The ultimate caravan trip checklist
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The ultimate caravan holiday checklist – UK, Europe and beyond
Whether you’re pitching up in the peaceful British countryside or crossing borders on a European adventure, this comprehensive caravan holiday checklist will help you prepare and pack with confidence.
From essential travel documents to pet gear, towing equipment, campsite kit and on-the-road extras – we’ve included all the must-haves to keep your trip smooth, safe and stress-free.
This guide includes recent regulation changes and expert caravan travel tips, so you’ll always be one step ahead.
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Before you go
Travel insurance
It’s easy to overlook travel insurance if you’re holidaying in the UK, but it’s essential – especially for trips to Europe.
Make sure your policy covers caravan touring, roadside recovery and medical emergencies abroad.
- Tip: Check if your insurer covers pre-booked pitch cancellations due to illness or vehicle breakdown
GHIC or EHIC
To access medical care in the EU, you’ll need a valid GHIC or your current EHIC (if still in date).
Apply for or renew your GHIC via the official NHS website – it’s free.
Caravan insurance
Make sure your caravan insurance is up to date and includes European cover if heading abroad.
Check if it covers towing incidents, storm damage, theft and accessories like awnings and movers.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport(s)
- GHIC or EHIC
- Caravan and car insurance certificates
- V5C vehicle log book
- MoT certificate (if applicable)
- Travel breakdown cover
- Towing permissions (if using a company vehicle)
- Green Card (check post-Brexit rules for Europe)
- International driving permit (IDP) if required
For European touring
Some countries now require emissions stickers, safety equipment and documentation for towing.
Visit official government travel pages for country-specific entry rules.
Mandatory equipment for Europe
- High-visibility jackets (one per passenger)
- Warning triangle
- Headlight beam deflectors
- Breathalyser (France)
- UK sticker
- First aid kit (recommended)
- Spare bulbs and fuses
- Emissions zone permits (ULEZ/Crit’Air stickers)
Towing essentials
Towing mirrors
Legally required in the UK and Europe if your caravan is wider than your car. Choose mirrors that comply with E-mark standards.
Number plate
Your caravan must display a matching number plate with your towcar. Don’t forget the screws or clips to attach it.
13-pin socket tester
Ensure your electrics work before departure. A tester tool can save last-minute panic at the pitch.
Noseweight gauge
Maintain safe towing by checking your caravan’s noseweight against your vehicle’s limits.
Caravan dimensions
Know your caravan height, width and length – and display them on your dashboard.
Useful for low bridges, tunnels and ferry bookings.
Bedroom and bathroom
- Duvets, pillows and bedding or sleeping bags
- Towels (including beach towels)
- Toiletries
- Toilet chemicals
- Toilet roll
- Shower mat or flip-flops
- Laundry bag and pegs
Security and safety
- Hitch lock
- Wheel clamp
- Spare keys (and labels!)
- Jack and wheel brace
- Fire extinguisher
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Gas leak detector
- First aid kit
Visit our shop – where we sell vital caravan security goods
Water and waste
- Fresh water container
- Waste water carrier
- Water pump and connection hoses
- Food-grade hose for direct site water
- Tap connectors (universal for Europe)
Electrical
- Mains hook-up cable (25m recommended)
- Polarity tester (especially for Europe)
- Campsite-safe RCD plug
- Solar panel or battery charger (if off-grid)
Levelling and stability
- Corner steady winder
- Levelling ramps or chocks
- Spirit level
- Ground mat or footprint
- Awning pegs and mallet
Living essentials
- Caravan step
- Doormat
- Awning (with poles, pump, pegs)
- Table and chairs
- Awning groundsheet
- Lighting (lanterns, fairy lights, torches)
- Bin bags and recycling containers
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Use Towmatch today to start your caravan journey, then explore the latest caravan news, reviews and inspiration on Out & About Live!
Kitchen and dining
- Gas bottle (check compatibility and levels)
- Kettle (12V or stovetop)
- Saucepans and frying pan
- Cutlery and utensils
- Plates, bowls and mugs (non-breakable)
- Chopping board
- Food storage containers
- Tin opener, corkscrew, bottle opener
- Cleaning supplies – sponge, washing-up liquid, tea towels
Pet travel
- Valid microchip and vaccination documents
- Pet carrier, lead, harness
- Pet passport (if applicable)
- Food, bowls and medication
- Pet bed or crate
- Waste bags
- Contact details for local vet
Tools and repairs
- Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, hammer)
- Gaffer tape and cable ties
- Fuses and bulbs
- Spare gas pigtail
- Lubricant spray (for locks, steadies, etc)
- WD-40
- Tyre pressure gauge
- Jump leads or power pack
Final pre-departure checks
- Check tyre pressure (car and caravan)
- Ensure lights and indicators work
- Lock all windows, rooflights and doors
- Load heavy items low and over the axle
- Test brakes and hitch connection
- Make a copy of key documents and keep digital back-ups
- Share your route and emergency contact details
Final thoughts
With caravan travel booming into 2025, being prepared means more than just packing well – it’s about ensuring your safety, security, and peace of mind. Whether pitching up on the coast, heading off-grid, or towing across borders, this checklist will make sure no detail is left behind.
Print it. Save it. Share it. Your ultimate caravan holiday starts here.
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With all the top campsites in Cornwall, Devon, Yorkshire Dales, Peak District and Lake District as well as destinations in Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Europe, you'll always find your perfect campsite.
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