Message Forums

Hi

We are seriously thinking of buying a caravan, been camping for many years.

I have some questions,

If your caravan is plugged into the electric hookup supply at the camp site how do you power lights etc in your awning?? Is it safe to use extension leads?

We have 5 children and can't afford a large caravan we are thinking of having an annex on the awning do many people put the kids in the awning?

Thanks for your help.

Quote: Originally posted by rachie on 13/1/2007

---

Hi

We are seriously thinking of buying a caravan, been camping for many years.

I have some questions,

If your caravan is plugged into the electric hookup supply at the camp site how do you power lights etc in your awning?? Is it safe to use extension leads?

We have 5 children and can't afford a large caravan we are thinking of having an annex on the awning do many people put the kids in the awning?

Thanks for your help.

---

Best place for them LOL

Hi Rachie, we often go away with our two boys 11 and 12 and my adult daughter and my two grandchildren, and the kids always sleep in the awning. We have an annexe on one end of our awning, but have also seen awnings with annexes on both ends, that would give you tons of room. I would recommend buying camp beds that are raised high enough of the floor to give space underneath to stow all the kids possesions as they always seem to have loads of stuff. hope this helps.   

On the safety side you should fit a circuit breaker to outside electric points especially where children are.

Micky

Personally I try and do without the awning, it takes ages to empty it on a Sunday, but I can understand your reasons for getting one. I've seen threads on here from people who say that they've gone down the route of having a smaller van and relying on the kids sleeping in the awning, but they've said that it shortens the season because its too cold for the kids to sleep in the awning early/late in the season. They've ended up getting a bigger van that fits everyone. Just wanted to let you know.

Any extension lead plugged into the caravan circuit should already be protected by the van's on board RCD.

Bertie.

Know what you mean, Chalkie.  For about 5 days or more, we go for the combi awning (modified Trio - see Gallery Image).  Two weeks or more, we go for a full awning.  For 2 night, don't bother.  It's the bit in between 2 nights and 5 nights that causes a dilemma.  Perhaps one of the very light nylon things would do.

Bertie.