NewsTipsTravelcaravan holiday tips

Caravan Holiday Tips

Handy tips & know how!

Your first caravanning adventure is such an exciting time. Having the freedom to hitch the van up and get ready to explore. Although it can also be a little daunting but we have some great tips to ensure a smooth journey and an enjoyable holiday which will keep you wanting to plan your next trip.

Towing a caravan adds a whole new dimension to your holiday. There are so many more options of where you can go. But before you get on the road there are a few more things to consider like, how much time you spend on the road, where to park, the weight of the van adds to the travelling time and also impacts your fuel consumption.

Here are a few hints for your first caravanning adventure:

  • Make a checklist. Before you go you should consider additional items including towing mirrors, extra water, oil and a spare tire. Some items are not essential, but may be added over time to aid in your pleasant caravanning experience like, wheel locks and sway control bars. Be aware of current travel advice.
  • Check and re-check. Inside the van and outside before you take off. You’ll need to make sure everything is safe including checking the light (breaks, indicators) are working when plugged in but also that everything is secure inside the van like draws, windows and doors. Take the time to check the jockey wheel, raise the caravan step and make sure you have the keys to unlock it when you get there! (Hint, take a spare key and leave it in the car)
  • Less is more. Yes, it is nice to be comfortable when you travel, but you don’t need to take all the creature comforts from home. Consider the weight of all those ‘just in case’ items you are packing (and probably won’t use). Knowing the weight in your van is important. Depending on where you are travelling to – you can usually find a store for those other essential items you didn’t pack.
  • Weight. Consider replacing your crockery & cutlery with sturdy plastic alternatives, avoid glass and yes that might mean swapping your bottle of wine for a cask!
  • Consider other drivers. Once on the road, you might want to travel quickly, get out ahead of the traffic, although towing a van is different to driving a car. Use the slow vehicle turnouts where possible. Allow more room for turning and take it easy when stopping – remember you have a big weight behind you. We have all been stuck behind a slow travelling van before, so be courteous, getting there is part of the adventure! Allow others to have a great caravanning adventure.
  • Top up when you can. Be prepared! Towing a van uses more petrol, so top up when you can. No one likes seeing the gauge fall to empty and not having a service station in sight. Perhaps a Jerry can for those long-distance legs of your journey can give you peace of mind.
  • Work as a team. This includes everything from helping to reverse (yes, everyone has had multiple attempts at reversing while having a crowd gather at the caravan park to watch and offer advice), to the set up and the pack down. Have a routine, communicate and trust each. While a caravanning holiday is a wonderful chance to relax and get away, it can also be a time when you need to lend a hand.
  • Be kind. Offer leftovers to fellow travellers, have a chat to your van ‘neighbours’, you might find out the best places to stop on the way to your next destination, you’ll be given advice (not all will be needed or taken) but you’ll also give advice too. Relax, play a game of cards and enjoy a wine when the sun sets and you’ll find caravanning a way of life that you love.