As the trend for taking a ‘staycation’ rises, more Brits are opting to enjoy a family get-away in a caravan. However, many holidaymakers have a major decision to make before packing their suitcases: do I opt for a static or a touring caravan?

There are several benefits to both, and here to help decide which is best for you is Flogas, a leading provider of camping gas bottles to sites and caravanners across the UK…

Benefits of static caravans

The main advantage of a static caravan is convenience. This is because once your home-away-from-home has been driven to the holiday park of your choice, it will stay there for the rest of the spring and summer. When you’re at home and decide you want a quick getaway, all you’ll need to do is pack some clothes and essentials and enjoy the relaxing drive to your secure holiday home.

Static caravans are appealing in their designs, too. Most have more space than touring caravans — in fact, some models can boast four bedrooms, fully fitted kitchens complete with integrated appliances, and the same kind of bathroom you’d expect to find in a hotel. Not visiting your static for a few weeks? No problem, you can rent yours out to other holidaymakers to enjoy and make some cash!

Drawbacks of static caravans

Of course, a disadvantage of a static caravan’s permanent location is that you have to be very fond of the place to feel it is a bonus. Make sure you’re happy with your chosen location first, as moving a static caravan once it’s in place can be a difficult and often expensive procedure.

It’s worth making sure that the site in which you leave your caravan has a year-round licence, too. If you happen to place your static caravan in one of these destinations, you’ll not be able to use them when the licence isn’t active — usually through the winter.

Benefits of touring caravans

Many holidaymakers want that liberated feeling that comes with hitting the road and seeing where it takes you. Touring caravans can be taken to a wide variety of caravan sites throughout the UK, Europe and beyond — ideal if you’re really looking to branch out.

Limiting yourself to one destination is eliminated with a touring caravan. Once you’re ready to see a new sight, simply pack up your gear and drive your caravan to a new campsite. Also, compared to static caravans, you will not encounter as many ground costs — think maintenance and rent prices at a campsite. Adding to this is the fact that starting prices for touring caravans are usually cheaper than their static alternatives!

Drawbacks of touring caravans

Space is the greatest disadvantage for many people trying to choose between the two varieties. This is definitely something that you should bear in mind if you’re planning caravan holidays with families or large groups of friends.

Also, the type of car you have will affect the efficiency and feasibility of having a touring caravan. After all, your vehicle will need to have an engine that is powerful enough to tow your caravan — especially up hills. This is an added expense that you may not have considered when first investing in your touring caravan, so you’ll want to bear it in mind to avoid an unpleasant surprise.

On the subject of vehicles, fuel costs will also likely be higher with this kind of caravan, especially since you’ll be towing a caravan of a significant weight.

What’s your decision?

There’s no right or wrong answer; it really depends on the type of holiday you want and the type of person you are. You’ll likely be better off with a touring caravan if you like to explore multiple sights and have only a few people with you. Although, if you only have your heart set on one destination and will often travel with a few people each time, it’s probably better to opt for a static caravan.