Static Caravan Accessories: What New Owners Actually Need (2026 Checklist)

An essential guide for anyone buying a holiday home on the North Wales coast and deciding what to buy now vs. later.

Whether you're about to buy a static caravan or already have the keys in your hand,
the accessories question comes up fast.

The truth? Most static caravan accessories can wait.
But a few make your first season more comfortable from day one — and knowing which is which saves time and money.

Static Caravan Accessories: The Key Facts

1. Making Your Static Caravan Ready for Coastal Living

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 sandy dog from ruining the carpet or help you sleep to the sound of the sea.

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

Living on the North Wales coast is wonderful, but it comes with sea breezes, sandy shoes, and blustery evenings.

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

2. Park Rules & Restrictions: Check Before You Buy

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 golf clubs or a new veranda, you usually need written approval. At Castle View, we keep the rules simple to maintain the park's high standards.

Common Restrictions:

• Colour Palette: We prefer natural tones and timber effects that complement the coastal 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 Questions to Ask at Castle View

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

• Is there a specific size limit for sheds? (We know golfers and beach lovers 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

Castle View is a dog-friendly park with a dedicated dog walking area and wash facility.

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 for your caravan too. The beach and dunes can leave sandy paws, and you want to keep that sand 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. Outdoor Accessories You'll Actually Use

3.1 Safer Steps

Early mornings on the coast can be dewy, and sea mist is common. 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: Making the Most of Your View

If you have a pitch with views towards the castle or across to Snowdonia, decking effectively doubles your living space in summer.

Composite vs Timber: Timber is cheaper initially but requires annual staining to fight the coastal 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 Outdoor Storage

For many of our owners, Castle View is about the beach, the golf, and the coastal walks. But you don't want wet wetsuits, sandy bodyboards, or golf clubs cluttering up the caravan.

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

4. Indoor Comfort & Practical Accessories

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 Managing Coastal Moisture

Any home near the sea 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 coastal peace is the goal, we know you still want Netflix.

Castle View offers free Wi-Fi, but if you need a stronger signal, a dedicated 4G/5G mobile router with an external antenna often provides the most stable connection for streaming.

5. Safety Essentials

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

Coastal 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. Accessories for Every Season

7.1 Winter-Ready

Castle View has a 10-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 beach walks.

8. Hot Tubs: What You Need to Know

9. What to 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 storage for beach and golf gear.
• Patio furniture sets.

10. Your Complete Shopping List

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. Your Pre-Purchase Checklist

12. Common Questions Answered

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 coastal damp?
A desiccant dehumidifier is best. Alternatively, crystal moisture traps in every room work wonders.

13. Making Your Caravan Feel 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.

Castle View 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.