Why You Should Consider a Caravan Holiday This Summer

To start with, so that we’re on the same page…prior to moving into our caravan, we had never been on a caravan holiday. There was one occasion where we stayed in a static caravan but all I remember of that particular trip is arriving at the campsite quite late at night, the boys excitedly running to open the door and their loud voices screaming in unison ‘It smells like guinea pig cage’.
In the site’s defence, we were on rugby tour and I believe it was the first time the caravans had been used since the previous season.

Personally, caravan holidays always conjure up images of dated interiors, lack of hot water and musty smells but caravans have come a long way since their humble beginnings. These days newer models have all the mod cons you’d expect to find in a new build home. Plush interiors, neat and stylish kitchens complete with top of the range hob, oven and fridge freezer. Insulation and heating systems to ensure you are kept warm even during the coldest winter months, LED lighting, underfloor heating, solar panels and so much more.

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So why has the family caravan holiday been on the decline of late? I believe it has a lot to do with the availability of cheap flights and the popularity of all inclusive resort holidays (not my cup of tea at all!). For that reason I felt it’s my duty, as a full time caravan dweller, to explain just why you should consider a caravan for your next family getaway.

Firstly, it’s Cheap- This is a BIGGIE….a caravan holiday is as cheap or as expensive as you want it it to be. We have stayed at sites ranging from £14-£40 per night (depending on location/facilities). You could catch a ferry to France or Spain (we’ve done both) or choose a location closer to home. You can choose to eat in as you always have a kitchen at your disposal or take a portable barbecue along and make the most of the long summer nights. And these days you don’t even have to own a caravan, motorhome or camper to enjoy the benefits of the sought after vanlife. Companies like Outdoorsy  (which has recently launched in the U.K.) make it simple and safe to rent your preferred vehicle.
Secondly, There’s Family Team Building- Picture it…Mom in the caravan with two spirit levels screaming ‘The bubble is to the left’ while Dad is outside desperately trying to level the caravan (newer models can do this at the touch of a button-we’re still doing it the old fashioned way!). Then there’s the awning! Nothing screams caravan team building like working together to erect your awning as the glorious British, summer rain soaks you to the bone. Again, you choose your level of team building as newer air awnings are (if you’ll excuse the pun-Dad, I know you’ll love it), a breeze to put up!
Lastly, you can live the very desirable and trendy Instagram ‘vanlife’ without having to take your motorhome, van and all your possessions with you each time you need to head to the local town, beach or supermarket. Just park your caravan at the site of your choice and off you go.

These are just a few reasons why I urge you to consider a caravan for your next vacation but there are plenty more to consider….There’s campfires and outdoor cooking and toasting marshmallows and your teenage kids making up silly games like they did when they were little. There’s no shoes and muddy feet and grass stains. There’s waking up to the sound of the birds and going to bed under the stars. There’s filling aqua rolls and emptying cassette loos. There’s new friendships, new experiences and new destinations….

There’s memories to last a lifetime

Want to know more? Take a look at the useful links below for information on caravans, accessories and camping.

Want to try before you buy? Hire a caravan from Outdoorsy
For used caravans try eBay or if you’re looking for the best the market has to offer take a look at the Bailey Unicorn featured in this post  Bailey of Bristol
Caravan Accessories- Prima Leisure, Olpro, Vango
Portable BBQ-Cadac
Caravan sites– Caravan and Camping Club or the Caravan and Motorhome Club

 

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