A YOUNG woman has shared what it’s really like living on a caravan site.
Katrina, from the UK, ditched ‘brick and mortar’ for a static caravan five months ago.
And now, she revealed the pros and cons of what it’s really like downsizing into her home on wheels.
Katrina revealed that she lived on a holiday site rather than a residential one which was perfect as she didn’t have to pay council tax and there were better facilities.
She revealed that on her location, she had a pool and sauna on her doorstep that she could use whenever she wanted.
“My holiday park is 11 months and I really like the fact that I have to go for a month,” she explained.
“It means that I’m going to travel for at least a month a year.”
One of the downsides of living on a holiday site was that you still needed a residential address.
Katrina explained that this means you either need a property elsewhere or have a family member willing to have you register their house as your address.
She also said that living in a caravan has slashed her living expenses in half.
“My life quality is way better now. I can do things I could have never afforded to do before,” she added.
Another positive that Katrina didn’t see coming was that she had downsized her life.
She said being in a small space teaches you what is important to have and what isn’t.
Her TikTok video was posted to her account @katrinascaravan and it went viral with over 168k views.
People were quick to take to the comments in awe of Katrina’s new way of life.
One person wrote: “I’ve got the keys to my static yesterday! spending the weekend cleaning, giving it some TLC and moving in properly. I’m over the moon.”
Another commented: “To stop private renting. A caravan sounds wonderful.”
“My ex done this for a year, it’s so fun but freezing in winter,” penned a third.
How much does it cost to live in a caravan?
LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:
Initial Costs
- Caravan Purchase: £8,000 – £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition)
- Caravan Insurance: £200 – £800 per year
Ongoing Monthly Costs
- Pitch Fees: £150 – £600 (varies by location and facilities)
- Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 – £120
- Maintenance and Repairs: £20 – £80
- Internet and TV: £20 – £50
- Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 – £40
Other Potential Costs
- Waste Disposal Fees: £8 – £25
- Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance
- Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 – £1,600 (one-time)
Sample Monthly Budget
- Pitch Fees: £400
- Utilities: £80
- Maintenance and Repairs: £40
- Internet and TV: £40
- Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25
- Total: £585
Annual Estimated Cost
- Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020
- Insurance: £500
- Maintenance and Repairs: £480
- Total Annual Cost: £8,000
Tips to Save
- Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons.
- DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself.
- Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs.
While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK.
Meanwhile a fourth said: “I’d live in one… half the cleaning time and less stuff.”
“I’d love this too,” claimed a fifth
Someone else added: “I live in one on a residential park. For me, it’s cheaper to live this way than in a house I could never afford.”