The clocks go back on Sunday 25 October, the leaves are turning and half-term is nearly here. For a lot of caravanners, it’s the last proper getaway before the van goes into hibernation.
Shorter days don’t have to mean a shorter holiday. These tips will help you make the most of the daylight, keep everyone warm and still enjoy the evenings once it’s dark by 5pm.
Dave, meanwhile, is convinced he can see in the dark. He tripped over the awning storm straps twice last year...
Arrive while it’s still light
With sunset coming earlier, aim to be on your pitch by mid-afternoon. Pitching, levelling and hooking up are far easier when you can actually see the pitch number.
If you’re running late, give the campsite a ring. Many have a late-arrivals area or will tell you where to go after reception closes.
A note from Dave: “Levelling a caravan by torchlight is a team sport. Mostly shouting.”
Give everyone their own torch
One torch for the whole family means someone is always in the dark. Pack a head torch for each person and keep a lantern by the door for trips to the toilet block.
Solar or plug-in fairy lights in the awning make it easy to find your way back, and they make the pitch look lovely too.
A note from Dave: “A head torch is the most useful thing you’ll own. And the least flattering.”
Dress for four seasons in a day
Autumn mornings can be frosty and afternoons surprisingly mild. Thin layers work better than one big coat:
- A base layer and a warm fleece or jumper
- A waterproof jacket that packs down small
- Wellies or waterproof boots for wet grass
- Hats and gloves for early mornings and evening walks
- A spare set of dry clothes for each person
If the forecast turns properly wet, our guide to camping in the rain has plenty of ideas for saving a soggy weekend.
Make the most of the daylight
Plan your big outings for the middle of the day, when it’s brightest and warmest. Autumn is one of the best times of year for a walk, with quieter footpaths, crunchy leaves and blackberry bushes along the hedgerows.
Many campsites put on Halloween activities over half-term, from pumpkin carving to fancy-dress parades. It’s worth asking when you book.
A note from Dave: “I went as a ghost last year. Nobody even saw me...”
Plan the cosy evenings
Once it’s dark, the caravan becomes the main event. A bit of planning turns a long evening into the best part of the day:
- A one-pot dinner that keeps everyone warm, like a chilli, stew or soup
- Hot chocolate supplies, with marshmallows for the brave
- A board game, a pack of cards or a downloaded film
- A spooky story or two for Halloween week
Keep a roof vent open a crack while you’re cooking and never block the fixed ventilation. It keeps condensation down and keeps everyone safe.
A note from Dave: “There is no such thing as too many marshmallows. I have checked.”
Keep warm without running out of gas
You’ll use more gas in cold weather than you might expect. Check your bottle before you leave, and pack a spare if you can.
On a hook-up pitch, a small electric heater is handy, but check the campsite’s electric supply first so you don’t trip it. A hot water bottle and an extra blanket on each bed make a big difference on the coldest nights.
Dave’s half-term checklist
- Campsite details and late-arrival instructions
- A head torch for everyone, plus a lantern
- Fairy lights for the awning
- Layers, waterproofs, wellies, hats and gloves
- A spare gas bottle
- Hot water bottles and extra blankets
- Ingredients for a warming one-pot dinner
- Hot chocolate and marshmallows
- Games, cards or a downloaded film
- Something for Halloween, if the site’s joining in
Forgotten something else? Our caravan packing checklist covers the everyday essentials.
Dave’s final thought
“The days are short, but that just means more time for hot chocolate. I don’t make the rules.”
Are you heading away this half-term? Tell us where you’re going on the Caravan Competitions Facebook page. We’d love to see your autumn pitch photos.
Looking for something for your next adventure? Browse our latest competitions to see which prizes are currently up for grabs.
