Surprise as fuel and energy costs hit tourers – what’s happened?
Rising fuel and energy costs: how will this impact my caravan?
Caravanning remains one of the UK’s most popular holiday choices, but rising costs are starting to squeeze budgets. With fuel creeping up, energy costs increasing and peak-season campsite fees climbing, many families are finding 2025 caravan breaks more expensive than the year before.
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Fuel prices edge higher
By late July, UK fuel prices averaged around 135p per litre for petrol and 143p for diesel. Filling a 55-litre tank now costs close to £74, up several pounds on the spring. Supermarkets remain the cheapest option, with some forecourts offering unleaded at 131p – 133p per litre, but motorway services can be much higher.
For caravanners towing over long distances, especially popular routes like the M5 to Devon and Cornwall or the A55 into North Wales, those few pence add up quickly.
Campsite fees climb in peak season
Campsite operators have also raised rates during busy periods, citing higher energy bills and wider costs. Many caravan parks now charge £35 – £40 per night in peak August weeks, compared with £25 – £30 off-peak.
While demand has been strong, with 11.2 million Brits taking overnight trips over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the price jump is being felt across many UK destinations.
Another way to avoid higher campsite fees is to keep an eye out for special offers and deals, you can find such deals on the Premier Parks website.
Why this matters for caravanners
Added together, higher fuel, energy and campsite costs could add £100 or more to the price of a standard family touring holiday and, for some, it’s pushing them to:
- Travel shorter distances or holiday closer to home
- Opt for midweek breaks or off-peak stays to take advantage of lower campsite rates
- Reconsider trips abroad to Europe, as opposed to a UK getaway
Final thoughts
Caravanning is still cheaper than many overseas trips, but the days of the ultra-low-cost UK road holiday are under pressure.
As autumn arrives, experts suggest booking midweek, avoiding peak-season weekends and filling up at supermarket forecourts to make the most of your budget.
FAQs
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Are caravan holidays still cheaper than flying abroad?
Yes, but the gap is narrowing. Fuel, energy and campsite fees have risen, but families can still save by avoiding flights and accommodation abroad.
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How much does fuel cost for towing a caravan in 2025?
With petrol at around 135p per litre, towing a caravan 300 miles can cost £60 – £80 in fuel, depending on vehicle efficiency.
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When are caravan site prices cheapest?
Off-peak September and October stays are often 25% – 30% cheaper than August weekends.
Try using our Towmatch tool
Understanding which caravans your car can safely tow is essential to enjoying a stress-free tour or holiday. Think of it like shopping for shoes – you'd only look in your specific size, or risk discomfort and injury.
Enter your registration number now, or your make and model, to see a comprehensive list of caravans that your car can safely tow.
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