Umarsan Capsule Mini caravan
Description
This all-new unique model might be small but it has real impact on the campsite...
Key Features
Full Review
Words & photography: Sophie Bromley-Rice
The Umarsan Capsule Mini
The Capsule Mini was created by Umarsan, a Turkish manufacturer who has over 60 years’ worth of experience with fibreglass moulds.
Using its experience of this, Umarsan has moved onto making caravans for the best part of 10 years now, identifying many design issues with conventional caravans and creating one that is built like a boat.
This is one of the main unique selling points of this model, it uses the same one-piece monocoque fibreglass construction design which creates many positives, including eliminating the risk of leaking.
It also improves the towing performance thanks to its aerodynamic structure. Not only is this a great design, it also has a high-gloss finish which makes it not only attractive but easy to clean, too.
Another great thing about the Capsule Mini’s construction is how lightweight it is, meaning that just about any car can tow it! This will make it more accessible, with no reason to upgrade your existing car.
The exterior
It comes in two different styles, the Capsule Mini R, which stands for retro and comes in two fabulous colours, Burnt Orange and Olive Green, and then the standard Capsule Mini, either Glacier White or Stone Grey.
All modern, unique and on-trend colours which are sure to turn heads. We had the pleasure of reviewing the Burnt Orange model which is stunning and definitely got attention on the campsite with its funky look.
The interior
The interiors have nods to the exterior colour with the scatter cushions coordinating, which is a great touch.
It is very old meets new, with traditional pieces like the rattan cupboard fronts and the curtains having a pretty retro-inspired leaf pattern design with tie backs, but which are also very on-trend.
There are flyscreens and blinds to all opening windows which are easy to pull down or up and even have a magnetic clasp to attach the two, stopping any sunlight peeking through.
There is even a flyscreen on the door. It feels cosy and calm inside, which is a perfect setting for a getaway.
Although compact, the Capsule Mini has everything you need while away from home.
The washroom
The washroom has a sink faucet with pull-out showerhead, providing a sink and shower while saving space.
It also has a Thetford Porta Potti which is removable, meaning, if you prefer, you can have the whole room while you shower, creating a full wet room.
There is a window in the washroom and some handy storage space under the sink; although, not loads of toiletry space so best to stick to the basics when packing!
The storage
However, the storage in the rest of the caravan does make up for that, having quite a lot of storage space for the size of the caravan.
It has a great-sized gas locker at the front that is locked with a key and two catches, plenty of cupboards including the rattan double-door cupboard at the front, overhead lockers, large drawers and under-seat storage in the lounge.
The kitchen
The kitchen space has a built-in stainless-steel sink and one stove with cover and three large drawers underneath, all of which have positive locker catches, so nothing is opening while on the move!
It has extra worktop space that can be lifted up while cooking and two electric points, perfect for a coffee machine or an air fryer.
Sitting opposite this section is more worktop space and the 42L 12V compressor fridge which also has a small freezer compartment, too, as well as more cupboard storage space, again all lockable.
The space would definitely work for preparing meals for one or two people, as well as enjoying your meal around the dining area.
The lounge
Continuing the modern, sleek feel, it has real wood worktops and the long lockers along the top of the model are lined.
It has U-shaped seating in the living area which was comfy to lounge around.
The table in the centre swivels which made it easy to manoeuvre around the seating and the height can also be adjusted easily, making it good for all shapes and sizes.
The bed
To create the bed, the table is lowered to its lowest position and the gap created is filled in with the back sofa cushions, which are just Velcroed in place.
The backboard cushions have wooden slats inside which sit on top of the table with the softer cushion part facing up.
To create a double bed, both the side back cushions are used; however, if there is just one of you, you can just use the one cushion to create a single bed.
The bed is not only easy to assemble but also very comfortable and had handy plug sockets beside this space, perfect for charging your phone.
The spec
The whole inside feels very light and airy as well as cosy and calm. Designed as a step up from camping, there is no TV point or media unit in this capsule, which allows you to get back to the great outdoors and just enjoy the surroundings.
There is lino flooring throughout which fits with the look of the interior and is also practical, being easy to clean. If you prefer a cosier feel, there is loose-fit carpet as an added extra.
The options
It actually has plenty of extra options you can add to it to make it exactly how you want, including an off-grid power pack which has a leisure battery and solar panel, making it even more adaptable.
Other options are dual-fuel space heating, gas barbecue point, external 240V socket, GPS tracker/alarm to name a few.
All of this in a caravan that could easily be stored on your driveway, alongside a car!
This caravan has a simple design which is well-made and built to last. It is stylish while being practical and is a great new addition to the UK market.
Our Verdict
<p>This little caravan is so practical and perfect for a couples’ holiday. As well as looking stylish and modern, it holds everything needed while away from home and even added extras that, for this price tag, is just brilliant. </p>
<p>It is very user friendly, making it a great model for a first-time buyer and also to customers who would like to be able to tow their caravan easily with a smaller car. A great, unique new model on the market and at a very competitive price, too.</p>
