Essential Camping Equipment: What Every Owner Needs for the Open Road
- Caravan Coach
- Jan 8
- 12 min read
Essential Camping Equipment - Introduction
Purchasing a caravan opens up a world of freedom and adventure, but having the right camping equipment makes the difference between a stressful trip and a genuinely enjoyable experience. Whether you're planning your first weekend away or preparing for extended touring, the right kit ensures your caravan is safe, comfortable, and ready for any situation.
This guide covers the essential camping equipment every caravan owner needs, from critical safety devices to practical everyday items. We've organised everything into clear categories so you can build your kit systematically and understand why each item matters. By the end, you'll know exactly what to pack for confident, well-prepared adventures on the open road.
Safety and Towing Essentials
Safety equipment protects you, your passengers, and other road users. These items are non-negotiable for every caravan journey.
Towing mirrors: Extendable towing mirrors provide clear visibility of your caravan's rear and the traffic behind you. UK law requires them when your caravan is wider than your towing vehicle (Department for Transport, 2022). They help you change lanes safely, reverse accurately, and monitor your caravan throughout the journey.
Breakaway cable: This critical safety device applies the caravan's brakes automatically if it detaches from your vehicle during travel. Check it before every trip to ensure it's securely attached and free from damage. The cable must be connected to your vehicle's designated breakaway cable point, not to any other towing equipment (National Caravan Council, 2023).
Wheel chocks and levelling blocks: Wheel chocks prevent your caravan from rolling when parked, especially on sloped pitches. Levelling blocks lift one side of the caravan to achieve a level stance on uneven ground. A level caravan is essential for proper appliance operation, particularly your fridge and gas cooker, which rely on being level to function correctly.
Nose weight gauge: This tool measures the downward force your caravan exerts on the towball. Correct nose weight is crucial for stable towing and safe handling. Too much weight can overload your vehicle's rear suspension, while too little can cause dangerous instability. You can check your caravan's recommended nose weight and calculate it accurately using the Caravan Coach Nose Weight Calculator, which helps ensure you're within safe limits before setting off.
Fire extinguisher and fire blanket: A multi-purpose fire extinguisher rated for electrical, fuel, and cooking fires should be mounted within easy reach of the exit. A fire blanket provides additional protection for kitchen fires. Check the extinguisher's pressure gauge regularly and replace it before the expiry date.
Smoke alarm: A working smoke alarm gives you early warning of fire, providing crucial extra seconds to evacuate safely. Test it regularly and replace the batteries at the start of each season. Mount it on the ceiling in a central location, away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms.
Carbon monoxide detector: Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas produced by faulty gas appliances or inadequate ventilation. It can be fatal. A carbon monoxide detector monitors air quality continuously and alerts you to dangerous levels (Gas Safe Register, 2024). Install it at head height when you're lying down, as carbon monoxide has a similar density to air and can accumulate at breathing level.
First aid kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit that includes bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes, pain relief medication, scissors, tweezers, and any personal medication you require. Store it in an accessible location and check it before each trip to replace any used or expired items.
Warning triangle: A warning triangle alerts other road users if you break down. UK law requires you to carry one, and it must be placed at least 45 metres behind your vehicle on motorways and dual carriageways (Department for Transport, 2022).
High-visibility vests: Keep high-visibility vests for all occupants in an accessible location. If you need to exit your vehicle on the roadside, wearing a high-vis vest makes you visible to approaching traffic and is a legal requirement in many European countries.
Campsite Setup Equipment
The right setup tools make pitching quicker, easier, and more comfortable.
Corner steady winder: Corner steadies support each corner of your caravan once pitched, preventing movement and providing stability. A corner steady winder lowers and raises these legs with minimal effort. An electric drill attachment makes the job even easier, though you must be careful not to overwind, which can damage the steadies or lift the caravan's wheels off the ground.
Wooden blocks: Place wooden blocks under corner steadies when pitching on soft ground or grass to prevent them from sinking. They distribute the weight across a larger area and provide a stable, solid base. This is especially important in wet conditions or on uneven terrain.
Levelling ramp and chock: Levelling ramps lift one side of your caravan when the pitch slopes laterally. You need one ramp per axle, positioned on the low side. Drive your caravan slowly onto the ramp, then place the chock behind the wheel to prevent backward movement. This method achieves side-to-side levelling quickly and safely.
Hitch cover: A hitch cover protects your hitch mechanism from rain, dirt, and corrosion when you're not towing. This simple accessory extends the life of your towing equipment and keeps everything clean and ready for your next journey.
Spirit level: A small spirit level helps you check whether your caravan is level both front-to-back and side-to-side. Some caravanners use a smartphone app, but a dedicated bubble level is reliable and doesn't drain your phone battery.
Electrical System
Your caravan's electrical system powers lighting, heating, charging, and appliances.
Electric hook-up cable and adaptors: Most UK campsites provide mains electricity through hook-up points. A 25-metre electric hook-up (EHU) cable gives you the flexibility to reach distant outlets on larger pitches. Choose a cable rated for outdoor use with a weatherproof design. If you're planning European travel, carry adaptors for continental hook-up sockets, as plug configurations differ from UK standards.
EHU socket tester: An electrical socket tester verifies that campsite hook-up points are wired correctly before you connect your caravan. Reversed polarity is particularly common at European sites and can damage appliances or create safety hazards. The Handpicked Gear section features the Martindale Electric Socket Tester, which provides quick verification of EHU connections and gives you confidence that your electrical system is safe.
Cable reel tidy: A cable reel keeps your EHU cable organised, tangle-free, and protected during storage and transit. It makes setup and pack-down much faster and prevents damage to the cable.
Leisure battery: A leisure battery stores electrical energy to power your caravan's 12V appliances when you're not connected to mains electricity. Unlike a car battery, which delivers short bursts of high power to start an engine, a leisure battery is designed for deep discharge and recharge cycles. It powers lights, water pumps, and other 12V devices. Leisure batteries are charged by your vehicle's alternator while towing, by solar panels, or by a battery charger when on hook-up.
Torch or headtorch: A reliable torch is essential for navigating around the caravan and campsite in darkness. A headtorch leaves your hands free for tasks like connecting hook-up cables or locating items in storage lockers.
Water System
Managing fresh water and waste water efficiently is essential for comfortable caravan living.
Water containers: An Aquaroll or similar fresh water container provides portable water storage that you can fill at campsite taps. A Waste Hog or equivalent collects grey water from your sinks and shower. These containers make it easy to manage water without moving your caravan.
Grey waste connection kit: This kit connects your caravan's waste outlets to your grey water container. It typically includes flexible hoses and adaptors. If you're staying on a fully serviced pitch with dedicated drainage, you'll need a longer length of waste hose to connect directly to the site's drainage system.
Water pump: The water pump transfers water from your Aquaroll into the caravan's internal plumbing. Ensure your pump is compatible with your caravan's system and that it's clean and functioning properly before each trip.
Food-grade water hoses: Always use food-grade hoses when filling your fresh water containers or connecting to mains water supplies. Standard garden hoses can leach chemicals and aren't safe for drinking water (Public Health England, 2021). Food-grade hoses are specifically manufactured to meet hygiene standards.
Water fittings and PTFE tape: Quick-connect fittings make attaching hoses to taps and containers faster and more secure. PTFE tape wrapped around threaded connections creates a watertight seal and prevents leaks, which is particularly important on fully serviced pitches with pressurised mains connections.
Mains water ball valve: If you're staying on a fully serviced pitch, a ball valve fitted to your Aquaroll allows you to connect mains water safely. The valve regulates water flow and prevents overfilling. Never connect mains water directly to your caravan's internal plumbing, as the pressure can damage pipes, joints, and appliances.
Watering can or water carrier: A small watering can or extra water carrier is useful for filling your toilet's flush tank and for general cleaning tasks around the caravan and awning.
Gas System
Your caravan's gas system powers heating, cooking, and refrigeration.
Gas bottles and regulator: Propane and butane are the two types of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) used in caravans. Propane works in all temperatures, including freezing conditions, making it the best choice for year-round touring. Butane is suitable for warmer weather but won't vaporise below freezing. You need a compatible regulator that matches your gas type and caravan's system. Always carry a spare gas bottle so you're never caught without heating or cooking facilities.
Gas bottle key: A gas bottle key or spanner is required to disconnect and reconnect gas bottles safely. It fits the bottle's outlet valve and allows you to swap bottles quickly when one runs empty.
Kitchen Essentials
Basic kitchen equipment allows you to prepare and enjoy meals comfortably in your caravan.
Pots and pans: Bring at least one medium-sized saucepan and one frying pan suitable for your caravan's hob. Look for pots with lids to speed up cooking and conserve gas. Non-stick coatings make cleaning easier with limited water supplies.
Plates, bowls, and mugs: Melamine or plastic tableware is lightweight, durable, and won't break if dropped. Bring enough for all occupants plus a couple of spares. Deep bowls are more versatile than shallow plates as they work for cereals, soups, and main meals.
Cutlery: Pack a complete set of knives, forks, and spoons for everyone. Include a sharp kitchen knife for food preparation, a tin opener, and a corkscrew.
Kettle: A kettle is essential for hot drinks and speeds up cooking tasks like boiling water for pasta. Electric kettles work on hook-up, while stovetop kettles work on your gas hob regardless of electrical supply.
Food storage containers: Airtight containers keep food fresh and prevent spills during travel. They're essential for storing opened packets, leftovers, and packed lunches. Choose stackable designs to maximise limited cupboard space.
Tea towels and washing-up supplies: Bring tea towels for drying dishes, washing-up liquid, a sponge or brush, and a washing-up bowl if your caravan doesn't have a built-in sink. A washing-up bowl also doubles as a useful container for carrying items.
Cool box or cool bag: If your caravan doesn't have a fridge, or if you're travelling a long distance before connecting to electricity, a cool box or cool bag with ice packs keeps perishable food safe.
Bedding and Sleeping
Comfortable bedding ensures you rest well after a day of exploring.
Bedding: Bring fitted sheets, pillows, pillowcases, and duvets or sleeping bags for all beds. Caravan mattresses are often different sizes from standard domestic mattresses, so measure yours before purchasing sheets. Many caravanners keep dedicated bedding in their caravan to save packing time.
Mattress topper: Caravan mattresses can be thin and uncomfortable. A mattress topper adds cushioning and significantly improves sleep quality without taking up much storage space when rolled.
Towels: Pack bath towels, hand towels, and tea towels. Microfibre towels are lightweight, quick-drying, and compact, making them ideal for caravanning.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your caravan clean maintains hygiene and protects your investment.
Portable toilet chemicals and cleaning supplies: Toilet chemicals break down waste and control odours in your caravan's cassette toilet. Use the correct chemical type for your toilet's waste tank, following the manufacturer's instructions. Keep toilet brushes, wipes, and disinfectant on hand for regular cleaning. Empty your cassette at designated chemical disposal points, never into regular drains or the environment.
General cleaning supplies: Bring multi-surface cleaner, cloths or sponges, bin bags, and antibacterial wipes. A dustpan and brush or small handheld vacuum helps keep floors clean. The Handpicked Gear section features the Shark Handheld Vacuum Cleaner, which is ideal for quick clean-ups and pet hair removal in the confined space of a caravan. Caravans are small spaces, so mess accumulates quickly.
Basic tool kit: A small tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, an adjustable spanner, and a craft knife handles minor repairs and adjustments. Include spare fuses for your caravan's electrical system, spare bulbs for exterior lights, electrical tape, cable ties, and WD-40 for lubricating moving parts.
Caravan sealant: Keep a tube of high-quality caravan sealant for emergency repairs to seals around windows, doors, and roof lights. Water ingress can cause serious damage, so addressing leaks quickly is essential. The Handpicked Gear section features Sika caravan sealant, which provides reliable weatherproof protection.
Clothes pegs and washing line: A length of washing line and clothes pegs allow you to dry towels, swimming costumes, and wet weather gear. String it between your awning poles or nearby trees.
Outdoor Living
These items create a comfortable outdoor living space at your pitch.
Camping chairs and table: Folding camping chairs and a portable table are essential for eating meals and relaxing outside your caravan. Choose comfortable chairs with good back support, as you'll spend considerable time in them. Ensure your table is stable and large enough for dining.
Outdoor mat or groundsheet: An outdoor mat placed in front of your caravan door prevents dirt from being walked inside. Breathable groundsheets designed for awnings allow grass to breathe underneath and prevent muddy patches forming on your pitch.
Awning Equipment
If your caravan has an awning, these items make it functional and weatherproof.
Awning groundsheet: A fitted groundsheet keeps the awning floor clean and dry.
Choose a breathable groundsheet rather than a fully waterproof one, as trapped moisture can damage grass and lead to campsite complaints.
Awning pegs and mallet: Heavy-duty awning pegs hold your awning securely in all ground conditions. Rock pegs work in hard ground, while standard pegs suit softer ground. A mallet or peg hammer drives pegs in efficiently. The Handpicked Gear section features YAYODS Heavy Duty Awning Pegs, which provide reliable security even on hardstanding surfaces and in challenging weather conditions. Bring more pegs than you think you'll need, as you'll lose or bend them over time.
Storm straps: Storm straps provide additional anchorage in high winds, running over the top of your awning and securing to ground anchors. They prevent awning damage during windy weather and give you peace of mind overnight.
Security Devices
Protecting your caravan from theft should be a priority, especially given their value and vulnerability when left unattended.
Hitch lock: A hitch lock secures your caravan's hitch, preventing it from being easily coupled to another vehicle. Choose a high-quality lock that fits your specific hitch type and displays a visual deterrent to opportunistic thieves.
Wheel clamp: A heavy-duty wheel clamp immobilises your caravan by locking around the wheel. It's highly visible and makes it extremely difficult for thieves to move your caravan. The Handpicked Gear section features the Bulldog EuroClamp Wheel Clamp, which provides quick deployment and genuine deterrent value without complicated setup. Look for clamps with strong, drill-resistant locks and bright colours that clearly signal your caravan is protected.
Caravan alarm system: A dedicated caravan alarm system includes motion sensors, door contact alarms, and sometimes remote notifications via your smartphone. These systems provide an extra layer of protection, particularly when you're away from your caravan during the day or when it's stored at home.
Tracking device: GPS tracking devices monitor your caravan's location in real time. If your caravan is stolen, the tracking device helps police locate and recover it quickly. Many insurance companies offer discounts for caravans fitted with approved tracking systems.
Essential Documentation
Keep important documents organised and accessible throughout your trip.
Insurance documents: Carry proof of your caravan insurance and vehicle insurance. You'll need these if you have an accident or breakdown, and they may be required by police or campsite operators.
Caravan handbook: Your caravan's handbook contains vital information about appliances, specifications, and maintenance procedures. Keep it in the caravan so you can reference it when needed.
Campsite booking confirmations: Print or save digital copies of your campsite booking confirmations, including site addresses, contact numbers, and arrival instructions. This information is essential if you're delayed or need to contact the site.
Breakdown cover documents: If you have breakdown cover for your caravan or vehicle, keep the policy number and emergency contact number somewhere accessible. You'll need this quickly if you break down.
Conclusion
Building a comprehensive kit of camping equipment ensures you're prepared for safe, comfortable, and stress-free caravan adventures. Start with the safety essentials like towing mirrors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors, then work through the setup, electrical, water, and gas systems. Don't forget the everyday essentials like kitchen equipment, bedding, and outdoor furniture that make your caravan genuinely liveable.
As a beginner, you don't need to buy everything at once. Prioritise safety equipment and the basics for your first trips, then add items as you gain experience and understand your specific needs. Many items like bedding, kitchen equipment, and tools can be sourced from home initially before you invest in dedicated caravan gear. Keep a checklist of your equipment and review it before each journey to ensure nothing is forgotten. With the right kit and a bit of preparation, you'll be ready to enjoy everything caravan touring has to offer.
References
Department for Transport (2022) The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. UK Government. Available at: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1986/1078/contents/made (Accessed: 8 January 2026).
Gas Safe Register (2024) Carbon Monoxide Safety. Gas Safe Register. Available at: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/gas-safety/carbon-monoxide-poisoning/ (Accessed: 8 January 2026).
National Caravan Council (2023) Towing Safety Guidelines. National Caravan Council. Available at: https://www.thencc.org.uk/ (Accessed: 8 January 2026).
Public Health England (2021) Drinking Water Quality. Public Health England. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/public-health-england (Accessed: 8 January 2026).
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