With more people ditching the airport queues, the UK’s love affair with caravanning shows no sign of slowing.
British domestic tourism is thriving, with overnight holiday spending in England rising 5% according to the latest Great Britain Tourism Survey.
In England alone, holidaymakers spent £27.3 billion on overnight trips in 2024, up from £26 billion in the previous year.
As international travel costs soar and the appeal of the British countryside continues to grow, more people are turning to staycations that offer comfort, flexibility, and value for money. Caravanning, in particular, is experiencing a surge in popularity, offering travellers the freedom to explore without compromising on convenience.
Caravan parks across the UK have reported record bookings this year, with holidaymakers turning their backs on airports and embracing the freedom and flexibility offered by life on the road.
We’ve seen a steady rise in demand for both new and pre-owned models, with many customers trading up to larger, more luxurious options to support longer trips across the UK.
James Roper, Managing Director commented from caravan specialists Ropers:
“Those looking for a holiday are actively choosing caravanning as their first-choice staycation. They want quality, independence, and the ability to create lasting memories without the stress of international travel.”
He continued:
“Modern caravans are meeting that demand head-on. Stylish interiors, home-from-home facilities, and technology-friendly layouts mean families can travel in comfort without losing the charm of the open road. Whether pitching up by a quiet loch, a coastal cliff top, or deep in the countryside, caravan owners are unlocking destinations that offer both adventure and relaxation.”
Spending per break has increased significantly. The average spend per trip in England rose from £262 to £305 in 2024, with nightly spend also jumping from £93 to £107. This reflects a growing trend towards more premium and experience-led domestic holidays.
As Britain gears up for another busy summer season, the message is clear, home-grown holidays are here to stay. And for those looking to combine exploration, comfort, and control over their plans, there’s no better way to travel than with a caravan hitched and ready for the open road.
With over 40 years of experience, we continue to support the UK’s growing leisure market by helping families find the perfect caravan for their lifestyle.
Taking your first trip in a motorhome is an exciting step toward freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable road trip memories. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer tour across the UK and beyond, knowing a few key tips can make the experience smoother, and far more enjoyable.
We’ve helped countless new explorers find their perfect leisure vehicle, and we know that good advice at the start goes a long way. So if you’re just beginning your motorhome journey, here are some essential pointers to get you off to a great start.
Get to Know Your Motorhome
Before you set off, take some time to familiarise yourself with your vehicle. Know how to check water levels, operate the heating system, empty the waste tanks, and switch between gas and electric.
We’ll walk you through all the key features of your motorhome, so you’re not left guessing at your first pitch stop.
Planning Ahead
One of the joys of motorhoming is bringing your home comforts with you, but space is still limited. Think practical over plentiful: clothes suitable for all weathers, a decent toolkit, collapsible kitchenware, and a first-aid kit are all must-haves.
That said, don’t forget the little luxuries that make the trip feel special, a favourite book, a portable speaker, or even fairy lights can make your pitch feel cosy and personal.
It’s wise to have a loose itinerary and book your first few nights at campsites in advance, especially during busy seasons. Apps like Searchforsites or Park4Night are brilliant for finding places to stay on the go.
Still, one of the greatest joys of owning a motorhome is the ability to change plans at a moment’s notice. Embrace that flexibility, you never know when you’ll fall in love with a location and want to stay an extra night or two
Practice Driving & Maintenance
Driving a motorhome is a little different from driving a car, especially when it comes to reversing or navigating tight turns. Try a few short local trips to get used to the size and handling.
A well-maintained motorhome keeps your trips stress-free. Regular checks on tyres, brakes, fluid levels, and electrics are essential. If your vehicle’s due for a service or habitation check, we can help with that too.
If you’re still browsing and considering the right option for your needs, we offer a wide range of motorhomes, including popular brands trusted by UK travellers.
Ready to Hit the Road?
Motorhoming offers a unique way to explore at your own pace, with your own comforts close to hand. With the right preparation, your first trip can be the start of many more adventures to come.
If you’re at the beginning of your motorhome journey, we’re here to help! Whether it’s finding your first vehicle, getting kitted out, or offering friendly advice before you set off. Contact us today!
Holiday costs have gone through the roof lately. With everything from groceries to energy bills squeezing household budgets, many families are wondering if they can still afford a proper break away. The good news? Caravanning remains one of the smartest ways to enjoy fantastic holidays without breaking the bank.
A typical family holiday break for a week can easily set you back £2,000-£3,000 when you factor in accommodation, meals out, and keeping the kids entertained. Compare that to a week’s caravanning holiday, which might cost just £200-£400 for pitch fees, plus your fuel and weekly shop – that’s genuine savings of thousands of pounds each year.
For families who love getting away regularly, these savings really add up. Many of our customers find their caravan pays for itself within just two to three years compared to what they used to spend on hotel holidays. It’s less of a purchase and more of an investment in years of affordable breaks.
Flexibility & Freedom
One of the best things about owning a caravan is the flexibility it gives you. Fancy a spontaneous weekend exploring the Yorkshire Dales or the stunning Cornish coast? Just hitch up and go! No need to pay those last-minute booking fees that hotels love to charge.
And let’s talk about food costs. Eating out with the family can easily cost £100+ per day on holiday, but with your caravan’s kitchen, you can whip up meals for a fraction of that price. You still get the holiday feeling, just without the restaurant bills adding up.
Multiple Breaks for One Investment
This is where caravanning really shines. Instead of saving up all year for one expensive holiday, caravan owners typically enjoy several breaks – spring weekends in the Lake District, summer weeks on the Norfolk Broads, autumn tours through the Scottish Highlands, and even cosy winter escapes to Devon or Wales.
We regularly chat with customers who take eight or ten trips per year with their caravan. When you work out the cost per night, it’s a fraction of what hotel guests pay for similar experiences.
Rising Costs Make Caravanning Even More Attractive
UK hotels and holiday parks have been pushing their prices up well beyond general inflation. This trend makes caravan ownership increasingly appealing as a way to avoid these costs.
Meanwhile, caravan site fees have stayed relatively stable. Many excellent parks charge just £20-£35 per night for your pitch, regardless of how many of you there are. Compare that to hotels charging per person or needing multiple rooms for larger families, and the savings become crystal clear.
Exploring Britain’s Hidden Gems
The UK is absolutely packed with incredible spots perfect for a relaxing caravan holiday. From the coastlines of Northumberland and the peaceful countryside of the Cotswolds, to the stunning beaches of Pembrokeshire and the Scottish highlands. There’s no shortage of breathtaking places to explore.
The beauty of caravanning is that you can wake up to different spectacular views whenever you fancy. One week you might be listening to waves crash on a Dorset beach, the next you could be surrounded by the rolling hills of the Peak District. It’s like having a holiday home that you can relocate to wherever you fancy.
Quality Caravans Hold Their Value
Modern caravans are built to last, with high-quality materials, stylish interiors, and innovative features that make them a smart long-term investment. Unlike older models, today’s caravans are designed with durability and comfort in mind, helping them retain their value for longer. Whether it’s a sleek, energy-efficient layout or upgraded insulation and fittings, these improvements make modern caravans more appealing to buyers, even years down the line.
If you’re considering making a purchase, exploring our range of new caravans can give you a sense of the latest designs and features available. Alternatively, for those looking for even better value without compromising on quality, our selection of used caravans includes well-maintained models that still offer excellent performance and comfort.
Making It Work for Your Budget
If you’re thinking about making the switch to caravanning, the maths really do stack up nicely. A quality used caravan can be yours for £8,000-£15,000, while new models from Bailey and other top manufacturers start from around £18,000. When you compare that to spending £3,000-£5,000 annually on family holidays, the payback period is pretty impressive.
Finance options make it even more manageable, with monthly payments often working out less than what families typically budget for their annual holiday – yet giving you the freedom to get away whenever you fancy it.
Why 2025 Is Perfect for Caravanning
As we’re well into 2025, the economic case for caravanning just keeps getting stronger. While accommodation prices remain stubbornly high, the gap between traditional holidays and caravanning costs continues to widen in our favour.
The staycation trend has also worked wonders for UK caravan sites. The quality and variety of facilities available now means you can enjoy brilliant amenities without the expense and hassle of travelling abroad. Ready to discover just how cost-effective caravanning can be? We’d love to help you find the perfect caravan to match your budget and holiday dreams, with both new Bailey models and quality used caravans available to suit every family’s needs.
