What to Pack for a Caravan Holiday
Our complete packing list — built up over three years and dozens of trips. Nothing on this list is filler.
Essentials
These are the non-negotiables — the things that, if you forget them, will cause a problem.
- EHU cable (25m recommended — longer than standard)
- Water hose and connector
- Aquaroll water carrier
- Waste Master or waste carrier
- Levelling ramps (Lock n Level)
- Wheel clamp and hitch lock
- Spirit level or levelling app
- Torch and spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher and fire blanket
- Caravan insurance documents
- Club membership card
- Site booking confirmation
Kitchen
- Cadac Carri Chef 50 and gas bottle
- Paella Pan 50 and Pizza Stone Pro 50
- Pots and pans (lightweight set)
- Chopping boards (at least two)
- Sharp knives in a knife roll
- Wooden spoons, spatulas, tongs
- Colander and mixing bowl
- Measuring jug
- Tin opener and bottle opener
- Washing-up bowl, brush, and liquid
- Tea towels (at least four)
- Reusable cups and water bottles
- Tupperware and food bags
- Foil and cling film
- Basic spice kit — salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, mixed herbs, garlic granules
- Olive oil in a small bottle
- Coffee and tea supplies
Kids
- Bikes and helmets
- Scooters
- Spinning chair (for service stations and on-site regulation)
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Fidget toys
- Weighted blanket
- Tablets and chargers
- Handheld games console and charger
- Familiar snacks — a good supply
- Wellies and waterproofs
- Sun cream and sun hats
- Swim kit and towels
- Wetsuits (for water parks and cold sea swimming)
- Spare socks — always more than you think you need
- Bucket and spade
- Small backpack for days out
[PERSONALISE: Add any specific items that are essential for Bodhi and River — things that are particular to your family’s needs.]
How to Pack
The Golden Rule
Pack the caravan the night before you leave, not on the morning of departure. Packing under pressure leads to forgotten items and a stressful start to the trip.
Weight Distribution
Heavy items should be placed low down and over the axle(s). Never pack heavy items in the front locker or the rear boot — this affects the nose weight and the handling of the outfit. Distribute weight evenly from side to side.
The Caravan Checklist
Before every departure, run through the following:
- All windows and roof lights closed and latched
- All cupboard doors closed and latched
- Fridge switched to 12V mode
- Gas turned off at the bottle
- Water system drained if not needed
- Jockey wheel raised and secured
- Corner steadies raised
- Breakaway cable attached
- All lights working
- Tyre pressures checked