In this guide, we’ll explore how caravanning can suit families of all sizes and ages, examining the perks and practicalities of choosing a caravan as your travelling companion. 

From understanding the essentials of caravan features to selecting the right model to enhance your travel experience, we’ll provide the insights you need to make an informed decision. 

Let’s dive into what makes caravanning a perfect choice for your next family adventure.

Should your family choose a caravan?

What are the best caravans for families in 2024?

How do you know how much space you need for a family in a caravan?

What space-saving features should families look for in caravan layouts?

Are you able to add accessories like awnings to these caravans to extend the amount of space?

10 top tips for choosing a caravan for your family

FAQs

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Caravanning holidays offer a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and affordability, making them a fantastic choice for families. But before you hitch up and hit the road, it’s important to consider if this holiday type will suit the different age ranges in your family.

Here’s a breakdown of how caravanning caters to different age groups:

Younger children (up to 12):

Little ones are often easily amused by the novelty of caravanning itself. The sense of adventure of having their own “home on wheels” and the excitement of a new campsite can keep them entertained for hours.

Look for campsites with playgrounds, swimming pools, and organised activities like treasure hunts or arts and crafts to keep them entertained.

Teenagers (13+): Teenagers crave a bit more independence and social interaction.

Touring caravans offer the flexibility to explore different locations and choose campsites with facilities that cater to their interests. Think sports courts, Wi-Fi access, or even campsites close to towns with shops and arcades.

This allows them to strike a balance between spending time with you and the family and enjoying some time with friends (potentially ones made at the campsite itself).

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At Bailey of Bristol, we understand that every family has unique needs and desires. Let’s explore some of our most popular models to help you find your perfect match:

The Bailey Discovery is a great compact caravan range that caters perfectly to adventurous families who crave off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Imagine waking up next to a hidden cove after a day of surfing or setting off on a rock-climbing expedition with your cosy base-on-wheels waiting for you at the end of the day.

Key features that make it suitable for adventure holidays include its lightweight design for easy towing, a robust Alu-Tech construction for durability, and models that sleep up to four people. Its compact size allows access to more secluded spots, making it a top choice for adventurous spirits.

Here’s what makes the Discovery ideal for adventure:

• Compact and lightweight caravans: Access hidden gems and remote Certified Locations or Certified Site campsites easily, thanks to the Discovery’s lightweight design and manoeuvrability.
• Self-contained convenience: Explore worry-free with a fully equipped kitchen complete with a Thetford Triplex combination oven and grill with three gas burner hob so you can make meals even when in remote locations. Elsewhere, the washroom features an inboard shower unit, sink and toilet so you can keep fresh and clean while on the move.
  • Durable build: The Discovery is built tough to handle any adventure, keeping you safe and comfortable wherever the road takes you.

The Bailey Phoenix GT75 is the perfect entry point for families starting their caravanning journey.

The Phoenix GT75 range offers confort and value all in one. This caravan range boasts many of the amenities of higher spec caravans, making it perfect as an entry-level caravan for families

Think spacious layouts, ample toy storage, and features that make family life easier, like easy-clean upholstery.

• Flexible sleeping: The Phoenix GT75 range offers several layouts with a choice of sleeping configurations, including bunks, fixed beds, and convertible dinettes, to accommodate families of all sizes.
• Innovative storage solutions: The Phoenix GT75’s clever storage solutions help you keep toys, games, and outdoor gear organised. Depending on the model, these include overhead lockers, wardrobes, a medicine cabinet in the bathroom, and under-bed storage that’s also accessible as an outside locker.
• Keep connected: The Phoenix GT75 comes equipped with some serious technology. This includes a media station with wireless charger, portable SONOS speaker and a TV point alongside 230v power sockets and USB points throughout the caravan so your entire family can stay connected.

A bathroom fit for your entire family: Every model in the Bailey Phoenix GT75 range comes with a well-equipped washroom featuring a full-size shower, sink, medicine cabinet and toilet so everyone can stay fresh on holiday. Washrooms are placed either at the end or in the centre of the caravan and those in the centre have a door that can close off just the toilet or the whole washroom.

For families who enjoy the social atmosphere of caravanning, the Bailey Unicorn luxury touring caravan offers the perfect blend of superior comfort and community spirit.

Imagine evenings spent socialising at the clubhouse with fellow caravan enthusiasts or attending rallies with activities for all ages.

Here’s what makes the Unicorn ideal for community holidays:

• Spacious living: The Unicorn boasts ample space for families and friends to gather and relax with every model featuring a spacious front lounge. When it comes to sleeping, many models even come with wider fixed beds with superior foam mattress construction (model-specific) to give you even more space to stretch out.
• High-quality fixtures: Enjoy a touch of luxury with the Unicorn’s high-quality furnishings and features. These include ‘Light Oak’ furniture and a choice of two luxurious soft furnishing schemes and a large vertical skylight window so you and the kids can stargaze.
• Safety alarms: Every Bailey Unicorn comes fitted with a tracker Monitor system with an integral intruder alarm. This not only keeps your vehicle more secure when you’re out for the day; it also keeps you safer at night so everyone can get the best night’s sleep.
• High-specification kitchen: The kitchens in the Unicorn range are designed with high-specification fixtures, including a dual-fuel hob, microwave, and large refrigerator, along with ample worktop space and storage. This makes meal preparation and storage both practical and enjoyable while on the road.

The Bailey Pegasus Grande is all about creating unforgettable memories with your entire family, including your four-legged companions. Think exploring dog-friendly campsites nestled in beautiful countryside, with plenty of space for everyone to relax after a day of adventure.

Here’s what makes the Pegasus Grande perfect for family & pets holidays:

• 8-foot wide body: One of the standout features of the Pegasus Grande GT75 range is its 8-foot wide body, providing extra interior space. An 8ft wide caravan offers more interior space than standard models, providing additional room for larger families to move comfortably inside.

This extra width allows us to offer more spacious sleeping areas, enhanced storage options, and bigger amenities such as a full-size kitchen or bathroom. These improvements make family travel more comfortable and convenient, better-accommodating everyone’s needs during extended trips.

• G-shaped lounge options: The Bologna & Brindisi in our Pegasus Grande GT75 range feature a G-shaped front lounge that maximises living space and converts into a large sleeping area. This versatile layout comfortably accommodates more people and provides a social hub for your family and friends.
• Dedicated shower cubicle: The Pegasus Grande GT75 range boasts a separate shower cubicle, regardless of which model you choose. This enhances functionality and comfort, providing a more home-like bathroom experience, which is especially appreciated during longer stays.

The Bailey Alicanto Grande is the epitome of luxury caravanning. Imagine hosting your children and grandchildren for day trips or weekend getaways, with ample space and luxurious amenities for everyone to enjoy.

Think exploring campsites with a variety of activities nearby, from nature walks to theme parks, all within easy reach of your luxurious home base. Here’s what makes the Alicanto Grande perfect for hosting family:

• Spacious 8-foot wide body: The Alicanto Grande range features an 8-foot wide body, providing significantly more interior space. This expanded width allows for larger living areas, more comfortable sleeping arrangements, and a more luxurious overall feel.
• Alde radiator heating system: Equipped with the Alde Hydronic Compact 3020 programmable radiator heating system with combined water heating, the Alicanto Grande ensures a warm and cosy environment throughout the caravan. This hydronic heating system circulates heated fluid through radiators, evenly distributing warmth, making it perfect for all-season comfort.
• Integrated onboard technology: The range includes high-tech amenities such as a touchscreen control panel that manages lighting, heating, and water systems. Models also feature Avtex mobile WiFi and a wireless charging pad so the entire family can remain connected.
• Superior kitchen facilities: The kitchens in the Alicanto Grande are equipped with premium appliances, including a large tower refrigerator, a dual-fuel hob, and a microwave. Generous worktop spaces and superior fixtures make cooking and entertaining the entire family a pleasure.
• Luxurious bedroom configurations: Bedrooms in the Alicanto Grande range are designed for comfort and privacy, featuring fixed double beds with high-quality mattresses and dedicated en-suite facilities so your bedroom can remain a sanctuary away from the visiting family.

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The number of berths a caravan offers indicates how many people can sleep comfortably. However, families often need extra space for playing, relaxing, and storing luggage.

A good option is to choose a caravan with one or two more berths than the number of people in your family.

For example, a family of four might find a 5 or 6-berth caravan more comfortable, and you will also have extra accommodation for any friends or family you might want to ask to stay on occasion.

If maximising space is a priority, consider a wider caravan model.

The Bailey Pegasus Grande GT75 and Alicanto Grande ranges boast an impressive 8-foot width, providing significantly more room than standard caravans.

This extra space translates to a more comfortable living area, more storage for all your gear, and a generally more relaxed atmosphere for everyone on board.

Well-known caravanner Dan Trudgian recently wrote a blog on the differences he found between a standard width caravan and an 8ft caravan. You can read this here.

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Here are some clever features to look for that will help you keep things organised and create a sense of spaciousness for everyone:

• Multifunctional furniture: Look for convertible dinettes that often transform into single beds with fold-out bunks above, perfect for maximising sleeping space. Elsewhere, lounge areas that convert into generous double beds or even two singles offer flexibility for different sleeping arrangements.

• Under-bed storage & accessible lockers: Use every inch of space with under-bed storage compartments that are perfect for keeping luggage, blankets, or outdoor gear organised. Easily accessible exterior locker doors allow for quick storage of bulky items like bikes or camping chairs.

• Folding tables: Folding tables are a game-changer in caravan layouts. When mealtime is over, simply fold the table away to create more floor space for playing or relaxing.

• Bunk beds: Bunk beds are a classic space-saving solution, especially for families with multiple children. They allow you to get the most sleeping capacity without sacrificing floor space.

• Clever storage: Look for caravans with ample overhead cabinets, drawers cleverly integrated under benches, and even hidden compartments under the floor. These hidden nooks are perfect for storing toys, games, or other essentials you want to keep out of sight.

• Open floor plans: Many Bailey caravans have open floor plans to create a more spacious and airy feel. Minimal walls and dividing structures allow for better movement and light throughout the caravan.

Some of our models even offer features like sliding screens that can be used to separate sleeping areas when needed, providing the best of both worlds: open space and privacy.

• Multi-functioning washrooms: Bailey of Bristol offers innovative washroom designs that allow you to maximise space and functionality. Look for features like doors that can be used to close off just the toilet area or the entire bathroom, depending on your needs.

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Adding accessories like awnings to caravans is a popular way to extend the usable space and enhance the overall camping experience.

An awning is a tent attached to the exterior wall of a caravan. It is typically composed of canvas or acrylic cloth stretched over an aluminium, iron, or steel frame. Awnings provide additional sheltered space outside the caravan.

Awnings effectively increase the living area of a caravan by creating an outdoor room.

Depending on their size and design, they can be used as an additional dining area, lounge, or even a temporary sleeping space. This makes them particularly valuable for families or groups that need extra space to spread out or for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without being fully exposed to the elements.

Further awning benefits:

• Protection from weather: Awnings provide a sheltered area from the sun, wind, and rain, allowing you to enjoy the outside air in a variety of weather conditions

• Versatility: Use as an additional living area, for storage or as an additional bedroom. If you have children, once they are old enough they often love to sleep in the awning as it gives them their own private area on the pitch.

• Increased privacy: With sides added, an awning can offer a private space at your campsite, away from the view of neighbouring campers

PRIMA Leisure sells awnings that are compatible with Bailey caravans. For example, the Prima Classic Canopy Air Awning is designed to be quick and easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for those looking to extend their living space conveniently.

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What is the best family caravan layout for you? Here are 10 top tips to help you find the perfect caravan for your family adventures:

1.Consider payload capacity: With a full family aboard, the weight of personal belongings can add up quickly. Check the caravan’s payload capacity to ensure it can handle the extra luggage, equipment, and personal items without exceeding legal weight limits.

2.Prioritise necessary features: Different families have different needs. Whether it’s a large fridge for storing ample food, a fixed bed to avoid daily setup or adequate heating for colder climates, make sure the caravan features align with what will make life easier for your family while on holiday.

3.Maximise sleeping space: Look for caravans that offer flexible sleeping options like bunk beds, convertible dinettes, or even separate twin beds. Also consider whether, as parents, you would like a bedroom separate from your other family members. Getting your sleeping arrangements right will ensure everyone gets a great night’s sleep.

4.Ample storage: A clutter-free space is crucial, especially in a compact area like a caravan. Choose the Bailey models to match the amount you like to take with you. Every caravan in our range features smart storage solutions such as overhead lockers, under-seat storage and a medicine cabinet. Some even offer you outside lockers so you can store outdoor gear or bulkier items.

5. Expand your living space with an awning: An awning can dramatically increase your living area, providing extra space for relaxing, dining, or sleeping. It’s especially beneficial for longer trips or larger families.

6. Consider having bunks in a caravan for younger children: Many Bailey caravans offer bunk beds and side dinettes that convert into additional sleeping spaces, perfect for young families needing flexible sleeping arrangements.

7. Think long term: Consider how your family might grow or change in the coming years. Select a caravan that can accommodate any future needs, whether it’s more space for additional children or a layout more suitable for teenagers as they grow.

8. Involve the family in the selection: Make caravan selection a family affair. Discuss what features everyone would enjoy and consider everyone’s needs to create a sense of involvement and excitement about upcoming adventures.

9. Research & prioritise: Do your homework before making a decision. Look into different models, sizes, and amenities of potential campsite destinations. Prioritising these elements based on your family’s needs will help narrow down your choices.

10.Consider a trial run: If you’re new to caravanning, renting a caravan for a short trip can be a great way to test the waters. This experience will provide insight into what features and types of layouts best suit your family before making a purchase.

One of the best ways to see which caravan may suit you is to see several options in person. Head to the Bailey Find a Retailer page to discover your closest Bailey caravan retailer.

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Visit our Virtual Showroom or speak with your local Bailey Retailer to explore options that cater to everyone’s needs, ensuring a perfect balance for family comfort and functionality.

The best caravan for a family of 6 is one that offers ample space, comfort, and practicality to accommodate everyone. Check options that fit your family’s lifestyle here, including our luxury twin-axle caravans.

For a family of 4, a caravan that combines space efficiency with the necessary amenities for comfort makes the ideal choice.
See the Bailey luxury 4 berth caravan options here, including 4 berth caravans with bunk beds.

Explore our complete range of caravans to find the perfect match for your adventures. View our range here.

Step into our Virtual Showroom to experience our caravans from the comfort of your home. Explore the Virtual Showroom here.