Discover how to save money on a staycation and avoid holiday debt. Learn practical tips for cheap caravan holidays in the UK with smart meal planning.
Written 8th June 2025
I mentioned previously I'm away at the moment, we're staying in a caravan in the west country.
We booked 4 months ago and got a very good price of just under £300 for the caravan for a week. Friday to Friday was cheaper than a Saturday start date so we did that. We bought loads of foodie bits from home and planned our menu for the week before we left. We bought coffee, tea, wine, beer, salt, pepper, mayo etc with us. We bought the margarine to make our sarnies each day and drinks bottles and flasks for our drinks.
Does it sound dull? Too much effort? The campsite charges nearly £10 for 1 toastie if we eat out (as an example), yet with a small amount of planning I'm hoping my son and I will spend less than £100 on food and drinks for the week. It would be infinitely more if we were buying all our meals and drinks out.
Yes, I know, you're on holiday, you deserve a break from making food and washing up, and if money is no issue for you, then sure, why not support the local tourism business. But if you're struggling with your bills and money is tight in real life, it's easy to be sensible and not break the bank or go into debt with a bit of forethought and planning and still have a wonderful time away with your loved ones.
With love from wet and miserable Devon.
A wonderful holiday doesn't have to mean a mountain of credit card bills waiting for you at home. Head over to the Average Daily Spending page to see how small, mindful daily habits allow you to fund your future travel plans completely in cash.