The beginners guide to a caravan holiday
Young, old, couples or families – a caravan holiday can suit everyone, it is cost effective, and if you do it right, very fun as well. But how do you get started? Have a look at our beginners guide to help you on your way.
If you’re thinking about buying your first caravan, go for something second-hand. You can pick up a reasonably decent caravan for a few hundred pounds and for new comers to the caravan world this is definitely recommended, because there is no doubt that you will either reverse it in to a hedge; scrape it up the side of a wall or damage to make a hole in it somewhere!
Once you’ve got your very own first caravan, you can really think about how to make it a home from home. If you’re a Sky viewer you can even get mobile Sky satellite dishes to take with you – so you needn’t worry about trying to remember to record all your favourite programmes before you leave.
As with your car, home and mobile phone, shop around for your caravan insurance as there are some good deals to be had. You need to be aware that if you decide to venture abroad with your caravan you will normally only be insured third party unless your insurance specifically covers you for towing your caravan on the continent. Check with them before you leave!
You will also need to buy a caravan cover for when you are storing your caravan. If you are going to store your caravan through the winter then you will need to buy a breathable cover as this will protect your caravan from the damage winter weather can cause.
Going on a caravan holiday gives you great freedom to explore the outdoors and do whatever you like – but it can be a living nightmare if you annoy your neighbours, so make sure you swat up on caravan site etiquette – yes, there is such a thing.
Try not to cut across other people’s pitches; if you were at home would you appreciate passersby stomping around in your front garden? Probably not, so don’t do it while you’re caravanning.
Noise levels can also be a problem on campsites, try and keep the noise down from 11pm as although you may just be getting into your evening, other people will be trying to sleep – especially if they have young children with them.
An finally; if you’re using an awning make sure you lift up the ground sheet daily to allow the grass to breathe. Some campsites will request this of you but if they don’t it is still good to do as it keeps all the pitches looking nice and healthy.