property

• Fire and theft protection

• Emergency expenses (e.g., temporary accommodation if damaged)

Application Process: From Quote to Approval

Step 1: Gather Documents

• Identification (driver's licence, passport, or Medicare card)

• Proof of income (last 2 payslips or superannuation statements)

• Bank statements (3 months)

• Camper details (if known): make, model, year, price

Step 2: Get a Quote

Enter your details for a no-obligation quote that doesn't impact your credit score. Receive personalised rates within minutes.

Step 3: Pre-Approval or Full Application

Pre-approval gives you a set budget before shopping. Full application happens once you've selected a specific camper.

Step 4: Credit Check and Verification

The lender verifies employment, income, credit history, and conducts a responsible lending assessment to ensure the loan suits your situation.

Step 5: Approval and Settlement

Timeline:

• Quick quote: 2 hours to 2 days

• Pre-approval: Often same day

• Full approval: Usually 24–48 hours

• Settlement: 3–5 business days

Settlement includes final documentation, insurance confirmation, fund transfer, and camper registration in your name.

New vs. Used Camper Trailers

New caravans:

• Full warranty (typically 1–3 years)

• Latest features and technology

• Secured loans typically available with lower rates

• Higher purchase price and steeper depreciation

Used caravans:

• Lower purchase price

• Slower depreciation curve

• May require higher deposit (10–20%)

• Both secured and unsecured loans available

• Full mechanical inspection recommended

Yes, lenders finance both new and used caravans purchased from dealers and private sellers.

Key Considerations

Deposit Requirements

Many lenders offer 0% deposit financing (100% finance). However, contributing a deposit typically results in lower interest rates and may improve approval chances.

Approval Speed

Pre-approval quotes can happen in as little as 2 hours. Formal approvals usually take 24–48 hours, with full settlement within 3–5 business days.

Can I Include Accessories?

Yes, many lenders allow you to include accessories (solar panels, upgraded bedding, awnings) as part of the financed amount. Confirm this with your lender.

What If I Can't Make a Payment?

Contact your lender immediately. Many have hardship provisions allowing temporary payment reduction, extended terms, or payment deferment in certain circumstances. Ignoring missed payments can lead to default notices and potential repossession.

Can I Pay Off My Loan Early?

Yes, most camper trailer loans allow early or additional repayments without penalty. Check your contract for specific terms.

Red Flags to Avoid

• Not comparing rates across at least 3 lenders

• Only looking at headline rates (ignore comparison rates at your peril)

• Overlooking insurance costs in your budget

• Taking longer loan terms than necessary (extra years cost thousands in interest)

• Signing contracts without understanding the terms

• Assuming all lenders offer the same rates and conditions

Special Financing Options

For Retirees and Pensioners

Some lenders specifically work with pension income. Income stability (regular pension payments) can work in your favor if properly verified. Pre-approval valid for 60 days gives you time to shop without pressure.

For Self-Employed and Sole Traders

Provide 2 years of business financials or tax returns. Many lenders now accept self-employed applications. Chattel mortgages may offer tax benefits if the camper is used for business purposes.

For Business Owners

Chattel mortgage financing offers GST and depreciation benefits. Must verify 50%+ business use. Consider professional tax advice on loan structuring.

For Borrowers with Credit Issues

Some lenders work with people who've experienced credit difficulties. Past defaults can still result in approval, though interest rates will be higher. Larger deposits can improve approval chances.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Securing the right camper trailer finance makes your travel dreams achievable without requiring a large upfront payment. By understanding loan types, comparing interest rates, budgeting for insurance, and following the application process, you can get approved faster and with confidence.

Whether you're a first-time buyer, retiree, self-employed, or business owner, there are camper trailer finance options designed for your situation. Compare your options, understand the full cost of borrowing, and embark on your adventure.

Finance Your Camper Trailer Adventure in Adelaide

Ready to explore Australia in your own camper trailer? Fintell Finance helps South Australians secure the right financing for their caravanning dreams.

Why choose Fintell Finance?

• 30+ lender network: Access to Australia's top lenders ensures competitive rates for your situation

• Fast approvals: Most camper trailer loans approved within 24 hours

• Quick funding: Funds typically available within 3–5 business days

• Flexible options: Secured, unsecured, and chattel mortgage financing available

• Expert guidance: Our team specialises in camper financing and understands Adelaide's market

• Transparent process: No hidden fees—you'll understand the full cost upfront

• No-obligation assessment: Free quote with no credit score impact

Whether you're buying new or used, from a dealer or private seller, Fintell Finance helps you find the perfect loan to match your budget and travel plans.

Check out our Caravan Loans page to learn more, or call us on +61 422 249 815 to speak with a camper trailer finance specialist today.