Full review

Words: Clare Kelly  Photography: Erwin Hymer Group

The Eriba Feeling 425

The Eriba Feeling line-up comprises four models – the transverse fixed bed 425, twin bed 442 and twin bed 470 (all sleeping between three and five), and the 515 with transverse bed and bunks (which can sleep from five to seven).

We were keen to take a look around the entry-level model, the 425 to see what it offers for those in the market for a new caravan. With a lightweight body (the 425 has an MTPLM of 1,200kg), they can be towed with a regular family car, making them an extremely attractive option for those on a budget. There’s no need to upgrade to a 4x4, for example. 

The exterior

The standard exterior is smooth white aluminium and its appearance is streamlined thanks to its gentle curves with elegant branded type. There is the option to upgrade to the ‘Crystal Silver’ scheme if you want to make a statement when you’re out and about.

At first glance, the 425 doesn’t look too different to some other caravans on the market but it’s got a rather unique, optional feature – a pop-top roof. Not a common sight on caravans in the UK, this is excellent news for those who are taller and, when in use, gives extra headroom and provides a cosy ‘Maxi’ double bed for grown-ups who enjoy stargazing or indeed children who love the feeling of being in a den. The ladder is sturdy and tucks away when not in use.

It certainly suggests fun and, with porthole-style fabric ‘windows’ with mosquito nets, will keep those sleeping there cool and safe from hungry little insects. The Sleeping Roof Package also includes a warm air blower and 12V electric fan.

Eriba’s packages, as with all of its models, are extensive, practically allowing you to customise every aspect of your caravan. With that in mind, allow a little extra in your budget for any additional comforts you might require such as the Multimedia Package or alloy rims.

The interior

Regardless of whether you choose the pop-top roof, the Feeling’s fixed beds all offer a cold foam mattress which works by drawing heat away from the body and immediate area, making it a great choice to keep cool in summer. There’s a washable mattress cover, too, in case anyone spills their coffee in bed. And there’s the option to purchase additional cushions to make up a bed in the lounge area.

Storage

Need somewhere to store clothes? You’ll find plenty of space in the overhead lockers above the bed. Some are silver grey and others have a natural wood-effect. It is a unique feature of the Feeling and keeps the look modern. Two curved cubby holes are suitable for storing mobile phones and other books. No space here is without use.

Storage is particularly plentiful, with places to put just about everything. The fabric shelving in the lounge is an attractive touch and is likely another discreet way to keep the overall weight of the caravan to a minimum. We found masses of storage under the bed and a surprising amount in the washroom, with ‘bands’ to keep bottles and the like slipping down while towing.

As you’d expect, storage in the lounge is once again well thought out and practical. In addition to the fabric shelving we talked of, there are also sliding concertina silver cupboards that keep items safe while in transit. Two chrome coat hooks are ideally placed there, too.

One of the most innovative features, and one you might not expect, is the vanity unit with large rectangular mirror, two sockets, additional work surface and cubby holes. In the 425, you’ll find it beside the door so it’s perfect for checking yourself out before you head out for the day. 

The washroom

On further exploring the washroom, you’ll discover the curved sanitaryware echoing the overall shape of the caravan. The washroom cupboard and sink surround are dark grey – a modern look. If you stay on sites and use the facilities you’ll have no need for a shower but this is an option should you wish to add it when you configure your caravan. We were surprised at how roomy the washroom was.

The kitchen

There is no doubt that the Feeling is all about adventure and has the potential to tempt young families out of their tents and into a caravan away from the damp and rain. We imagine those who opt for this tourer will enjoy a barbecue on the pitch and hanging out with friends but, should they wish to cook in the caravan, there’s a three-burner hob with easy-to-keep-clean splashback and 80-litre fridge.

The décor

When it comes to interior décor, the standard scheme is ‘Chiavenna Nut’ for the furniture and the upholstery scheme is ‘Brighton’ – curtains are double layered – voile-style embroidered privacy curtains overlaid with heavier silver-grey curtains featuring a pretty script design. The sofas pick up the silver-grey theme with accents of plum with a stylish rivet design. And they’re extremely comfortable.

Exterior add-ons

Eriba caravans tend to have longer drawbars than British-made caravans and therefore it’s much easier to have bike racks fitted. In the case of the Feeling line-up, you can opt for the Thule Caravan Superb with space for two bicycles and suitable for e-bikes. It is likely more cost-effective to have this fitted prior to collecting your caravan as opposed to having one retrofitted, and you can be sure that it will be a perfect fit. The 425 we viewed had the bike rack fitted and we can testify that everything else was still perfectly accessible. And in anodised grey, it appears as if already part of the caravan rather than an add-on.

In addition to the space-maximising pop-top, you may wish to extend your space further with the optional Thule Omnistor 6300. Once erected, this will provide an extra 2.5m of space and add some protection from the elements.

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