Caravanning costs fall into three groups: the one-off kit, the yearly bills and the cost of each trip. This guide explains each one, so you can plan a budget that works for you.
Touring can be great value, especially once you own the kit. However, the costs add up in ways that surprise many new owners. So it helps to split them into three groups.
First, there are one-off costs, such as the caravan and the kit you need to tow and pitch it. Then there are yearly costs, like insurance, servicing and storage. Finally, every trip has its own costs, from pitch fees to fuel.
Prices vary a lot by season, region and the type of site. So treat the figures here as a guide, and always check current prices before you book. Everything here applies to motorhomes and campervans too. See Motorhome and Campervan Touring for the differences.
The biggest cost by far. New brings a warranty, while used is cheaper but needs careful checks. For a used caravan, a CRiS check shows its history for a small fee.
You’ll need proper towing mirrors and good security, such as a hitch lock and wheel clamp. Also, check your tow car is up to the job before you buy.
A 25-metre, 16 amp hook-up cable, levelling ramps, a water carrier and a waste container. In addition, you’ll need a gas bottle and regulator.
A motor mover makes pitching easier but adds cost and weight. Meanwhile, an awning adds space. So decide what you really need before buying.
Caravan insurance isn’t a legal requirement, but most owners see it as essential. Also, remember the excess. For example, a £150 compulsory and £250 voluntary excess means paying the first £400 of a claim.
Most caravans need a service every 12 months. According to the habitation checks guide, a habitation check alone is roughly £180 to £300. A full service with habitation is roughly £250 to £450 or more.
If it can’t live at home, you’ll need storage. Some insurers give a discount for recognised secure storage. However, you must declare the address accurately.
Check whether your cover includes the caravan. For trips abroad, you’ll also need European cover.
Many tourers join a club for site discounts and access. For example, CLs and CSs are only open to members of each club.
Caravan tyres age even if the tread looks fine. So budget to replace them at around five to seven years old.
Pitch fees. As a rough guide, basic field pitches cost £15 to £25 a night. Standard sites with facilities cost £25 to £45, and premium sites £45 to £60 or more. In addition, check for extra charges for hook-up, dogs, extra adults or an awning. Fully serviced pitches usually cost more too, as the fully serviced pitch guide explains.
Fuel. Towing uses more fuel than driving solo. So drive smoothly, keep your tyres at the right pressure and plan fuel stops before motorways.
Gas. Long winter trips can use a gas bottle surprisingly quickly. See the gas bottle guide.
Food and days out. Cooking at the caravan and packing lunches saves a lot. Also, coastal walks and country parks are often free.
Touring abroad. Budget for the crossing, motorway tolls, European breakdown cover and sometimes a Crit’Air sticker in France. The Caravanning in France guide explains each one.
A few simple habits make a big difference. These come from the guide to touring on a budget.
Ask Ellie can find campsites that match what you need. Then, on each campsite card, use the Holiday Cost Calculator button. It estimates the journey and holiday costs before you book.
Motorhome and campervan owners have most of the same costs, plus a few more. That’s because the home and the vehicle are one.
On the other hand, there’s no separate tow car to run. In Europe, aires can also cut the cost of overnight stops.
As a rough guide, from about £15 for a basic field pitch to £60 or more for a premium site. However, prices vary by season, pitch type and extras, so always check before you book.
No, not for a touring caravan in the UK. Even so, most owners consider it essential against theft, accidents and fire.
According to the habitation checks guide, roughly £250 to £450 or more for a full service with a habitation check. A habitation check on its own is roughly £180 to £300.
Usually, it’s the extras. For example, hook-up and dog fees, storage, tyres that age out, and gas on winter trips. So build them into your budget from the start.
Often, yes. Smaller and independent sites usually charge less than big holiday parks with pools and entertainment. For quiet, simple stays, see Off-Grid Caravanning and Small Sites.
Travel off-peak, choose smaller sites and stay longer in one place. The budget touring guide has more ideas.
Save campsites, plan upcoming stays and meet other tourers in the Community. Joining is free and takes under a minute.
