Travel sickness remedies

You’ve packed the caravan, mapped out the route, and everyone’s excited to hit the road. But you’ve barely made it to the end of the street before the inevitable happens: someone in the car starts feeling queasy. Whether it’s one of the kids in the back or an adult in the front seat, travel sickness can quickly take the shine off any caravan adventure.

Also known as motion sickness or car sickness, this common travel complaint affects more people than you might think. Let’s look at what causes it, how to manage it, and how to keep your caravan holidays enjoyable for everyone – without the sick bags.

What are the symptoms of travel sickness?

Besides the classic nausea and vomiting, those suffering from motion sickness may also experience:

  • dizziness or light-headedness;
  • cold sweats;
  • pale or clammy skin;
  • excessive saliva or a watering mouth.

These symptoms can begin quickly and escalate, especially on winding roads, stop-start traffic, or hot days with poor airflow in the vehicle.

What causes caravan travel sickness?

The NHS explains that motion sickness is caused when the balance-sensing parts of the body – particularly the inner ear – send different signals to the brain than what the eyes are seeing. This sensory mismatch confuses the brain and triggers feelings of nausea.

For example, when you’re seated in a moving caravan and focusing on a book or screen, your eyes tell your brain you’re still, while your body feels movement – hence, the queasiness.

Tips for preventing motion sickness on the road

The good news is, there are lots of practical steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of motion sickness when travelling by caravan. Try the following:

  • sit strategically – the front passenger seat usually experiences less motion, making it ideal for those prone to nausea (not suitable for small children under UK car seat laws;
  • keep your eyes on the horizon – focusing on a fixed point outside helps re-sync your body’s balance cues;
  • let in fresh air – open a window slightly or use the vehicle’s air vents to help with airflow;
  • take slow, deep breaths – breathing exercises can calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms;
  • plan regular breaks – stopping every hour or so for fresh air and a short walk can help reset the senses;
  • avoid heavy meals before setting off – a light, plain snack is better than greasy or spicy food before travel;
  • keep distractions ready – singing, listening to audiobooks, or gentle conversation can help distract from discomfort, especially for children.

Natural and over-the-counter remedies

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, there are a few options worth exploring:

  • acupressure wristbands – these have a small knob or button on the inside which presses on the Pericardium 6 or Nei Guan point in your wrist, and you may try the sensation for yourself by taking your three middle fingers and pressing them down on the inside of your wrist, when your index finger will then locate the P6 spot;
  • root ginger – which you can chew on or eat in a biscuit, drink in an infusion of tea or take as a tablet or capsule. Again, the science behind using this – a centuries-old remedy for settling upset stomachs – is inconclusive, but seems to work for many people;
  • drugs – there are any number of over-the-counter remedies found in your local chemists.

Before your caravan trip: test what works

Travel sickness isn’t life-threatening, but it can be miserable. It can also turn a dream caravan holiday into a bit of a nightmare if not planned for in advance. So, a few weeks before your next trip:

  • try out any wristbands, ginger remedies, or medications on shorter car journeys;
  • identify which seating positions work best for your family;
  • practice calming breathing techniques with kids;
  • get used to packing a mini “sickness kit”.

What to pack for managing travel sickness

Here’s a handy travel checklist to keep everyone more comfortable:

  • ginger chews or tea;
  • acupressure wristbands;
  • over-the-counter travel tablets (age-appropriate);
  • wet wipes and antibacterial hand gel;
  • mints;
  • bottled water and light snacks;
  • resealable plastic bags (for emergencies);
  • a change of clothes, just in case.

Final thoughts

Travel sickness can strike at any age and during any caravan journey – but with a bit of forward planning, you can keep it under control. Whether you’re heading to the coast or the countryside, taking regular breaks, packing smart, and finding the right remedy will help everyone arrive feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy the adventure.

For more helpful caravan travel advice, including safety tips, travel planning, and caravan insurance information, check out our free guides and resources section.

Green Pastures CL Site Review

Date of Visit:    May 2025

Overall View

Green Pastures CL is situated on the outskirts of the village of Wormington, a short 5 minutes’ drive from the world-famous Broadway Village, gateway to the Cotswolds.  Access is straightforward, please see arrival video HERE.  The CL is to the rear of a working smallholding with horses and stables.

A field of grass with a fence

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A comprehensive welcome leaflet is provided, and the owners are on hand to assist you if required.  They are both very friendly and helpful – nothing is too much trouble.

Facilities

Each pitch has an EHU, this is metered, 10 units are provided at the start of your stay and this lasted all week.

A water tap is available in the CL field; grey water is permitted to be disposed of in the hedge line.

There is an exclusive use domestic shower and toilet/wash hand basin provided in the stable yard and are kept immaculately cleaned.

Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times due to the horses.  It is possible to exercise the dogs off site but note the road does not have a pavement.  There are plenty of waymarked footpaths in the vicinity which you can use.

A dedicated CDP is situated in the yard along with waste disposal including recycling..

The site is family friendly, and children are welcome.

Mobile data/WiFi showed a strong 5G with EE. Vodafone showed above average with 4G and intermittent 5G. There is no site Wi-Fi.

TV signal was well above average using the vans onboard aerial.

Review of Site Pitch

The site is laid to grass and is level – I did not need ramps.  You are free to choose where you pitch, provided you observe the 6m rule and do not block the views of fellow caravanners.  You should note that all EHU points are on one side of the field – if you wish to park on the opposite side, nearer the open view and the horse paddocks, you will require an extension to the EHU lead.  Grass was kept at a good level and awnings are permitted as long as carpets are regularly lifted.

A grassy area with a hedge and trees

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Around and about

There is so much to do both in the immediate and further afield areas. that you are almost spoilt for choice, depending upon your interests and level of activity.  I have chosen a small selection of places to visit/see and do.  I would strongly advise you spend some time with either a guidebook or online, web addresses below and see what is on offer.  www.cotswolds.info/

The village  of Broadway has a lovely wide high street, with a range of independent and more familiar shops providing everything you would want.  Diners will be spoilt for choice with a comprehensive range of pubs, hotel dining, restaurants, and cafes.  You should note that if you select somewhere off the main high street, prices can be cheaper.  The village is very dog friendly, and many establishments will welcome your dogs without problem.  Children are also welcomed in most places.  www.broadway-cotswold.uk

A building with a thatched roof

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www.gwsr.com

Now that the extension of the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway to Broadway has been operating for some time now, it is an integral part of the village.  There is parking adjacent, fee payable and takes no more than 5 minutes in the car from the CL.  You actually pass under the railway on the way to the CL.  You can hear the whistle from the train as it passes, if the wind is in the right direction.  There is now building underway again to complete the Station restoration – building a waiting room on Platform 2.  There are a variety of special events throughout the year – please see their website above. 

A train on the tracks

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A person standing on a platform next to a train

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www.broadwaytower.co.uk

This is a famous local landmark which overlooks the village at the top of the high street.  It is possible to walk either uphill, (steep in places) or downhill from the village.  There is plenty of parking available at the landmark, cafĂ©, shops, and toilets.  A bus does drop you off at the end of the lane to the attraction and is about a ÂĽ mile walk from the bus stop.

A group of people standing on a hill

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There is limited car parking – at charge next door to the Tower – here you will find a renovated barn serving delicious home cooked food and drinks.  There is a small shop attached selling local gifts.

A building with a horse statue in front of it

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www.visitevesham.co.uk

I have included this webpage as it is an area which can often be overlooked as people focus on the Cotswolds.  The Vale of Evesham is a huge fruit growing area and, in the summer,, there are Plum Festivals held in the villages, and you can buy as much fruit and veg as you could wish to eat.  The town of Evesham is the nearest to the site and has the usual out of centre retail park, featuring the usual mix of offerings.  Fuel can also be obtained here at supermarket prices.

Here it is possible to walk along part of the River Avon and there are boat trips available during the appropriate seasons.  A lovely park is adjacent which has parking and holds fun fairs at various times of the year.

Summary 

Green Pastures CL is a superb site, it’s proximity to Broadway and the Cotswolds make it very attractive.  I will certainly return again.

Parking for motorhomes will boost tourism, Wellness Weekend, caravan parking ban, top caravan 100 sites

Here we share some of the latest UK caravan and motorhome news headlines …

Big Little Wellness Weekend Coming to Holkham

The Caravan and Motorhome Club is bringing The Big Little Wellness Weekend to its scenic Holkham Hall pop-up site from 15th–17th August 2025, announced Practical Caravan magazine recently.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the event invites visitors to unwind in nature, with wellness sessions, outdoor activities, and evening entertainment. Whether you’re looking to recharge with yoga and sound baths or seek adventure with archery and foraging, there’s something for everyone.

The site is just a mile from the coast, where visitors can explore Holkham Beach, the National Nature Reserve, and the vast Holkham estate. You can also claim a 30% discount on entry to Holkham Hall, the Walled Garden, and Holkham Stories.

A weekend (Friday to Sunday) caravan touring pitch for two adults – including electric hook-up and access to all the site’s facilities – costs £138. Wellness event tickets are £38 per adult and £28 for children (6–17), with under-5s going free.

Caravan owners issued parking ban after residents’ complaints

A story in the Express newspaper on the 5th of May described how complaints from residents have resulted in a caravan parking ban in Arundel, West Sussex.

Under a Traffic Regulation Order, caravans (and certain other vehicles) are prohibited from parking overnight along sections of the street in the much-visited Sussex town. The restrictions will be enforced from 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. daily.

The rule, which was introduced in early April, follows collaboration between Arundel Town Council and West Sussex County Council in response to residents’ concerns about the impact of caravan parking in the area.

Fancy owning a holiday park? Warwickshire caravan site with moorings hits market for ÂŁ1.25m

If you’ve ever dreamed of swapping the daily grind for life by the water, this might be your moment. A rare opportunity has come up to buy a long-established caravan park with private moorings in the heart of rural Warwickshire — and it’s on the market for £1.25 million.

Offered for sale through Savills, the Avon Caravan Park sits just outside the picturesque village of Welford-on-Avon and enjoys a prime location along the River Avon. The site includes 30 static caravan pitches and 10 moorings, all set within around 3.3 acres of tranquil countryside.

The property also comes with a three-bedroom owner’s bungalow, giving prospective buyers the chance to live onsite while managing the business — or simply enjoy the peaceful riverside lifestyle.

The park currently operates with a mix of owned and rented holiday units and holds a site licence to operate for nine months of the year. With increasing demand for staycations and riverside retreats, the new owner could explore further development (subject to planning) or continue running it as it is.

Just seven miles from Stratford-upon-Avon, the site offers easy access to Shakespeare Country, the Cotswolds, and beyond — making it an attractive destination for holidaymakers.

So, if you’ve got £1.25m to invest and you’re tempted by the idea of owning your own slice of English countryside (with added boats), this Warwickshire gem could be just the ticket!

Top 100 Sites Guide 2025 announced

Practical Caravan – in conjunction with Practical Motorhome – has published its annual Top 100 Sites Guide.

The Guide’s overall winner is a site called Old Oaks in Somerset. Situated barely a 10-minute drive from Glastonbury. Voters were impressed not only by its beautiful surroundings but also the impressive range of facilities and great customer service. These included a modern shower block, two laundry facilities, and a combined games room and tourist information point.

Regional winners

  • Cornwall – Silver Sands Holiday Park on the Lizard Peninsula;
  • Devon – Parkers Farm Holiday Park, near Dartmoor;
  • Dorset – South Lytchett Manor;
  • Wales – Tyddyn Isaf Caravan Park, Anglesey;
  • SE England – Whitefield Forest Touring Park, Isle of Wight;
  • Heart of England – Ludlow Touring Park;
  • NW England – Greenacres Caravan Park, near Carlisle;
  • NE England – Hillside Caravan Park, Thirsk;
  • Eastern England – Pinecones Caravan & Camping, near Sandringham;
  • Northern Ireland – Ballyness Caravan Park, North Antrim.

Caravan insurance myths busted: Separating fact from fiction

Caravan ownership is an exciting venture, offering freedom, adventure, and the chance to explore the UK and beyond at your own pace.

But along with the joys of caravan life come a host of questions – and, unfortunately, plenty of misconceptions. Nowhere is this more evident than in the world of caravan insurance, where misunderstandings could end up costing you dearly.

To help you make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of misinformation, we’re debunking some of the most common caravan insurance myths that frequently surface in campsite conversations and online forums.

Myth 1: “I don’t need tourer caravan insurance – it’s not a legal requirement”

This is technically true – but relying on this alone could be a risky move. While touring caravan insurance is typically not a legal obligation in the UK, that doesn’t mean it’s a luxury or something to overlook.

Consider this: a high-spec touring caravan is worth around ÂŁ35,000. Without insurance, any damage, theft, or liability falls squarely on your shoulders.

If your caravan is stolen, damaged in a storm, vandalised, or involved in an accident, you’ll have to cover all the costs yourself. Moreover, if someone is injured because of your caravan – whether it’s during towing or while on-site – you could be personally liable for legal and compensation costs. This could run in to hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Tourer insurance is designed to provide essential financial protection and peace of mind, whether you’re on the road or not.

Myth 2: “Static caravans don’t need insurance because they don’t move”

Static caravans may not travel, but they are still exposed to a range of risks. These include storm and flood damage, fire, and vandalism etc – particularly when they’re sited in seasonal parks or remote locations.

In fact, the very nature of static caravan living – often being left unattended for long periods – makes them vulnerable to incidents.

So, static caravan insurance may make sense. Additionally, many static caravan holiday parks require static caravan owners to hold valid insurance as a condition of occupancy. Your lease agreement or park terms may specify minimum insurance requirements – and failing to meet them could put your position at risk.

Insuring your static caravan isn’t just prudent – in many cases, it’s a necessity.

As an aside, if you are offered static home insurance by the site owner, in most cases it is not obligatory to take their product. You are free to shop around to find your own cover. The site owner may ask for sight of your insurance and charge a small admin fee for doing so, but even then, you could still save money buying your static caravan insurance independently.

Myth 3: “My car insurance covers my caravan while towing”

This is a common misconception and only partially accurate. Most standard car insurance policies typically may include third-party liability while towing a caravan, which means that if your caravan causes damage to another vehicle or property while on the move, your car insurance may cover the damage.

However, this does not mean your own caravan is protected. Car insurance typically won’t pay for any damage to the touring caravan itself, nor will it cover theft or weather-related incidents.

To ensure your caravan is fully protected, you’ll need dedicated caravan insurance. Without it, you could be left with no recourse for repairs or replacement.

Myth 4: “My caravan is covered on my home insurance”

This is rarely the case. Standard home insurance policies often exclude caravans, especially when they are kept off-site or in transit. While some policies may provide limited cover for personal possessions stored in the caravan, they usually do not include the structure itself.

Even if your home insurance does mention caravans, it’s important to read the fine print.

Cover may be restricted to specific locations, exclude damage during transport, or be subject to high excess charges. Relying on home insurance could leave significant gaps in your cover.

Myth 5: “I don’t need cover if I only use my caravan once a year”

This is another dangerous assumption. Whether your caravan is in storage for most of the year or only used during the summer holidays, it remains susceptible to damage and theft year-round.

A comprehensive policy that includes cover for both use and storage ensures you’re always protected. Seasonal or short-term use doesn’t eliminate risk – if anything, it can increase it, as a caravan left unused may not be regularly checked for signs of damage or intrusion.

The bottom line

Caravan insurance may not always be legally required, but it is a crucial safeguard against a wide range of risks – from accidents and theft to weather events and liability claims. Myths and misunderstandings can give caravan owners a false sense of security, potentially leaving them exposed to significant financial losses.

Rather than relying on assumptions or hearsay, it’s important to research your insurance options thoroughly. Always read the policy documents, understand what is and isn’t covered, and speak to your insurer if you have any questions or concerns.

With the most appropriate touring caravan insurance cover or static home insurance in place, you can enjoy the freedom of caravan life with greater peace of mind.

Visit stunning Shropshire

It’s in the heartland of England – in the West Midlands, immediately accessible practically wherever you live in the UK. Many people will describe the best aspect of Shropshire as its stunning landscape and scenery. But there’s a whole lot more besides.

For those seeking some peace and quiet against a typically English rural background, you’ll be pleased to find that Shropshire is also a whole lot less touristy than, say, the Lake District or the Cotswolds.

The landscape

It’s in the very name – the Shropshire Hills National Landscape (successor designation for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Its 310 square miles (802sq. km) cover practically a quarter of the whole county.

The National Landscape also includes such popular landmarks and waymarked paths (from an easy stroll to a full day’s hiking) as:

  • Stiperstones – where the National Nature Reserve makes it a favourite for birdwatchers;
  • Wenlock Edge;
  • Long Mynd – the alternative terminal for the frequent bus shuttle tour from Stiperstones; and
  • The Wrekin – where a relatively short stroll will take you to the top of this iconic hill and its much-photographed panoramic vistas.

Picturesque towns and villages

Dotted around this stunning landscape of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and wilder heathland are the picturesque towns and villages of central England.

The quaint county town of Shrewsbury might be the initial focus of your discovery as you wander the cobbled streets once also walked by Charles Darwin, admire the many Tudor-period buildings, and browse its independent shops. A visit to Shrewsbury Abbey is also time well spent. The county council’s website offers a helpful selection of suggested walking tours to make the most of the town.

Other towns and villages to visit include Bishop’s Castle (for its artisanal breweries), Much Wenlock (where the Wenlock Olympic Games of 1850 were the forerunner of the modern Olympics), and Ludlow (with its welter of Michelin-starred restaurants making it a foodie haven).

History in abundance

Ironbridge Gorge can rightfully boast its place at the very heart of recent English history. It is the site of the Industrial Revolution that changed the face not only of this country but large parts of the world. (Our blog: 7 places to visit in Central England and the Midlands also covers Ironbridge Gorge).

It’s here that the modern process of smelting iron with coke was developed – igniting the revolution that fired English industrialisation with the construction of the iconic “iron bridge” that still stands today.

But Shropshire traces back its history much further. The ruins of Wroxeter Roman City – then called Viroconium – are evidence of a bustling Roman settlement.

The pivotal role played by a county on the border with Wales is ever-present and can be seen today in the likes of Ludlow Castle or Stokesay Castle.

Food and drink

Not only does Shropshire offer stunning landscapes, chocolate-box towns and villages, and history aplenty, but it also knows how to show its visitors the good life. Food and drink are accorded their proper respect and recognition throughout the county.

A case in point is the Ludlow Food Festival (held this year from the 12th to the 14th of September 2025) where a lively programme of cookery demonstrations, workshops, a live fire stage, and talks by international chefs and experts await – all showcasing the excellence of produce from the Ludlow Marches.

But you don’t have to wait until September. Farmers’ markets are held all year round throughout the county and you’ll be able to sample local fare such as Shropshire blue cheese, artisan ales, and Ludlow sausages.