We are in the process of setting up a  caravan (still looking) and one questoin I have is in relation to washing machines.  Coming from a home that is on tank water, Ihave a very economical to run front loader washing machine, that I can pack heaps (dont know real capacity).  Have looked at both for caravan, front loader seems small, top load appears to have bigger capacity - but would use more water.

Any one have any thoughts or preferences

Hi Dunmowin, Best to think ahead when it comes to water.. We have a top loader Limeir auto and find it very good.. BUT it will use a lot of water if you let it.. BUT, when free camping and water is carted, we catch the wash water and pump it back and use it over and over .. It will spin the wash water and pump it out then fill and rinse..WE " that is the wife" stops it and rinse by hand .. can do a big wash with 20 lts of water...Hope this helps Bob n Bev

Thanks BobnBev, I spoke to someone yesterday who has a top loader and she showed me her book, which stated it used 24 litres, but she was not able to tell me if that was per load (as in wash, then another 24 for rinse) - she had only just taken possession of the van. If if is 24 per load x 2, that is a lot of water to go through. Good idea about catching the water. I will bear that one in mind. I think the other issue to consider is that the top loader (I have seen the lemair) is a lot lighter than the front loader - which does use a lot less water. I am glad that you both share the chores around the van.

BobnBev, have just been speaking with my greynomad brother & missus, while I was stuck in traffic on Mt Lindsay Highway between Park Ridge & South Maclean. They on the other hand were settled in for the evening in a free camp near Werribie Victoria - no traffic there. But to the point, they have top loading washing maching, and suggest same as you, i.e. re use the wash water. She uses generic brand Wool Wash as well, so does not have to rinse

Hi Dunmowin,just read the post about using wool wash so there is no rinsing.What a great idea,we have done a lot of camping in the bush and when doing the washing you have to be aware of the amount of water you use.I will be passing on this tip to my sister. Thanks :)