Swift’s Basecamp was based on a concept that saw the UK manufacturer daring to be different.
When the Cottingham-based company introduced its new design in 2018, it had a bit of a mixed reception – some thought it didn’t quite match their idea of what a tourer should look like.
To us, though, the Basecamp has always had great appeal, for old hands and those new to the world of caravanning.
Customers seem to agree, too – since its launch, the range has expanded with a four-berth and now a six-berth version.
Its distinctive good looks and rear-door entry added to the attraction of the original Basecamp 2, which sold well.
During its first four years, very little change was made to the Basecamp – a clear sign that the designers had got it right – except for the addition of that four-berth in 2020, and now for 2022, the six-berth Swift Basecamp 6.
Model history of the Swift Basecamp 2 Plus
Swift has an extensive portfolio of models, and back in 2013/14, its drive for new development and construction resulted in the upmarket Elegance.
It wasn’t long before other ranges benefited, but Swift also wanted to design a caravan that would appeal specifically to younger buyers and those new to the pleasures of touring.
Basecamp 2 caused a flurry of interest when it launched at Swift’s trade show for 2018.
The manufacturer clearly hit the right note, with a cleverly designed, multipurpose leisure vehicle that would appeal to younger buyers, first-timers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Built using Swift’s SMART construction system, another selling point was the tourer’s tough durability.
The 2018 launch provided the Basecamp with two spec levels: standard or with the Plus pack, as this model had. Features included blown-air heating, hot water, a cassette toilet, alloy wheels, a TV bracket and a Dometic fridge.
Outside, you also got a gas barbecue point, shower point, mains socket and a solar panel – and a choice of 13 graphics.
Alternatives to the Swift Basecamp 2 Plus
The Basecamp is very much a niche market, but we have one model for comparison – the Go Pod Platinum. This is another rear-door two-berth, with a pop-top, which has a loyal following. We found a near-new model for £14,495.
Alternatively, you could look at another niche two-berth, the Bailey Discovery D4-2, at prices of around £16,495.
Price checker
You’ll be looking at prices from £19,995 for models like ours, which came complete with a mover and was only used once. We did find one other example, priced at £21,495. Owing to their rarity on the forecourts, the Basecamp’s prices remain firm, especially with the Plus pack fitted. For 2018 models, prices are likely to start from at least £17,000. For the other model coming onto the used market, you can expect to pay:
- Basecamp 4 £20,295-£20,995
Things to check for:
- Loose screws on front gas locker lid
- Grazing on alloy wheels
- Damp in the front area
- Signs of damp around the rear door seal
- Presence of all removable canvas-style storage bags
Verdict
Our excellent, good-as-new example had only been used once – the owners, who were new to caravanning, decided it wasn’t for them.
Finding used models won’t be easy, but if you’re looking for something a little different, and still highly practical, the Basecamp could be just right.
After more pre-owned tourer inspiration? Then be sure to take a look at our guide to the best used caravans, where we share our top picks.
Technical spec
- Berths: 2
- MTPLM: 1027kg
- MiRO: 916kg
- Payload: 111kg
- Internal length: 3.42m
- Width: 2.29m
See what I thought when I took a look at the Bailey Phoenix Plus 420 (2021) too, a two-berth that is both lightweight and comfortable.
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