Make your caravan holiday one of the best you’ve ever had

With so much to consider before departing on your caravanning holiday with kids, the first and most important tip is to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting a distant location.

Do your homework

Research the area you’ll be visiting and find the best caravan parks to stay at during your holiday. Check that the road leading to your destination is suitable for your towing vehicle and caravan; some sites may only be accessible to 4x4s. Knowing the area means being prepared for any specific conditions you may encounter, such as the weather and the available facilities and amenities at the caravan park. Use the internet to evaluate potential locations based on feedback from others who have visited them – some locations are better than others.

Get expert advice

Joining a caravan club can be extremely beneficial, especially for advice on where to go and what to bring. Social media allows you to connect with like-minded people in a matter of seconds, and online forums can provide instant insight and feedback to help you deal with any issues, concerns, or questions.

Plan meals ahead of time

Make a menu for all of the meals you’ll be eating while you’re on holiday. Then you’ll know which ingredients you’ll need to buy (and which you can get on-site), as well as how to store them – in a cooler box or freezer, for example.

Be prepared with checklists

Make a checklist during the planning phase to ensure you don’t forget anything. A fire extinguisher and a fully stocked first aid kit are essentials.

Don’t forget the entertainment

Every caravan will require some form of entertainment to keep the children occupied, especially if it rains. Consider bringing along some board games or other entertainment options, such as a small portable TV. Bringing a video game console or DVD player is a good idea. A music docking station allows you to listen to your favorite tunes while remaining aware of your surroundings.

Towing tips

• Make sure your caravan windows are closed, doors locked and gas and electricity turned off before you drive off.
• Take utmost care in attaching the caravan to the tow ball, including fastening the safety chain connecting the electrical socket and, on braked caravans, disconnecting the handbrake.
• Check that the taillights and indicators are working on the caravan.
• Don’t exceed the maximum towing capacity of the towing vehicle.
• Equipment such as water, food, camping gear, etc. will generally add another 300kg to the weight of the empty caravan. Typically, you do not want to overload the caravan; where possible, equipment should be transported in your car. If some gear is in the caravan, make sure it is loaded in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
• Make sure your towing vehicle can handle the weight of caravan, equipment and supplies.

Caravan insurance

Despite the best precautions, accidents can happen, so another essential task before setting out on holiday is getting the insurance up to date. Make sure you have the appropriate cover for your car and caravan so you can enjoy the open road secure in the knowledge that your home-away-from-home is protected from the unexpected.

Caravan insurance covers:

• Theft and hijack
• Fire and explosion
• Accidental damage
• Storm, hail, flood, or snow
• Liabilities caused to other parties

Importantly, make sure your caravan policy covers contents and accessories as well as the caravan itself. After all, no caravanning holiday is complete without camping tables, chairs, tents cutlery and crockery, and a range of electronic devices and personal property.