No More "I Forgot the Kettle" Moments
You've booked the pitch, hitched up the van, and programmed the sat-nav - almost ready to roll. But then comes the tricky bit: packing. What if it rains for three days straight? What if the gas runs out? What if you forget the corkscrew? (Disaster.)
This checklist covers what to bring, what to skip, and what'll save your sanity when you're parked up next to a misty meadow or a windy clifftop.
Essential Kit for Comfort and Function
Let's start with the non-negotiables. Forget these, and things might unravel before the teabags hit the mug.
- Levelling ramps - Unless you fancy sleeping at a diagonal angle.
- Hook-up cable (with adapter)
- Fresh water container and wastewater carrier
- Toilet chemicals and loo roll that won't ruin your pipes
- Gas bottle (check it's full!)
- Toolkit - Even a small one. Loose screws happen.
- Spare fuses, bulbs, and batteries
Creature Comforts You'll Thank Yourself For
Not a top priority - but almost. These turn a caravan trip from "fine" to "fabulous."
- Portable BBQ or campfire grill
- Fairy lights or a soft lantern (ambience matters)
- Folding chairs and a decent table
- Board games, cards, or a good old-fashioned book
- Blankets for chilly evenings (and general smug cosiness)
- Slippers - It's a mobile home, not a campsite boot camp
Clothes & Personal Gear
Britain's weather is charmingly unpredictable. Dress like you're heading for spring, autumn and mild disaster - all on the same day.
- Layers: T-shirts, jumpers, waterproofs
- Comfortable shoes for walking, wellies for mud
- Sun cream AND a woolly hat (classic combo)
- Toiletries - Don't forget the dry shampoo or your toothbrush
Bits People Always Forget (And Then Regret)
- Bin bags - Always more than you think you'll need
- Clothes pegs and a drying line
- A long-reach lighter for the hob or BBQ
- First aid kit - You never know when the cheese slicer will turn on you
- Phone charger - With a long cable for awkward sockets
Keep It Light, But Not Bare
Don't fall into the trap of overpacking "just in case" items. You're not moving into the van permanently (well, unless you are). Stick to what you'll genuinely use, and leave the espresso machine and second duvet behind unless you know they're worth the weight.
A Note About Insurance
Before you set off, check that your caravan insurance is up-to-date. Make sure it covers your contents, even if you're wild camping. Not the fun bit to think about, but it matters when your trip's packed with gadgets and gear.
Ready, Set, Tow!
Packing brilliant means you're ready for anything the road - or the sky - throws at you. Less time faffing with forgotten pegs and more time watching sunsets, grilling sausages, and wondering why you didn't do this sooner.