Are fairy lights and flags on caravans tasteful or tacky?
Travelling and holidaying by caravan is a fantastic way to get around, and can be an accessible and liberating way to explore the world on a budget. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some top practical tips and strategies for budget-friendly caravanning, proving that the joy of the open road doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag.
1. Planning Ahead
It’s worth doing your research on budget-friendly campsites and free camping areas that will be along your route, as prices do vary quite substantially. Take advantage of travelling off-peak (I.e., not in the school holidays) in order to secure lower campsite fees. Connect with the caravanning community on social media sites (there are a huge number of Facebook groups and forums, for example) to discover budget-friendly spots recommended by fellow travellers.
When money is tight, it can be useful to set a budget for the duration of your caravanning trip. Be sure to include a reserve for hidden costs such as tolls or ferry crossings. If you are a member of certain organisations such as The Camping and Caravanning Club, or have the CampingCard ACSI, check before you hit the road to see if they have any deals such as reduced site fees for your preferred campsite.
If possible, plan to use the onsite facilities as much as you can for washing up and showering to save on chemicals and water usage.
2. Repairs, Maintenance and Fuel
It’s generally a good idea to learn some basic caravan maintenance and repair skills to avoid the need for costly professional services when you’re on the move. Carry a basic toolkit for minor repairs and adjustments on the road, and regularly inspect and maintain your vehicle and caravan to prevent potential issues. You can easily do things such as remove roof moss and black streaks yourself; you can keep on top of charging the leisure battery sufficiently to prevent damage and the earlier than usual need for a replacement, and you can opt to maintain/replace any inbuilt water filters at suitable frequencies before any issues occur.
It’s also important to maintain your caravan and tow vehicle to ensure optimal fuel efficiency. When driving, plan your route to minimise unnecessary detours and maximise those fuel savings. You might want to consider investing in a fuel-efficient vehicle if you're planning extensive travels. You can also use one of the various fuel price comparison websites to find the cheapest fuel in areas that you are visiting or passing through. Keep your caravan as light in load as possible by removing anything you don’t really need. Remember also to keep your tyre pressure at the right level, as under inflated tyres can decrease fuel efficiency.
3. Be Self-Catering Savvy
Without spoiling the beauty of being able to go where the mood takes you, have a think about meals in advance to avoid unnecessary spending on fast food or restaurants. Pack non-perishable, budget-friendly food items such as pasta, pulses and rice in bulk before your trip, and embrace the art of one-pot meals for easy and cost-effective cooking. It’s a great idea to take advantage of visiting local produce markets for fresh and affordable ingredients to add to your one- pot meals, and if you have a small fridge or freezer onboard you can even do some batch cooking.
4. Economical Entertainment
There are so many outdoor activities that you can choose for free or next to no money. Perhaps you might opt for free or low-cost recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing or birdwatching. Bring along board games, cards, and books for budget-friendly entertainment on rainy days and for the evenings. If you are visiting local attractions, it’s often more cost effective to book online in advance than to just turn up on the day and pay the daily ticket price.
5. Budget-Friendly Gear
If you know where to look, you will find there are plenty of people selling second-hand camping gear and accessories, such as stoves, fridges, awnings and heaters. Have a look on sites such as eBay and Facebook Marketplace to hopefully bag a bargain.
You could also consider borrowing or renting gear for one-time use instead of buying it. If you’ve got friends who also have a caravan, consider clubbing together to buy certain items that you could share. Obviously it might not work if you are setting off on a trip together, but if you plan to holiday at different times of the year this could be a very cost effective way of ensuring you have what you need.
Hopefully that has given you some food for thought. Do remember that embarking on a budget-friendly caravan adventure is not about cutting corners; it's about making informed choices that allow you to savour the journey without straining your wallet. By planning ahead, embracing a certain amount of frugality, and leveraging cost-effective resources, you can enjoy the freedom of your trip without breaking the bank. Happy and economical travels!
