Tag: Caravan towing cover

Guide to buying your first caravan
🛻 Guide to Buying Your First Caravan

1. 🎯 Define Your Needs

Start with the essentials:
- How many people will use it? Couples may only need a 2-berth, while families may need 4–6 berths.
- How often will you use it? Occasional trips vs. full-time travel can impact what type of caravan is suitable.
- Where will you travel? On-road or off-road? International or domestic?
- Towing vehicle? Ensure your car is suitable (see below).
2. 🚙 Check Your Towing Capacity

Your vehicle’s towing capacity is critical.
- Check the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) and Tare weight of the caravan.
- Match it to your car’s Maximum Braked Towing Capacity.
- Remember the Gross Combination Mass (GCM) if loading both the vehicle and caravan.
- Make sure you have a suitble tow bar that takes the correct nose weight, you can test your caravans nose weight with this device (Click here)
💡 Pro tip: Stay under 85% of your car’s kerb weight for safer towing if you’re a beginner.

Elddis Aurora Caravn and Land Rover Freelander

3. 🏕️ New vs. Used Caravans

New Caravan Pros:
- Warranty and latest tech.
- No hidden damage.
Used Caravan Pros:
- More affordable.
- Slower depreciation.
🔍 When buying used, inspect:
- Damp, mold, and water damage. You can buy a damp meter tester. (Click here)
- Chassis and tires.
- Appliances and electrics.
- Service history.
Elddis Typhoon GT 1997

4. 🛏️ Layout and Features

Popular layouts vary—visit dealerships or expos to explore:
- Fixed bed vs. convertible seating (Click here)
- Separate shower/toilet or combined wet room
- Kitchen space (Click here) and cooking appliances (Click here)
- Storage options (Click here)
🔧 Must-have features for many:
- Heating/AC
- Solar or battery setup (Click here)
- Awning – (Click Here)
- Security devices (tracker, wheel lock) (Click here) for the one that we use.
5. 💰 Budget and Hidden Costs

Besides the purchase price, consider:
- Insurance
- Storage (if not kept at home)
- Maintenance and servicing
- Towing mirrors and hitch locks. Towing mirror (Click here)
- Site fees and club memberships (like Caravan and Motorhome Club)
6. 🧾 Legal & Safety Requirements (UK Example)
- Valid driving licence for the weight (Check your Category B license limits)
- Number plate on the caravan
- Properly rated towbar and electrics Example Alko system requires this tow hitch (Click here)
- Working brake lights and indicators
- Ensure caravan brakes and breakaway cable are functional. Buy a replacement (Click here)
7. 📍 Where to Buy
- Dealerships – Safer, with consumer protections
- Online marketplaces (e.g., Autotrader, Facebook marketplace)
- Caravan shows – Try multiple models in one place
- Private sellers – Cheaper but riskier
8. 🧪 Try Before You Buy

If unsure, rent a caravan for a weekend. This gives you a real sense of what layout and size works for you.

9. 🛠️ Plan for Servicing and Storage
- Annual servicing is recommended (chassis, gas, electrics).
- Store under cover if possible to reduce wear. You can buy one (Click here)
10. 🧭 Join a Caravan Community

Great for advice, buying tips, campsite recommendations:
- Caravan and Motorhome Club
- Online forums or Facebook groups
- YouTube channels (many do walkarounds and reviews)
For all your caravan needs or to browse (Click here)
June 1, 2025
Travel guide around Northern Ireland in a caravan with an itinerary
Traveling by caravan in Northern Ireland is a fantastic way to explore its stunning landscapes, coastal drives, and historic sites at your own pace. Here’s a guide to help you plan a caravan trip in Northern Ireland:

🚐 Why Caravan Travel in Northern Ireland?
- Freedom and Flexibility: Explore the countryside, coasts, and towns without strict itineraries.
- Scenic Routes: The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the most breathtaking drives in the world.
- Compact Region: Northern Ireland is relatively small, making it ideal for road trips.
🗺️ Top Caravan Routes & Destinations

1. Causeway Coastal Route
- Highlights: Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, Ballintoy.
- Camping Spots:
  - Causeway Coast Holiday Park (near Ballycastle)
  - Glenmore Caravan & Camping Park
2. Mourne Mountains & County Down
- Highlights: Silent Valley, Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle seaside town.
- Camping Spots:
  - Tollymore Forest Park Caravan Site
  - Annalong Holiday Park
Tollymore Co.Down

3. Fermanagh Lakelands
- Highlights: Lough Erne, Enniskillen Castle, Marble Arch Caves.
- Camping Spots:
  - Blaney Caravan Park
  - Rushin House Caravan Park
4. Derry~Londonderry & Sperrins
- Highlights: Historic Derry walls, Sperrin Mountains, Beaghmore Stone Circles.
- Camping Spots:
  - Drumaheglis Marina & Caravan Park
  - Dungiven Castle Campsite
🏕️ Recommended Caravan Parks
- Six Mile Water Caravan Park (Antrim)
- Jordanstown Loughshore Caravan Park (Belfast area)
- Castle Archdale Caravan Park (Fermanagh)
Castlearchdale Co. Fermanagh

💡 Tips for Caravaning in Northern Ireland
- Driving: Left-hand side of the road; rural roads can be narrow.
- Weather: Pack for all conditions — it can change rapidly.
- Booking: Reserve popular sites in advance, especially in summer.
- Wild Camping: Restricted in Northern Ireland. Stick to designated sites unless you get landowner permission.
🚦 Need a Rental Caravan?

There are several local rental services such as:
- Bunk Campers (Belfast-based)
- Causeway Campers
- Go Explore NI
🗓️ 7-Day Northern Ireland Caravan Itinerary

Day 1: Belfast
- Things to Do:
  - Titanic Belfast Museum
  - Crumlin Road Gaol
  - St. George’s Market
- Stay:
  🏕 Jordanstown Loughshore Caravan Park (15 mins from city center with views over Belfast Lough)
Loughshore Jordanstown Belfast

Day 2: Antrim Coast to Ballycastle (Causeway Coastal Route)
- Drive: 1.5 hours via A2 (scenic)
- Stops:
  - Carrickfergus Castle
  - The Gobbins cliff path (advance booking needed)
  - Glenarm Castle Gardens
- Stay:
  🏕 Causeway Coast Holiday Park (Ballycastle)
Day 3: Giant’s Causeway & Surrounds
- Explore:
  - Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO)
  - Dunluce Castle
  - Bushmills Distillery (optional tasting tour)
- Stay:
  🏕 Glenmore Caravan and Camping Park (close to Ballintoy/Causeway)
Giants Causeway

Day 4: Derry~Londonderry
- Drive: ~1.5 hrs
- Explore:
  - Walk the historic Derry walls
  - Museum of Free Derry
  - Peace Bridge over the River Foyle
- Stay:
  🏕 Drumaheglis Marina & Caravan Park or Benone Tourist Complex
Day 5: Fermanagh Lakelands
- Drive: 2–2.5 hrs
- Explore:
  - Marble Arch Caves
  - Boat trip on Lower Lough Erne
  - Enniskillen Castle
- Stay:
  🏕 Castle Archdale Caravan Park (lakeside)
Marble Arch Caves

Day 6: Mourne Mountains / Tollymore Forest
- Drive: 2.5 hrs
- Explore:
  - Silent Valley Reservoir
  - Tollymore Forest Park (Game of Thrones filming location)
  - Newcastle town and beach
- Stay:
  🏕 Tollymore Forest Park Caravan Site
Tollymore Forest Park

Day 7: Return to Belfast via Strangford Lough
- Optional Stops:
  - Downpatrick (St. Patrick’s grave)
  - Mount Stewart House & Gardens (National Trust)
  - Scenic ferry across Strangford Lough
- Return caravan (if rented) or overnight again at Jordanstown
Strangford Lough Ferry

📌 Notes:
- All suggested sites are caravan-accessible or have parking nearby.
- Fuel is widely available, but top up before long rural stretches.
- Most caravan parks offer electric hook up, water, and waste disposal.
- This is only a rough guide it can be extended or shortened or done which ever way you prefer.
Here are some caravanning essentials:

Blue chemical toilet fluid – (Click here)

Rain Poncho – (Click here)

Flash Light – (Click here)

Have a look at our post on caravan towing covers – (click here)
June 1, 2025
Quick guide on caravan awning accessories
Here’s a list of common caravan awning accessories, organized by category, to help you equip and enhance your setup:

🛠️ Installation & Setup Accessories
- Awning pegs/stakes – Standard or heavy-duty depending on ground conditions. (Click here)
- Guy ropes & tensioners – For securing in windy conditions.
- Pole sets or air beams – Replacement or upgrade kits for frame support.
- Awning rail lubricant – Makes it easier to slide awning into the rail. (Click here)
- Draft skirt – Fills the gap under the caravan to reduce wind and drafts. (Click here)
- Wheel arch cover – Blocks drafts around the wheel arch area. (Click here)
🧼 Protection & Maintenance
- Awning cleaner – For removing dirt, algae, and mildew. (Click here)
- Waterproofing spray – Restores or enhances water resistance. (Click here)
- Awning storage bags – Keeps it clean and organized when not in use.
- Groundsheet or footprint – Protects the awning floor and improves comfort. (Click here)
💡 Comfort & Living Accessories
- Awning carpet/mat – Adds insulation and comfort underfoot. (Click here)
- Lighting – LED strip lights, lanterns, or solar-powered options.
- Heating/cooling fans – Electric or gas heaters, portable fans for airflow.
- Furniture – Foldable tables, chairs, storage units, and cupboards. (Click here)
- Curtains or blinds – For extra privacy and light control.
🔌 Power & Connectivity
- 12V and 240V power adapters – For lights, appliances, or chargers.
- Extension leads & cable tidy – For safe, flexible power setups.
- USB charging hubs – For phones, tablets, etc.
🛑 Security & Safety
- Awning tie-down kits – For added storm protection.
- Awning windbreaks – Provides privacy and wind shelter. (Click here)
- Bug screens or mesh doors – Keep insects out.
- Carbon monoxide/smoke detectors – Especially if using gas heaters inside.
⛺ Add-ons & Expansions
- Annexes or extensions – Add sleeping space or storage.
- Sun canopies or verandas – For shade without full enclosure. (Click here)
- Side panels/front panels – Customize based on wind/weather direction.
- Porch awnings – Smaller, quicker to erect than full awnings. (Click here)
Why not check out our other post on Caravan porch awnings? (click here)
May 30, 2025
Why is it important to have a towing cover on your caravan?

A caravan towing cover is an essential accessory for protecting your caravan during transit. Here’s why it’s important:

1. Protection from Debris: While towing, your caravan’s front panel is vulnerable to stones, bugs, mud, and other road debris. A towing cover acts as a shield, preventing chips, scratches, and stains.

2. Preserves Appearance: By minimizing damage from road grime and UV exposure, it helps maintain the caravan’s exterior, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and touch-ups.

3. Prevents Window Damage: Many caravans have large front windows made of acrylic or plastic, which are prone to cracking or scratching. A towing cover helps keep them intact.

4. Improves Resale Value: A well-maintained exterior suggests careful ownership, making your caravan more attractive to buyers.

5. Custom Fit and Visibility: Most covers are tailored to fit specific caravan models and include reflective strips or lights for better visibility and safety while on the road. In short, a towing cover is a smart investment that extends the life and looks of your caravan.

Here are 5 of the most recommended caravan tow cover brands, known for their durability, fit, and protection:

1. Specialised Covers Why it’s recommended: UK-based, high-quality, custom-fit towing covers tailored to specific caravan models. Easy to fit, with clear window options and reflective strips.

Popular product: Tow Pro Elite

2. Protec Covers Why it’s recommended: Known for bespoke, made-to-order towing covers. Strong build with padded protection and optional window access.

Popular product: Protec Towing Jacket

3. Purple Line (FullStop) Why it’s recommended: Offers durable and universal-fit tow covers. Less expensive than custom-fit brands but still reliable.

Popular product: FullStop Towing Jacket

4. Tow-Guard Why it’s recommended: Focuses on universal and semi-custom covers. Well-praised for ease of installation and robust materials.

Popular product: Tow-Guard Front Cover

5. Maypole Why it’s recommended: Budget-friendly, decent protection. Offers adjustable, universal designs that fit a wide range of caravans.

Popular product: Maypole Universal Caravan Towing Cover (Click here)

For the best results, choose a brand that offers a cover tailored to your specific caravan make and model.

The one we are currently using on our own caravan is (Click here)

May 29, 2025