Great Caravanning Books

Make the Most of Your Caravan

Rob McCabe, £10.99

As well as practical advice, this book will show you how to enjoy your caravan to the max! From purchase and maintenance to towing and driving abroad, all aspects are covered. Suitable for newbies and seasoned pros, this guide is even recommended by Jeremy Clarkson!

The AA Caravan & Camping Guide 2020

AA Publishing, £10.69

The UK’s best-selling annually updated caravanning guide is a must buy. All sites within the book have been professionally inspected by AA inspectors, have all site facilities listed, and are handily split into sections including small sites, quite locations and those perfect for families.

The Caravan Manual

John Wickersham, £16.45

Having sold over 75,000 copies, the Caravan Manual is now in its fourth edition and contains everything you need to know about caravans old and new. The author is a caravanner of over 40 years and provides all the advice you could ever need, from legal issues, maintenance, repair work, gas and electrics.

Vintage Caravan Style

Lisa Mora, £11.38

If vintage caravans are your thing, this book is a delight! Whether you just want to browse through the wonderful retro caravans or fancy a project, Vintage Caravan Style explores the interiors and exteriors of a plethora of creatively restored small spaces.

Leisure Logs Journals

£13.50

These fantastic journals will inspire you to record adventures in your caravan or motorhome to remember the places you visit, the people you meet and the fun times had!

Caravan Cookbook

Monica Rivron, £7.72

Caravan cooking needs to be uncomplicated, easy to prepare and satisfying, and this collection of recipes are just that. As well as providing advice on store cupboard essentials, there’s plenty of inspiration to use locally sourced produce and foraged ingredients.

 

 All prices correct as of September 2020.

 

How to Prepare your Caravan for Storage

 So, you’ve just returned from the last trip of the season, and selected a secure storage site for your caravan. Is it as simple as leaving your van in its plot, or do you need to do some prep work before storing it away for winter?

The answer is yes, there are some things you’ll need to do. And here’s our guide:

·         GAS

Gas cylinders should be disconnected or removed from your caravan. If your caravan is going into a storage facility, check the gas cylinder policy.

·         BODYWORK

Give your caravan a thorough clean using suitable cleaning products for each type of surface (walls, windows, metalwork). Consider using a wax coating product to protect the exterior.

·         ELECTRICS

You’ll need to take a look at your car to caravan13-pin or 12N/12S connectors for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Wipes the electrical contacts over and spray with WD-40 to protect against water damage. 

·         BATTERY

If your leisure battery isn’t needed to run your caravan alarm system, it’s best to remove it and store in a cool, dry place. You can then top it up at home, when necessary. Don’t forget to remove batteries from other electrical items in your caravan too. Check out this post for leisure battery maintenance advice.

 ·         WINDOWS

Give all the windows a check to make sure the rubber seal is in good condition.

·         AWNING

After every use, your caravan awning should be cleaned and dried thoroughly. Make sure it’s completely dry before storing somewhere dry.

·         COVER

You may want to cover your caravan to protect it during the winter months. This blog post has more information.

·         WATER

Remove any filters from your system to prevent any remaining water held from freezing during the colder months.

You’ll need to open all taps including the shower. If you’ve got a lever control it’ll need to be moved to a central position between hot and cold. Put a plug in any sinks, and open the caravan’s drain taps.

Refer your caravan model’s manual to check how to drain down the water heater. 

·         TOILET

Your toilet will need flushing and emptying. Refer to manufacturers guide for specifics.

·         TYRES

Your caravan should be stored on a level plot, with corner steadies lowered. If you can, place chocks under the wheels.

If possible, turn the wheels to avoid them being in one position for long periods of time. This can be achieved by moving the caravan back and forth, or jacking it up to rotate each wheel.

·         FRIDGE

Ensure you remove everything from your fridge/freezer and clean it out. Make sure doors are left ajar so that air can circulate.

·         INTERIOR / FURNISHINGS /BLINDS

Leave your caravan interior ready for the next season ahead of time by giving it a thorough clean before storage.

Ideally, remove upholstery and store somewhere warm and dry to keep it damp free and not on view to potential thieves.

Blinds are best left open to prevent strain on the springs.

·         VENTILATION 

Any air vents should be left uncovered so that air can inside around the caravan. You may even want to consider a dehumidifier or some moisture adsorbing crystals.

·         SECURITY

All valuables should be removed from your caravan whilst in storage.

Hitch locks and wheel clamps are useful deterrents to potential thieves, but remember to check both your insurance policy and storage conditions for any specific requirements.

Caravan Vloggers

There's a huge amount of video content available on You Tube for caravan and motorhome lovers.
We've collated some of our favorite vloggers.

The Trudgians

Caravan reviews, DIY tutorials, holidays and product reviews. This Wiltshire family has a wealth of content which is both entertaining and useful.

Popular vlogs include How to Set a Caravan Up On Site, Cleaning a Caravan Roof, and How to Level a Caravan.

Caravan Vlogger

Mandy and Graham started cavaranning in 2006 and now travel throughout the UK and France, documenting their travels, reviewing products and making useful ‘How To’ guides.

Caravan jockey wheel comparisons, getting a ferry from Dover to Calais with a caravan, caravan buying guides and sites are all compiled on their website and YouTube channel here .

Make Way with the Morleys

A family of five from the West Midlands who share their adventures throughout Europe and the UK, as well as reviewing caravan sites, caravan equipment and even crème egg challenges!

The Camping & Caravaning Club

This regularly updated channel includes a ‘How To’ series, caravan motorhome and accessory reviews, camping recipes and site tours. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned pro, or a member of the club or not, this channel with keep you occupied for hours!

(Get Your) Legs Down

We’ve been a fan of the blog for ages, and the vlog is just as good. The site arrival videos are particularly useful, as are the site tours and there is travel inspiration aplenty. Head over to the Legs Down blog for more.

Bailey of Bristol

The Bailey of Bristol vlog does include plenty of Bailey caravan content, but there is also a wealth of useful information for new and experienced caravanners. From the grand Bristol to Bosphorus tour, to beginner’s guides and Tow Car of the Year updates, this channel is worth subscribing to.

Poshcats Camping

Trev and Sue travel with UK and further afield with their Swift motorhome all year round, and have over 35 years’ experience with both caravans and motorhomes. Expect travel tips, ideas, site reviews, days out and more.

Next Stop Everywhere

Claire and Sam travel throughout Europe and the UK recording their adventures, as well as reviewing all the latest caravans and motorhomes. Highlights include the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, a Christmas trip to Amsterdam and a drive across the Outer Hebrides. You can also follow then on Facebook and Twitter.

Caravanning with the Cox’s

The Cox’s are a Somerset based family who are weekly vloggers, sharing their travels, tips, advice, repairs and general updates. For a wealth of useful information and entertainment, including caravan recommendations, a trip to Glastonbury, and how to use a motormover, make sure you subscribe!

Caravan Tyres - 10 Things you should know

Like car tyres, caravan tyres are equally as important and it is vital that they are properly maintained so that they do what they need to do – carry the load of your caravan and grip the road.

Here are 10 things you need to know to help you stay safe whilst towing your caravan:

1. Caravan tyres may not specifically be made for caravans – they’ll either be made for cars or small vans.
2. Every tyre will have a load rating, or load index. If a caravan has a maximum weight (MTPLM) of 1600kg, each wheel must carry half this load – 800kg. Caravan manufacturers will apply a safety margin on around 20% so the tyres then have a rating of 960kg.This will then equate to a load index (see table below). As you can see, a load rating of 960kg will equate to a load index of 106.
3. Information on the load and speed rating is marked on the side of the tyre. Equal size tyres should be used across an axle, as well as the spare.

   

   Please note, this is intended as a guide. Please refer to manufacturer guidance

4. Make sure that tyres aren’t overloaded, and that the load is spread evenly around the caravan, and as low down as possible. Even when the MTPLM is not exceeded, a poorly distributed load can lead to overloaded tyres.
5. It is essential that the tread is checked to make sure there is plenty of wear left. Markings on the tyres will show that they are correct for caravans, as well as indicating how old the tyre is. However, like all tyres, caravan tyres may deteriorate over time due to factors other than use. Sunlight, pollution, and even lack of use can cause damage. It is recommended that caravan tyres are renewed every 5 years, regardless of how many miles have been driven.
6. The year of manufacture for the tyre will usually be marked on the tyre. The last 3 or 4 digits will signify this. For example, a code ending is 399 will indicate the tyre was made in March 1999. A code ending in 3502 signifies the tyre was manufactured in the 35^th week of 2002.
7. The legal minimum tread on caravan tyres is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tread breadth around the entire circumference of the tyre.
8. With new caravans, the correct inflation pressure will be given in the handbook. However, if your caravan is second hand, it may be indicated on the wheel arch. Pressure should always be checked when tyres are cold.
9. Under or over inflation of tyres is extremely important. Under inflation can reduce grip and consequently increase breaking distance. Conversely, over inflation reduces the amount of tyre in contact with the road causing uneven wear and reduced control over braking and cornering.
10. If you are planning to store your caravan for a prolonged period of time, it is worthwhile removing the wheels and tyres to prevent deterioration. However, you will need to check that this doesn’t invalidate your caravan insurance. If they must be left on, rotate them regularly so that the full weight of the caravan doesn’t rest on the same area of the tyre all the time.

And don’t forget, whilst you can perform all these checks yourself, it's always advisable to get your caravan serviced regularly by a qualified engineer.

How to Buy the Right Caravan

With so many makes, models, designs and layouts of caravan available, making the right decision can be tricky when it comes to buying a caravan. But don’t worry, here’s our guide to choosing the best caravan for you.

What’s right for you?

What size will you need? Are you after a small, compact caravan or do you need more room for a larger family? Remember that you could always add an awning if you need to extend your living space.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to make sure your car can tow the caravan you eventually choose. You can work this out using a Towcar match tool.

Single or twin axle?  - Most caravans will have one axle, with only the very largest caravans needing two. When manoeuvring on site, a single axle performs better, however, a twin axle gives extra grip when on the road. If you’re new to caravanning, it might be better to stick to a single axle. This article has loads of useful information.

Layout – how many beds will you need? Will you need singles?

Bathroom – Whilst having a fully equipped shower/toilet area is really convenient, most caravan sites provide more than adequate washing facilities these days. Think about whether you’ll actually use the caravan’s shower, or hop over to the site’s toilet block.

Flooring – Whist luxurious carpets are inviting and cosy, vinyl flooring may be a wiser option when you come in with muddy boots!

Read Reviews

There are countless caravan and motorhome reviews available on the internet and in magazines, but they can be overwhelming. Caravan Magazine has put together this guide to help you get the best from them. Remember that everyone has their own opinion so it’s good to keep an open mind and remember what your individual needs are.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that manufacturers launch their new ranges around September, so make sure you’re reading up to date reviews if you’re looking for a new model.

Ask Questions

There are a good few caravan advice forums on the Internet, including CaravanTalk, The Out & About Live forum, and Caravan Times. Why not sign up and ask other caravanners what their recommendations are, or what pitfalls they’ve encountered when buying a new caravan.

  

New or Used?

Your budget may influence whether you decide to buy a new or used caravan. A quick search will give you an idea of what to expect price wise for the type of tourer you’re after. It will also indicate what the market’s like if you hope to re-sell a new caravan in a few years’ time.

If you do decide to buy a used caravan, be careful not to fall for a scam. Read our guide to avoiding a caravan scam here.

Going to a caravan show is a great way to view all the latest models available. There are regional caravan shows across the country throughout the summer, as well as the national caravan shows  in February and November at the NEC in Birmingham. Don’t feel pressured to buy at one of these shows though. You can always go back to your local dealership afterwards.

If you’re buying a used caravan, don’t forget to ask:

• Is there any outstanding finance on the caravan?
• Does the caravan have a service history?
• Has the caravan had any repairs or been in an accident?

Viewing

Online research can be invaluable, but nothing beats seeing a caravan on a forecourt.

Once you’ve pinpointed your ideal caravan, prepare a list of questions to take with you when you go for a viewing.

Where to buy?

Whilst buying from a private seller can often be cheaper, if you’re not a caravan expert this can be a daunting option. However, if you’re confident that you’re getting a good deal – and you know the caravan’s history – it’s certainly worth going for.

On the other hand, buying from a dealer will mean that you will probably be covered by a warranty or some sort of back up should something go wrong. You’ll also be able to browse a range of caravans, which should have been checked and tested before you buy.

As always, research is key. When you finally decide on the right caravan for you, search both online and offline to find the best deal.

And finally …. These days, it may not be as straight forward as storing your caravan on your driveway, as planning regulations can restrict this. CaSSOA caravan storage sites are available across the country, providing safe, accredited storage for your tourer.

Companies like Cover 4 Caravans and Insure My Caravan are good places to start when finding caravan insurance. They often give discounts to caravans stored at CaSSOA caravan storage sites.  

Don't forget to insure your caravan and make sure you’ve got somewhere to store it! Find an approved CaSSOA storage site here. 

5 Reasons why you Should Buy a Caravan

Caravanning is Cheaper

Whilst the initial outlay for a caravan may not been the cheapest purchase, once you’ve had a few weeks and weekends away you’ll start seeing the savings add up. If you stay in the UK you could be holidaying every weekend for around £10 per night.

Flexibility

No more hanging around in airport lounges or hoping that a snow flurry or fog won’t delay your flight. With a caravan, you could be off and away for the weekend in the time it takes you to finish work on a Friday and collect your caravan from storage.

With a caravan, you can take each day as it comes, changing your plans according to your budget, health or even the weather.

Boost the UK economy

By investing in a caravan and staying in the UK for your holidays you’ll be pumping your hard earned pounds back into the UK economy rather than spending it abroad. With the falling value of the pound, European holiday prices have increased so there’s never been a better time to enjoy a staycation and caravan at home.

Explore your doorstep

The UK has so much to offer, and we bet there’d be more than enough locations to visit even if you went away every weekend from now on! From beaches to cities, and mountains to villages, there are destinations to suit every taste and keep you occupied whatever your age and hobbies.

Packing

Prioritising what to pack is far less stressful with a caravan. No longer will you be having to squeeze everything into a couple of suitcases – instead, you’ll be able to take bikes, bbq’s and even the dog!

And if those reasons aren’t enough, you’ll be joining the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Dame Helen Mirren, Ray Mears, Lorraine Kelly and Jamie Oliver in their love of caravan getaways!