Author: Steve

Why Would You Fit A Stabiliser Before Towing A Caravan?

If you are a complete newbie to caravanning and owning touring vehicles, you may have noticed through your online searches repeated mention of the words ‘caravan stabilisers‘ and wondered what they were and why you would even have to stabilise your caravan before you tow it.

Generally speaking it is not essential, because the stability of your touring caravan is determined by choosing a suitably matched caravan that will work well with your car. Stability is also ensured when you load your caravan correctly, avoiding overloading it and not spreading the load across the vehicle.

There is always some snaking, when touring caravans, which is, for the most part, safe and harmless. However, it becomes a problem if your caravan starts to snake due to overtaking larger vehicles, unexpected gusts of wind or potholes on the road.

To compensate and provide stability from these occurrences, there are mechanisms known as stabilisers.

What Stabilisers Are Not Used For

As noted, you need to first choose a caravan that suitably matches your car and vice versa. That is the first key to ensuring that you will have a successful, smooth and safe towing experience. Furthermore, you need to look after your caravan and avoid overloading it or loading it in an unbalanced way.

A stabiliser is not designed to compensate for these kinds of mistakes. We can’t stress that enough. It is meant to provide stability against unexpected occurrences on the road, as outlined earlier.

To understand the role a caravan stabiliser plays in giving you stability, you need to understand the two forms of unwanted movement that cause instability.

Unwanted Movement

The two forms of unwanted movement that you can experience when towing a caravan are:

Yaw – This is a side to side movement, most commonly caused by gusts of wind hitting into your caravan.
Pitching – In contrast to yawing, pitching is a vertical or up and down movement. This is generally caused by hitting either a pothole or drop in the road, leading to a (usually) momentary feeling of instability and discomfort.

Not only are both forms of unwanted movement likely to distress a newer caravanner, if you do not do anything to rectify them they can become a more serious problem and can even lead to an accident.

Different Kinds Of Caravan Stabilisers

Fortunately, there are solutions to the problem of unwanted movement that can help increase the level of stability you have when towing your caravan. There are actually three different kinds-

Stabiliser mounted onto the tow ball
Blade-style stabiliser
Active stability braking system

Although choosing either of these will give you a degree of increased stability when you are towing a caravan; it is wise to be aware of the pros and cons of each. We will briefly discuss these below.

Stabiliser Mounted Onto The Tow Ball

Pros

Uses a dry, clean towing ball
Critical speed increase
Don’t have to store anything
Probably the easiest kind of stabiliser to install and use

Cons

It could be less effective than the blade-style stabiliser
Requires a special lock for the hitch
Not as reasonably priced as a blade-style stabiliser

Blade-style Stabiliser

Pros

Easy to switch for use with one caravan to another
Easy to maintain and service
Controls both yaw and pitching movement
More reasonably priced than the other options

Cons

Needs to be fitted each and every caravan trip
May need to modify the a-frame fairing to make it fit
Uses a greased tow ball

Active Stability Braking System

Pros

Does not require any maintenance when it is being used
Won’t be forgotten before you go on a trip
Arguably the most effective stabiliser

Cons

Needs a special fitting before it can be used
The most costly of all three options

Whichever stabiliser you choose for your caravan, will depend on your available budget, your caravan and car and own personal preference. Hopefully, the above information has shown the importance of using some form of stabiliser though and has helped you to determine which may suit your touring caravan set-up more.

Need more help or advice on towing? Then have a look at these articles:

Caravan Microwaves

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When it comes to cooking while touring in a caravan, whether you are on the side of the road or hooked up to a site’s electricity supply, microwaves have become an essential appliance. However, if your caravan does not already feature one and you are in the market to invest in one, there are some important considerations you need to make to ensure it will be suitable.

Don’t worry though, because on this page the team at Caravan Helper are here to help you pick out a low wattage microwave for your caravan.

As well as highlighting what we feel are the best small caravan microwave ovens, that is those that are small enough, while offering a reasonable amount of functionality; we will also discuss things you need to consider when purchasing one.

Small Microwaves Suitable For Caravans (12v Microwave UK)

1. Digital Microwave Oven with 6 Cooking Presets

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The first small microwave oven that you give serious consideration for your caravan is the Daewoo QT1 14 litre, 600 watts model. Daewoo are an incredibly reputable and popular brand worldwide when it comes to both cars and electrical appliances, so you know with the Daewoo on this microwave that it means it is of high quality design and construction.

Despite its affordability and compact size, It still provides you with 7 power levels and a 35 minute dual speed timer to use when cooking and defrost a whole variety of food. You can even fit a 25 cm sized plate inside it. As it has a diamond vent, dual wave system it ensures that anything you cook or defrost in this oven is done so evenly.

Key Features

Voltage: 220 Volts
Power/Wattage: 600 Watts
Capacity: 14 Litres
Dimensions: 32 by 42 by 22.9 cm
Weight: 9.14 Kg
7 Power Levels
35 minute Timer

2. YC-MS01U-S 800W Solo Microwave Oven with 20 L Capacity, 5 Power Levels & Defrost Function

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The product on our list is this 17 litres model in silver. It is available for a reasonable price and despite its small size and shape, you can still cook a variety of different items inside it.

There are 5 power settings, of which defrosting is one, so it’s ideal for cooking things direct from the freezer, ready meals and warming drinks. You have the option to set the timer for up to 30 minutes each time, which is more or less standard for compact microwave ovens.

Key Features

Voltage: 240 Volts
Power/Wattage: 700 Watts
Capacity: 17 Litres
Dimensions: 43 by 25 by 29 cm
5 Power Levels
30 minute Timer

3. Mini Countertop Oven 1500W / Multifunction Cooking Grill, Bake, Toast, Rotisserie, and Convection

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Next on our list is this amazing space-saving and convenient appliance that actually combines 3 different units into one machine. Space is limited in a caravan, particularly in the kitchen area, which is why it is always wise to try and find ways round it.

This MP Essentials is one way to do this, because it combines a microwave oven, with a coffee machine, grill and even has a warming plate hob. The coffee machine can make a maximum of 4 cups of coffee a time, while the oven makes use of a removable grill pan and gives you all the function of all three separate units.

Thanks to the combined low wattage of 1150 Watt, there is no need to be concerned about overloading a hook-up you might be using at a caravan park.

Key Features

Voltage: 240 Volts
Power/Wattage: 1150 Watts
Dimensions: 43 by 27.8 by 27.4 cm
Weight: 3.62 Kg
LED Power Indicator
15 minute timer
Removable grill pan
Baking tray
Removable non-stick hotplate
Glass coffee pot

4. Mini Oven, 9 Litre, Black [Energy Class A], 1000 W, 9 liters price check on amazon

The last small microwave caravan oven on our list is this attractive and very functional mini oven from Quest.

With a total of 1000 Watts of power, it is capable of cooking up to 9 litres of food and has an adjustable heat setting and 60 minute timer that gives you a lot of versatility with regards to what you can cook. You can grill, cook, and even bake just about anything inside it.

There is even an automatic cut-off that stops it being overused.

Key Features

Power/Wattage: 1000 Watts
Capacity: 9 litres
Dimensions: 25.2 by 36.8 by 21.7 cm
Weight: 3.29 Kg
60 minute timer
Automatic shut off
Adjustable heat settings

Trying to look for a suitable small caravan microwave doesn’t need to be quite the head-scratchier or migraine-inducing task you may think it seems. With our guide above and a great list of products to choose from, we are sure you will find the right one for you.

Even if you don’t choose one from the above selection, we are sure at Caravan Helper that you will be on the right path. We hope that we have helped you choose a good 12 volt microwave for your caravan.

Power Use

The power rating of a microwave, for instance – 1000 Watts, 600 Watts and 750 Watts, is the power that the microwave uses for cooking and cooking alone. This actually only equates to half the power input required by the caravan. This is why it is crucial to try and determine what the full power consumption is for a unit before purchasing it.

It’s also worth noting that there is more demand for power when you first start using a microwave, which is why a site that only supplies 5 amps, or even 10 amps might not be suitable. This means if you arrive at a site and that’s the amount of power available you may have to avoid using your microwave.

As mentioned, on a 10 amp site it might still be a problem, or may mean that you at least have to keep in mind any other units or appliances you may be using while trying to use your microwave.

Generally speaking, the majority of sites in the UK provide 16 amps. Whenever you are in doubt, refer to the manufacturer or retailer for more information about whether a specific product will be suitable or not.

Use Abroad

It differs somewhat when touring in Europe because sites across Europe offer anything from 3 to 20 amps, with 6 to 10 amps being the average. Many sites will offer upgrades, so it doesn’t hurt to ask at the reception office of a site if this is possible.

Installing/Setting Up A Caravan Microwave

A lot of caravans will come with a caravan integrated microwave. If thats not the case, then all microwaves, whether full size or micro-sized are meant to be placed on a surface that is not only flat but very stable. There should also be adequate air circulation and the surface should have a reasonable amount of heat-resistance.

You need to think about the caravan microwave housing and whether they meet the criteria and requirements for safely installing a particular microwave you are interested in. You should also speak to the retailer or manufacturer about whether or not they think the microwave will be durable enough to handle the caravan’s motion when you are on the road. Further to that point, you should also check the finer details of any warranty or guarantee to see if this will be made null and void by using it in a touring vehicle. You will also want to pick a lightweight microwave as weight is important to keep down in the caravan.

Variable Power Setting Microwaves

It is understandable to assume that if a microwave has low power settings, it will be less of a problem using those than using it on full power. However, there is no 100% guarantee that it will eliminate all problems related to power supply.

Important Note About Positioning A Caravan Microwave

If you invest in a caravan that already has a mini microwave oven installed, ensure that it is not too high out of your reach that it prevents you from safely reaching up and placing and removing potentially very hot plates and dishes. The last thing you want is to have the worry of any hot food or liquid spilling out and onto you, anyone else sharing with you or the actual caravan itself.

The same advice applies if you are fitting one into the caravan yourself.

Caravan Microwave Stopped Working

Microwaves are incredibly useful appliances to have in your tourer. That is, until they stop working. This can be incredibly frustrating.

Although we are not suggesting that this happens all the time. It may never happen to you, but it’s better to be aware of what the common causes and problems are if your caravan microwave stopped working. We’ve outlined some of the most likely below.

Electricity tripped – It could be that the electricity in your caravan has completely tripped. If this is the problem though, it will be self-evident from the fact that no other electrical items are working.
The microwave plug or fuse could be blown – If the electricity hasn’t tripped and other electrical items are still working, it may be worth checking the plug and fuse.
High Voltage Diode – Another problem could be that your microwave turns on but doesn’t heat up. This may be caused by problems with the high voltage diode, the component that heats up the magnetron. M
Broken door switch – If your microwave is turning on but not heating up, your door switch could be broken.
Broken Magnetron – Another problem is that it could have a broken magnetron. This is what heats up the food.

Although the above might suggest what’s wrong with the microwave, unless you have experience as an electrician or an electrical technician, you should find an expert to help you repair it. If it can’t be repaired, it might be time to replace it.

We hope our article has helped you choose the best small microwave caravan oven for your needs and if you still need any other appliances for your caravan then check out some of the following:

Caravan Clothes Airer

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You have to face the problem of damp and wet clothes on holiday, whether they are dirty or clean and regardless of whether you are going away for a few days or a few weeks.

Even if you have no intention of using a washing machine at all for the entire time you are away, it is more than likely that circumstances will present themselves with you needing to dry clothing.

What do you do in that situation? Unless you have managed to fit a tumble dryer into an already cramped kitchen and utility space in your caravan or intend on using the facilities available to you at the parks you visit, the most economical way to deal with the issue of wet clothes would be to hang them up.

With space being so limited in caravans though, you need to be a bit smart about how you hang clothes up to dry – which is why you need to invest in a caravan clothes airer.

If you have looked at what’s available and are unsure which to choose or you don’t even know where to start looking for one, we are here to help.

On this page you will find a guide to what we feel are the best caravan clothes airers available.

Caravan Clothes Airers (Some Of Our Top Picks)

1. JVL Caravan Window Clothers Airer

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First on our list is the Folding Clothes Utility Over Door Airer from JVL. JVL is a company that have been in business for over 30 years and have spent that time as an industry leader when it comes to providing households with well-made, practical and innovative products.

This caravan clothes airer is constructed from steel with a powder coating to increase its robustness and durability. It is incredibly easy to set-up over the top of a door, thanks to the 2 hooks, making it ideal for hanging clothes that need to dry while you are out in the middle of nowhere caravanning.

It provides you with a total of 7 metres drying space and folds flat when it is not in use, meaning it can be easily stored away.

At such a low price, and with the JVL branding on it, this is a bargain that we feel is worth considering.

2. Minky Free-standing Caravan Rotary Clothes Airer

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Minky consider themselves to be the leading manufacturer in the UK when it comes to laundry and home-ware goods and accessories. With a history that stretches back as far as 1941, it is hard to argue with the facts. They are known for producing products right here in the UK, for people in the UK and this free-standing airer is another fine example of what they are capable of.

It has been made from robust, high quality metal and has weatherproofing that make it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. With 15 metres of drying space, it gives you the benefits of drying on a rotary-style airer, in a more compact form.

The design includes reinforced moulded joints to provide the structure with additional strength and a tripod base to ensure it has a solid foundation. No assembly is required as it simply folds out when you need to use it and folds back into a compact shape when you are finished with it.

We feel that this may be an especially good for a caravan portable clothes airer.

3. Home Vida Compact Caravan Window Clothes Airer

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The Home Vida Compact Utility Airer is the next item on our list and has a very modern and clean looking design. There’s not much else to say about this airer other than offers an adequate amount of drying space, is foldable so can be easily stored away and is simple to set-up as it hooks over the top of any available door.

For the price and the reviews, it is a good value item.

4. SupaHome Caravan Hook On Clothes Airer

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Next on our list is the super SupaHome Caravan clothes Airer. This is a relatively simply design similar to the over door designs above. Though this can be used on the outside of your caravan. It is worth noting that because of changes to the design made by the manufacturer, it may not look quite the same as it does in the picture.

5. JVL Folding Clothes Radiator Drying Airer

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If any of the above are perhaps too big, not suitable or you just want a little more drying space, you should give this some serious consideration. The second appearance by JVL on this list, comes in the form of this very nifty and compact radiator caravan clothes airer.

It is fairly self-explanatory – you unfold it and hang it over the top of a radiator to benefit from a full 3 metres of drying space. It can even be adjusted to fit the width of your radiators and has a nice elegant finish of white with blue arms.

When you are done with it, you can simply fold it up and store it away out of sight. Considering its extremely low price tag and the fact it is made by JVL makes this a very good product indeed, in our humble opinion.

6. Caravan Over Door or Window Caravan Clothes Airer

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Another similarly designed caravan clothes airer that fits over the door or a window and provides you with a total of 7 metres of drying space.

This item is made from a relatively strong wire construction and folds away into a nice compact and flat shape making it easy to store away when it is not in use.

7. Minky 3-Tier Plus Indoor Airer

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The second item from Minky on our list is this nicely designed and manufactured 3-tier airer. Bigger than many of the others on this page, this Minky airer provides you with a total of 21 metres of drying space.

This would be best suited to a larger caravan or if you are intending on taking a long trip in your caravan and will need to dry a lot of clothes regularly. Thanks to the wider rungs, the airflow is increased and there are flip out corners that give you 12 extra spaces to use hangers with for drying additional clothes.

It had very strong moulded joints, like the other Minky product, that increases its robustness and there is a double locking mechanism that means it will not fall down or collapse very easily.

However, when it comes to storing it away, it folds into a nice and flat package.

Although it is more expensive than many of the other airers featured on this page, the branding and drying space make it a worthy investment.

8. JVL Easy Store Two Folding Winged Clothes Airer

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Our final item is also the third item we are discussing from JVL. If you do not want to hang anything over your caravan doors, or simply need supplementary drying space, this double winged airer might be ideal for your laundry needs.

It offers a total of 18 metres of line space without taking up too much space and easily folds down into a flat and compact unit when you are not using it. It even includes a locking mechanism that prevents it from being collapsed by accident.

The JVL branding is testimony to the fact that it has a very strong build and money spent on this, if it meets all your laundry needs, would be money well spent.

Caravan Washing Line

Perhaps you would rather not have a clothes airer taking up space in your tourer or awning setup. A great space-saving solution that you can invest in is a caravan washing line. These help to give you floor space while providing a place to allow your wet clothing and garments to dry. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve washed them or simply got them wet while you you’ve been out and about.

To give you some options to choose from, we have selected four great caravan washing lines. You will find that as well as being affordable, they are all practical and compact.

1. TRIXES Blue Long Compact Flexible 12-Peg and 2-Hook Travel Washing Line

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The first product we want to talk about is the flexible caravan washing line from TRIXES. It’s made from high-quality and durable metal that has been coated with a water-resistant PU coating. This makes it perfect for indoor and outdoor use. It is 1.8-metres in length and comes complete with 12 pegs. This gives you enough room to hang a reasonable number of items and can be suspended just about anywhere using the tough steel hooks at either end. We would recommend though that you only use it to hang lightweight clothing like vest tops, nighties, tights, scarves, trunks, swimming costumes, t-shirts and underwear.

2. EpicTraveller Travel Washing Line with Hooks and Suction Attachments

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Next in our guide is this travel washing line from EpicTraveller. Although it measures 1.25-metres in length, it can stretch up to 3-metres. That means that you have a lot of space to fit a large volume of clothing at once. There are two hooks at either end of the line and suction attachments that mean you can hang it just about anywhere. Unlike other products, this does not come with pegs. Instead, you just push wet clothes between the twines, and it will keep them in place, allowing them to dry. Although pegs don’t account for much space really, this still makes this washing line that little bit more compact.

3. Go Travel Pegless Washing Line

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Go Travel are behind the next product. The Pegless Washing Line is similar to the above product as you just need to slide the edges or hems of garments between its twines and it will hold them in place. This model though is a tiny bit more expensive, but you still get a flexible clothing line that can stretch up to 2.5-metres. As well as being able to tie it around different parts of your caravan, awning and the site in general, it also features the obligatory hooks and practical suction cup attachments so it can be affixed easily to flat surfaces.

4. solotrekk Multi-Fix Travel Washing Line

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Last on our list is the Multi-Fix washing line made by solotrekk. Like the others we have featured, it comes with both hooks at suction cup attachments that can be used at either end to secure it to a wide variety of surfaces. Also, similarly, it has a clever pegless design, so you don’t need to worry about losing pegs, you just slip it in between the twines of the line to secure them in place so they dry and have no chance of falling. It stretches to 2.5-metres long, which is more than enough and even comes with a handy protective bag to keep it in when it’s not in use.

Even if you want to primarily use a clothes airer while away on holiday to hang wet clothes and garments, you could still invest in a caravan washing line. Not only will it give you additional hanging space around the site, you could also use it if you take a day trip or are away from the caravan pitch and site for any reason and need to hang dry anything.

Conclusion

While we would all rather leave the laundry chores until we got home, drying clothes is a necessity that you need to accommodate for when on the road or caravanning out in the middle of nowhere. Particularly if you are caravanning in the UK, where rain is never very far away.

With that in mind, we hope the list above helps you find a suitable caravan airer that will provide you with the drying space you need and the folding compactness to prevent too much of your valuable floor and living space from being taken up. If you need more tips take a look at our article on how to get your washing done while living in a caravan.

Best Caravan and Motorhome Bins

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One of the keys to making your caravan and motorhome as comfortable is utilising the available space as best you can. How do you handle the issue of having suitable places to store waste and rubbish without using up too much of the limited space you have?

If you or you and your partner/friend/travelling companion are the only two people using a caravan, it may not be as big of an issue to have a normal bin that you would have in your kitchen at home. However, if your travelling party is bigger, you need to start thinking of how to save as much floor space and space in general as possible.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there. The best and easiest way to deal with rubbish generated while using a caravan is to invest in a waste bin that can be attached to the inside of cupboard doors. These normally don’t even require any screws and although they are quite small, who really wants to have a huge 5-litre bin full of rubbish in such a small space as a caravan anyway?

If you do a quick search for the best caravan bins online, you will see that there are hundreds and hundreds out there. To help save you the time of searching through all of these looking for the best, we have put together a brief guide to what we feel are the best caravan bins available.

Top 7 Caravan Bins

1. Door Waste Bin Caravan Motorhome Camping Mini Dustbin

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First on our list is the Caravan Door Mounted Rubbish Bin. This is a very affordable and easy to use a bin that as the name suggests can be mounted to a door, either on the inside or the outside. What is more to say really than that? For a no-thrills, gets the job done space-saving bin, this is a great option.

2. Brunner Pillar XL Caravan Door Waste Bin

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Brunner is a popular European-based manufacturer with around 50 years of experience in creating and producing practical and functional items that make life easier for campers and caravans.

The Brunner Pillar XL door bin is a great example of their attention to detail and approach to designing everyday items. With a volume of 10 litres, it is more than enough for the average-sized caravan and comes with a mounting plate and screws to help attach it to a suitable door.

Stylish and functional and perfect for the inside of a cupboard.

3. Brabantia Built-in Bin, 10 Litres

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The next item we want to draw your attention to is the Brabantia Built-in 10 litre waste bin. Brabantia is a long-running and extremely popular brand of housewares goods and accessories, that have been in business since 1919 when it was first established in Aalst in The Netherlands. It was a family company back then and remains a family company down to this day.

As it has been constructed using corrosion-resistant components and materials, it is perfect for use in a caravan and thanks to the mounting bracket, can be attached very easily to the back of a cupboard door.

4. Streetwize Eco Bin

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Streetwize are another successful, reputable and very popular manufacturer and supplier of caravan and camping equipment and accessories.

This is a very compact looking thing that can be collapsed for easy storage when not in use. It also comes with a pack of 10 bin liners. Easy to use and set-up and does not take up too much space at all. For the price, considering the brand and the bin liners, we reckon this is a pretty good deal. We feel this one is best suited for use in awnings as its a bit bigger than the others

5. Brunner DCC Caravan Waste Door Bin

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The second Brunner item on our list is a slightly smaller version of the plastic bin noted earlier. This only has a volume of 5.5 litres and can be attached to the back of a cupboard door either using doubled-sided sticky tape or screws. The well closing lid prevents your waste from attracting flies and keeps those bad odours at bay.

Another quality solution from a quality brand name.

6. PLS Pennine Leisure Supplies Pillar Hanging Door Mounted Waste Bin for Caravans

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Another great product, another great pillar hanging door bin. Like the others on this list, this bin can be easily attached to the back of a cupboard door in your caravan’s kitchen using the supplied hooks.

It features a hinged lid, is made from robust and long-lasting plastic that is easy to wipe clean. Most importantly, it will ensure you are not wasting any space. We recommend putting a carrier bag inside.

7. Storage box with dividers

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From InterDesign, our last item is a lot cheaper than the rest and it is not hard to see why. This is a very simplistic and minimalist product that consists of a stand that can fit into the cupboard under a sink or any other unused caravan cupboard to store your rubbish out of sight and mind.

Although its a bit bare and looks incomplete, it is actually good if you are trying to reduce your waste and want to use those plastic bags you keep accumulating.

8. Kampa Snappy bin

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This is such a basic bin, but we really like it. There is nothing fancy about it. You simply put the bin bag inside the clip and clip it in. If you are just going away for a weekend and don’t have a lot of rubbish to store then this could be for you. Maybe this one could be used for your recycling rubbish? Or maybe it would suit a campervan where space is even tighter.

When doing our research we did see that some people said that it was not made for heavy items and the snap clip might struggle to hold it.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, folks, there is not a lot else that can be said on the matter. We feel at Caravan Helper that any of the products above would be a worthy choice to take on the road with you in your caravan.

What more do you need from a caravan bin? A hinged lid that closes securely, some kind of mounting for attaching it to the back of a cupboard door and a compact construction from durable and easy to clean materials?

You will find that most of the items above have all of these important features. It will just be down to your own personal taste and preference which you choose, as far as we can tell.

We hope though that this has been a helpful post and you find the best caravan bin for you.

Caravan Bike Rack

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Caravanning and cycling go together well and if you are interested in checking out the local countryside of the places you visit while touring, you may be looking to invest in a caravan bike rack of some kind.

Although there are plenty of products available on the market, of which we will highlight some of the best bike racks for caravans, there are some things you need to keep in mind when deciding what is right for you.

Best Caravan Bike Racks UK

1. Fiamma Carry Bike XL

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Fiamma is a highly respected and market leading manufacturer of technical accessories for recreational vehicles. Based Italy and currently lead by the MDs John-David Pozzi and Charles Pozzi, the name Fiamma is taken from the Italian word for flame – incidentally, this was also the name of the first ever aluminium-based camping stove.

The Fiamma Carry Bike XL is a very inexpensive and compact model that has been designed to fit most caravan, including even Al-Ko and Hobby. The 5.3 Kg rack is built to be installed onto the A-frame to the front of the caravan and can carry a total of 2 bikes at any one time.

2. Fabbri BICI OK 3 Bike Rack

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Fabbri is another vehicle and recreational vehicle manufacturer that has had a long and successful time in the industry, having been established in 1962. According to Fabbri, their caravan bike racks are among the most technologically advanced available at the moment

The BICI OK 3 does nothing really to disprove that fact and has been constructed using arc-welded aluminium for improved robustness and durability even in extreme driving or weather conditions. It can hold a total of 3 bikes and has an adjustable height to prevent your number plate from being obstructed.

3. Thule Elite G2 Bicycle Carrier

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Thule is a brand and manufacturer we have featured a number of times on this site. This is mainly thanks to the fact they are one of the biggest and most popular manufacturers of all things related to the outdoors, travelling and caravan accessories. First established in 1942 in Sweden, they have always tried to help their customers get more out of their time in the great outdoors.

The Thule Elite G2 bike rack is a good all-rounder of a solution to touring and taking your bikes. It has a solid and very stable attachment that fits the rear of your caravan or motorhome and is fully adjustable to ensure that you can fit whatever size of bikes you own and are taking with you; as well as ensuring they stay put while you are on the road.

This particular rack can be upgraded to carry more than 2 bikes.

4. Universal 3 Bike Bicycle Tow Bar Car Mount Rack Stand Carrier

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The next on our list is this Beaut Drawbar bike rack with space for 2 bikes. It is made from sturdy and durable aluminium, weighs just 4.6 Kg and has a maximum weight capacity of 50 kg.

5. Fiamma Carry Bike UL

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The second Fiamma product on our list is this Fiamma Carry Bike UL. This is a very affordable and classic designed carrier from the Italian company that is built with the transportation of 2 bikes in mind.

With an anodised aluminium structure and the reputation of Fiamma, you know that this particular rack is a wise investment. It is telescopic and can be easily adjusted and if you need to take 3 bikes, it can be used for this by incorporating the quick railing that is supplied alongside it.

6. Bags and Covers Direct Motor-home/Caravan 2 Bike Cover With Webbings

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Although our final item is not a caravan bike rack, it is still something you might want to invest in. This product works in a similar way to a caravan cover, in that you fit it onto the rack and over your bikes to provide waterproofing and weatherproofing from the elements while you are on the road.

While it is possible to use this with other bike racks, it has been designed specifically to fit Thule tow ball mounted bike racks. As well as being incredibly weatherproof, it also consists of very breathable polyester fabric.

Hopefully, this page has helped to provide you with the information you need to make wise decisions when it comes to purchasing caravan bike racks. It may feel overwhelming when you first contemplate the decision and have to sift through hundreds of different products. We hope this article, therefore, takes the hassle and headaches out of the choice. Even if you decide against choosing one of the items we’ve highlighted above, you at least have the facts regarding some of the legal requirements for touring vehicles and bike racks.

This will help you to plan for and enjoy your next caravan trip, with all the benefits that come with having a set of two wheels with you!

Finding A Suitable Caravan Bike Rack Or Carrier

There are a few different options open to you including roof rack mounts, carriers that are installed on the back of your car or those that can be installed onto a towing bracket. If you have a motorhome, you can even have bike racks fitted to the back panel.

Installing a caravan bike rack or carrier to the back panel of a touring caravan, however, is not recommended as it can upset the balance of the vehicle being towed. Likewise, bike carriers on the A-frame are not recommended as they can add a significant amount of nose-weight that is higher than what is recommended by the towing car manufacturer. Unless, of course, you are driving a 4×4.

For Cars

If you opt for a tailgate-mounted or tow-bar rack for your car, you are required by the law to have your rear lights and number plate visible (number plate tape available here). A lighting board is normally required, which can be connected to the 13-pin combined socket or 12N road light socket.

For Caravans

As noted it may be technically possible for you to attach a cycle carrier or bike rack to the caravan’s rear. However, this should be avoided as the additional weight can have a detrimental effect on the stability of your caravan.

For Motor-homes

There is a wide range of bike racks and carriers available for motorhomes. If you want to install the rack or carrier to your coach built body, you should always ensure that the bolts are inserted tightly into a solid framework, and not just the sandwich panel. Alternatively, you should ensure that an appropriate load spreading plate is used on the inside of the motorhome’s body.

When Touring Abroad With Bike Racks and Cycle Carriers

Generally speaking, when touring through most EU countries with bikes, it is important to ensure your cycle rack is fit for its purpose, securely installed, in good working order and that your indicators, lights and number plate are clearly visible.

In Italy and Spain, it is also required that you have a red and white marker board to show you have a motorcycle rack, cycle rack or some other kind of overhanging load. You can find marker boards from Fiamma in both aluminium and plastic and you should be able to purchase them from most caravan accessory shops and caravan dealerships.

While you are allowed to use either an aluminium or plastic marker board when touring in Spain, you need to use aluminium in Italy.

In Portugal, they have a law that stipulates any overhanging load must not be protruding over the vehicle’s width. This means if you are planning on touring Portugal with your caravan and bikes, you cannot carry your bike on the back of your car, and can only mount them to the back of your motorhome or caravan. The only option for carrying bikes on your car is if you mount them on the roof and the combined height of the vehicle and bikes does not exceed 4 metres.

Are you considering purchasing an electric bike? We have written an article on the best electric bikes for caravanning.

Best Caravan BBQ

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Caravanning and barbecues go together perfectly. Although modern caravans are designed with reasonably kitted-out kitchens, is there any better way to enjoy the warm sunny days of summer than cooking on an open fire, or smoking hot coals? We certainly don’t think so.

Burgers, steak, sticky chicken thighs and wings, sausages and the obligatory jacket potatoes are all things we long for when on the road travelling the countryside.

If that is how you envision your caravan experience and you are on the lookout for the best caravan BBQ, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we will look at what we feel are 5 of the best caravan BBQs suitable for taking on the road with you.

We will also at the different types of BBQs available, the pros and cons of each and offer some tips to help you get the best caravan barbecuing experience possible.

5 Best Caravan BBQs (Gas and Charcoal)

1. Crusader Products Folding Gas Barbecue Trolley

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Crusader Products is a family-run operation that aims to provide their customers with the highest standard of quality and service. They have more than 25 years experience in the outdoor leisure sector and for the duration of that time have been supplying superior quality caravan and motor-home accessories, just like this folding caravan gas barbecue trolley.

This is a 3-in-1 combo unit and runs on either butane or propane gas. It is incredibly quick and simple to assemble and can be used on the included trolley with wheels or as a tabletop barbecue cooker. There are two foldable sides and offers adjustable control of the heat and one large burner made from stainless steel. Food can be cooked on the sturdy chrome grill.

2. Kampa Bruce Tabletop Barbecue

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Kampa are a popular and very reputable brand within the world of outdoor accessories for camping and caravanning. In fact, we have featured many of their other products on this site. If you are looking for an affordable and compact tabletop barbecue to liven up cooking on the road, the Kampa Bruce Tabletop caravan Barbecue is one you should definitely consider. It is great to use as a tabletop gas BBQ.

It includes foldable legs and a lid and is very easy to store. The burner produces 2.5 Kw of power and is made from galvanised steel for enhanced durability and improved toughness. It is also nice and easy on the eye and will be a welcome addition to your caravan set-up. This is a great choice for a portable gas BBQ for the caravan.

3. Expert Grill Red Kettle BBQ Barbecue Portable Round Grill Outdoor

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The nice miniature barbecue unit on our list is from Pro-Iroda, who are a global leader in the production of butane power technology and butane powered products. A clamshell-style barbecue unit with foldable legs and a 165 sq inch large non-stick cooking area made from cast iron.

Are known for producing easy to use butane products and this is no different with its stainless steel burner that offers a output which provides the equivalent of 2.63 Kw. It even comes with the Piezo ignition and 8 mm connection nozzle. Easy to use, easy to look after and reasonably priced for the standard. This would be our choice for a small gas BBQ for your caravan.

4. BBQ Grill Tool Set with Gift Wrapping Box

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Yellowstone is a popular brand of outdoor products and accessories, including everything you could need for camping, hiking and caravanning among other pursuits. This barbecue is ideal if you after a very traditional smelling and tasting BBQ, because unlike the above, this is not gas-powered by is designed to be used with charcoal.

It is easy to assemble, includes a reasonably large cooking space and plenty of room for charcoals and even comes with a carry bag that you collapse the unit and store away in when you aren’t using it.

5. Kbabe Portable BBQ Grill Removable Plates and Easy Clean Charcoal Barbecue

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If you are looking for the authentic barbecue scents and flavours, much like the one above, this is a charcoal product you will want to consider. Especially if you are looking for an energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly design.

It comes with a handy non-stick surface that not only means you need only a little amount of oil to cook, but the clean-up is much easier. For the price, it is one of the easiest barbecues to use and it is easy to store away and carry when not in use.

Now that you know what our top 5 picks are for the best caravan barbecues, we are going to discuss a little about the different types available, look at their pros and cons as well as offering lots of helpful tips for using them.

Types Of Caravan BBQs

Essentially, there are 2 main types of caravan BBQs available, both of which are featured in our list above and these are:

Charcoal
Gas

Caravan Charcoal BBQs

Charcoal BBQs are what springs to most people’s minds when they think of this form of cooking and even though they are the most traditional form, they are also generally less expensive than gas models. Charcoal is great as a source of fuel, particularly if you can find a good sustainable source locally. Charcoal can also be moved around when it is in the BBQ to create what are known as heat zones for warming and cooking food.

You need to remember though when using charcoal that is can spit sparks out so always cook in a clear space away from anything flammable.

Pros

Easy on the budget
Best way to achieve that traditional smoky and earthy BBQ scent and flavour
You can move charcoals around to regulate the heat

Cons

Charcoal has a tendency to spit sparks out, so is a fire risk, unless you take care

Caravan Gas BBQs

Many people prefer gas-powered barbecues if they don’t mind compromising on the BBQ smoky flavour in favour of convenience because it produces heat instantly. You also are not left with ash to get rid of at the end of a cooking session. Evaporation of the cooking juices is avoided in gas barbecuing by using hot plates and lava rocks, which helps to create that smoky flavour.

There are obvious safety checks you should always carry out before you use a gas barbecue, such as checking the integrity of the gas supply hose and the connections.

Pros

Consistent, convenient and fast
Does not leave ashes at end to get rid of

Cons

Harder to achieve that authentic BBQ flavour

Caravan BBQ Tips

Lava rocks are ideal to use to increase the intensity of the BBQ flavour you achieve. These will absorb fat and eventually become unstable though, so you need to replace them roughly after every 10 barbecues.

Slow cooking meat is possible even with a barbecue. Pile charcoals in a border around an aluminium food container that has a little bit of water inside it and place the joint of meat on the grill over the top. Now close the lid on your BBQ unit and the indirect and moist heat will cook the joint very slowly and very thoroughly until it tears away like butter.

Tools and Accessories to Invest in

Spatulas or Tongs – to turn your meat and ingredients. Avoid spearing meat with a fork or a knife as all the juices will run out, ruining the moistness and flavour of your food.
Water Spray – Just like the ones you may have used to water plants at home, these are useful to control your barbecue’s heat and calm any flare-ups that occur when using charcoal.
Brush – For applying any oils, sauces or marinades to ingredients.
Heat-proof mitts and apron/pinny – Ideal for protecting both your clothes and skin from the heat and any oils or juices that are spat out.
Gas Matches – These are longer than normal matches, making them safer to use when you are lighting your barbecue.
Chimney Starter – An even more convenient, safer and quicker way to light charcoal.
Crumpled Aluminium Foil or Metal Brush – For cleaning your grill between uses.
First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher, Fire Blanket and Bucket of Water – All of these are ideal items to invest in to ensure that each and every barbecue is a safe one.
Caravan Chairs and recliners – You will want something comfy to sit back and enjoy the food in

So, if you are investing in a barbecue to take along on your caravan treks around the country, we hope we have helped you on your search for the best caravan BBQ. We are always interested to hear from our readers, so why not drop us a line and tell us about your favourite caravan and BBQ stories. We hope we helped you find the best gas BBQ for your caravan or the best charcoal BBQ for your caravan.

Are you after some caravan gifts? We have put together a great guide here.

Best Caravan Awning

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Caravans are great in so many ways. They allow you to take a break anywhere, giving you the flexibility to roam the country and taking in the various sights and sounds without feeling stuck at a fixed destination. They are normally equipped with many of the appliances and conveniences you’d find at home, so you don’t have to compromise on comfort.

Well, that last part is not strictly true, is it? Let’s face it, as great as some modern caravans can be, and some of them are amazing – there is one thing that all caravans and motor-homes have suffered from their invention and that is limited space.

And a large part of comfort revolves around there being enough space. Fortunately, there is a very simple solution and even if you have never heard the term awning before, you will know exactly what they look like.

Think back to any caravan park or other holiday park you have ever been to. Those canopy and tent-style things on the side of the caravans are awnings and they are one of those must-have accessories if you are serious about caravanning.

Now awnings, much like anything these days, come in a wide variety of different sizes, shapes and styles. We have actually covered sun canopy (often referred to as canopy awnings) on another page and have even looked at inflatable awning on this site. However, we are going to cover the more traditional concept on this page, highlighting some top products available at the moment and offering some tips and advice when it comes to buying them.

Best Caravan Awnings 2019 (Our Recommendations)

1. 390 Caravan Porch Awning Aluminium Frame

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A brand that was first established more than 20 years ago and what began as a simple, but reliable selection of caravan awnings soon became a full range of caravanning and camping accessories. Thanks to their expertise and knowledge, they are able to produce fine products for excellent prices.

The Caravan Awning in blue is no exception. It has high quality fabrics and steel poles and has been designed to fit caravans with awning railing heights between 230 and 250 cm. 2 side doors feature mesh for ventilation and there are 3 panels at the front that can be rolled up. There is also large canopies that can be put over the front panels for extra protection when the weather is not so good.

2. Berth Awning Inner Tent

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Another one of the big names in the caravan and camping industry, known for designing and producing innovative and practical products and accessories. This caravan awning from Kampa that we are highlighting is a practical and lightweight solution that provides you with additional space.

This awning was actually the first awning that Kampa released, and due to its success they then went on to manufacture hundreds of different types and sizes. It may look impractically small, but trust us you can actually still fit a table and some chairs inside it, giving you a little extra floor space. As well as being easy to assemble, it is also easy to store away and comes with its own storage bag.

3. California Drive-Away Air Awning

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The next product we are looking at is the seasonal pitch awning. This is another well-made and expertly designed awning that actually can work attached and unattached to your caravan.

This is designed to give you comfort and space while on holiday. It includes privacy blinds for privacy and security and is made from the exclusive Climatech SR18 heavy-duty materials that most Camptech products feature nowadays. Available in 9 different sizes so it is a great choice if you are after a large caravan awning. People say it is easy to assemble and comes with everything you need, this is a great product for a reasonable price.

4. Deluxe Caravan Porch Awning

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Similarly to the above, this particular caravan awning can be set-up at a distance from your caravan, as it was designed for both camping and caravanning. It features to provide a superior level of protection from the elements, compared to others on the market.

Much like the model above, this comes with privacy blinds and also features a fly screen and everything else you need to get it erected so you can enjoy it. If you are looking for quality and don’t want to pay too much, this is worth considering.

Guide To The Different Types Of Caravan Awnings

As we have noted already there are various types, styles and sizes of awnings, so it can be hard to make the right decision for your caravan and requirements. We wanted to make things a little easier for you. In this section, therefore, we will look at the different types of awning available, how to measure for them and some additional tips we think are indispensable.

Although there are various variations on these basic structures, the three types of awnings we are going to focus on are:

Full Awnings
Porch Awnings
Canopy Awnings (often referred to as Sun Canopies)
Inflatable caravan awnings

Full Awnings

Full caravan awnings generally can add around twice as much living area to a caravan, giving you space and freedom to enjoy your time away, regardless of the weather.

They are usually large structures that resemble tents and are available in various qualities, fabrics and sizes. Many are fitted with additional sleeping areas, while others feature removable panelling to allow you the chance to enjoy the sun when its shine and to block out the rain when its not. There are even some awnings that have high quality curtains that would suit even the most sophisticated home.

Measuring For Full Awnings

The two measurements you need to pay most attention to when looking at full awnings is the caravan’s A measurement and the depth of the awning.

The A measurement for your caravan will normally be noted in the handbook. However, it is relatively easy to measure. You need to start by levelling your caravan and then use some string (not the stretchy kind) and push it along the awning rail, until it comes out the other end.

NB. Modern awnings are not usually designed to follow the contours of the underside of the railing.

You now need to fasten the string to something on the ground and then tension it to figure out how much string is needed in order for the other end to reach the ground. When you measure the length in centimetres, you have the A measurement of your caravan.

Porch Awnings

These awnings are generally a lot smaller than their full counterparts making them easier and quicker to erect and therefore, ideal for shorter breaks. They are often designed to provide you with an area you can take wet clothing like wellies and coats off before entering the caravan, preventing wet muddy marks getting inside.

These awnings are also useful for keeping bikes stored in out of the rain and protect your caravan’s door from the worst of the weather. On the other side of things, although they are a lot smaller, this style awnings can still often house a table and some chairs.

Measuring For Porch Awnings

When it comes to measuring your caravan to choose this type of awning, you need to consider two things:

Is there a window close to your caravan door?
The height of your caravan

If there is a window close to the front door, porch awnings often overlap these windows. Whether this is a major problem, is up to you. Think about how awkward it may be to keep that window closed always, or at least when the porch awning is up. Perhaps the window is above the hob and you need that window open for additional ventilation. If it is not though, it may not be a problem keeping the window closed.

So, how do you measure the height of your caravan? Well, as it is only for an awning, you measure from the ground up to the top of the awning railing on your caravan.

Canopy Awning/Sun Canopy

We have dedicated a full page on our site to sun canopies here. Sun canopies or canopy awnings are either permanently or temporarily installed on the side of your tourer. The permanent variety normally rolls down like a blind and usually consist of some internal poles that fold out as legs.

High-end canopy awnings often come with optional fabric walls that can be used to make the space below the canopy more enclosed and secluded.

As it normally is considered a specialist job, you should speak to your local caravan dealership about your permanent canopy installation options.

Safety and Installation Tips

If you are transporting your awning inside the caravan, place it over your tourer’s axle and ensure it is unable to move about, even if you stop suddenly.
If you are going to erect your awning onto the muddy ground, lay a groundsheet down first, or even some plastic sheeting. This will prevent the fabric from getting muddy or green.
Generally speaking, it is best to put an awning up with the side panels zipped. Although this is the quickest way to do it though, if you are in windy conditions, take the panelling out first so you don’t have to struggle against fabric being blown about or it tearing.

There you have it, our guide to the best caravan awnings. We hope the information contained in this page is helpful and assists you in finding the best awnings for caravans and preferences. Please be sure to have a look around our site and read some of our other informative guides. We’d also love to hear from you and your thoughts and experiences caravanning around the UK.

After something else that’s more specific?

Our aim is to ensure you have as much information at your disposal as possible to make the best purchase for your caravan.

Caravan Sun Canopy

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One of the most popular accessories caravan and motor-home owners tend to invest in is an awning of some kind. However, many awnings are cumbersome and require a lot more maintenance and installation. As an alternative then, you can invest in a sun canopy for your caravan, which is a lighter and simpler form of an awning. This means you have all the benefit of being able to enjoy the sun and when it gets too hot or uncomfortable, you still have a shaded area too without all the hassle of having to set up a full frame and awning system.

Thanks to the fact they are less complex in design and structure, they are also easier to store away and take up much less room in your caravan or car storage. When it comes to setting up caravan sun canopies, they are, as we noted incredibly fast and simple. In fact, some manufacturers and customers claim many models can be erected and fully set up in around 5 minutes.

As you probably aspect, there are a number of different sun canopies available. So, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure which sun canopy is best for you. This is why we are glad you clicked through to this page, as we can help you to make the choice of a caravan sun canopy a little easier.

In the following post, we are going to highlight 6 caravan sun canopies in particular that we feel are worth considering.

Best Caravan Sun Canopies For Touring Caravans

1. Clasica Frankana Playa Universal Caravan Sun Canopy Awning 300 x 240

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The first sun canopy on our list is this Clasica Frankana Playa model, which has been designed to be versatile and very practical, with the aim of ensuring it does not take too long to put it up. This is a caravan sun canopy with sides.

It is versatile in the fact that it can be used in a variety of ways, whether you use it as a cover for your gas cylinder, at the rear or side of the caravan. The material used in this design is 100% polyester and incredibly waterproof and it only takes around 5 minutes to install and can be used with caravans of virtually any size.

2. Eurotrail Caravan Sun Canopy 300 x 240 cm

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This Eurotrail caravan sun canopy is the next on our list and has a quick and easy to use strapping system that can be inserted effortlessly into the edging strip of your caravan. This takes the hassle out of setting up a canopy and means you can be out enjoying the sun quicker.

As you’d expect, it has been designed and manufactured using tear-proof, weather resistant materials that are very light. The seams are naturally reinforced and taped. It comes with a carry case for easy storage and transportation and takes approximately 5 minutes to install.

3. Sunncamp Swift Lightweight Caravan Door Sun Canopy (with sides)

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Sunncamp are a very reputable, long running company within the camping and caravanning products and accessories industry. We’ve featured them on other pages on this site and with good reason. They have a sterling reputation for designing and manufacturing high quality products.

The Sunncamp Swift Lightweight Caravan Door Canopy is no different and is a good option if you want to create a patio area extending out from your caravan. Keep in mind that it has been designed to fit onto an awning rail with a height between 235 to 250 cm. It consists of strong upright poles made from steel at either side, with a fibreglass roof pole that is flexible and there is a window at either side, for ventilation and allowing sun in.

4. Eurotrail Adjustable Sun Roof For Caravans etc. 860 to 900

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Another Eurotrail product on our list is the handy, adjustable sun roof-style canopy/awning. This is a more open plan design than some of the others on our list, but is may suit if you are just looking to create a small amount of shade over a longer length of your caravan.

It has been built to connect either on the right or left hand side of your caravan and provides protection against rain, wind and even sun. As is the case with most sun canopies and certainly the products listed on this page, this Eurotrail model is very easy to install and does not require as much fiddling or fussing as a full size awning.

5. Vango Sun Canopy for Caravan and Motor-homes – 2 metres 2016 Model

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Vango is a long-running Scottish brand that first began life in 1966 and to this very day is still based at the edge of the Highlands. They are passionate about what they do and take inspiration and encouragement from the Highlands themselves.

This particular Vango sun canopy comes with a pre-attached 6 mm Kador strip, which is one of the most commonly available and easy to use connection systems for awnings. It is an easy solution to having enough shading when the sun is beaming down upon you and your family and the caravan.

We hope that our article has helped you pick the best caravan sun canopy for you.

Best Caravan Toilet

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It’s fair to say that if you are a complete caravan newbie, toilets are probably the last thing on your mind when you are choosing a caravan. However, it won’t be long into your life as a caravan owner when you realise that some thought and consideration into the smallest room of your caravan and the equipment it has, could save you effort, time and even frustration further down the line.

Most caravans actually come with toilets already installed in the bathroom, so this guide might not be helpful to you at this point. That being said, if you ever need to or want to replace your caravan, but don’t like the toilet – this page will benefit you greatly.

If you’ve ever looked at toilets, you will know only too well how many different brands, models and types of best caravan toilets there are out there.

We will have a look at 6 of the best caravan toilets available on the market right now and why we feel they are among the best. To coincide with that we will also highlight the different types of caravan toilets that are available, looking at the positives and negatives of each.

Best Caravan Toilets (Our Top 10 Choices)

1. Thetford Porta Potti Qube 165 Portable Toilet

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For many people, Thetford is a name that goes hand in hand with hygiene and sanitation while touring and this is with good reason. For over 40 years, the company has been educating caravan owners and those who love to camp out about the subject and has been ensuring it was doing it’s part to make it possible for people to deal with the unmentionables of domestic life while away from home.

This Thetford caravan toilet is one of many sizes of their flagship portable toilet range. Well designed, comfortable enough, easy to carry, clean and store and incredibly hygienic to use. For that modest price tag, you get a flushing toilet, a bottle of Aqua Kem and a bottle of Aqua Rinse.

2. Domestic 966 Portable Toilet, Grey

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Domestic is a brand that people no around the world. Their popularity and success is down to the fact that they are known globally for designed and manufacturing innovative and effective solutions to everyday issues and needs. Although the company has been around in some shape or form since 1919, Domestic properly entered into the portable living appliances side of things at the turn of the century.

Their motto ‘Mobile living made easy’ was the driving force of new and creative solutions to hygiene and other everyday concerns. The Domestic 966 Portable Toilet is representative of what makes Domestic stand out – the fact that they make sturdy and effective toilets like this one. It comes with a 19-litre waste tank and a 9.6-litre flush tank and a full size, if a little flimsy, comfortable seat and lid. Thanks to the way the tank has been constructed, you are unlikely to experience leaks.

3. PORTABLE OUTDOOR / INDOOR GREY TOILET.

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Next on our list is the Portable Toilet Potty, which is another reasonably priced, high-quality appliance suitable for your caravan or motor-home. Made to a high standard and very convenient, this is a toilet that can either be used with chemicals or without them.

It comes with a 20 litres waste container and has a carry handle and a removable lid that makes it easier to empty. The toilet features a double flush system which means it is quicker to flush and uses less water. There is a waste level indicator that makes it easy to see the contents without having to look in the actual tank. Lightweight and durable, this is a great choice.

4. Elsan Bristol Toilet Caravan Toilet

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Elsan is one of the leading manufacturers of chemical toilets and hygiene solutions for caravans, camping and boating; so as you’d expect, the Elsan Bristol Toilet Caravan Toilet is a great representation of their experience and skills that they have been honing since as far back as the earl 20’s.

This is a comfortable portable toilet with an inner container that can be lifted out to make the emptying process even easier. It has a beige lid and burgundy base which elevates it slightly above the sea of other, less sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing portable loos. With a capacity of 20 litres and a robust, full-size seat, this is worth the price tag.

5. 20L Portable Travel Mobile Toilet Outdoor Camping Handle.

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This portable toilet is very much a good choice for your caravan, as it has a reasonable 20 litres capacity, a full-size seat and has been constructed to a high standard using strong materials. With a price point of just under 50 bucks, it is well-positioned on the market.

It comes self-contained and has an on-board carry handle to make it easier to install and to transport. The double-seal around the drain valve prevents nasty odours and leakages and there is an 11 litres fresh water tank and 18 litres waste water tank.

6. NRS Healthcare Porta Potti Qube

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From NRS Healthcare is the perfect addition to any caravan. Reasonably priced, well designed. If you are looking to upgrade your current caravan toilet or need to replace a broken one, this is a great product to consider. It has a very easy to empty waste tank, that is large enough that it doesn’t need to be emptied every single day.

Comfortable, convenient and easily flushed, this also has a modular construction that helps to make it portable.

Different Kinds Of Caravan Toilets

Although our list above is very much focused on portable best caravan toilets, there is such a wide array of different types available that we thought it was a good idea to outline these. We wanted to give you some information on what they are, how they work and their various benefits and downsides.

Portable Toilet

Portable caravan toilets normally consist of two parts – a holding tank that sits underneath the seat and flush tank. Although they sound very rustic, modern portable toilets are actually very sophisticated systems or more so than you may have previously thought. Depending on your budget, you may be able to invest in a really nice portable toilet for your caravan that has a plethora of features that help to make it easier to use and maintain. Generally, with these models, a piston pump that is hand-pumped is used to flush.

To use this kind of toilet properly, there are two chemicals that needed. One chemical that liquefies the solid waste and helps to break down toilet paper collected in the holding tank, as well as reduce the odour and gas release. A conditioner is the other chemical used, during the flushing process, to reduce the bacterial build-up around the lubricate seals and bowl.

Benefits and Downsides of Portable Caravan toilets

Benefits

Caravan toilets are lightweight and compact and are also
Incredibly inexpensive
Do not require plumbing or an electrical current
Can be stored away inside a cupboard if space is limited or when not in use

Downsides

The majority of portable toilets have very low constructions, which may be inconvenient for some people.

Cassette Toilet for Caravans

The portable toilet idea is taken to the next level with the caravan cassette toilet, by separating the holding tank completely from the seat and flush unit. The same chemical treatments are used in this style of toilet to those used in a porta-potty, but unlike it, the cassette has to be built-in. To access the cassette section, you need to go outside your caravan. There are some higher end caravan cassette toilets that come equipped with an electrically-powered flushing system.

Benefits and Downsides

Benefits

Aside from the waster being stored outside, the benefits of cassette toilets include:

Electric flushers are often available
There are some models that even have a seat that can rotate to make it easy to get on and off.

Downsides

The main downsides of caravan cassette toilets are:

They are rather expensive
May be tricky to retrofit into a caravan’s existing bathroom area.

Composting Toilets

If you are looking to have as little impact on the environment as possible while you are touring in your caravan, a composting toilet is worth considering. As is implied by the name, it transforms bodily fluids and wastes into compost. Although it does rely on evaporation for the composting process to work properly, the only plumbing that is required is ventilation. The compost that you end up with, can be used in your garden. There are vacuum-flusher and electric models available. As it requires very little to no water to function, the composting toilet actually helps with water conservation, meaning you have more to put to other good uses.

Benefits and Downsides

Benefits

As well as being environmentally friendly, the other benefits of composting toilets include:

Little to no use of water
Requires minimal amount of plumbing
Does not need a holding tank
More or less completely odourless
Easier to install cassette toilets
More lightweight than cassette toilets
No need to hunt for proper waste locations

Downsides

As well as the fact that they are taller in design than other types of toilets, making them trickier for small children to use; the major downsides include:

They are not to everyone’s taste
They can be expensive

You may not have thought there would be so much to discuss about the best caravan toilets, but there you have it. We hopefully have shown you that there is actually a type of toilet out there to suit everyone. So whether you are looking to replace your current, seen-better-days toilet system or are new to caravans and just trying scope what’s available, you can use our guides to make the best decisions for your travelling home and the people who are going to use it.

How to Empty a Caravan Toilet

There are two main types of caravan toilets: cassette toilet and portable toilet. Though the design is slightly different, how to empty these caravan toilets is pretty much the same. The only difference is that the cassette toilet has its own exterior door for removing the waste tank while the portable caravan toilet must be removed from inside the caravan bathroom.

There are two chemicals that you should use inside caravan toilets. The first one is to dissolve the human waste into a liquid and minimise the odours. The second is to prevent any bacteria from growing inside the waste tank.

Waste tanks may only be emptied into specific human waste disposal points. Each campsite should have one of these points. It is illegal to empty the caravan toilet waste tank anywhere else as this is a biological hazard.

After emptying the caravan toilet tank, spray it clean. Most campsite disposal points have a hose for this specific task. After the tank is hosed clean, add the chemicals as instructed by the manufacturer.

This video is a good visual on how to empty the cassette toilet in your caravan.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vgouCE2e5E

Caravan Toilet Fluid and Chemicals

Although it is not something you perhaps want to think about when you are budgeting for that caravan that is going to give you the freedom you need and want, caravan toilets and caravan toilet fluid is something that you are going to have to think about at some point. You, like everyone else on the planet, need to go to the toilet at some point. Even when you are in the middle of nowhere or somewhere rural off the coast of Scotland, Ireland, England or Wales.

Now it all depends on the type of caravan you have (as some smaller tourers, like teardrop-style caravans, have little to no room for an actual bathroom and usually have a portable toilet, if they even have one), and whether you want to just use the caravan site toilets and leave your humble abode on wheels a clean place. However, there will still come that time of night, when it is cold, dark and you are half asleep when you will be regretting the decision to not think more about how you are going to maintain your caravan’s toilet. Trust us on that. So even if it is a plan B, you still need to have a plan B.

What does this all mean? Well, we need to talk about caravan toilets and toilet chemicals. There are various fluids out there, so if you are looking for the best chemical toilet fluid, you might find it a little confusing and overwhelming. Particularly if you are not familiar with them in the first place. That’s where we come in. At Caravan Helper, we want to make your life a little easier for you by helping you to understand more about chemical toilets and the fluids you can use to keep them clean and a whole variety of other things.

More About Chemical Toilets

Chemical toilets are the kind of toilets you will find in a caravan that is designed to function in a similar way to a standard toilet you’d find in your home. They are comprised of a bowl that sits below the top section, the bowl collects the waste matter, while the top section stores the water for flushing.

Generally, the waste matter is removed by hand once it has been flushed to a special area in the tourer, rather than being flushed into an internal piping system. There are two main types of caravan toilet that you are most likely to come across, internal cassette models and porta potti models. Many caravaners prefer porta potties as an easier to use solution for dealing with the unmentionables.

What is an Internal Cassette Toilet?

More permanent than the porta-potty design described below, the internal cassette-style of toilet is fixed and actually installed into the bathroom area. It is very similar to a traditional toilet, with the only difference being the fact that the waste tank is accessible from the caravan’s exterior. Toilets of this kind require the help of special toilet chemicals and fluids to break the waste matter down and water in the tank to ensure it flushes with clean water to avoid a build-up of dirt and grime.

What is a Porta Potti Toilet?

Porta Pottis are freshwater portable toilets that flush and need no drainage system or main water system connections. This is why they are favoured by many caravanners. The amount of fresh water used is normally equal to the amount of waste water, but both areas are kept completely separate.

You will find that almost all Porta Potti toilets have integrated pour-out spouts that swivel and feature a button to release the pressure. This is to make sure that when you need to empty it, there are no splashes. The tank that holds waste usually comes with a very easy to open system that means it can be emptied easily, while there is also an indicator that lets you know when it needs to be emptied.

Caravan Toilet Paper

Perhaps not a topic you spend too much time thinking about but this could make a difference on your next caravan trip: switching to caravan toilet paper.

Chemical toilets, like the one in your caravan, need to be emptied manually. This is not a fun cleaning job but one that you want to do as swiftly as possible.

Too much and too thick toilet paper is one of the main reasons why a chemical toilet gets clogged. Prevent this issue and make cleaning your caravan toilet easier and quicker by using toilet specifically for chemical toilets.

Caravan toilet paper is thinner and dissolves faster, especially when toilet chemicals are added. This means that you won’t have to empty the caravan toilet as often.

Here are the best toilet paper options for caravans. Yes, they cost a little more than your typical supermarket toilet paper but it’s a small price to pay for more comfort and cleanliness.

Elsan Blue Rolls

This four-pack is a great budget option. Each roll is far longer than standard toilet rolls with 400 sheets per roll. The Elsan Blue Rolls feel soft but don’t rip easily. The material is designed for chemical toilets and cassette toilet systems so you can be assured that it dissolves quickly.

Fiamma 301/051 Toilet Paper

Fiamma produces 2-ply soft toilet paper specifically for portable toilets so it will work perfectly for your caravan’s toilet, as well. The material does not even need chemicals as it is designed to dissolve quickly in water. This six-pack has 300 sheets per roll.

Thetford Aqua Soft The Original

Thetford is the most famous caravan toilet paper brand. They promise the most soluble toilet paper that will prevent your caravan toilet from clogging. Apparently, they deliver on that promise because the brand has been awarded the Nordic Swan.

Order the Thetford Aqua Soft as part of an Amazon add-on so that you don’t have to pay for delivery.

Best Caravan Polish

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With all the fine weather we are having, it’s the ideal time to head on the road in your caravan. It’s time to dust off the vehicle and get the towing bar out and the world’s your oyster to explore and enjoy. However, we all know that might not be how it goes, at least in the first instance. There is, of course, the small matter of caravan cleaning and maintenance.

When it comes to caravan maintenance (brushes and a guide to cleaning your caravan roof here), we may not all be in a hurry to get on with some hard work when we are trying to enjoy the great weather. However, if you want a good looking caravan and one that is fit for the fancy accessories you adorn it with; you need to look after it.

It will also give you a good return on your investment. Now, we already discuss in detail the various caravan cleaners available and a thorough guide to cleaning your caravan. However, we wanted to take the opportunity to hone in specifically on the best caravan polish with this post.

As with all accessories and caravan cleaning products for caravans nowadays, there is not just one caravan polish. If there were, it would be very easy to choose the polish you needed for your caravan. However, because there are options, that means you need to weigh up those options and choose the best one for your own budget, vehicle and personal preferences.

In the following post therefore, we want to make it a little easier, by highlighting some of the best caravan polishes available right now.

Best Caravan Polish (Our Top Picks)

1. Autoglym Super Resin Polish, 1 litre

check price on amazon

Autoglym is a name that is synonymous with products designed for the car and other vehicles, including caravans and motor-homes, since its establishment in 1965.

What started as a company offering just 8 different treatments for bodywork and wheels, from the original headquarters in Welwyn Garden City grew to be an industry leader.

This Super Resin Polish from the British company provides an incredibly high gloss shine and the formula has won numerous awards over the years. As well as offering, what the company claims at the very least, unparalleled quality, they only manufacture and sell products, whether it is conditioners, emulsifiers or shampoos and like this, polishes that are kind to your caravan’s paintwork and bodywork.

2. Care-avan Caravan Polish (Endorsed by Bailey Caravans and Roma Caravans)

check price on amazon

Care-avan are a relatively new company, who have only been in business for the last 8 years. However, in the short time since it was established, the company has amassed a strong following of repeat customers. Their products have received great reviews and are the only company whose products are fully endorsed by both Roma Caravans, Bailey Caravans and Bailey Motor-homes.

This Care-avan Caravan Polish is no exception and it has a very good reputation. It was even voted as the 1st Choice Practical Caravan Magazine by the editors. It is not only very affordable, but very easy to use for all caravan surfaces on the exterior and interior and is a simply easy on, easy off formula.

3. Meguiar’s 45 High Gloss Polish

check price on amazon

Meguiar’s is a name that not everyone is readily aware of, but they should be because they have been in operation in one form or another since 1901.

Frank Meguiar Jr. first entered the polish business back then when he and his family, an eggbeater and a tin bath would make enough wax to fulfil orders he had waiting for customers the next day, and the money would then pay for the household groceries. Since those humble beginnings, the company has had astronomical success.

The Meguiar’s 45 High Gloss Polish is not a product you want to overlook then. It comes with a free microfibre applicator pad and is ideal not just for motor-homes and caravans; but boats as well. Anything with either a fibreglass or GRP bodywork.

Part of the reason you need to invest in a specialist polish product like this one for caravan cleaning is because of the materials used to construct the majority of caravans. Their bodywork is generally made from fibreglass which contains a porous gel coating and this polish has been formulated to penetrate into those pores and eliminate/get rid of any contaminates that have built up while spreading oils to nourish the surface.

4. Mer Auto Shine Technologie – Ultimate Shine Polish

check price on amazon

Another option when it comes to caravan polishes, is this great product from Mer? Why choose Mer though? Well, Mer are a German manufacturer of car polish products that was established by Franz Billich Autopflegemittel GmbH and has been providing globally leading polish for cars and other vehicles for more than 45 years.

The Auto Shine Technologie stands for effective, efficient and simple care and protection for cars and it means that the highest quality is a standard. It protects, shines and cleans and can restore dull and faded paintwork to sparkling brand new condition. Simply apply it and rub it off without worrying about streaks.

5. Care-avan Waterless Cleaner Polish and 2 Microfibre Cloths (Endorsed by Bailey Caravans)

check price on amazon

The final item on our list is another from the manufacturer Care-avan. The waterless cleaner polish is, like the rest of their product lines, endorsed by the company Baileys Caravans. It is quick and easy to apply this polish to your caravans and motor-homes and reportedly can be used come rain or shine, day and night. The microfibre cloths are ideal for caravan cleaning and polishing all surfaces without causing avoidable damage.

If you are looking for a waterless polish that does not take a lot of effort to apply, the Care-avan is ideal.

So, there we have a closer look specifically at the best caravan polish and the products we think you should choose from. The polish you choose, as many of these are high quality products, will largely depend on your own personal preferences. Remember, if you haven’t already checked it out, to have a look at our caravan cleaners page – which has lots of great tips and advice for cleaning or maybe think about investing in a caravan cover to keep your caravan bodywork protected when your caravan is not used.

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