Caravanning times are with us once again and, to kick off the new season, here are some of the latest caravan news stories …

Danny and Dani Dyer speak about reviving caravan park for new TV show

Actor and TV personality Danny Dyer and his daughter Dani make no bones about their nostalgia and love for the traditional British summer caravan holiday.

A feature in an edition of the Independent newspaper on the 17^th of February described the pair’s new TV show airing on Sky One. Called The Dyers’ Caravan Park, the show recreates some of the lost pleasures of those earlier times when kids ran freely, safe, and wild while the extended family of Mums, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and cousins socialised.

The Dyers’ Caravan Park is, in fact, Priory Hill Holiday Park in Leysdown, Kent. So, there are real caravans for Danny and Dani to clean and real children to entertain while they are there on holiday with their parents. It’s a real-time attempt to recreate Dad Danny’s nostalgia for the holidays he spent as a child with his extended family on Canvey Island, Essex – in what he calls “a very working-class holiday”.

The launch of the six-part mini-series follows on from our earlier news story on the same subject.

Caravan sales forecast record year as Salop Leisure reports strong start to 2026

Caravan retailer, Salop Leisure, has reported bumper sales thanks to a 12% increase in leads generated at the recent Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Show in Manchester, according to the a recent article. This translated into an 11% increase in sales of motorhomes and caravans in January compared to the same month in 2025.

The show itself also saw a growing demand for caravans, motorhomes, and the outdoor life, following a 15% increase in entrance ticket sales compared to last year, and 9% of visitors saying they intended to make a purchase.

The same caravan and motorhome retailer also attended the recent Holiday and Residential Parks Association conference for 2026. This, too, proved a forum for good news, with members said to be confident in an industry where investments in accommodation and facilities continue apace.

Investment underway at Cheshire campsite after ownership change

A new look is coming with a change of ownership and the renaming of what was formerly Fishpool Farm Caravan Park and is now Fishpool Holiday Park, according to Practical Caravan on the 13^th of February.

Located near the Cheshire village of Tarporley, the five acres of Fishpool Holiday Park are the ideal base from which to explore the nearby Delamere Forest, where you can walk or cycle to your heart’s content, or venture into the city of Chester just 10 miles away.

Until the park’s grand re-opening at the end of April, infrastructure works are in progress as changes are made through enhanced groundworks, landscaping, and drainage. Charging points will also be installed for the fast and convenient recharging of EV tow cars.

Bookings are already being taken for the newly installed luxury lodges and static caravans, together with pitches for touring caravans and motorhomes.

Tourism levy raises concerns over impact on domestic tourism

The industry mouthpiece Caravan Industry and Park Operator on the 16^th of February raised concerns at recent government discussions about introducing a tourism tax.

The posting echoed a warning from the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA) that any such levy would affect British families already struggling to make ends meet.

The clamour in opposition to the plans comes at the end of the official consultation process. If the government presses ahead, local authorities would be given the power to enforce the proposed tourism taxes.

As a new caravanning season gets underway, many owners are preparing to make the most of time away. Alongside planning trips and checking your caravan is road-ready, it’s sensible to review your security arrangements so your home from home stays protected.

Make life difficult for would-be thieves

You and your caravan insurer can work together to make life difficult for any potential thieves – that means paying attention to good quality locks and anti-theft devices you can afford. Your insurer may offer a reduced premium (subject to underwriting criteria and policy terms). Also, you should note that:

• one of the most common insurance conditions, for example, is to insist on both wheel clamps and a hitchlock whenever you are stopped with the caravan still hooked up to the towing vehicle – this video includes a discussion on the merits of immobilising your caravan;

• these are among the key security and immobilisation devices we mention in our Guide to Caravan Storage and Security;

• if your caravan is stored for any length of time at home, you might want to invest in a security post or ground anchors that keep your trailer firmly fixed in place;

• the door and windows come with individual locks already installed, of course, but you might want to upgrade these with reinforced locks and deadbolts – so, making it much more difficult for potential intruders.

Whatever security devices and equipment you choose to install, it is worth regularly checking that they remain in good working order – especially after any prolonged storage.

Smart systems

Modern technology plays its part in helping to keep your caravan secure. Smart technology is constantly being developed, resulting in ever more sophisticated alarms and sensors that raise the alarm when thieves and intruders are about.

These include:

• motion detectors that sense intruders;

• door and window triggers;

• tilt detectors that also help to alert you to intruders.

Tracking

If yours is a relatively new caravan, it may already come with a Thatcham-approved tracking system – and if it is not included automatically, you might want to fit a tracker yourself.

Thatcham systems – typically graded Category S7 or S5 – are designed to provide 24-hour monitoring, theft alerts, and real-time location via GPS, GSM, or motion-detection systems. (Monitoring is subject to subscription and signal availability.)

Even a basic – now probably old-fashioned – security camera may provide valuable information and a record of suspicious activity.

Further reading: Security devices for your caravan.

Storage

Come the autumn – or if you’re not planning to use your caravan this season – it will go into storage. And that is when any touring caravan may be at its most vulnerable.

If it’s out of sight, thieves and other intruders may have increased opportunity to do their worst. And those security concerns are only marginally less acute if the caravan is sitting on the driveway outside your house.

That’s why some insurers may recommend that you store your caravan at a CaSSOA-approved site that has extra protection and security controls. The Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA) offers four levels of security (ungraded, silver, gold, and platinum) – and here at Cover4Caravans we offer discounts according to the level of security you choose, subject to underwriting criteria and policy terms.

Insurance

If you’re reviewing your cover for the season ahead, you might want to draw on our experience here at Cover4Caravans and request a touring insurance quote online or speak to one of our UK-based team on 01702 606301.

Can you feel the excitement beginning to build? As the temperatures rise, and the days grow longer, Easter is traditionally the time of year for one of the first outings in the new caravan season.

This year, there are again four days of public holiday – 3rd to 6th April 2026 (in England and Wales) . Tag on a few extra days from your annual leave allowance from work, of course, you might easily make your first outing of the year last up to ten days or so.

So, let’s suggest some of the top 5 destinations you might want to head off towards this Easter – just remember to make sure that your touring caravan insurance is up to date:

1. South east England

Spring in the south east often brings milder temperatures than many other parts of the UK, making it well suited to an early-season tour. Blossom begins to appear across parks and gardens, and coastal walks are typically quieter than in peak summer months.

Where better to get that first taste of spring but the Garden of England – or, for that matter, anywhere in the south east.

This is an area that seems to have it all for a family holiday in your touring caravan – some spectacular coastal scenery, the South Downs, beaches, promenades and buckets and spades.

You may wish to stay at the Camping and Caravanning Club’s site at Normans Bay – which history buffs will also know marks the spot where the Normans landed in 1066.

1. South West England

Early spring in Cornwall can showcase impressive gardens and dramatic coastal scenery before the height of the tourist season. Many visitors choose Easter as an opportunity to explore walking routes, harbour towns and family attractions at a slightly gentler pace.

The south west of England is one of the first parts of the country to feel the warmth and sunshine of spring – so you might want to head off to Cornwall to enjoy your share of that fine weather this Easter (fingers crossed!).

The county has a number of campsites that are open all the year round, so they are probably in full swing by the time you get there for Easter.

Carnon Downs Caravan Park is an excellent base from which to explore the whole of Cornwall, as it is right in the heart of the county, near Truro, and therefore midway between both north and south coasts.

1. Midlands

For many caravanners, the Midlands offers a practical first outing thanks to shorter travel distances from multiple parts of the UK. This can be particularly helpful at the start of the season while reacquainting yourself with towing and site set-up.

The Camping and Caravanning Club’s site at Wolverley is only 4.4 miles from Arley Arboretum.

1. North west England

Easter can be a rewarding time to visit the Lake District, as spring flowers begin to emerge and visitor numbers are often lower than during the summer holidays. Clear spring days can provide excellent walking conditions across the fells and lakesides.

Spring could be just the time of year for enjoying your own “wandering lonely as a cloud, to come across a host of golden daffodils” – to paraphrase the poet William Wordsworth, as he walked the fells of the Lake District.

Herdwick Croft Caravan Park, on the shores of beautiful Bassenthwaite, might be the ideal spot to pitch your touring caravan and to take advantage of the handbook and guide the site has published to Easter activities in the Lakes.

1. Scotland

Springtime in Scotland can bring longer daylight hours and fresh Highland air, making it well suited to outdoor exploration. Lambing season and early wildlife activity may also add interest for countryside visitors.

If you are north of the border, you already know that the Easter holidays in Scotland omit the Monday as a bank holiday.

Undaunted, though, why not hitch up your ‘van, take a few extra days of annual leave and enjoy all that the Scottish countryside has to offer come Springtime.

Faskally Woods caravan parks is near Pitlochry in the very heart of Scotland’s Highland Perthshire, so perfectly situated for exploring the immediate surroundings and further afield.

Preparing for your first Easter trip

Easter is often the first significant outing after a period of winter storage, so it makes sense to carry out a few practical checks before setting off. Inspect tyres for correct pressure and condition, test all road lights and indicators, and ensure that your braking system and hitch are functioning properly.

Gas appliances, heating systems and water pumps should also be tested ahead of departure. Early spring weather can remain changeable, so packing for both warmer days and cooler evenings can make your trip more comfortable.

Further reading: Is your caravan ready for spring touring? A pre-season maintenance checklist.

Tourer caravan insurance considerations

It is also worth reviewing your touring caravan insurance before travelling. Confirm that your level of cover reflects how and where the caravan is stored, check any security requirements within your policy conditions, and ensure personal belongings are insured appropriately.

With a little preparation, Easter can be an ideal way to begin the new touring season, offering longer days and the opportunity to enjoy the countryside as it comes back to life.

Further reading:

Spring caravan breaks in the UK: Where to go first
Six places to visit this Spring
7 destination ideas for this Spring

So, you have decided to buy a touring caravan. That is a great start, but things are about to get a lot more exciting!

The decision to buy is just the first step. You’ll soon want to move on to specifics about the many shapes and sizes of different tourers, the maximum number of people you may be hoping to accommodate, the permutations and combinations of layout, whether your car is going to be powerful enough to tow it, whether you want an awning or canopy to erect alongside it – a hundred and one choices to make.

Plus, the question of insurance touring caravan alone is likely to warrant detailed consideration.

So, it might be helpful to break down the likely process into manageable steps. 

Your caravan

As you begin casting around for ideas about the type of caravan that might suit you and your family’s needs, you may do worse for inspiration than simply taking a look at what your friends and neighbours are using.

Since they are likely to be nearby and more or less available, this gives you the opportunity of a close-up inspection, getting a feel for the caravan and, of course, for asking them about their own experiences with this particular make and model.

If they are especially good friends or neighbours, you might be able to go one better and ask them to let you give it a go – a short weekend for you to try it out for yourself.

On the other hand, there might be a shortage of caravan-owning friends and neighbours so, the alternative is to rent a touring caravan for a while.

There are caravan rental companies throughout the UK with caravans of many different sizes and layouts – from 15ft to 18ft in length (so 4.5m to 5.5m), for example, sleeping from 2 to 6 people, and delivery to anywhere in the country (or you may collect it yourself from the company).

The research may also give you a guide to how much you need to spend – not only on the purchase, but also running costs such as general maintenance, storage, and caravan insurance.

Inspired by the experience, you are probably ready to move on to thinking about a touring caravan of your own. 

Size isn’t everything when buying a touring caravan

You want to be comfortable in your caravan, of course, with room to swing a cat. But it is not only its overall size that is likely to be important but its layout too.

Caravan designers seem to have become ever more ingenious when it comes to maximising every last centimetre of space, so it pays to shop around for the layout that fits your particular bill.

Don’t forget that you can also temporarily extend the size of your tourer by using an awning. Please click here for our Guide to awnings.

Towing power

A critical aspect of choosing your touring caravan is the car that you have to tow it.

An initial browse through internet sites might give appear complex at first glance – what with Mass in Running Order (MIRO), Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM), and Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM), to name just a few of the acronyms for measures of weight. To the untrained eye, it is likely to appear extremely technical.

A guide published by the Camping and Caravan Club explains the meaning of every one of the relevant terms.

On the other hand, you might want someone else to make the calculation for you and turn to What Tow Car’s automatic “outfit matcher” into which you simply enter the make and model of your caravan and the car you want to be capable of towing it.

Shopping

Thanks to your research, viewings, and trial runs, you might now be ready to buy the make and model of your ideal touring caravan – or its approximate equivalent. But just where do you shop for caravans?

• word of mouth – those very friends and neighbours who first showed off to you their pride and joy of caravanning might also be a useful source of fellow caravanners interested in selling their pre-loved ‘vans;
• classified ads – the classified ads in your local newspaper might also be a place to look, although this is likely to depend on the part of the country in which you live and, more particularly, the size of the area covered by the paper’s circulation;
• online listings – as with practically anything else you are interested in buying, the internet offers a fertile source for listings by online magazines and website (the ever-popular Autotrader, for instance, has a specialist site listing caravans for sale); or
• dealers – if you prefer to buy a brand new caravan or a second-hand tourer, you may, of course, visit a local supplier.

Whichever route you choose, a little time and patience are likely to come up with the caravan for you and your family.

Touring caravans insurance

Now that you’ve spent a great deal of time and effort finding just the caravan that suits you – not to mention the potential hefty financial investment you have made – don’t forget to arrange the protection offered by suitable touring caravans insurance.

Although any insurance needs to be tailored to your individual circumstances and requirements, an overview of the principles of this type of cover is given in our series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the subject.

What does tourer insurance cover?

• at the heart of any touring caravan cover, of course, is the protection of the ‘van itself against such potentially serious risks as fire, flooding, impacts, storm damage, vandalism and theft;
• the sum insured needs to reflect the current replacement value of your caravan (which is likely to be different to the price you paid for it or its current market price) – although some insurers may offer a new for old replacement if your caravan is less than a certain age and is stolen or damaged beyond economic repair;

The contents

• cover may also extend to the contents of your touring caravan and protection against similar risks and perils;

Safety and security

• most touring caravans insurance policies include provisions for mitigating the risk of loss or damage by insisting that you apply a hitchlock and use wheel clamps if the ‘van is left unattended but still hitched to the towing vehicle and wheel clamps alone if it is unhitched;
• cover against loss or damage to your caravan and its contents typically extends to periods when you are using it on holiday, while it is temporarily on your driveway at home, and when it is in longer-term storage (when laid up for the winter, for example);
• it is when your caravan is not in use for a significant length of time that it might be at its most vulnerable – we, therefore, offer a discount on insurance premiums you pay if you take the precaution of using the especially secure storage sites registered by the Caravan Storage Site Owners’ Association (CaSSOA);

European travel

• you may have even greater freedom of the open road – not to mention the sense of adventure involved – if you are towing your caravan for a holiday in Europe;
• in that case, suggests an article in Caravan Talk, you need to take special care that your caravan insurance (as well as your motor insurance) covers travel in Europe;
• although your motor insurance normally meets the minimum requirements of local laws, this might only offer third party cover for your caravan (if the ‘van causes injury or damage to a third party in a road traffic accident), making separate, specialist insurance for the ‘van a more than prudent option;

Use by friends and family

• some tourer insurance policies extend cover during the ‘van’s use in the UK by your family or friends;
• if you propose such generosity, therefore, it is important to check that your caravan insurance permits such use;

Public liability

• even when your touring caravan is pitched or being stored on your driveway, you may face claims of negligence if a campsite neighbour, passer-by, or member of the public suffers an injury or has their property damaged;
• with such claims potentially reaching a substantial figure, many policies offer at least £1million cover or more.

In short, therefore, touring caravan insurance may cover a wide range of risks and perils, depending on your proposed use of it. When arranging cover, it is important that the insurance you buy is tailored to your specific needs and requirements.

Ongoing costs and responsibilities

When budgeting for ownership, it is also worth taking a measured view of ongoing responsibilities. Routine servicing, damp checks and tyre inspections form part of responsible caravan ownership and may also be conditions of certain warranties or insurance arrangements.

Keeping accurate records of maintenance, servicing receipts and any upgrades can help demonstrate that reasonable care has been taken. From an underwriting perspective, evidence of maintenance may assist in the event of a claim where condition becomes relevant.

Storage arrangements deserve careful consideration. While some owners keep their caravan at home, others prefer dedicated storage compounds. Security features such as perimeter fencing, CCTV, controlled access and on-site supervision can influence both risk exposure and premium levels.

Where a policy specifies minimum security requirements, such as approved wheel clamps or hitchlocks, these should be complied with consistently. Failure to meet stated security conditions could affect how a claim is assessed.

It is equally sensible to review documentation before travelling. This includes confirming that your policy schedule accurately reflects the make, model and declared value of the caravan, together with any specified accessories such as motor movers, solar panels or awnings. Accessories (such as awnings) and modifications typically may need to be declared separately. An up-to-date valuation can help ensure that the sum insured remains appropriate in light of market changes or improvements you have made.

If you intend to lend your caravan to a family member or friend, clarity in advance is advisable. Policies vary in how they approach permitted drivers or users, and some may require prior notification. Checking these points before handing over the keys can avoid misunderstandings later.

Finally, remember that insurance is only one part of risk management. Sensible site selection, careful towing practices, adherence to weight limits and routine safety checks all contribute to reducing the likelihood of loss or damage. Approaching ownership in this structured way can help you enjoy the flexibility and independence that touring caravanning offers, while remaining mindful of the practical and financial considerations involved.

We hope this quick overview as to what you need to consider when choosing, buying and insuring touring caravans will help you make an informed decision as to the next steps. For further reading, please visit our Guide to buying a tourer.

As winter eases into spring, many caravan owners begin looking ahead to the first touring break of the year. Lighter evenings, milder temperatures and quieter roads make spring an ideal time to explore, whether you favour countryside walks, coastal air or scenic drives through blossom-filled lanes. For those touring with a caravan, spring can offer the best balance of good conditions without the crowds of peak summer.

Below are some of the UK’s most appealing spring caravan destinations, along with a reminder of why it’s worth checking that your touring caravan insurance cover is suitable for touring across the UK.

National parks: Fresh landscapes and fewer crowds

Spring is a particularly rewarding time to visit the UK’s national parks. After the winter months, landscapes begin to come back to life, footpaths reopen and popular spots are often far quieter than during school holidays.

The Lake District is a favourite for early-season touring. Spring brings daffodils across valleys, lambs in the fields and waterfalls at their most dramatic after winter rain. Many caravan sites reopen fully by March or April, making it a good time to enjoy lakeside walks and quieter villages before summer traffic builds.

Further reading: 5 places to visit in the Lake District in your ‘van.

Going south, the Peak District offers rolling hills, limestone dales and well-marked walking routes that suit shorter daylight hours. Spring is also a popular time for cyclists, with cooler temperatures making longer rides more comfortable.

Read: Visit The Peak District and Derbyshire and Buxton: Things to do and see.

For something gentler, the New Forest is well suited to spring touring. Blossom begins to appear in April, wildlife is more active and the forest’s mix of open heathland and woodland makes for relaxed exploration. Caravan sites here are often close to villages and cycle routes, making them ideal for slower-paced breaks.

More info: Visit The New Forest.

Blossom trails and countryside touring

Spring blossom has become a reason in itself to travel. Touring with a caravan allows flexibility to follow the best conditions, moving on if weather changes or staying longer when a location is at its best.

Areas such as Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Kent are well known for apple and cherry blossom. Rural caravan sites in these regions often open early in the season and can provide a peaceful base for scenic drives and local walks. Narrow lanes and farm tracks are easier to navigate before summer traffic increases, which can make spring a more relaxed time for countryside touring.

More ideas: 6 things to do in Kent.

Scotland also offers striking spring scenery, particularly in Perthshire and the Highlands, where blossom, snow-capped hills and clear air combine to create dramatic contrasts. Touring a little earlier in the year can mean fewer midges and quieter sites.

Further reading: Ten places to visit in Scotland in your ‘van and Explore Scotland.

Coastal destinations: Sea air without the summer crowds

For many caravan owners, the coast is top of the list. Spring is often an ideal time to visit seaside locations before they become busy.

The Pembrokeshire Coast is popular with walkers and nature lovers. Spring brings wildflowers along the coastal path, seabirds nesting on cliffs and clearer views across the sea. Caravan sites here tend to be well spaced and benefit from being less crowded outside peak season.

On the east coast, the Norfolk Coast offers wide beaches, nature reserves and traditional seaside towns. Spring is a good time for birdwatching and long beach walks, with cooler temperatures and more available pitches at coastal caravan parks.

Insurance considerations before you set off

Before heading out on a spring caravan break, it’s sensible to review your touring caravan insurance arrangements. Not all policies automatically include UK-wide touring, and cover can vary depending on how and where your caravan is used.

Caravan insurance policies typically distinguish between storage, towing and use on site. If you plan to tour across different regions of the UK, it’s worth checking that your policy provides cover while the caravan is in transit, on recognised caravan sites and, where applicable, during short stays away from home.

Spring touring can also mean a caravan has been unused over winter. Checking security requirements, such as hitch locks or wheel clamps, and ensuring these meet policy conditions can help avoid issues if you need to make a claim. It’s also sensible to confirm that contents cover is appropriate if you’re carrying additional equipment for longer trips.

For those planning multiple breaks throughout the season, ensuring your insurance reflects how you actually use your caravan can provide peace of mind. Terms, conditions and exclusions vary between insurers, so reviewing your policy wording before your first trip can help prevent surprises later on.

Spring is an excellent time to rediscover touring in the UK. With the right destination and suitable insurance cover in place, it offers the freedom to enjoy the country at its most colourful and calm.

Further reading:

UK Mini Break Ideas

An 11-day touring caravan road trip from Kent to Scotland (and back)