How to select the perfect towcar for a caravan?

Choosing your towcar is one of the most important things if you enjoy touring with a caravan. You’ll need the vehicle to ensure you can drive safely and do everything you need to, including hitching up and overtaking. But, how do you decide? We want to have a look at the most important details here. Then, if you want to book a plot at one of the most impressive caravan parks in Yorkshire, you can have a look at Parklands.

Weights

The most important thing to look at is the weight of the towcar. It will have an impact on the caravans you can tow. The Caravan and Motorhome Club recommend you always ensure the total weight of a loaded caravan is less than the total weight of the vehicle. They suggest aiming for 85% or as high as 90% if drivers have experience towing a caravan.

It can be a little confusing here because some vehicle manufacturers will claim their vehicles can tow more than the kerbweight. However, while it may not be illegal to do so, it can compromise vehicle performance and safety. The best thing to do is calculate the full laden weight of a caravan and then choose a slightly heavier towcar.

Power

The next thing to look at is the engine power and torque the towcar will offer. Both are vital to ensure you don’t have issues with performance. Most people will have had an issue following behind a car towing a caravan. In many cases it is because the power to weight ratio is wrong, compromising acceleration and top speed. It can easily result in drivers unable to overtake when they are towing a caravan.

What you need to do is think about the fully laden weight of the vehicle and the caravan. You can then factor in the power. The Caravan and Motorhome Club recommend aiming for 40bhp/tonne. Think about the torque here too; high torque at lower driving speeds is great. Talk to us about caravan parks in Yorkshire.

What type of engine?

One of the best things about buying cars at the moment is there is so much choice in terms of engines. You can go for classic petrol or diesel, hybrids of both, and full EVs. However, it does make it trickier to decide what to choose for a towcar.

Traditionally, diesel cars had an advantage over petrol in towing terms. This goes back to the torque; generally you get more at the lower end. Hybrids are notable because the electric motors increase torque and fuel economy, while reducing emissions. EVs are an option, but you need to think carefully about the impact on range and charging.

Gearbox

Finally, think about the gearbox. Most newer vehicles will be automatic. In fact, stats last year said just 24% of popular new models are available as a manual. Luckily, automatics can offer benefits when towing caravans. There can be less wear and tear and fantastic low speed control to make hitching easier. Manuals are still useful though, especially when driving in conditions where you want to hold at lower gears for braking.

Book a plot at one of the most comfortable caravan parks in Yorkshire

At Parklands we have the perfect plots for tourers. This includes full electric hookup and plenty of space for various needs, including additional cars and awnings. We also have really great facilities, including a cafe and shower block. If you’re passionate about fishing, you’ll love our fishery. The two lakes are full of carp, bream, roach, and more.

We’re one of the most popular caravan parks in Yorkshire because we give visitors a warm welcome, great value for money, and a lovely setting. So, have a browse today or contact us.

Brits get a lot of mockery for our fascination with the weather. We also get a fair bit for not being able to handle it when it’s hot. The truth is it gets really humid here and a pleasant mid 20s can quickly become sticky and uncomfortable. Luckily, we can do different things to keep cool, even when staying in a holiday lodge or caravan. We want to have a look at some tips here. Then, if you want to browse the finest lodges for sale in Northallerton, you can look at Parklands.

Cross breeze

One of the best things you can do is create a cross breeze. Open windows and/or doors at each side of the lodge or caravan. It will allow the air to blow inside, flow through the interior, and then escape out the other side. This will keep fresh, cooler air flowing in and get rid of warmer air.

Curtains or blinds

It might sound counter-productive, but closing the curtains or blinds on the sunny side of your lodge or caravan can help with cooling. It can reduce the amount of solar heat radiating in.

Outdoor space

It’s always nice to have a shady area outside where you can sit if it gets too hot inside a lodge or caravan. So, an umbrella or gazebo and comfy chairs are a good investment. If you have a deck, setting up here is a great idea.

Fans

One of the things that stands out with the lovely lodges for sale in Northallerton at Parklands is the quality of the designs. They have wonderful interiors with high spec fittings. You will appreciate the number of sockets in summer, because you’ll have plenty of places you can plug in fans to circulate air and keep it cooler. Just remember to think about how much energy they use and whether they are safe if children are around.

Air con

If you want to invest in a reliable, energy efficient solution, you may be able to get air conditioning for your holiday lodge or caravan. Portable units are good because you can move them room to room to suit your needs. Again though, make sure you think about energy consumption and running costs.

Bedding

Light, thin, airy bedding is a must for hot summer months, especially in a lodge or caravan. You definitely won’t need that thick winter duvet, even on the coldest days. Materials with natural fibres are great. Or, choose a modern material that can offer moisture wicking and breathability.

Temporary relief

Finally, it can help to have some cooling spray ready. Sprays are great when it is humid. A quick spray can help you or a room to cool down. Focus on the face, hands and feet; cooling them can work wonders.

Find wonderful lodges for sale in Northallerton

Parklands is a wonderful site if you want a holiday lodge or caravan park in a beautiful piece of Yorkshire. We’re proud of how green, spacious, and relaxing it is here. We’ve also got some amazing amenities, including two private lakes for fishing.

We recommend you have a look at the exceptional 2025 holiday lodges for sale in Northallerton here. They have top specs, including comfortable interiors and lovely finishes. Then, if you want to learn more or enquire about pricing and availability, you can contact us.

The UK is one of the best destinations in the world for touring. As a result, it has a fantastic community for caravan owners, thousands of sites, and everything you could need from storage to insurance. If you’re new to caravanning though, it can seem daunting to get started. To help, we want to give you some of the top tips. Then, if you want to stay at one of the most beautiful caravan parks in Northallerton, you should have a look at Parklands.

The caravan and your vehicle

Firstly, you need to ensure you choose the right caravan and a suitable vehicle to tow it. Caravans come in all shapes and sizes, from narrow, compact tourers to extra wide models. Think carefully about what you need to give you enough space. In addition, make sure you can tow it safely.

In terms of your vehicle, you need to make sure it will be able to actually tow the caravan. There are rules here. Look at the manufacturer’s max noseweight (the total weight it can tow). You shouldn’t exceed this. Calculate the weight of your caravan, including the contents, and ensure it is acceptable. However, always remember that you want the towed load to be high enough to provide stability and reduce the chance of snaking, but lower than the weight of the vehicle.

If you have an automatic car, there are a few things to look at. Firstly, it can be easier on the driver and the vehicle, causing less wear and tear. However, you can lose acceleration and gearbox performance. Luckily, it can be easier to drive automatic vehicles in different settings. Think about that when you decide where to stop, including caravan parks in Northallerton.

The towbar

One thing you absolutely need to take care with is getting a suitable towbar. You can have a major accident if you choose one that isn’t right for your vehicle or the caravan itself. Always check that it meets the relevant standards and mounts properly to the car. Ideally, choose a towbar from the car’s manufacturer.

Towing

People new to caravanning are unlikely to have any towing experience. Luckily, it’s a skill you can develop quite quickly. Give it a go somewhere safe, preferably with guidance from someone with experience. Or, you can do a course. The Caravan and Motorhome Club offer them across the UK.

Taking care of your caravan

A quality caravan that gets the right upkeep and maintenance can last for decades, even if you use it frequently to visit caravan parks in Northallerton and other parts of the UK. There are a number of things you can do to get the most from yours.

Taking care of the tyres to prevent them from deteriorating is vital. Inflate them to the correct pressure and inspect frequently for signs of damage. If possible, when you aren’t using a caravan, remove the tyres and store them somewhere cool and dry at normal pressure.

An absolute must is to clean the caravan regularly. It will keep it fresh and prevent issues. Most importantly, make sure you check and maintain seals. This reduces the risk of leaks developing, especially around windows.

Security

Finally, be very careful when you think about security. Sadly, caravans can be an attractive target for thieves. Some break in and steal what they can, while others take the whole thing. Whether you keep a caravan at home or store it at a secure facility, there is a risk of theft. So, take precautions, including using things like wheelclamps, hitchlocks, and alarms. Investing in a tracker is really wise too.

Stay at one of the most impressive caravan parks in Northallerton

Hopefully the tips above help you to get started with caravanning. Most importantly, make sure you have a good vehicle, a suitable caravan, and all the equipment you need, including mirrors. Then, gain some experience towing and you’re ready to go.

When it’s time to start looking for caravan parks, think carefully about where you are going, where you want to stop, and what each park has to offer. Some are basic but really cheap. Others give you more but charge higher prices. Plan carefully and book the best ones for you.

Parklands is the top choice if you’re looking at caravan parks in Northallerton. This is the perfect base for people who want to see beautiful parts of Yorkshire, including the Dales and the Moors. We give visitors quality pitches and fantastic amenities for really impressive prices, 12 months of the year. You can learn more on our website or contact us for details.

Buying your own holiday lodge in an amazing location might be your dream. However, it could turn sour if you don’t understand the mistakes people commonly make. To ensure that doesn’t happen to you, we want to look at a few of the main ones here. Then, if you want to see some of the finest lodges for sale in Yorkshire, you can come to us.

Forgetting the distance

A lodge is a lovely escape from any busy day to day life. You can choose a bolthole in the countryside or close to the coast. All you’ll need to do is pack the car and off you go, no need to worry about booking accommodation or whether they will have what you need. But, don’t rush the decision even if you fall in love with a location and lodge. Make sure you think carefully about how far away it is from home and the journey.

The common mistake here is people end up choosing lodges that are too far away. Then, instead of being excited about going, it can end up with thoughts of a long stressful road drive. Thinking about the drive back can be even worse, especially if you have work the next day. It is best to focus on the distance and the journey, trying it out before you commit. Make sure to do it during different seasons too so you can gauge the route in various conditions.

Forgetting the other costs

One mistake you definitely need to avoid is thinking the only thing you need to pay for is the lodge itself. You don’t want your dream of ownership to become a nightmare of financial difficulties. So, we recommend you look at all of the different costs before you make a commitment.

Easily the most important cost to think about is site fees. Parks charge an annual fee for the plot you put your lodge on. They can also cover crucial things like contributing towards park maintenance, amenities, and security. If you’re thinking about lodges for sale in Yorkshire, we can give you a clear idea of the site fees.

There are also a number of other costs to think about. Crucially, look at running costs. This includes everything from electricity, water and gas to maintenance and insurance. You may also need a TV license for your lodge.

Forgetting about the lodge itself

Some people take the idea of a home away from home too literally. While lodges are fantastic and comfortable, they are very different from a brick and mortar property. Therefore, they need different maintenance and upkeep. If you don’t do this, you could have a number of issues.

The best thing you can do is take a close look at the lodge before you buy. Make sure you get a better understanding of the structure and materials. It will give you an idea of the maintenance it will need. Then, see what the park provides; some will offer maintenance services.

Have a look at the lodges for sale in Yorkshire at Parklands

Yorkshire is a really popular location for holiday lodges. It has plenty to offer, including quiet countryside, lovely towns, a picturesque coast, and an amazing wealth of history and culture. Not surprisingly, it has dream locations for all kinds of people.

If you’re thinking of buying, you should definitely have a look at Parklands. We have some of the best holiday lodges for sale in Yorkshire, including brand new models for 2025. They’re comfortable, luxurious, and sit on our wonderful site. Contact us to learn more, or have a look through our website.

People in the UK love the caravan and motorhome lifestyle. In fact, it became even more popular because of covid. It also helps that we have so many fantastic spots here, from dark sky parks to beaches, historical sites to thriving towns and cities. With thousands of different options though, how do you decide where to stay? We want to look at that here and discuss some of the most important points. Then, if you’re interested in caravan parks in Yorkshire, you can see what we have to offer at Parklands.

Location

Most people will decide where they want to go first before searching for caravan parks. So, there is a lot of personal preference here. Generally though, a great park will be near amenities.

Accessibility

One of the most important things to look at with parks is the access. Is it easy to get on the site and drive to pitches? Will there be any issues for different size vehicles? Will there be problems in wetter, colder times of the year? Look at the quality of the roads, how well maintained they are, signage, and other crucial details. A great park will be accessible.

Amenities

Every caravan park is different. Some will be very basic, with simple pitches and no amenities. Others will give you all the conveniences you need, such as electric hookup, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, and even dining or entertainment. Again this comes down to preference, but you would generally say great parks are the ones that give you more.

Lifestyle

Whether you’re thinking about caravan parks in Yorkshire or other parts of the UK, one thing to consider is the lifestyle. Does the park have a fantastic atmosphere? Yet again preferences are important here. Some people love to get away and enjoy peace and quiet; they’ll favour smaller, quieter parks. Others want to be part of a community, so their preference will be larger, livelier sites.

Availability

Another thing to look at is when parks are open. Some are seasonal, opening for the peak period from March to October but closing for winter months. Others will be open all 12 months of the year.

Security

A mark of a great caravan park is it feels safe and secure. The last thing you want is to arrive and have to worry about theft, anti-social behaviour, vandalism, and other issues. Have a look to see what security measures the park has. Check things like lighting on the site too.

Cost

Finally, you need to look at the financial side of things. Keep in mind higher pitch costs don’t always mean great parks. Some can charge more for the location and amenities they offer. What you need to look at is the quality and value for money.

Try one of the best caravan parks in Yorkshire

Parklands is a wonderful site with holiday lodges and 21 hard standing pitches for caravans and motorhomes. We’re in a lovely part of Yorkshire, between the Moors and the Dales. You can enjoy the countryside here, including all the greenery and our two private lakes. There are great facilities too, including a cafe, shower block, and laundrette. Plus, we’re open all year!

So, if you want to try one of the most fantastic caravan parks in Yorkshire, book now. You can also contact us if you have any questions.

One of the greatest things about holiday lodges is they come in various shapes and sizes. As a result, you can choose the ideal one to suit your lifestyle. There are a number of important things to think about though. We want to look at them with you here. Then, if you are looking for holiday lodges for sale in Northallerton, you can browse our amazing models

Who will be staying?

The best place to start is thinking about who’ll say at the lodge. Do you want it to be a private retreat for a couple or a small family? Or are you planning to host larger families, friends, and groups? This will have an impact on how many bedrooms you need, the size of the living space, the amount of storage, and other details.

The layout

The next thing to think about is lodge layout. Bigger is not always better. If larger lodges have bad layouts, you’ll waste space. Sometimes a smaller open plan lodge can feel much bigger than it actually is because of the clever layout.

Decide whether an open plan layout will work for you. It makes lodges feel more spacious. However, it comes at the cost of some privacy. If you’d rather have more separation between spaces or zones for activities, you’ll need a different layout.

Plan ahead

A holiday lodge is a fantastic investment that can give you years of wonderful breaks and holidays. When you think about the size though, you always need to plan for the future. For example, will you end up needing more space for children or grandchildren? Think about potential lifestyle changes and if getting a larger lodge now will be a smart decision. Talk to us about lodges for sale in Northallerton if you need help.

How often will it be used?

Your goal for the lodge may be to use it regularly. If so, investing in a larger, more luxurious model is a fantastic idea. On the other hand, if it’ll only be for occasional breaks, you may be best off with a smaller, simpler model.

The plot

It isn’t just the lodge you need to think about when you look at the size; you also need to have a look at the plot in the park. What lodges will it accommodate? Will it provide enough space outside for a deck and other outdoor amenities?

Budget

Now it’s time to think about the financial side of things. Generally, larger lodges will be more expensive. They can also cost more in terms of maintenance and heating. Costs can vary massively because of the quality of the fixtures and fittings too. Ultimately, you need to decide what lodge will give you the lifestyle you want within you price range.

Talk to us about holiday lodges for sale in Northallerton

Parklands appreciate people want different things from holiday lodges. Some dream of a private retreat they can enjoy with their partner. Others want a lodge they can share with family and friends. You need to think carefully about what size will be best for you, both now and in the future.

Luckily, if you’re looking for holiday lodges for sale in Northallerton, we have a great selection of new 2025 models. There are different sizes, from 36ft to 42ft. We recommend you have a closer look or contact us to learn more.