With the prospect of a warm weekend, Shield Total Insurance, the caravan insurance specialist, asked its resident caravan tester to check out the latest offering from the UK touring caravan manufacturer Bailey of Bristol and their Bailey Orion 450/5 5 berth, family layout, caravan. A distinctive look and retro caravan design, but will it live up to expectations?
The Bailey Orion is Bailey’s entry level, touring caravan range. It isn’t quite the new Bailey Ranger but rather sits between the defunct Bailey Series 6 Ranger and Bailey GT60. It comes with a specification that includes a CD/radio, microwave, combined grill/oven, and Whale floor mounted space heater system (which in the compact Bailey Orion should be fine). An Al-Ko chassis gives the Bailey Orion towing stability and the alloy wheels come as standard.
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There are a number of distinct features including a “locker less” front and a radius roof. The roof is of course one piece, with Bailey adopting their own construction methods. Some observers may be put off by the Orion’s profile though.
The interior does feels surprisingly spacious. The rear end has an L shaped seat with three fixed bunks, but no dividing curtain for privacy to partition off any children at night. Wardrobe storage space is limited, so five people may struggle on a long weekend stay.
The kitchen is practical in use with a three burner hob by Thetford, microwave and excellent lighting. The front lounge is comfortable to use, with the seating supportive and making of the double bed a simple task.
So what is the verdict on the Bailey Orion? Its retro feel does seem to work and will appeal to new caravanners. Our caravan tester found it relatively easy to live with. Thanks to its internal design, the caravan interior is deceptively spacious than would first appear. There are a few shortcomings though, including the limited storage and absence of a front locker. However, for a family wanting a new tourer the Bailey Orion is well worth looking at, for only a modest outlay. Yes its profile won’t tick some buyers’ boxes, but its quirky yet distinctive look may make it a design caravan classic in years to come.
For a more in depth review of the Bailey Orion, why not visit the Shield website. If you are looking for cheap Bailey caravan insurance, Shield offer a range of competitively priced options to suit your caravanning needs. Call 01277 243 004 or go online for a caravan insurance quote today.