Maybe you've already got your caravan holiday all booked and you are now planning what to take with you.
There is simply no need to pack up the entire house! Instead, why not start by making a "caravan holiday checklist" of all the things you need and leave some space to tick items off as you go. Caravans don't have a lot of storage space so pack smart!
DRESS FOR ALL WEATHERS
Clothing will be the hardest part of your packing list - you will want to pack as light as possible depending on how long you are planning to travel for and where you are headed to. A few outfits that can be washed (either by the on-site facilities or by hand) and at least one nice and warm outfit, or at the very least a jumper or fleece.
You simply cannot trust a British summer so consider an easy to pack and a quick-dry raincoat that you can pop in your bag. You may also want to pack an umbrella and also some good wellington boots. Here's a tip, rather than folding clothes, roll them instead – this will prevent creases and rolled clothes take up far less room than folded ones. For some extra space, you could consider vacuum packing your clothes and towels.
Don't forget to fill your shoes - use this extra space for storing socks and other small items. Is there a beach or even a swimming pool? Ensure you pack your swimming essentials including life-savers, arm-bands or inflatable vests for the youngsters.
WASHROOM GEAR
Depending on the type of accommodation you have selected, you're likely not to be supplied with things such as toilet roll, towels and toiletries. Why not purchase a washroom bag (waterproof and with a closing mechanism, such as a toggle) and fill with basics such as shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste. soap, and also don't forget your toothbrush!
On your last day, you can always throw everything back into the wash-bag without worrying about making your clothes or belongings damp. Here's another tip: Try to pack lighter towels - think hand towels rather than bath towels as they take less time to dry and can be hung up much easier.
OUT AND ABOUT
It's unlikely that you will spend a great deal of time inside your caravan while you are away enjoying your holiday (unless the weather is awful!) so you will want to ensure that you've everything you need to head out with. Carry a couple of different factors of sun-cream, kids' sensitive skin will always need a higher factor.
Day bags containing water bottles, snacks and a map of the area are always handy and can be stored easily during the travel process (or always used for extra storage during the trip!) Don't forget to pack some enjoyable bits for the kids, in case of long journeys in the surrounding area.
DVDs or game consoles make for great entertainment should the weather keep you indoors. Alternatively, books and board games are a great way to bring the family together in the evenings.
FUNDAMENTALS FOR THE KITCHEN
Consider packing some caravan kitchen basics including mugs, tea towels, kitchen roll, knives and cling-film or aluminium foil. Some simple cleaning bits such as washing-up liquid, sponges and multi-purpose cleaner could also prove useful! Don't forget favourites such as tea, milk, coffee, salt, pepper and also don't forget cereal.
Depending on the time when you arrive, you may want a drink after such a long journey. Pack bits you may want easy access to on the top or towards the top of your bag. After a long journey.
JUST IN CASE
The "Just-in-Case" pile can very quickly get out of hand, so make sure to carefully consider what you'll need to take with you. A first-aid kit will always be essential - make sure it includes basic medical supplies including plasters, painkillers, children's medicine, bug-spray and antiseptic cream. A pocket sewing-kit can also come in handy for those inconvenient clothing mishaps!
You could also include a small "laundry essentials bag" that contains some black bags, washing powder, or a holdall for carrying washing and potentially a portable washing line and pegs too. Packing Tip: Rather than taking full packets of creams, make-up and toiletries, consider decanting into small travel-friendly bottles or even contact lens cases. Less space and easier to clean on your return.
ELECTRONICS
These days, we cannot be without technology - our smartphones, music players and various other gadgets are part of our way of life. If you are going away and want to stay connected, make sure you have packed all the changers and leads you need.
If you need to stay connected to the web while you're away, some caravan sites do have Wi-Fi, although it may be an extra cost. Why not purchase a portable dongle? It may work out cheaper than on-site Wi-Fi and could also give you a better connection.
You may also want to buy a portable battery-packs; the better quality designs can charge devices up to ten times on a charge. There are also solar-powered batteries if you are not at standard accommodation with hook-ups.
Going away is great fun and a static caravan holiday is like a mini-adventure. Many Brits have fond summer memories of staying in a caravan at least once in their lives. There's no need to panic over packing and no need to pack everything in the house. Plan ahead, pack smart and most importantly of all, enjoy your well-deserved holiday!
For all your caravanning and motoring needs contact Bowers Automotive on 01782 590712 or email us at enquiries@bowersautoparts.net.