Packing a Caravan Checklist

Ultimate packing a caravan checklist – Download & Print

For some of you, you may feel that a packing a caravan checklist is unnecessary. You have done it so many times that everything is instinctual. You know what you need like the back of your hand.

Unfortunately, not everyone is in that position. It may sound like I am being over dramatic but missing a few important bits can really cause an issue, especially if you cannot get replacements once you get to your caravan site.

In this article, I will break down exactly what you need to bring when packing a caravan for travelling. Obviously, you will make your own mind up about whether it is necessary so feel free to ignore them. This list is something I have built over the years. It definitely helps as the years roll by.

I will list them below but I have also attached a downloadable PDF in the form of a checklist. Simply print it and tick the boxes as you go along.

Things to consider before you start packing

Before I get onto the list, there are things that you should consider. There is a weight limit on a loaded caravan which will be dependent on the caravan and licence you hold. You obviously need to act within the law when kitting out your caravan.

You also need to load your caravan with best practices in mind. This will balance the caravan load and make it more stable. An unstable caravan is dangerous and difficult to control. Stick with the guidelines, they are important.

Saving weight should be a priority. Not only does this make your journey easier, it makes it cheaper too. The less weight you take, the easier it is on your fuel…as well as the strain on your vehicle.

You need to be brutal so consider the following;

Gas

Do you really need to take a full bottle of gas? If you are travelling to a warm climate or during the summer, the amount of gas you need is minimal. Add into the fact that gas is more often than not available at your destination, it makes little sense to take a full bottle.

Water

The same situation applies as the Gas. Water in most cases is freely available, therefore it makes little sense to fill your container and cistern fully. It literally costs you money to do so.

Make use of the space in your car boot

Often you will find that people pack everything into their caravan…because that is where it will belong. I always find that storing things in your boot, especially some heavier items like spare wheels can better balance the overall car and caravan. This just means a smoother journey.

Bicycles

People are tempted to take their bikes as they already own them. However, they can be heavy and cumbersome and if they are for all the family, they take a lot of room.

Have you considered hiring them at the caravan park? Many places now offer this facility and it is relatively affordable. Simply book them for when you need them. If they are children’s bikes, then it may be worth taking their own as they are likely to be on them most the time.

Will you actually put up your awning?

I have an awning for my caravan that I always took with me but didn’t always put it up. They are quite sizeable and heavy. If you don’t think you will put it up, leave it at home.

Your weekly shop

It is almost traditional to do your weekly shop before you go. The reality is that you don’t need half the things you take…and even if you do, there is always a supermarket near the caravan site. A good excuse to have a look around town.

So, let’s move on to the actual packing list

To make things simple, I have separated the list into a number of category lists. I will first give you the ‘caravan’ packing list. This will include things that you need for your caravan.

The second list is geared towards more personal items for your holiday. The third is a list of tools that you may need and, in some cases, may be vital.

I have listed them out here but I have also created a handy and printable A4 sized pdf. Simply download it to print or to save on your iPad.

The Caravan packing list

Awning
Baking trays
BBQ

Bedding
Bin
Bin bags

Board games
Bottle & tin opener
Bottled water

Caravan jack
Caravan steps
Cleaning products

Clothes horse
Coffee machine
Condiments

Cooking implements
Coolbox
Corner steady pads

Cutlery
Fan
Fire blanket

Fire extinguisher
First aid kit
Fly repellent

Fuses
Gas bottle
Gas regulator

Heater
Hitch cover
Hitch lock

Ice cube trays
Kettle
Kitchen towels

Large battery
Mains lead and adapters
Mugs

Outdoor furniture
Phone chargers
Picnic mat

Plastic Tupperware
Plates & bowls
Pots & pans

Sewing kit
Spare tyre and mains pump
Spirit level

Tea towels
Tin foil & cling film
Toaster

Toilet chemicals
Toilet roll
Tool kit

Torch
Tow rope
Towels

TV & entertainment
Washing liquid & gloves
Waste container

Water container
Water pump
Wheel clamp

Breakdown kit

Personal packing list

Activity clothing
Baby wipes

Clothes
Shoes
Headache tablets

IPad
Medication
Phone charger

Reading material
Slippers
Sun cream

Toiletries
Wellies
Batteries

Money and cards

Tool list

Cable ties
Sellotape

Gaffa tape and Electrical tape
Fuses
Bulbs

Tyre pressure gauge & compressor pump
Spare fan belt and radiator hoses
Spanner and socket set

Screwdrivers
Socket set
Scissors & cutting knife

Rope
Spirit level

Summary

So, there you have it. This caravan packing list should act as a guide but of course you will have your own ideas about what you think you will need. I would always recommend that you try and envision what you think you will need against the activities you have planned.

As detailed as this list is, you may not necessarily need all these things Many things can be picked up on route. I would though suggest that you are fully prepared for any basic maintenance and repairs from the outset…you never know when trouble may strike.

You can download the lists here…

Caravan packing list

Personal travel list

Tool check list

Let me know what you think…have I missed anything out?

Do you have things in your list that you find invaluable or have got you out of trouble? Leave a comment below.