Winchester Caravans' Blog
Keep up-to-date with the latest news, promotions and events with our very own blog. Updated weekly.
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Upgrading your caravan
Upgrading your caravan can be an exciting task, but also one that will give you plenty to think about. Before you start your search you’ll need to have an idea of what you want, what you need and what you’re able to spend.
If you have upcoming trips planned and you’re hoping to take your new caravan on these, make sure you plan in plenty of time for searching for the right pre-owned model, or ordering in the right new model - some manufacturers and models have longer lead times than others, so be sure you check before you make your final decision.
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New or pre-owned caravan - what’s best for you?
If you’re thinking about purchasing your first caravan, or simply trading your existing one in, the first thing to decide is if you’re going to opt for a new model or a pre-owned one.
This will largely depend on your budget, but there are many other things to consider too, so read on to discover the full picture…
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5 great places to caravan in Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire is located in the east of England and is one of the home counties. With a population of almost 1.2m (2019) and covering an area of 1,643km, it borders Greater London to the south, Essex to the east, Cambridgeshire to the north-east and Bedfordshire to the north-west.
It is a ceremonial county, which means it has an appointed Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff and is used for ceremonial purposes in relation to the monarchy. The largest settlement is Watford, situated in the south of the county, and the county town is Hertford.
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Customer story - Mr & Mrs Bartley
Mr & Mrs Bartley have been caravanning for 32 years and have always bought from Winchester Caravans. They say the customer service is second-to-none and wouldn’t go anywhere else!
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Get your caravan ready for winter
The days are getting shorter, the mornings crisper and the evenings darker - yep, it’s British wintertime! Whether you’re year-round caravanners or prefer to stick to the warmer months only, there are lots of things you can - and should - do to prepare your caravan for winter.
Giving your caravan a bit of TLC is the best thing you can do to ensure it stays in tip top condition for longer. Our winters can be cold and very wet and this can have a detrimental effect on your van, especially if it’s sitting unused for months at a time. Check out our top tips for keeping your home on wheels protected throughout the colder months...
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How many berths should my caravan have?
Caravans come in a range of sizes, catering for small and large parties alike! ‘Berths’ are essentially sleeping stations, so the number of berths you need will depend on how many people will be sleeping in the caravan.
Will you be caravanning on your own, as a couple or in a family/group? Generally speaking, the higher the number of berths, the bigger the caravan will be, unless it’s a compact model.
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Planning your trip…
If you’re new to caravanning / motorhoming, you may be unsure of the best way to go about planning trips away, so we’re here to give you a few tips to make trip preparation a breeze!
Even if you’re a seasoned caravanner, our tips may be of help to you too, and give you a fresh perspective! You’ve probably been planning your trips the same way for years, but there may be some improvements you could make to enhance your holidays further…
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How much do caravans cost?
The answer to this question depends on many factors - are you looking to buy new or pre-owned, do you need a two-berth or a larger family caravan, a compact model or extra wide, are you happy with the basics or are you looking for luxury? All these things will impact the price.
The first thing to do is decide how much you’re able to spend and set yourself a budget. This will enable you to focus on the types of caravan in your price range. Next, make a list of must-haves to ensure that the caravan you end up with ticks all your boxes.
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Tips for first-time caravanners
If you’ve been thinking about embarking on your caravanning journey for some time now, now’s a great time to take the first step! Caravanning offers all the fun of camping with none of the compromises!
The kids will experience the adventures of the campsite, the ability to explore outdoors and play in the fresh air, with the added bonus of a comfy caravan to come back to at the end of the day! It’s easy to get away at the drop of a hat as you’ll have the caravan fully kitted out, ready to go, and once you arrive on site, they’re quick to pitch - unlike some tents!
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Prioritising customer service
We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service and our customers have come to expect nothing less! We aim to do all we can to find out what the customer wants and needs from a vehicle and work with you to find your ideal match. We want you to be happy with your vehicle not only at the time of purchase, but long into the future too.
We do this by getting to know our customers, what you need and like and encourage you to consider all the options. We’re not pushy or sales-focused and we don’t work on commission. We simply want to help you find your ideal vehicle, which is sometimes the complete opposite of what you thought it would be!
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City breaks in your leisure vehicle…
Although more traditional caravan and motorhome trips may involve rural locations, rolling countryside or quiet coastal areas, leisure vehicles are actually great for getting away on city breaks too!
Much in the same way, they provide you with a roof over your head in a location of your choice, and if you’re up for exploring some of the great cities in England or indeed the wider UK or Europe, doing it in your leisure vehicle offers you great flexibility and versatility.
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Caravanning in Europe
Caravanning and motorhoming offers a freedom like no other type of holiday. You can choose where you’d like to visit and off you go! And that’s not limited to the UK - you can take your leisure vehicle across the channel to Europe to explore whichever countries you fancy as long as you don’t mind the drive!
There are so many places to choose from and a range of routes you could take, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Before you make the final decision on where to go, consider how much time you’ll have to spend there, how far you’d be willing to drive to get there and whether you have one or multiple destinations in mind.
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All you need to know about breakdown cover
When you’re preparing for an upcoming caravan trip, you’re probably thinking about what clothes to pack, what groceries you need to stock up on and what activities you’ll do when you get there. But spare a thought for the journey; have you got all you need to tow safely? Which route will you take? What will you do if you break down?
Breaking down whilst towing your caravan may not be something you’ve ever thought about, but it is a very real possibility. Any car can experience a fault and although inconvenient - especially when towing - if you’re well prepared for it, you can get it sorted and get on your way in no time.
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Invest in air con for your leisure vehicle…
If you like to stay cool during the summer months, fitting an air conditioning unit to your leisure vehicle will ensure your comfort! Whether you’re thinking of starting your adventures this season, or you’re a seasoned caravanner or motorhomer, we can help.
At Winchester Caravans and Motorhomes, we can order and organise the installation of your Truma air conditioning unit of choice. If you’re looking to buy a vehicle soon, we can add it on as an extra to your purchase, or if you already have your vehicle, you can book it in with us to be fitted at a time convenient for you.
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Do festival season in style!
For all the music lovers out there, it’s that time of year again - festival season! May-August is bursting with various festival dates, catering for a wide range of music tastes from pop and rock to 80s and dance.
One of the things that deters a lot of people from going along and enjoying these festivals is the sleeping and bathroom arrangements offered - namely camping and shared toilet and shower blocks. Let’s face it, at festivals, the campsites can be crowded and noisy, and the bathroom blocks are busy and perhaps not the cleanest!
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5 great places to caravan in Kent
Kent is located in the southeast of England and is known for its rich history, beautiful countryside and stunning coastlines. The county has a population of 1.85m and is bordered by the English Channel to the south, and by Surrey, Greater London, Essex and East Sussex to the north and west.
Kent is home to a wealth of historic landmarks and heritage sites including Leeds Castle, Dover Castle and Canterbury Cathedral, which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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Caravanning is the ultimate fun, family holiday!
Caravanning is fun - fact! The kids love it; being in the great outdoors, having room to run around and all topped off with the excitement of a cosy, comfy holiday home - your caravan! It offers all the fun of camping with none of the compromises.
That’s the beauty of caravanning - you’re able to enjoy all of your creature comforts thanks to your leisure battery / electric hook-up, but you’re still getting that freedom on an outdoor holiday.
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Explore our homeland!
Although the weather is not always as good as we would like it to be, we’re really lucky to live in England! With its beautiful countryside, stunning coastlines, lush woodlands and historic towns and cities, we really do have it all.
England comprises 55 cities and tens of thousands of towns and villages! This means that when it comes to places to visit, the possibilities are endless! Exploring the country in a caravan or motorhome is the ideal way as you’ll have the freedom to go where you want and stay for as much or as little time as you wish!
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Caravan sizes - what’s important?
When buying a new caravan there are many things to think about - your budget, which manufacturer to go for, what your must-have features are - but it’s important to also consider the size of caravan you’ll need as there are many variables on offer.
Not only will you need to decide how much space you’ll need for your family, but also how that space is distributed and laid out. Caravan layout can make all the difference; if it’s not the right set up for you and your party, it can make caravan life very difficult indeed!
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Our guide to warranties and servicing
Keeping your leisure vehicle in tip top condition is essential! At Winchester Caravans & Motorhomes, our NCC-approved workshop provides first-class servicing and warranty work so you can rest assured that your vehicle will be in the best hands with us.
Looking after your caravan or motorhome is important as not only will it remain in the best possible condition for your enjoyment, it’ll also help it hold its value much better too. A well looked after vehicle is definitely worth more than one that has lacked TLC!
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Caravan safety
Staying safe in your caravan is sure to be one of your priorities and although you may not realise it, the theme of ‘safety’ covers a range of different things when it comes to caravanning!
If you’re thinking of buying your first caravan or you’ve recently made the purchase, you may not be aware of the different safety-related things that you should consider as you kit out your new van and plan your first trip. We’re here to give you all the information you need to ensure you’re well-prepared and above all, safe whilst on your travels!
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Make manoeuvring easy with a motor mover!
Adding a motor mover to your caravan purchase can make all the difference when it comes to parking and pitching your caravan - simply put, it makes manoeuvring a doddle!
Without a motor mover, you have the manual task of pushing and guiding your caravan into the perfect place when it comes to parking your caravan on your drive, putting it into storage or pitching up on site.
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Meet Louise Lee, Internal Valeter
Louise joined the team three years ago and spends her days making sure the caravans are as clean as a whistle! Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her children and doing crafty things such as knitting and cross-stitch when she gets the chance.
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Towing tips and accessories
Towing for the first time can be daunting! In fact, towing for the first few times or after a long break from towing can be nerve-wracking too! Rest assured that once you’ve built up your confidence, you’ll be towing like a pro!
Be sure to give yourself plenty of time so that you’re relaxed and not rushing. If you’re towing for the first time, it might be a good idea not to venture too far until you have gained some experience.
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The freedom of caravanning and motorhoming
Caravanning and motorhoming gives you a freedom that no other holiday can offer - you can get away at the drop of a hat, you decide where you want to go and for how long and you can spend your time away in any way you please!
What’s more, you’ll be in your own home on wheels so you’ll have all your favourite things and creature comforts with you. Once you’ve chosen a destination you can plan ahead if you want to by booking a site and thinking about what you’ll do and where you’d like to visit, or you can simply play it by ear and see where the wind (or road!) takes you!
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Our guide to buying a pre-owned caravan
Choosing your first or next caravan is an exciting experience! Buying a pre-owned caravan is cost-effective as you won’t experience the depreciation of the first year and if you buy nearly new, you’ll still get all the advantages of a new caravan!
Stock levels of new caravans have been limited since the pandemic began which makes buying pre-owned an even more attractive option. Production was reduced in 20/21 due to lockdowns and social distancing, and in 2021/22 due to the challenges the industry faced getting the materials they needed for manufacture.
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Keeping your caravan clean
Cleaning your caravan will really help keep it in tip top condition and maintain its value, so be sure to set aside some time to make this happen!
It’s a good idea to clean your caravan regularly - monthly, before each trip and after each trip too. That way, you’ll know you’re caring for it in every way you can. Plus, whatever time of the year, if the opportunity for an impromptu trip crops up, your van will be ready to go!
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Looking after your caravan…
Taking that leap and purchasing a caravan is a significant investment so it’s important to do all you can to look after your vehicle in order to maintain its value.
There’s plenty we can do as owners to keep our vans in tip top condition so go on - give yours a little tlc!
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Caravanning activities: things to do during your trip
So you’re looking forward to your upcoming caravanning trip; you’ve booked the site, planned your route and made a list of things to pack - but have you taken time to consider what you might do while you’re there?
Whilst relaxing in and outside your caravan should definitely be high on your agenda to bag yourself some downtime, you should also give some thought to what else you’d like to do whilst you’re away, especially if you’re going for more than a few days.
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What Caravan Club sites are available locally?
The Caravan and Motorhome Club have sites all over the country and if you’re a member you can take advantage of discounted rates on each and every stay.
With things as they are, you may not wish to travel as far as you usually would, but rest assured, there are plenty of great sites in fantastic locations, right on your doorstep!
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7 top tips to finding your ideal new caravan
When it comes to finding a new caravan, whether you’re a first-time buyer or it’s simply time to upgrade, there are a number of different things that you should consider to ensure you end up with the right van for you.
The pandemic has had a huge effect on all types of manufacturing and caravans are no exception. Production numbers last year were greatly reduced meaning that there were fewer new caravans available to buy. Manufacturers have announced that the 2022 ranges, due to launch in September, will be much the same so if you’re keen to buy a new caravan this year, you’ll need to be quick off the mark. So why not do your research and decision-making now so you’re ready to buy when September arrives?
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Our guide to touring
If you’ve recently bought your first touring caravan and are new to the scene, this guide should provide a handy outline of the main things you should consider when planning and embarking on your first few trips.
It’s an exciting time, you’ve put in the time choosing your new caravan and it’s now time to get your new holiday home on the road! Be sure to take the time to think through and plan your first trip well as everything will go a lot smoother if you’re well prepared.
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Caravan beds - what's the choice?
When you’re choosing a caravan, there are many things to consider - will you go for new or pre-owned? Regular or extra wide? 2, 4 or 6 berth? Mid or end washroom?
One of the most important things to get right is the sleeping arrangements as getting a good night’s sleep is extremely important!
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7 great places to caravan in Hampshire
James Mainwaring
11/01/2021
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / summer / holiday / family, All
The new year is a great time to start thinking about the trips you’d like to take during the year ahead. As lockdown #3 continues, having some breaks planned for later in the year is sure to give you something to look forward to during these long winter months!
Foreign travel is still looking uncertain at this time, so caravanning could be your ideal alternative! It will allow you to be completely self-contained if you choose, whilst also enjoying some glorious surroundings. We’re extremely lucky to live in Hampshire as the county offers many fantastic places to head off to with your caravan in tow!
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Caravan dimensions: key things to consider
James Mainwaring
04/01/2021
blog / opinions / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday, All
Each different caravan range will vary in size and weight depending on the manufacturer. Across our range of new caravans from Swift and Bailey, and pre-owned models from other manufacturers, there are plenty of different layouts and dimensions to choose from so it’s important to make sure that your new caravan suits your needs size-wise.
You may choose to prioritise having a bigger living area in the caravan you go for, or more kitchen worktop space for making delicious meals during your trips away. Or perhaps you’re looking for a certain sized model that you can tow with your current car - there are so many different space and size-related things to consider!
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Top 10 reasons to buy a caravan
James Mainwaring
21/12/2020
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family, All
Have you been thinking about purchasing a caravan? Perhaps you’ve stayed in static ones and are tempted to take the leap to your own touring version? Or maybe you’re a keen camper with the desire to upgrade? Whatever your mindset, opting for caravanning life will be a great move.
It will give you your very own home on wheels, the chance to explore the UK and beyond at your own pace. There are many reasons why buying a caravan is a good idea and we’ve listed the top 10 here to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you...
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The caravanning lifestyle
James Mainwaring
28/09/2020
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family, All
You’ve got a few days to yourself, the weather’s looking good, why not head off on a trip away in the caravan? That’s the beauty of caravanning, when the opportunity arises, your home on wheels is ready to take you wherever you wish to go!
That’s not to say you can’t plan ahead as well - just that impromptu trips are great sometimes too! Caravanning allows you the luxury of both options - carefully planned breaks to places that you might stay for a week or longer, as well as last-minute getaways when the fancy takes you.
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One destination or pitstops?
The schools are back, the temperatures are still mild, what better time to embark on a trip in your caravan or motorhome? The question is, what sort of trip are you after?
You could select a location and go and enjoy a chilled break at a leisurely pace, or pack in a little more with an itinerary of several locations - the choice is yours!
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Top 10 tips for first-time caravanners
James Mainwaring
15/06/2020
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family, All
If 2020 will mark your first caravanning trip, there’s a lot more than the norm to consider. The COVID-19 pandemic has meant that campsites have had to remain closed during the usually busy spring season. They are due to open in July, allowing caravan and camping trips to recommence, all being well and with social distancing measures in place.
As a caravanner, you will be in the best possible scenario, as you can be completely self-contained if you wish, making full use of your on-board washroom and kitchen facilities. You will need to use the campsite’s water supply and disposal facilities, but other than that you can keep to your own pitch as much as you feel is necessary.
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Should I join a caravanning membership club?
James Mainwaring
08/06/2020
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family, All
Are you a keen caravanner, just starting your caravanning journey or somewhere in between? Whatever your status, joining a caravanning club is likely to provide you with benefits that are sure to improve your caravanning experience...
For those of you who have been caravanning for years, you may be quite happy with what you’re doing. You probably have your favourite areas and sites to visit and be confident in preparing for and planning your trips etc. You may have considered joining a club before now, but perhaps you weren’t sure about the reasons to do so.
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What berth caravan should you go for?
James Mainwaring
01/06/2020
blog / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / sales / holiday / family, All
Caravans come in a range of different sizes. ‘Berths’ are essentially sleeping stations, so the number of berths you will need to go for will very much depend on how many people will be sleeping in the caravan.
What size is your travelling party? Are you going on your own, as a couple or in a family/group? The higher the number of berths, the bigger the caravan will be.
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Must-have caravan facilities
James Mainwaring
18/05/2020
blog / opinions / advice / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family, All
So you’re looking to buy a caravan; whether you’re a first-time buyer or after an upgrade, there will be some on-board facilities that you won’t want to miss out on.
These will differ for everyone, but we outline here the facilities that you may want to keep in mind when choosing your next caravan…
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Your caravan purchase: new or pre-owned?
So you’ve decided to go for it and buy a caravan - let the adventures begin! But first you’ve got a few decisions to make. The first and main one being, are you going to go for a new caravan or a pre-owned one?
This decision may be very simple if it all comes down to budget. How much are you looking to spend? You will need to consider if you have any ‘must haves’ and if so, are these included in the type of caravan that you are considering? If you want a particular spec level but new models with that level are over budget, pre-owned may be the answer.
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We are passionate about caravans, which is why we have created our very own Winchester Caravans blog. If you want to keep up-to-date with the wonderful world of caravanning and are always looking for tops tips and handy hints, then why not check out our regular blog posts?
What's more, our blog is the perfect opportunity to share your caravanning stories. If you have a story to tell, send us an email (marketing@winchestercaravans.com) and you could see yourself published on one of our blog posts. We want to hear about your journey!
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Ask a question ›News & Blogs
Celebrate the 2024 season with a new CADAC BBQ…
Caravanning holidays provide the ideal opportunity to get the BBQ out! It’s a time when you’ll have plenty of outdoor space to do it and it’s also a great way to bring the whole f...
25/03/2024
blog / advice / accessories / summer / holiday
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5 great places to caravan in Bedfordshire
Bedfordshire has a rich history, diverse landscape, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a popular place to live as well as visit. With a population of 675,000 and covering an area of 1,236 sq km,...
18/03/2024
blog / holiday / family
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Upgrading your caravan
Upgrading your caravan can be an exciting task, but also one that will give you plenty to think about. Before you start your search you’ll need to have an idea of what you want, what you need...
04/03/2024
blog / new caravans / pre-owned caravans / holiday / family
Read More