Don’t be put off by a little chill in the air, winter caravanning is very much on the cards these days – even if you’re occasionally tempted to pull on the thermals!
Perhaps more than at other times of the year, though, you might want to give a little more forethought and planning before venturing out with your caravan in the wintertime.
Here are some factors to consider when caravanning in the winter …
Know just where you’re going
In the warmer months of spring and summer, you might take to the open road, see wherever you end up by nightfall and easily find a suitable pitch for the night. In winter, of course, things are likely to be a little different since many sites will have closed for the season.
With careful planning, however, you are likely to find those sites that are open all the year round. Both the Caravan and Motorhome Club and the Camping and Caravanning Club, list caravan sites that are year round.
To be doubly sure that there’ll be a pitch for you, make sure to book ahead.
What to do and what to see
Practically any destination is going to be different in the wintertime compared with the summer – it’s not just the landscapes that change, but things like markets, events, and other attractions that are open at various times of the year.
In some places, that might mean that there is even more to see and do when the days are shorter and the weather is chillier – you might just have picked the right time to come caravanning.
Where can you stock up?
Though they might not have closed for the season, you might find a long walk to the shops less agreeable when the weather turns bad. Before choosing a campsite that is open all year, consider how close are the local shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants.
If there is an onsite shop or store that remains open during the winter months, so much the better.
Winter caravanning packing checklist
When you’re heading off in your caravan during the colder months, a bit of extra planning can make all the difference. Here’s a useful list of things to take to keep you warm, safe and comfortable.
Warmth and comfort
- Extra blankets or duvets
- Thermal clothing and thick socks
- Hot water bottles or heat pads
- An insulated mat or rug for the awning or doorway
Heating and power
- Full gas bottles, plus a spare
- Electric hook-up lead and adaptor
- Power bank for charging phones
- Extension lead with surge protection
- Matches or a lighter for the hob
Lighting and visibility
- Torches or headlamps with spare batteries
- A lantern or rechargeable camping light
- Reflective vests or markers if you’re walking in the dark
- A warning triangle and light for roadside use
Food and cooking
- Tinned or dried food that’s easy to heat
- Long-life milk, tea, coffee and snacks
- A portable stove or kettle if you’re cooking outside
- Basic utensils, pans, plates, mugs and cutlery
- Water containers and a good thermos flask
Vehicle and caravan essentials
- Screen wash that won’t freeze
- De-icer and an ice scraper
- Small shovel and a bag of grit or salt
- Jump leads and a tow rope
- Tyre pressure gauge and pump
- Levelling ramps and wheel chocks
- Spare bulbs, fuses and a small toolkit
Health and safety
- A well-stocked first aid kit
- Hand sanitiser, tissues and wet wipes
- Any regular medication
- Emergency contact numbers and your caravan insurance details
Comfort and convenience
- Waterproof boots or wellies
- A small drying rack for wet clothes
- A doormat to stop mud getting in
- Books, games or a tablet for evenings in
- A small vacuum or brush for quick clean-ups
Important documents
- Driving licence and caravan papers
- Insurance and breakdown details
- Site booking confirmation
- Emergency contact list.
Take extra care on the roads
Now that you’ve prepared your ‘van, booked your pitch and hitched up, all that remains is to take to the road exercising that special care and attention that driving in wintry conditions entails.
Towing a caravan adds a particular challenge to your driving skills at the best of times – in the winter’s ice and snow, it can be especially demanding. Now might be the time to refresh your knowledge by reading the National Caravan Council’s (NCC) comprehensive Caravan Towing Guide.
Enjoy the trip!
Winter caravanning can be every bit as enjoyable as summer touring and, sometimes, even more so. With quieter roads, peaceful sites, and crisp morning views, it offers a completely different kind of adventure. As long as you plan ahead, pack wisely and keep an eye on the weather, you can enjoy the comfort of your caravan while exploring the UK’s wintry landscapes in warmth and style.
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