What to pack for a caravan holiday

The O'Hallorans

We’re made up of Lyndsey, John and Erin, who all love a new adventure. We try to get away as much as possible, especially during school holidays and variety is a must for us. That means staying anywhere from a luxury hotel to a hostel and it’s not often we go to the same place twice.

Caravan holidays are a brilliant way for families to explore the UK, enjoy nature, and make lasting memories together. Whether you have your own caravan or are hiring one, packing smart is key to making your trip stress-free and enjoyable. Space is limited, and you’ll often need to be self-sufficient, so this guide covers all the essentials for a smooth and fun family caravan break.

1. Essential documents & info

Although each carvan park will differ, it’s always good to have some essential documents with you. I personally like to print what I can, just in case there’s no internet or my phone runs out of battery. Here are some things you might need with you:

Booking confirmation
Driving licence
Caravan site address and directions
Insurance documents
Breakdown cover information

2. Clothing for all weathers

British weather can be unpredictable, so layers are your best friend. If you’re arriving at your carvan holiday by car, it’s easy to pack as much as you like. This means sometimes packing for all seasons, and taking a mix of clothes.

Shoes

Depending on the season and location, wellies might be a good idea
Sandals if the weather is nice
Trainers are great if you want to take part in activities. Holiday parks like Haven sometimes require full shoes for sports activities
Walking boots if you’re an active family

Clothes

Hats, gloves and scarves for cooler months
Lightweight clothes for warmer days
Jumpers and cardigans for cooler evenings
A mix of shorts and long trousers
Dresses
A couple of smart shirts if you want to dress up for the evening entertainment
Cosy pyjamas and slippers

Top tip: If you’re travlling with children, especially the younger ages, it’s a good idea to pack a few more outfits than you really need. We all know kids get messy or wet so having a spare to hand could make a big difference.

3. Toiletries & personal care

Caravan holidays tend to be self-catering, which means taking everything you need yourself. Haven holidays are a prime example of this. It’s easy to forget some of these things, so hopefully this list will help:

Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Shampoo, conditioner and body wash
Towels and flannels
Extra toilet rolls
Hand soap
First aid kit with children’s medicines, plasters, antiseptic wipes
Sun cream and after sun lotion
Deodorants
Face wipes/ baby wipes
Moisturiser
Hand cream

4. Kitchen essentials

Caravans on holiday parks do tend to have quite a lot in the kitchen when you arrive, but there’s a lot you need to take yourself:

Tea towels
Washing-up liquid and sponge/ cloth
Bin bags
Food storage containers
Salt, pepper, oil and basic condiments
Tea, coffee, sugar
Squash/ fizzy drinks
Reusable water bottles and travel mugs
Food – we like to eat out a lot on holiday but if you have a good fridge/ freezer, you can plans meals accordingly
A couple of good knives! No matter where we go, there never seems to be a sharp knife, or a bread knife so we always take these with us

5. For the bedroom

Most caravan parks will come with beds already made but this really depends on where you stay. Here are a few things you might want to take with you:

Extra pillows – the pillows in caravans are never amazing so if you’re particular (like me), then take a couple from home to be safe
Mattress protectors (especially useful with young children)
Blankets or throws for extra warmth
Night lights for children
Favourite cuddly toys or bedtime comforters

6. Entertainment

While there’s always loads to do on a carvan park, kids get bored easily, or don’t enjoy down time. Avoid boredom with a variety of activities:

Books, activity books and puzzles
Tablets or portable devices (with headphones and chargers)
Outdoor toys like balls, scooters or kites
Board games or card games
Rainy day craft kits or colouring supplies
Swimming costume and towels if the park has a pool

7. Optional extras that make a big difference

None of these are essential, but they could make your holiday a bit less stressful:

Travel-sized washing machine or laundry pods (some parks have a laundrette)
Hooks or hanging organisers for extra storage
Power bank or multi-USB charger
Small fan or heater depending on the season

8. Baby & toddler must-haves

If you’re travelling with little ones, don’t forget:

Travel cot and baby bedding
Portable high chair or booster seat
Baby monitor
Changing mat, nappies and wipes
Snacks and sippy cups
Favourite soft toys and storybooks

A well-packed caravan means less stress and more time enjoying your break. It can be hard to know what to pack though sometimes, especially if this is your first ever caravan holiday. With this family-friendly packing list, you’ll be ready for adventure, no matter the weather.