The Alternative Caravan Essentials List

Perhaps it’s only fair, before we start, to tell you what this list is not. It isn’t a check-list of caravan accessories which you will find itemised in almost every caravanning guide ever printed or posted on the Internet which include such things as water pumps, waste-water containers, fresh water containers, towing mirrors, wheel-locks and so on. Of course those things are important but any seasoned caravanner will tell you that what ultimately dictates the success of a caravan holiday are certain items which may seem non-essential until a problem occurs.

We are all different and of course each of us has varying things which define our comfort or necessities but after you’ve consulted one of those ordinary lists you may want to run your eyes over this.

Corkscrew/bottle opener

Picture the scene – you roll up at the camp-site of your dreams, set up the awning, unfold the new recliners you have bought and get ready to sit and gaze over the ocean with a well earned glass of wine or ice-cold beer. Then you realise with a sinking heart that you have left the corkscrew at home. Certain laws of caravanning dictate that if the holiday starts this badly then it’s all down hill from here.

Wet weather plans

As Brits we are somewhat inured to the whims of the weather but a bad spell when caravanning can send the best of us stir crazy and if there are kids in the mix then it can be disastrous. Avert calamity and come prepared – board games, books, basic craft supplies and knowledge of the indoor attractions in the surrounding area. If all else fails make sure you have wellies and waterproofs to go and play in the rain.

Duct tape

Okay, bear with me on this one. As a camper and caravanner of many years standing this is my NUMBER ONE piece of kit. It is strong, waterproof and the most versatile camping and caravanning accessory known for every split, tear and repair which crops up (and there will be at least one); split awnings, split pipes, cracks in water containers, broken poles, leaking buckets and so on. It also makes a great first aid kit accessory (as waterproofing over plasters or bandages, with gauze it makes a dressing by itself or a blister pad and you can even use it to bind sprains).

Take it with you once and you’ll never leave home without it again.

Toilet chemicals and air freshener

If the weather is hot and you are running low on chemicals the caravan can become a rather unsavoury environment with a smell which pervades everything. Big camp-sites will often stock toilet chemicals but don’t take the chance and make sure your holiday home remains sweet smelling.

Fire extinguisher and fire blanket

If you are a Top Gear fan you will have seen how quickly a caravan is reduced to ashes in the event of a fire and it’s pretty scary. The most common cause of fires in caravans is while cooking so keep both an extinguisher and fire blanket very close by.

Leatherman or multi-purpose tool

Personally if I leave home with my Leatherman and duct tape I feel I’m fully equipped. Make sure it’s a good quality one which will stand up to any job and not a Mickey Mouse one that comes free with petrol. They are an invaluable investment with thousands of uses (and most of them have a corkscrew and bottle opener tool so you can cross that off your survival list).

Headtorch

For securing a flapping awning in the middle of the night, after dark shower runs or making your way home from the pub down unlit country lanes. Much better than a hand-held torch as it leaves both hands free.

Enthusiasm and a sense of humour

If you don’t bring these with you then you may as well stay at home too. Little things will go wrong and if you are new to caravanning then it’s almost certain that several things will go wrong until you become a more seasoned pro. Laugh at your mistakes and remind yourself that no matter what you have forgotten or whatever small disasters befall there is some way round it.

Think I have missed anything?  Use the comments section below to let me know what you would add to your alternative essentials list.