In caravanning as in life, there are some things you simply must have or do. These days, caravanning life has changed beyond recognition. Where once it probably meant a couple of weeks away just getting away from it all by roughing it a little, today it remains a chance to escape the humdrum of everyday life without roughing it at all.

Essential home comforts – including all the latest communications gadgets and devices – have become a necessary part of that two-week travelling caravan break.

Before getting down to the nitty-gritty of must-haves, though, let’s spare a thought for the must-do’s. If your caravan has been languishing in your driveway at home or stored away during the winter, it first needs a good old-fashioned spring clean. It’s your first must-do – and all the must-haves can follow on later.

Must do’s

Spring cleaning your caravan

Spring cleaning might often be seen as a chore. When it comes to spring cleaning your caravan, however, it is probably the first sign of your getting ready for the coming new season of holidays and outings. The sense of anticipated fun, adventure and relaxation might make spring cleaning a surprisingly welcome and pleasant task!

So that you only have to do it once in preparation for the coming season, and to help you get the task done properly, you might want to take on board some of the following tips and suggestions.

Spring clean your insurance

Your first spring cleaning exercise involves no physical effort on your part at all – but is no less important for all that.

An annual spring clean of your caravan insurance may ensure not only that your cover is up to date, but that it reflects the steady changes in market valuations and provides the appropriate scope and level of protection for you and your family.

As part of that annual health check, you might want to contact us here at Cover4Caravans to ensure you still have the most appropriate insurance and at a cost-effective price.

Cleaning and maintenance

When cleaning, the job falls naturally into two parts – the inside and the outside of your ‘van:

Inside

• dust and hoover as you would any other room in your house, of course;
• but with a caravan, one of your main enemies is likely to be condensation, damp and the potentially very damaging mould that may grow in such conditions;
• use your nose or a purpose-designed damp meter to detect the tell-tale signs of damp before it has the chance to get hold;
• give the interior a thorough airing and ensure that air vents are unblocked and properly facilitating the flow of air;
• flush through the water system, using a proprietary freshwater cleaning agent if you so wish – refer to the manufacturer’s instructions;
• another place where you should never use bleach is the toilet in your caravan, where once again you need to select a proprietary cleaner;
• while on your internal spring cleaning, check that both gas and electrical appliances are working and the connections in good order – or get them checked by a professional;
• check the gas cylinders, if necessary, weighing them to make sure that there is enough for at least your next outing;
• make sure your fire extinguisher and smoke alarm are still in date and working correctly – these are easy to overlook but vital in an emergency.

Outside

• tackling the outside of your caravan is essentially a question of plenty of water, a good sponge, and the appropriate amount of elbow grease to remove the stains, bird lime and sap from trees that may otherwise damage the finish of external surfaces;
• the general consensus is that high-pressure water hoses should be avoided;
• cleaning the outside of your caravan, therefore, is likely to be a pretty straightforward affair – potentially more important are some of the essential safety and maintenance checks that need to be done;
• don’t forget to lubricate external locks, hinges and corner steadies to keep them moving freely throughout the season.

Wheels and tyres

• properly checking the wheels and tyres after a long winter’s layover, for instance, is likely to require you jacking up the caravan, resting it on axle supports and deploying the corner stays;
• when safely raised from the ground, grip the tyre of each wheel, and attempt to wiggle it from side to side – there should, of course, be no detectable play in the wheel bearings;
• on the tyres themselves, you need to check for cuts, bulges and other deformities and ensure that the full depth of tread follows a straight path around the whole circumference of the tyre (further reading: How old are your tyres?);
• if your caravan has been stationary for some time, consider rotating the tyres or even replacing them if they’re past their prime, regardless of tread.

Brakes

• with the caravan raised off the ground, you also need to check that the brakes are working correctly;
• to check that there has been no binding – especially if the brake has been left on during the winter – simply spin the wheel and listen carefully;
• provided there is only the sound of the brake shoes gently brushing the inside of the wheel, everything is likely to be fine, but if there is a significant dragging noise the brakes need adjusting by removing each wheel;
• when the adjustments have been made, remember to do the wheel spin test once again before satisfying yourself that the brakes are working safely.

Hitch, jockey, and steadies

• the final series of external checks involve the hitch mechanism, the jockey wheel, and the corner steadies;
• as the only point of contact between your caravan and the car towing it, the hitch is clearly an important mechanism;
• the hitch must be firmly secured, and the head needs to be clean and properly greased, checking too that the breakaway cable is in excellent condition;
• maintenance of the jockey is essentially a question of the wheel rotating freely and you being able to raise and lower it easily – in other words, suitable attention to greasing points;
• corner stays might also be checked that they are in smooth working order simply by cleaning them – with brake fluid if necessary – and greasing the operating mechanism;
• finally, inspect your towing mirrors and number plate lighting – small things, but legal requirements that often get missed.

Must-haves

Switching from that must-do spring clean to what you must-have for your caravan allows you to be a little more indulgent.

Let’s consider just some of how your chosen must-haves might make life easier.

Motor movers

Touring caravans are designed with weight considerations in mind – with careful balance making for easier manoeuvring.

But there are still situations where you might find it challenging to manoeuvre. A motor mover is designed to give you just that little extra help. It might be needed when space is restricted, and the caravan needs to be unhitched from the car or when you need to align the wheels precisely so that a wheel lock may be used to provide that extra level of security.

Motor movers work on the principle of providing power to turn the wheels of the caravan to move it backwards and forwards and turn it in tight spaces. The power typically comes from the caravan’s own battery and the work is done by clamps which fit against the tyre.

Generally, the motor mover is simple and easy to operate through the kind of remote control device you might use with a television set.

Further reading: Motor movers explained

Solar chargers

Getting away from it all is one thing but doing without all your favourite gadgets and devices is another thing entirely.

A solar charger provides a ready – and free – source for all those power-hungry devices such as telephones, laptops, games controllers, and batteries.

Cookers and hobs

So, we’ve enjoyed a mini-succession of especially fine summers, but it’s still somewhat optimistic to hope to do all of your cooking over a campsite barbeque.

Thankfully, you can buy a whole range of cooking aids for your caravan ranging from a single burner hob right through to a full-sized oven – allowing you to give full rein to your culinary expertise.

Satellite systems on the go

If the idea of missing out on your favourite TV programmes while you are away is a non-starter, then a portable satellite system may help you ensure that you stay up to date with all those plot lines.

It will also provide a source of entertainment for the kids on those occasional days when you can’t get out and about.

Shower al fresco

Maybe not what springs immediately to mind when you think about high-tech gadgets but what about a portable external shower unit so you can help ensure that all that sand or mud stays outside where it belongs?

Further reading: Which caravan gadgets? and Guide to Caravan Gadgets.

But remember …

If you intend to buy a few of these must-have items, be sure to check that your caravan insurance covers them.

Final thoughts

Caravanning has come a long way from its humble beginnings, and today it offers all the freedom of the open road – with none of the compromises.

Whether you’re deep-cleaning your van for the season ahead, upgrading with clever tech, or ticking off essential maintenance checks, taking the time to get your caravan in top shape will help ensure smoother, safer and more enjoyable travels.

And once that’s all done? You can relax, unwind, and get back to what it’s really all about – the adventure.

Disclaimer

Please note – the maintenance tips in this article – including those related to brakes, tyres, electrics and gas etc – are for general guidance only. If you’re unsure, always consult your caravan manufacturer’s handbook or speak to a qualified professional. Safety must always come first, and certain checks or repairs should only be carried out by someone competent and experienced in caravan maintenance.

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.

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 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.

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

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. 

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, café, shops, and toilets.  A bus does drop you off at the end of the lane to the attraction and is about a ¼ mile walk from the bus stop.

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.

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.

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 5^th 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 £1.25m

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 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 £35,000. 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.