By William Coleman
As many caravan owners will agree, one of the best times to head off on a short break is during the out-of-season months. Pitches tend to be much quieter with the absence of tents, and fewer people sharing the communal facilities creates even more of a home-from-home environment. In addition, your caravanning neighbours are likely to also be like-minded owners, creating a safe and potentially sociable out-of-season community.
Another advantage of an out-of-season break is the lack of crowds in the surrounding area. Hotspots that are usually taken over by tourists can be fully explored without queues, traffic jams and-in some places-high season prices. Emily Mercer, from Coast and Country Cottages, highlights some of the benefits of an out-of-season escape:
“Although many people associate the beach with long, summer days, beach breaks are also popular during the winter with visitors who want to make the most of fewer crowds, emptier waters and stunning, undisturbed scenery. Water sport enthusiasts enjoy the quieter waters in the out-of-season months, so you can often spectate surfers trying to catch a wave and people on paddle boards or kayaks exploring the coastline.
“The countryside is particularly popular out of season, offering an abundance of walking routes for keen hikers and for those looking to enjoy a break from city life, or simply seeking fresh air and incredible views.”
Wrap Up
Seasoned caravanners will understand the need for adapting their packing list to ensure they are well protected from the cold. Here are our top tips for keeping your caravan snug and cosy:
Top Tips For A Cosy Caravan
- Extra thermal blankets and duvets are essential during the colder months.
- Electric blankets on the beds will add an extra level of comfort.
- Put warm rugs on the floor for extra warmth under foot. It may even be possible to install
underfloor heating into bigger statics. - Oil-filled radiators generate a lot of heat and can be plugged in to the mains, they are also a safe way of providing heat throughout the night, as many models feature thermostats.
- Make sure heaters aren’t overcrowded. Aside from the safety issue, you will also need to leave enough space to allow the warm air to circulate.
- Small portable heaters are cheap to buy and are great for creating an instant blast of heat. Look out for models that cut out if they tip over.
- Pack lots of layers and a stash of cosy hats, snoods, gloves, scarves and thick socks.
- Invest in a draught excluder to prevent warm air from escaping under the door.
- Thick curtains will also help insulate the windows-make sure you open them during the day to prevent condensation.
- And finally, do not underestimate the power of a good old hot water bottle!
