Caravan Packing List for Beginners and Seasoned Tourers
- IDS Camping & Leisure

- Jan 20
- 2 min read

Heading off on your first caravan holiday is exciting—but packing can feel overwhelming. What do you really need? What can you leave behind? And how do you make sure you don’t forget the essentials?
The packing lists below are all free to download
Beginner Caravan Packing List
Everything you need for a comfortable first trip—without overpacking.
🧾 Essential Documents
Driving licence
Caravan insurance documents
Caravan registration & manuals
Site booking confirmation
Breakdown cover details
Tip: Keep all documents together in a waterproof folder.
🔌 Caravan Hook-Up & Setup Essentials
Electric hook-up cable
Water carrier (Aquaroll-style or similar)
Waste water container
Levelling ramps
Wheel chocks
Caravan step
Small Spirit level
🍽️ Kitchen Basics
Melamine Plates, bowls, mugs & cutlery
Frying pan & saucepan
Kettle (electric or stovetop)
Chopping board
Sharp knife
Tea towels
Washing-up liquid & sponge
Bin bags
🛏️ Bedroom Essentials
Pillows
Duvets or sleeping bags
Bed sheets
Extra blanket
🚿 Bathroom & Toiletries
Toilet chemicals
Toilet paper (caravan-friendly)
Towels
Toiletries & shower caddy
Flip-flops for site showers
👕 Clothing
Weather-appropriate clothes
Warm layers (even in summer!)
Waterproof jacket
Nightwear
🪑 Outdoor Living
Folding chairs
Outdoor table (if not built-in)
Torch or headlamp
Door mat
🧰 Safety & Handy Items
First aid kit
Basic tool kit
Spare fuses
Duct tape
Phone chargers & power bank
The Ultimate Caravan Packing List
For longer trips, off-grid stays, or caravanners who like to be prepared for anything.
⚡ Advanced Setup & Maintenance
Solar panel or battery booster
Extension lead
Awning (or porch awning)
Awning carpet
Storm straps
Mallet
Extra water hose & connectors
🍳 Fully Equipped Caravan Kitchen
Toaster
Slow cooker or air fryer (site permitting)
Storage containers
Foil & cling film
BBQ & utensils
Cool box
Picnic set
🛋️ Comfort & Convenience
Scatter cushions
Fairy lights (awning-safe)
Clothes airer
Laundry basket
Shoe storage
🎲 Entertainment & Leisure
Board games & playing cards
Books & magazines
Tablet or laptop
Bluetooth speaker
Outdoor games (boules, football, frisbee)
🚲 Outdoor & Adventure Gear
Bicycles & locks
Bike rack
Walking boots
Rucksacks
Refillable water bottles
🧼 Cleaning & Organisation
Soft broom & dustpan
Microfibre cloths
Surface spray
Storage boxes
Vacuum (compact or 12V)
🧯 Extra Safety & Spares
Fire extinguisher
Fire blanket
Carbon monoxide alarm
Spare bulbs
Spare gas regulator
Final Packing Tips for Beginners
Less is more: You’ll quickly learn what you actually use.
Pack heavy items low down to help with towing stability.
Do a test night at home to spot anything you’ve forgotten.
Keep a permanent caravan kit so you’re not repacking every trip.
Ready for Your First Caravan Adventure?
Packing gets easier with every trip—and soon you’ll have your own personalised checklist. Whether you’re heading to a weekend campsite or planning a long summer tour, the right preparation makes all the difference.
Happy caravanning 🚐✨




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