Static Caravan Accessories: The Simple Checklist New Buyers Actually Need

An essential guide for anyone buying a holiday home in Shropshire and deciding what to buy now vs. later.

Key Facts: Static Caravan Accessories at a Glance

1. Getting Your Static Caravan Accessory-Ready

You’ve collected the keys. You’ve parked the car. You’re ready to move in.

Then you start unpacking and realize what you forgot.

It isn't the decorative cushions or the fancy coffee machine. It’s the practical stuff. The things that stop a muddy dog from ruining the carpet or help you sleep through the silence of the countryside.

New owners often focus on how the caravan looks. Experienced owners focus on how it works.

Living on the banks of the River Severn is wonderful, but it comes with damp mornings, muddy boots, and chilly evenings.

This guide will help you prioritize your budget on the gear that actually matters for a comfortable life at Seven Oaks.

2. Before You Buy: Park Rules & Restrictions

2.1 Why Park Rules Come First

Never order an external structure without checking your pitch licence first.

Whether it's a storage box for your fishing rods or a new veranda, you usually need written approval. At Seven Oaks, we keep the rules simple to maintain the park’s high standards.

Common Restrictions:

• Colour Palette: We prefer environmental greens and timber tones that blend into the Shropshire landscape.
• Fire Safety: Anything you build must respect the mandatory fire gaps between holiday homes.
• Approved Installers: For major work like decking, you typically need to use contractors who carry the correct insurance.

2.2 What’s Included vs. What Isn't

When you buy a holiday home, the package often varies.

Typically Included: Basic metal steps, external light, essential furniture.

Typically NOT Included: High-grade mattresses, kitchenware, cleaning supplies, and specific tech like routers or smart alarms.

2.3 The "Seven Oaks" Questions

Here are the specific things you should clarify with our team:

• Is there a specific size limit for sheds? (We know anglers need space for gear).
• What are the skirting requirements for my specific pitch?
• Does my pitch have a designated parking bay or is it shared?

2.4 Pet-Related Accessories

Seven Oaks is a dog-friendly park, but we prioritize peace and quiet.

Instead of unsightly fences, we recommend installing a secure, lockable gate on your decking. This gives your dog freedom without compromising the park's aesthetics.

Top Tip: Invest in a "mud daddy" or portable paw washer. The riverside paths can get muddy, and you want to keep that mud out of your lounge.

2.5 Parking & Vehicle Rules

Electric Vehicles: Please note that plugging EVs directly into your caravan is usually prohibited due to the electrical load. Ask us about the nearest approved charging facilities.

3. Essential Static Caravan Accessories (Outdoor)

3.1 Safer Steps

Early mornings on the River Severn can be dewy. Standard metal steps can become surprisingly slippery.

We highly recommend upgrading to composite or resin steps. They offer better grip, wider treads, and usually come with a sturdier handrail.

3.2 Decking: The River View Essential

If you have a pitch overlooking the river, decking effectively doubles your living space in summer.

Composite vs Timber: Timber is cheaper initially but requires annual staining to fight the damp riverside air. Composite costs more but simply needs a wipe-down.

3.3 Skirting: Warmth and Aesthetics

Skirting finishes the look of your holiday home, but it serves a practical purpose too.

It reduces drafts under the floor, keeping your feet warmer in winter, and stops debris (or wildlife) from getting under the chassis.

3.4 Tackle Storage

For many of our owners, Seven Oaks is about the fishing. But you don't want wet nets and rods inside the caravan.

A secure, subtle outdoor storage box is vital. Check the dimensions to ensure it fits your longest rods.

4. Indoor Comfort & Practical Living

4.1 The Sleep Upgrade

Standard caravan mattresses are functional, but often thinner than what you are used to at home.

A high-quality memory foam topper is the quickest way to transform your sleep comfort without buying a whole new mattress. Just remember to measure the bed first—widths vary!

4.2 Battling Condensation

Any home near water will face moisture issues, especially when closed up.

• Essentials: Place crystal moisture traps in every room (bedrooms and bathrooms especially) when you leave.
• Pro Choice: A desiccant dehumidifier is a great investment for the winter months as it operates effectively in lower temperatures.

4.3 Connectivity

While rural peace is the goal, we know you still want Netflix.

If park WiFi signals fluctuate, a dedicated 4G/5G mobile router with an external antenna often provides the most stable connection for streaming.

5. Safety Accessories

5.1 Peace of Mind

Most new units come with smoke alarms, but you should double-check them immediately.

We also strongly recommend adding a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm near the boiler. Choose one with a sealed long-life battery so it doesn't start chirping when you aren't there.

5.2 Kitchen Safety

Space is tighter in a caravan kitchen. Keep a fire blanket easily accessible near the cooker, and mount a small dry powder extinguisher by the door.

6. Utility & Energy Accessories

6.1 Gas Essentials

There is nothing worse than the gas running out halfway through a shower.

An automatic changeover valve is a game-changer. It switches supply from the empty bottle to the full one automatically, giving you uninterrupted service.

6.2 Power Protection

Rural electrical supplies can sometimes surge during storms.

Protect your TV and router by plugging them into a surge protector strip. It's a small cost to save expensive electronics.

7. Seasonal Accessories

7.1 Winter-Ready

Seven Oaks has a long 10.5-month season, so you will likely visit in colder weather.

Smart buys:

• Thermal linings for curtains (stops heat loss through glass).
• Draught excluders for external doors.
• Heavy-duty doormats or boot scrapers for those winter walks.

8. A Note on Hot Tubs

9. Budgeting: Buy Now vs Later

9.1 Buy Immediately (Day-One Essentials)

• Safe, non-slip steps.
• CO & smoke alarms.
• Mattress topper.
• Moisture traps.
• Kettle, toaster, and basic kitchen kit.

9.2 Buy Once Settled

• Decking and skirting (plan this with us).
• Outdoor fishing tackle storage.
• Patio furniture sets.

10. Complete Shopping List (Quick Reference)

Use this list as a quick reference when planning what to buy.

Outdoor & Structure

• Non-slip steps & handrails.
• Decking (check rules).
• Skirting (ventilated).
• Outdoor storage box / shed.
• Solar festoon lights.

Indoor Comfort

• Mattress topper.
• Moisture traps.
• Desiccant dehumidifier.
• Thermal curtains.

11. Checklist: Accessories Sanity-Check

12. FAQs: Static Caravan Accessories

Are accessories worth budgeting for up front?
Yes. A small budget for essentials (steps, safety kit, moisture control) makes your first season safer and more comfortable.

What are the first accessories I should buy?
Prioritise safety and sleep. A mattress topper, CO alarm, and sturdy steps should be in your boot on day one.

Do I need park permission for decking or sheds?
Yes, almost always. Parks have strict rules on materials and dimensions. Never build without written approval.

What helps most with winter and damp?
A desiccant dehumidifier is best. Alternatively, crystal moisture traps in every room work wonders.

13. Conclusion: A Caravan That Feels Like Home

You didn’t buy a static caravan just to own one.

You bought it for the feeling. That moment when you pull onto the park, unlock the door, and exhale.

The right accessories make that feeling happen faster.

Start with safety. Get the basics sorted. Sleep well, stay warm, keep dry.

The luxuries can wait. There’s no rush. You’ve got years ahead to make this space yours.

Take your time. Ask questions. And enjoy every visit.

Seven Oaks at a Glance

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and reflects typical industry practice as of 2025/2026. While we aim for accuracy, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information provided, and we accept no liability for any errors or omissions. Costs, policies, licence terms, and facilities vary between parks and manufacturers and may change without notice. Any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk — always confirm details directly with the park manager before making any purchase decision. This content does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. If you need specific guidance, please consult a qualified professional.