If you’re planning your holiday for the summer ahead and want to find your ideal break without breaking the bank, here’s our top 5 tips:

1. Get a caravan
Caravanning has had a lot of bad publicity in the past and is certainly not considered ‘cool’. However, with celebrities such as Jay Kay, from Jamiroquai, admitting to owning a caravan, it’s becoming more fashionable.

The benefits of owning a caravan are numerous. You can pack up and go whenever the mood takes you; no waiting in airport lounges; and if you’ve got children, it’s fantastic fun for them as well!

2. Recycle
Caravanning may not be everyone’s cup of tea, so if you’re new to it, why not find yourself a second-hand caravan at a fraction of the cost of a new one? It may not have all the mod-cons of a new ‘van, but you’ll get an idea of what caravanning is all about and you’ll have a caravan to part exchange should you wish to invest in a new caravan in the future.

3. Downsize
Already a caravanner? Perhaps you bought your last caravan when the children came along too, but now they’re too cool for caravanning so you leave them at home. Well maybe now’s the time to downsize the ‘van for maybe a two-berth tourer. It’ll be more cosy in the colder months and could also save you money on fuel for your towcar as pulling a lighter caravan will be good for your fuel economy.

4. Stay local
Touring abroad will add to the cost of your holiday with ferry crossings and exchange rates to consider, so why not stay at home in the UK? You’ll cover less miles which could save you money on your car insurance premium too. By staying in the UK, you’ll also be helping the economy by spending your cash here rather than on the continent.

5. Buy local
Don’t be tempted to visit the supermarket before you leave for your holiday, to stock up on supplies. Instead, wait until you arrive at your destination, then go exploring in the surrounding area to find the local shops that will benefit from your custom. Also remember to just buy what you need so no food is wasted at the end of your stay.

Caravanning can be fun for all the family and you don’t need to travel thousands of miles or spend thousands of pounds for some peace and tranquillity. So hitch up that tourer and go exploring!