The Ultimate Caravan Packing Checklist: Everything You Need for an Ingoldmells Holiday

There is nothing quite like the feeling of heading over the A158, catching that first glimpse of the Fantasy Island skyline in the distance, and knowing your Ingoldmells holiday is about to begin. However, that "holiday feeling" can quickly vanish if you arrive at your caravan only to realise you've forgotten the most basic essentials.

Whether you are staying at a premier park like Coastfields, a family favourite like Hardys, or a quiet private site, most caravans in Ingoldmells are "self-catering." This means while you have the roof and the beds, the rest is up to you.

To ensure your break is stress-free, we have put together the most comprehensive caravan packing checklist specifically for the Lincolnshire coast.

1. The "First Hour" Essentials

When you first unlock your caravan, you won't want to start unpacking everything immediately. You will likely want a cup of tea and a quick tidy-up. Pack a "Day One" box and keep it near the door of your car.

The Hero Box: Include a kettle (if not provided), tea bags, coffee, sugar, and a pint of milk.
Cleaning Basics: Even the cleanest caravans can have a bit of "coastal dust" if they've been empty for a few days. Pack anti-bacterial wipes, a bottle of washing-up liquid, a sponge, and at least two tea towels.
The "Golden" Item: Toilet roll. Never assume the previous guests or the cleaners left a fresh roll. Pack at least two to get you through the first night.
Bin Bags: Caravan bins are often small. Bring a roll of sturdy black bin liners for your main waste and some smaller "pedal bin" liners for the bathroom.

2. Bedding and Sleeping Comfort

While some "Gold" or "Signature" grade caravans include bed linen, many standard models do not. Even if linen is provided, many regular Ingoldmells visitors prefer to bring their own for a touch of home comfort.

The Basics: Bottom sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases.
Pillows: Caravan pillows can be notoriously thin. If you have the space in the car, bringing your own pillows from home can be the difference between a good night's sleep and a stiff neck.
Extra Blankets: Even in July, the North Sea breeze can make the nights surprisingly chilly. A couple of thick fleece throws are essential for cosy evenings on the sofa.
Mattress Topper: If you are staying in an older model caravan, the mattresses can be a little "springy." A cheap foam mattress topper can transform a budget caravan bed into a luxury one.

3. The Caravan Kitchen Kit

Caravan kitchens are compact, and while they usually provide "crockery and cutlery," they often lack the specific tools you need for a proper family meal.

Sharp Knives: The knives provided in rental caravans are often blunt. Bring one good chef's knife and a paring knife.
Oven Trays: Many caravans only have one battered tray. Bring a couple of your own or a roll of heavy-duty tin foil to line the ones provided.
Condiments: Don't buy new ones there! Bring small pots of salt, pepper, vinegar (essential for your fish and chips), and tomato sauce.
Kitchen Roll: One roll is never enough for a week-long stay.
Bottle Opener and Tin Opener: These are the two items most commonly "missing" from caravan drawers because previous guests have accidentally packed them!

4. Bathroom and Personal Care

Space is tight in a caravan bathroom, so think "efficient."

Towels: You will need three types: large bath towels, hand towels for the kitchen/bathroom, and dedicated beach towels. Never use your nice white home towels on Ingoldmells beach---the sand is incredibly fine and gets everywhere!
Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. To save space, use 2-in-1 products.
Hand Soap: A pump-action liquid soap is much cleaner and easier in a small caravan sink than a bar of soap.
First Aid Kit: Plasters (for those blisters after walking the length of Fantasy Island market), antiseptic cream, and Calpol if you have little ones.
Prescriptions: Ingoldmells has a pharmacy, but it can get very busy in peak season. Ensure you have enough of your regular medication for the whole trip.

5. Clothing for the Lincolnshire Climate

The weather in Ingoldmells is famously "changeable." You can experience four seasons in a single afternoon.

The "Layer" System: Pack hoodies and cardigans that can be easily taken off when the sun pops out.
Waterproofs: A lightweight, packable raincoat is a must-have. Don't let a coastal drizzle stop you from enjoying the outdoor markets.
Footwear:
- Trainers: For the miles of walking you'll do.
- Flip-flops: For the beach and for the caravan park showers (if you aren't using the one in your van).
- Slippers: Caravan floors can be cold and hard; a pair of slippers makes the evening much more comfortable.
Swimwear: Even if you aren't brave enough for the North Sea, many parks have heated indoor pools.

6. Entertainment and Tech

While we go on holiday to unplug, the British weather sometimes has other ideas.

Chargers and Extension Leads: Caravan plug sockets are often in awkward places (like behind the TV or high up on a shelf). A 4-way extension lead is a lifesaver for charging multiple phones and tablets.
Portable Power Bank: If you are spending a full day at Fantasy Island taking photos and videos, your phone battery will drain quickly.
Off-line Entertainment: Wi-Fi on caravan parks can be "patchy" at best. Download movies and shows onto tablets before you leave home.
Board Games and Cards: A classic deck of cards or a game of Monopoly is a great way to bond when the rain is hitting the caravan roof.

7. Travelling with Dogs

Ingoldmells is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the UK, but your pooch needs a suitcase too!

Tether/Ground Stake: If your caravan doesn't have a secure veranda (decking), a ground stake is essential so your dog can sit outside with you safely.
Extra Towels: One specifically for "muddy paws" and another for "sandy paws."
Familiar Bedding: A caravan can be a strange, noisy place for a dog. Bringing their bed from home helps them settle and reduces barking at night.
Poo Bags: Bring more than you think you need!

8. The "Forgotten" Extras

These are the small things that people often forget but end up buying at a premium in the local shops:

Reusable Shopping Bags: Since the plastic bag charge, having 3 or 4 "bags for life" in the caravan will save you a few pounds at the local Spar or Tesco.
Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sea breeze masks the heat of the sun. Don't get "Skegness pink" on day one!
Torch: Many caravan parks are not well-lit at night. A small LED torch is vital for walking back from the pub safely.
Umbrella: A sturdy one that won't turn inside out in the coastal wind.

Final Summary Checklist

Documentation: Booking confirmation (digital or printed), caravan insurance (if you own it), and car breakdown cover.
Kitchen: Tea/Coffee, salt/pepper, washing-up liquid, tea towels, bin bags, foil.
Bathroom: Toilet roll, towels, hand soap, toiletries, first aid kit.
Bedroom: Sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases, extra blankets.
Tech: Extension lead, chargers, downloaded movies, power bank.
Outdoors: Raincoats, suncream, beach towels, folding chairs.

By following this checklist, you'll spend less time running to the shops and more time enjoying everything Ingoldmells has to offer. Pack smart, and have a fantastic holiday!

Image Sources

1: Mat Facsione, Geograph