TRAVEL GUIDE

Introduction If you’re new in the world of camping, you might be lost when it comes to caravans, and undoubtedly so. With a plethora of caravans available for sale, equipment to remember, and caravan etiquette to abide by, it can be overwhelming at times –– and you haven’t even left the driveway! However, we’re sure that with enough preparation, research and practice, you’ll be ready to leave the garage soon enough. Here’s our list of things that we’ve garnered from these caravan clubs in UK, which we’d like to share with newbies alike. Location The very first caravan trip you take will be daunting –– this is normal and it can’t be helped. However, what you can do is minimize the number of challenges you may face by choosing to camp near home. The familiar area will give you a sense of comfort and allow you to reach out for help in the event that an accident occurs. Even if you forget something last minute, you can always do a U-turn and head back! Most caravans stay within their local vicinity for their first few attempts at camping, and some even start off their official first stays in their driveway! The main idea is to be accustomed to camping in a caravan and familiarize yourself with an environment where you can’t get things easily. Plus, you may even find new caravan gems that you may not have known beforehand! Checklist The first thing you should do for your caravan preparation is to make a checklist. These are infinitely valuable and will eventually act as your lifeline during the trip itself –– ensuring that you aren’t forgetting anything important, especially once you’re too far away to turn back! Do up lists for everything that you need to bring, and do another one when you’re on the way back home. We also recommend keeping a stash of paper and pens in your van, which will come in handy when you’re rushing out a list whilst on the move. Lists are especially useful for essential items such as detergent, bin bags, toilet rolls, and soap. This way, you know what you’re running low on, and you can refill them once you get back to the caravan site. Do-It-Yourself Another essential thing to carry would be a screwdriver, alongside a useful pair of fuses. Though these are often small and overlooked, you’ll be glad you have them on hand when accidents occur along your caravan journey. It’s inevitable for caravan drawers and cupboards to become loose over time. Due to the temperamental nature of the wood used, drills aren’t recommended for such vehicles. This is where using screwdrivers will come in handy! Likewise, you can almost be guaranteed that a fuse will blow at one point during your caravan journey. It can be incredibly frustrating to work in a dark, so this is where a spare fuse will come in handy. Chargers Many, if not all of us, are unable to live without our mobile devices or gadgets. As such, it is very important to have sufficient charging portals. It is also good to get some adapters that can fit into the charging ports of your caravan. Fridges Happy tummy, happy life. It’s important that you get a caravan fridge that’s up to standard when you’re travelling about in your caravan. It would be so sad not to have fresh and good food available throughout your trip! P.S. Keep a small block of wood present in your van to keep the fridge door open –– when you close the van, the fridge won’t be left shut and develop mould and other nasty odours. When you’re ready to use it again, wipe it down and switch it on again. Water Usage You might not be able to have access to water during your trip, so it is important to be very careful and aware of how much water you are using whilst onsite. The water tank in a caravan is very limited, which means that you’ll be constantly dealing with a limited supply of water. The largest user of water is the showers! Always switch the tap off when you are soaping to save water, and turn it on again when you are ready to rinse off. Similarly, only run water when you are swilling your toothbrushes, and wash your vegetables in a bowl of water instead of washing them under a running tap. Caravan Checks Before you head off on your journey, it is always good to do thorough checks of both the internal and external sides of your caravan. You might even want to double-check or triple check before you set off! Your check should include removing and maintaining locks, hitching the caravan on, raising steadies and running the car whilst it’s plugged into the caravan’s electrics. Additionally, you should always have your route planned ahead of time. This is to ensure that you do not waste time, as driving with a caravan requires extra attention and time whilst driving. Keeping Educated Especially if you’re new to caravanning, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s good to gain as much knowledge as you can about your new way of life! Having a caravan is great, but it’s the people you’re travelling with that make it even better. You can seek out YouTube for relevant videos on caravanners –– it’s bound to hold a wealth of information. Furthermore, we strongly believe that accessing the local caravanning community is one of the best ways of obtaining beneficial information. These groups can be easily found through Facebook, where you can search posts, photos and videos on caravanning tips and tricks. Whilst you are on your journey, don’t shy away from approaching local caravanners in the park. They’re bound to give you some tips on how to improve your caravanning experience, how to maintain it, and where to head for dinner and drinks! Conclusion Whilst it may seem a little frightening as to beginning the caravanning lifestyle, we strongly encourage you to take that leap of faith and give it a shot. There is nothing to fear! Though the preparation and research might take a long time, your final experience is definitely worth it. Caravanning is a great way to escape the hectic lifestyle and run away to a space that allows for rest and relaxation!