Holiday Prep - Tips and Tricks

Happy Monday everyone.

Can you believe we are in June already! I've just returned from a lovely caravan holiday In Cornwall and wanted to share a few things I’ve learnt along the way.

The 1st and biggest is whatever you pack you really won’t need all of it!! I took so much as the weather was unpredictable but so much of it wasn’t worn. This not only meant I carried and unpacked more than I needed but also I had to wash it all. I have a super sense of smell so caravan smells linger for me. On that note a top tip for packing to come home - I sectioned my laundry into colours in the case. I kept all my whites in 1 section, darks in another, towels in a separate bag. This meant when I got home I could get a wash on within minutes as I grabbed it a section at a time. This was a real game changer for me. I also roll rather than fold, while packing to go away or come home, as it keeps clothes crease free and saves space.

One thing I do always pack extra is towels. Think about drying time between activities.

When it comes to UK caravan holidays they never quite have everything you need in their kitchens. I always take a large saucepan or stock pot (great for curry, spaghetti Bol etc) I also take an oven tray or 2 as caravan ones are usually small. I take a sharp knife. Most other things I can do without but for cooking these are my go to takes.

I also take a tea towel, washing up liquid, sponge and a cloth and spray. Also a bin bag, hand wash and cooking oil. This saves me buying it again when I arrive. I just take whatever I have at home.

I take condiments from home too, salt, pepper, ketchup, mayo. You will rarely get through a whole bottle so no need to buy them while there.

Another really good tip is to take a few small baskets or shoe boxes to put underwear and socks in. Caravans don’t usually have drawers so it's great idea to take something to put them in. You can use them to transport other items in the car. You could even go as far as packing everything into boxes rather than suitcases. you could have a clothes box each, shoe box, games box, food box etc etc. These would be very easy to stack in car and easy to use in the caravan too. 

I like to take a notepad and a few pens with me so I can make notes of things like shopping lists. We also found it handy to have in the evenings in the club house for quiz time or bingo. I keep In the routine of meal planning even when I’m away and if I plan before I go then I know if there is anything I can take from home. I find this saves a lot of money and also time where I can be enjoying my holiday. Who wants to be thinking about that while they’re away!

We don’t eat out a huge amount on holiday as I have allergies but when we do I do my research before we go. The less time I have to spend thinking the better.

We take a cool box and cool blocks with us. Ideal for picnics and transporting food items from home.

Don’t forget car essentials too. A 1st aid kit, bottled water and a high viz are always good to keep in the car especially for long journeys. I like to do my car checks the night before to make sure we are ready to go. Make sure you check oil, lights, tyre pressures and water. Fill up with fuel and you will be ready to go.

If you're going away and need some help with a packing list drop me a message and I will be happy to help.

Even a small caravan can be organised and stress free.

Happy Holidays

Lauren xx