A motorhome is parked on a forest campsite next to a picnic bench, surrounded by tall trees and mountains in the background

Holidays with a caravan: enjoy freedom on four wheels

A holiday with a caravan means maximum flexibility, independence and a very special experience of nature. Whether on the coast, in the mountains or by idyllic lakes – with a caravan, you always have your home with you. But what makes for the perfect caravan trip? Here you’ll find out everything you need to know for an unforgettable camping holiday.

Contents

01The advantages of a caravan holiday
02The perfect preparation for a caravan holiday
03Packing list for a caravan holiday with children
04Buy or rent a caravan? An overview of the costs
05The best destinations for a caravan holiday
06How to find the right campsite
07Camping tips for a relaxing holiday
08Roof tents as an alternative to caravans
09Conclusion
10Frequently asked questions about holidays with a caravan

The advantages of a caravan holiday

Flexibility

Travel wherever you like and stay as long as you like.

Cost savings

No need for expensive hotels or holiday flats.

Closeness to nature

Wake up surrounded by nature and enjoy the freedom.

Family-friendly

Ideal for travelling with children and pets.

Comfort

Modern caravans offer a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy bed and often even a private bathroom.

The perfect preparation for a caravan holiday

To ensure your camping trip goes smoothly, you should plan a few things in advance. Here’s a quick overview of the most important points:

Plan your route and campsites

Plan your route and book campsites, especially during the peak season.

Vehicle check

Check the brakes, tyres, lights and coupling before setting off.

Create a packing list

From crockery and camping furniture to tools – good preparation saves stress.

Have your documents to hand

Don’t forget your driving licence, vehicle registration certificate, insurance documents and, if applicable, toll cards.

But to ensure you can set off stress-free, here are some important steps to help you prepare thoroughly for your caravan holiday:

Choosing the right caravan

The first step in preparing for a caravan holiday is choosing the right vehicle. Consider how much space you need, and whether you prefer a small, compact model or a larger caravan that offers more comfort and storage space. Also bear in mind the number of travellers and their needs. If you don’t yet own a caravan, you can either buy one or hire one. When hiring, make sure the caravan has all the necessary amenities, such as a fully functional kitchen, a bathroom and sufficient storage space for luggage.

Check your driving licence and the towing vehicle

If you’re travelling in your own vehicle, check whether your driving licence is valid for towing a caravan. In Germany, to tow a caravan weighing more than 750 kg, you need a Class BE driving licence (for a gross weight of up to 3.5 tonnes). Also make sure that your car is suitable for towing the caravan and has sufficient towing capacity.

Destinations and route planning

A caravan holiday offers maximum flexibility, but it’s important to find out about destinations and routes in advance. Plan your route and research campsites and pitches along the way. So bear in mind that not every campsite is suitable for caravans. Look for pitches that offer sufficient space and the necessary facilities, such as electricity, water and waste water disposal.

Campsite booking

Campsites are often fully booked, particularly during the peak season. To ensure you get a pitch, you should book your places in advance, especially if you’re heading to a popular destination. Otherwise, it can be difficult to find a suitable spot, particularly in popular holiday regions or during the holiday seasons.

Check the caravan’s specifications

Before you set off, you should make sure your caravan is fully equipped and that all essential functions are working. Check that:

Ensure the gas cylinder(s) are full and securely connected
The fridge is working and there is sufficient coolant
Electronics such as lighting and chargers work
Ensure the heating and water pump are working properly
All windows and doors are sealed
The sanitary facilities (if available) are clean and in working order

Remember to pack all the necessary accessories, such as extension leads, adaptors for power connections, a water hose and a waste water hose.

Packing for a caravan holiday

Packing for a caravan holiday isn’t much different from preparing for a normal camping holiday, but you should pay particular attention to the limited storage space.

Soft luggage, such as practical travel bags or Weekender, is particularly recommended here: it’s easier to stack, can be stowed flexibly in cupboards or under seats, and adapts better to the available space than hard-shell suitcases. This allows you to pack more efficiently whilst remaining mobile.

Discover our range of travel bags and soft luggage – ideal for travelling in a campervan.

Make sure you’ve got everything you need for day-to-day life with you:

Cooking utensils: pots, pans, cutlery, plates and glasses
Food supplies: provisions for the journey and longer stays (make sure you have enough storage space)
Bedding and towels: blankets, pillows and sleeping bags or bed linen for the beds
Toiletries: shampoo, soap, toothbrush and a first-aid kit
Camping furniture: folding chairs, a table and possibly an awning or sunshade
Entertainment: books, games, music or other things to keep you occupied

Packing list for a caravan holiday with children

When travelling with children in a caravan, good planning is particularly important to ensure everyone feels comfortable and can enjoy the trip. Here is a packing list for holidays with the little ones.

Important documents

Passport or identity card for each child
Health insurance card for every family member
Emergency contacts
Any medical certificates for the children (if required)
Vehicle documents

Children’s clothing

Comfortable clothes for the day (T-shirts, trousers, leggings)
Clothes for the evening (jumper, jackets)
Rainwear (rain jackets, wellies)
Pyjamas for the children
Swimwear (swimsuits, bathrobes, water wings or swimming aids)
Socks, hats and gloves, depending on the weather
Soft toys or blankets for sleeping

Entertainment and toys

Colouring books, pens and craft materials
Small toys (e.g. dolls, cars, building blocks)
Board games or card games
Books or audiobooks
Beach toys (spade, bucket)
Portable games consoles or tablets for travelling

Preparing meals for children

Child-friendly snacks (fruit, muesli bars, biscuits)
Bottles or drinking cups for on the go
Children’s cutlery, cups and plates
Baby food (for very young children) or other specialised foodstuffs
Baby bottles (if still needed) and a steriliser
Cool box for dairy products and fresh food
Thermos flask for hot drinks

Childcare products

Nappies and wet wipes (for toddlers)
Baby cream and baby powder
Sun protection for children’s skin (children’s sun cream, sunglasses, hat)
Insect repellent for children
First-aid kit (clinical thermometer, painkillers, plasters, wound ointment)
Toothbrushes and toothpaste for children

Caravan facilities for children

Children’s travel cot or travel cot mattress (if required)
High chair or seat cushion for the dining area
Safety features in caravans (e.g. child locks on cupboards)
Small children’s chairs or stools
Child car seats (if not provided)

Technical equipment

Tablets or mobile phones for entertainment (with child-friendly apps)
Headphones for children
Chargers for all devices

Miscellaneous

A cosy blanket or favourite toy
Pram or pushchair for day trips
Floating aids (for the water)
A small torch for the children
Travel towels (children’s size)
Emergency numbers and contact details for children

Additional tips:

Pack a small bag for each child containing the essentials (e.g. snacks, toys, a change of clothes), which can be accessed quickly during the journey.
Remember to take plenty of breaks to give the children enough exercise and fresh air.
If possible, choose a camping site that offers child-friendly facilities such as playgrounds and safe areas for children to run about.
Get ready with our tips for long car journeys.

Preparing to travel with a caravan

Towing a caravan requires greater attention and an adapted driving style. You should ensure that you familiarise yourself with the combination and drive safely:

Driving tips: Make sure you attach the caravan securely to your vehicle. Practise parking and manoeuvring if you have little experience of driving a caravan.
Vehicle weight and speed: Bear in mind the speed limit for towed combinations and the increased weight of the vehicle, which affects braking and handling.
Tip: When travelling with a caravan, it’s advisable to take regular breaks to stay safe and refreshed.

Contingency planning

Even if you’re well prepared, something unexpected can always happen. Pack an emergency kit with essential items such as:

Spare tyre and jack
First-aid kit
Torch
Tool kit for minor repairs
Jumper leads
Documents such as insurance policies and passports

Keep an eye on the weather conditions

Weather conditions can vary greatly during a caravan holiday, so keep an eye on the weather forecast to prepare for any changes. In some regions it can get very hot, whilst in other places it gets cold at night. Adapt your clothing and camping strategy to the local weather conditions.

Buy or hire a caravan? An overview of the costs

Whether you should buy or rent a caravan depends on your travel plans and your budget:

Rent

A good choice for occasional campers or beginners. Rental costs vary depending on the model and season, but average between 50 and 120 euros per day.

Buy

Those who travel regularly with a caravan can save money in the long run. A new caravan costs between 10,000 and 50,000 euros, whilst second-hand models are often available from as little as 5,000 euros.

Running costs

In addition to the purchase price, there are costs for insurance, pitch hire, maintenance and any repairs.

The most beautiful destinations for a caravan holiday

A caravan holiday means pure freedom – you decide where the journey takes you, which landscapes you want to explore and how long you stay in one place. Whether you want to relax on the coast, go hiking in the mountains or experience culture in picturesque villages – the world is your campsite. We’ve put together a list of the most beautiful destinations for you, offering unforgettable experiences for both experienced caravan travellers and beginners. Pack your bags, hitch up your caravan and discover these dream destinations!

Germany: the Baltic Sea, the Black Forest or the Bavarian Alps offer fantastic camping sites

Germany has a wealth of beautiful campsites that are perfect for a caravan holiday. The Baltic Sea with its fine sandy beaches, the Black Forest with its idyllic woodlands and the Bavarian Alps with their breathtaking panoramic views offer everything a camper’s heart desires.

Italy: Lake Garda and Tuscany are popular destinations for caravan enthusiasts

Italy is a paradise for caravan travellers. The picturesque Lake Garda beckons with its stunning shores, whilst Tuscany awaits you with its rolling hills and charming villages. Here you can savour culinary delights whilst enjoying the magnificent natural surroundings.

France: The Côte d’Azur and Brittany beckon with their stunning landscapes

France offers a wide range of camping options for caravan enthusiasts. The Côte d’Azur, with its beautiful beaches, and the wild, unspoilt countryside of Brittany are ideal destinations for a relaxing break in a caravan.

Scandinavia: Adventure lovers will enjoy Norway and Sweden with their unspoilt natural beauty

Scandinavia is a true paradise for adventure seekers. Norway and Sweden offer unspoilt nature, breathtaking fjords and vast forests. These destinations are perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the freedom and beauty of nature to the full whilst on a caravan holiday.

Holidays with a caravan: How to find the right campsite

Choosing the right site can make all the difference between a relaxing holiday and a stressful experience. But how do you find the ideal campsite for your caravan holiday?

First of all, you should consider what sort of campsite you prefer. Are you looking for peace and quiet and unspoilt nature, or would you rather be close to tourist attractions? If you opt for a campsite surrounded by nature, you should make sure it has good links to walking or cycling trails. For beach lovers, a campsite right by the sea or a lake is the best choice. Particularly near the coast, many sites offer additional leisure activities such as boat trips or beach volleyball.

Another important factor when choosing the right campsite is the facilities. Most caravan owners need pitches with an electricity supply to run their appliances, such as a fridge, heating or lighting. You should also ensure that the campsite has water connections and a waste disposal point. Sanitary facilities such as showers and toilets are also important, especially for longer stays.

For many campers, the size of the campsite also plays a role. Larger sites often offer more amenities such as restaurants, supermarkets or even leisure facilities such as swimming pools or sports centres. Smaller sites, on the other hand, offer a quieter atmosphere and more privacy. The choice therefore depends entirely on your personal preferences and the needs of your trip.

When looking for the right campsite, it helps to consult the experiences of other campers. Review platforms such as Camping.info or Park4Night offer detailed user reviews that can give you a good idea of the pros and cons of a campsite. Here you’ll find not only reviews of the facilities and location, but also information on cleanliness, the staff’s service and leisure activities.

It’s also important to book your pitch in advance, especially during peak season. Many popular campsites are quickly fully booked during the summer months or at public holidays. If you reserve your pitch in good time, you can ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy your holiday without stress or unpleasant surprises. Booking early is a must, particularly for popular destinations such as southern Europe or well-known holiday regions.

Camping tips for a relaxing holiday

Making efficient use of space

Use foldable furniture and multi-purpose items.

Keeping an eye on electricity and water

Many campsites offer hook-ups, but a self-sufficient solution such as a solar panel system is practical.

Safety first

A fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit and good insurance are essential.

Consideration for other campers

Respect quiet hours and keep your pitch clean.

Roof tents as an alternative to caravans: advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of a roof tent

Comfort and freedom in the smallest of spaces

A roof tent allows you to enjoy the freedom and independence of a camping trip without having to carry around a lot of space or weight. It’s quick to set up and offers a comfortable night’s sleep, especially when you’re staying at campsites or out in the countryside.

Lightweight and compact

Compared to a caravan, a roof tent is much lighter and more compact. It is simply mounted on the roof of your car, making it quick and easy to transport. This means lower fuel consumption and no additional towing costs.

More affordable

Roof tents are generally cheaper than caravans. Depending on the model, they cost between 1,000 and 4,000 euros, whilst a caravan can easily cost 10,000 euros or more. So if you only go on trips occasionally, a roof tent is a cost-effective alternative.

A love of nature

With a roof tent, you’re even closer to nature. You sleep right under the stars whilst being better protected from insects and the elements than if you were sleeping on the ground in a tent.

Flexibility

Since a roof tent can be set up and taken down quickly and easily, you have the flexibility to drive to new places at short notice and stay overnight anywhere without having to rely on campsites. Even in towns or on remote roads, you can park anywhere and set up your overnight accommodation.

Disadvantages of a roof tent

Lack of space

Compared to a caravan, space in a roof tent is very limited. There is no room for a kitchen, a bathroom or much storage space. If you need more comfort and space, a caravan might be the better choice.

Pitching and packing away

Setting up a roof tent requires a little more effort than staying in a fixed caravan. You have to unfold the tent onto the roof of the car and take it down again after the night, which means extra effort, especially in bad weather.

Dependence on the weather

Roof tents generally offer less protection from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or cold, than a caravan. In very bad weather, it can also become uncomfortably damp or draughty inside the tent.

Access to the tent

Whilst caravans are usually accessed via a standard door, with a roof tent you need to use a ladder to get inside. This may be less practical for people with reduced mobility or in bad weather.

A roof tent is particularly suitable for:

Adventure-seeking travellers who want to be flexible and spontaneous on the road.
Couples or small groups who don’t need luxury but value comfort and being close to nature.
Budget-conscious campers who want to avoid the cost of a caravan but still don’t want to do without a comfortable bed and protection from insects.

The choice between a roof tent and a caravan depends entirely on your personal needs and your destination. If you’re looking for maximum flexibility and independence and can make do with minimal comfort, a roof tent could be the perfect solution. However, if you need more space, a permanent home on wheels and extra comforts such as a kitchen or bathroom, a caravan is probably the better choice. Both options offer unique experiences, and it all comes down to what matters most to you during your holiday – adventure and flexibility, or comfort and convenience.

Conclusion: Caravan holidays for unforgettable experiences

A holiday with a caravan offers adventure, freedom and a close connection to nature. With the right planning and equipment, nothing stands in the way of a relaxing camping experience. Whether on your own, with a partner or with the family – travelling on four wheels is guaranteed to be unforgettable!

Frequently asked questions about holidays with a caravan

Is a holiday with a caravan cheaper?

Often yes, as you save on the cost of hotels or holiday flats and can cater for yourself using your own kitchen. However, you’ll need to factor in pitch fees, fuel, insurance and maintenance costs; if you’re renting, you’ll also need to pay the daily hire charge. How affordable your holiday ends up being depends on the duration of your trip, the season and your destination.

Which destinations are suitable for a caravan holiday?

In Germany, the the Baltic Sea, the Black Forest and the Bavarian Alps. Abroad, Lake Garda and Tuscany, the Côte d’Azur and Brittany, as well as Norway and Sweden, are popular destinations. When planning your trip, make sure to look for pitches with electricity, water and waste water disposal.

What sort of driving licence do you need to tow a caravan?

With a Class B , you’re also allowed to tow a caravan weighing over 750 kg, provided the combined authorised mass of the car and caravan does not exceed 3,500 kg. With the B96 code, you can tow up to 4,250 kg; above that, you’ll need a Class BE licence. Also check that your car’s permissible towing capacity is suitable for the caravan.

What is the speed limit when towing a caravan?

In Germany, the speed limit for cars towing caravans outside built-up areas and on the motorway is a speed limit of 80With a 100 km/h licence, you may drive at 100 km/h on motorways and expressways provided the vehicle and trailer meet the requirements. Allow for a greater following distance due to the longer braking distance.

What type of luggage is suitable for a caravan?

In a caravan, soft luggage such as travel bags or Weekender particularly handy. It’s easier to stack and fits flexibly into cupboards or under seats. Hard-shell suitcases, on the other hand, take up a lot of storage space even when empty.

How do you find a suitable campsite for your caravan?

First, consider whether you’re looking for peace and quiet in the countryside or proximity to tourist attractions, and then pay attention to the facilities: electricity, water, waste disposal and toilet facilities. Review sites featuring other campers’ experiences can help you make your choice. During peak season and school holidays, it’s best to book your pitch well in advance.

Is a roof tent an alternative to a caravan?

For couples and spontaneous travellers, a roof tent can be a cheaper and lighter alternative that’s quick to set up. However, it lacks a kitchen, bathroom and storage space, and offers less protection in bad weather. If you’re looking for comfort and space for the family, a caravan is the better option.