Touring caravan essentials

If you’re planning to embark on a touring caravan adventure, you’re in for one of the most unforgettable holidays with your loved ones. That being said, knowing about all the touring caravan essentials that ensure a safe and comfortable getaway is important.

Whether you're a seasoned caravanner or planning your first holiday in the UK, understanding the touring caravan essentials can make all the difference on your break. From knowing what basic safety equipment to bring to packing all the comfort amenities, this comprehensive guide covers all the touring caravan essentials you’ll need for a successful holiday on the road.

So, let's explore everything you need to know about preparing for your next touring caravan adventure.

The ultimate touring caravan equipment checklist

Various types of touring caravans come in different styles and sizes. You have the more compact two-berth models that are perfect for couples' getaways and the larger units that are great for family breaks.

That being said, there are some touring caravan essentials you need to consider, no matter what style of caravan you have. These top items are universal for all holiday types and touring caravan models and can ensure you have an ideal breakaway.

When staying at Away Resorts parks, you may find that many amenities are already provided, depending on the type of break you’ve booked. This includes things like high-quality bedding, fresh towels, and excellent facilities like showers, pools, and food spots.

This could reduce your packing needs significantly, meaning there are only a few other essentials you need to bring, and that’s what we’re going to focus on below:

Towing mirrors

One of the first and most crucial touring caravan essentials is having towing mirrors on your vehicle. The best part about a touring caravan is that it can be easily towed by your regular vehicle to venture off to a holiday location in the UK. However, this means that your driving visibility is impacted. Towing mirrors are not just recommended –they’re a legal requirement.

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These essential accessories ensure you have a clear view of traffic and pedestrians behind your caravan, helping to improve safety during lane changes and manoeuvres.

Make sure you choose mirrors that fit your vehicle properly and provide the proper visibility along the entire length of your caravan.

Spare rear number plate

Another touring caravan essential to have on your checklist is a spare rear number plate. Once again, this item is a legal requirement. Ensure you have a number plate that matches the one used for your regular vehicle towing the caravan since that number plate won’t be visible on the road. Keep the number plate clean and properly secured.

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You should always keep a spare in case of damage or loss during your journey since you won’t legally drive without it.

Water carrier

Having fresh water is an absolute touring caravan essential. If you’re staying at a holiday park, you’ll have bathroom facilities nearby, but it’s still important to have your own supply, especially while you’re on the road. Be sure to invest in a good-quality water carrier that can be easily installed in your touring caravan’s inlet point.

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Also, consider one with wheels for easy transportation when it’s complete, and maybe get both a freshwater container and a waste water carrier to manage your water needs efficiently.

Electric hook-up lead

Ensure you have a heavy-duty electric hook-up lead for your stay at a holiday park in the UK. This will allow you to efficiently connect your caravan to the campsite's power supplies and supply the home with electricity throughout your stay. This is great for powering your kitchen utilities, providing light in the evenings, and allowing the family to charge their devices.

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Some tips – ensure your cable is at least 25 meters long, pick one that includes a weatherproof connection unit, and always check the cable's condition before each trip.

Regulator and gas hose

Proper gas connections are vital for safety on your trip, hence why regulators and a gas hose are also on our list of touring holiday essentials. A compatible regulator for your gas bottle type will help regulate the pressure from your gas bottle as it enters your caravan’s gas system and appliances through a gas hose.

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We recommend regular checks of these components to ensure safe operation throughout your stay.

Gas spanner

A heavy-duty gas spanner is also necessary for your touring holiday. It will allow you to easily and safely change gas bottles when needed. Choose a compatible gas spanner explicitly designed for the type of caravan gas connections you have to ensure safe bottle changes and prevent gas leaks on your trip.

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Caravan step

Having a sturdy caravan step can be one of the simplest yet most effective ways to make your trip much safer and more comfortable. This provides easy and secure access to your vehicle without you running the risk of falling or missing the big step. It’s also a great idea if you’re going on a family trip with little ones frequently going in and out of the caravan.

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Choose a step with non-slip surfaces and adequate weight capacity, and ensure it's stable on various ground surfaces.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm

As always, safety devices are non-negotiable touring caravan essentials. Therefore, make sure you install both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home away from home to make sure any gas leaks or burning is promptly detected. Be sure to test them regularly and replace any batteries as needed (bringing a spare is always a good idea). These could save lives in emergencies.

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A row of pitched tents, caravans and cars are parked up on a grass parking spot on a sunny day.

Awning

Another touring caravan essential that can bring more opportunities for fun and comfort on your trip is an awning. This will extend your living space significantly, which can be great for holidaying with a large group or family. Choose one suitable for your caravan size, and consider seasonal requirements.

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Having a waterproof awning can mean you still enjoy the great outdoors on your trip, even on a rainy day.

Fire safety

In the unfortunate event of a fire, two touring caravan essentials you’ll need to have are a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket. Keep these two items somewhere that’s easily accessible, and ensure they're regularly checked and are within their service date. Knowledge of their location and operation is crucial for all travellers who want a safe trip.

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Tool kit

A basic tool kit is another essential touring caravan, providing all the necessary means to fix and manage different aspects of your caravan. An ideal tool kit should include screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable spanners, and a socket set. These touring caravan essentials help handle minor repairs and maintenance during your trip.

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Touring cooking and heating essentials

Efficient cooking and heating systems are a great way to make your caravan feel like home. Some touring caravan essential items for cooking and heating include:

Microwave-safe cookware
Gas hob-compatible pots and pans
A portable electric heater for additional warmth
Thermal blinds for temperature control
Basic kitchen utensils and equipment
Storage containers for keeping food fresh
A kettle (either electric or stovetop)

Getting the right size gas bottle

Another thing to consider is the gas bottle size you need for your touring caravan. Selecting the appropriate gas bottle size depends on various different things. Consider your typical trip duration and how often you’ll be cooking or heating during your stay. Factor in seasonal requirements, as you might be more likely to use heating and indoor electrics during cold and wet periods.

Also, try to find the right balance between capacity and storage space, and think about needing to bring a spare bottle with you.

Living in your touring caravan

One of the best parts about a touring caravan holiday is that you and your loved ones can stay in this space for your whole trip, with all its comforts, utilities, and warm atmosphere. To help you make it a great living space, some touring caravan essentials to consider are:

Storage solutions for clothing and equipment
Comfortable seating arrangements
Adequate lighting options
Entertainment systems
Basic cleaning and maintenance supplies
Space-saving furniture options and outdoor furniture

What to pack for a touring holiday

There are plenty of other touring caravan essential items that you should bring, which come down to having a comfortable stay – as opposed to some of the absolute safety and legal necessities we outlined above. For your caravan holiday, try and include:

Weather-appropriate clothing
A first-aid kit
Specific medication for guests
Basic toiletries
Navigation tools
Electronic device chargers
A good quality camera

How to drain down your touring caravan

Proper drainage is crucial for maintenance in your touring caravan, keeping the place clean and functioning correctly throughout your trip. Here are some basic steps to draining your touring caravan:

Empty all water tanks completely
Open all the taps and shower heads fully
Drain the water heater system
Remove the shower head and tap filters
Clean and dry all surfaces thoroughly
Leave taps open during storage
Consider using air-line blow-out tools

Touring caravan holidays - FAQS

Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding touring caravan essentials:

Can I live in my touring caravan all year round?

While technically possible, living in a touring caravan year-round is only permitted at some sites. Most caravan sites have maximum stay limits and seasonal restrictions. The purpose of a touring caravan holiday is to have a break away in a great location before returning back home.

Do you pay VAT on touring caravan site fees?

Yes, touring caravan site fees typically include VAT at the standard rate. However, some longer-term arrangements may have different VAT implications. Always check with individual holiday parks for their specific fee structures and tax arrangements.

How much electricity does a touring caravan use?

How much electricity your touring caravan uses will vary significantly based on things like your appliances and usage patterns. The average consumption ranges from five to 15 kWh a day. You can use energy-efficient appliances and be more mindful of usage to help manage consumption effectively.

Enjoy the best break away with these touring caravan essentials

With these touring caravan essentials, you're well-prepared for a fantastic holiday experience in the UK.

Remember that proper preparation and planning can ensure a smoother, hassle-free, and more enjoyable journey for everyone involved. Whether you're heading to an Away Resorts park or exploring other destinations across the country, having the right equipment and knowledge can make all the difference.

So, get ready to create memorable experiences on the road. Happy caravanning!