✅ Essentials Checklist
- Bedding (static caravan parks sometimes include it — confirm first)
- Towels (rarely provided even at good parks)
- Waterproof jacket
- Wellies for wet grass and site walkways
- Food and drink for the first day (site shops are expensive)
- Kitchen essentials not provided: cooking oil, spices, condiments
- Tea, coffee, sugar (not provided by most parks)
- Washing up liquid, sponge, tea towels
- Bags for rubbish
- Site booking confirmation and any passes
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Layers for variable weather
- Waterproof jacket
- Wellies
- Comfortable outdoor shoes
- Swimwear if pool or hot tub available
- Warm evening layer
⭐ Nice to Have
- Fold-out chairs for the veranda
- Barbecue or disposable BBQs (check site rules)
- Outdoor rug or mat for the caravan step
- Board games and cards for rainy evenings
- Bikes — many parks have excellent trails nearby
- Walking boots for nearby countryside
- Camera
Frequently Asked Questions
Do static caravan parks in the UK provide bedding?
It varies widely. Budget parks rarely include bedding. Mid-range and premium parks (Haven, Parkdean, Hoseasons premium sites) often include bedding as standard or offer it as a paid add-on. Always check before packing — a king size duvet in a suitcase takes significant space.
What is the difference between a touring caravan and a static caravan?
A touring caravan is towed by your own car and you stay at touring pitches on campsites. A static caravan is a permanent or semi-permanent structure on a holiday park. Static caravans are larger, better equipped and more comfortable. Touring caravans require a tow bar and some driving adjustment — most modern cars with a tow bar can manage a modern touring caravan.
Are UK caravan parks dog-friendly?
Many are. Haven, Parkdean and most independent parks have dedicated dog-friendly pitches or caravans, usually at a small surcharge. Check the maximum number of dogs allowed (usually 2) and whether dogs can be left unattended in the van (usually no). Some parks restrict certain breeds.