Swapping Your Touring Caravan for a Static: Why Sea-View Owners Made the Switch

Thinking of swapping your touring caravan for a static? Whether you call it trading up, upgrading, or simply making the switch — this guide covers everything you need to know about moving from touring to static caravan ownership at Glan Y Don.

1. Why Tourers Make the Switch

You don't fall out of love with touring overnight.

It usually happens one wet pack-down at a time.

Then you catch yourself thinking: "I'd pay good money to skip this bit."

That's what a static gives you. Not "more caravan".

A different kind of break. One that's already waiting.

And at Glan Y Don, the choice is simple: static caravans and lodges only. No touring pitches. No weekly changeovers. Just 66 owners arriving for their own peaceful time away.

2. From "Go Anywhere" to "Always Ready"

The "Sunday Slog" vs the "Friday Reset"

People who've made the switch usually describe two opposite feelings.

Sunday slog (touring life):

• Awning down, wet and heavy
• Everything back in the car
• Hitch, check, tow
• Traffic, weather, stress
• Home… and you need a lie down

Friday reset (static life):

• Finish work, throw a bag in the boot
• Drive normally (no towing limits)
• Arrive, park, unlock
• Kettle on. Heating on. Done

Ask yourself:
Do you spend the first two hours setting up… and the last two hours packing down?

If yes, a static might already make more sense than you realise.

Space and Comfort: A Different Experience

Touring caravans have to stay light and towable. That usually means compact layouts, tighter storage, and "make-do" sleeping setups.

Statics and lodges are built for comfort:

• Space: Wider layouts and more usable storage
• Furniture: Proper seating you don't need to pack away
• Plumbing: Full showers and mains-connected toilets
• Warmth: Many modern units are designed for shoulder-season use, not just summer weekends

3. Touring vs Static: Side by Side

4. Decking vs Awning: A Real-World Trade-Off

Awnings are great — once they're up.

But they take time. They sag in rain. They blow in wind. And they're the first thing you have to deal with when you leave.

Decking is the opposite. It's there when you arrive. You sit down. You're done.

If you find yourself wishing the awning was "just there already," you're thinking like a static owner.

5. Part Exchange: Using Your Tourer to Fund the Move

If you own a touring caravan outright, you may be able to use it as part of the deal.

What to expect:

• Part-exchange values are typically below private sale prices
• But you save time, hassle, and listing fees
• Always get the offer in writing
• Compare to realistic private-sale prices before deciding

Parks and dealers often have contacts who specialise in part-exchange. Ask the question early — it can change your budget significantly.

6. Costs: What Changes When You Go Static

With touring, you pay as you go — site fees per night, fuel, occasional repairs.

With a static, your costs shift:

• Annual pitch fee: Covers your space and park services (typically £4,500–£7,000 depending on the park)
• Utilities: Electric and gas (usually metered)
• Insurance: Required annually
• Maintenance: Small jobs over time

Yes, the annual commitment is higher. But you're not paying per night — so the more you visit, the better value it becomes.

7. Is a Static Right for You? (Quick Checklist)

Result: If you ticked 3+, you're probably ready.

8. The Salop Caravan Sites Approach

Across all Salop Caravan Sites parks, owners benefit from:

• Clear pricing and straightforward answers
• Well-kept, owners-focused communities
• No-pressure guidance from experienced park teams
• Long-term value through park standards and stability

9. Your Next Step

Touring gives you freedom. Static ownership gives you ease.

It's the difference between planning a break… and arriving at one.

If you're tired of towing but still want that escape feeling, a coastal base gives you something touring can't:

Your time back.

• Come and walk the park
• Ask to sit inside a similar unit for ten minutes
• Shut the door and imagine arriving on a Friday night with zero setup

Most people know, in that moment, if it's right for them.

Common Questions Answered

Can I use my touring caravan as a deposit?
Often, yes. Part exchange is common, and it can reduce the hassle of selling privately. Always get the valuation and terms in writing.

Do static caravans hold their value?
Like cars, they depreciate. The real value is in how often you use it — and how easy it becomes to actually go.

Can I sublet my static to help with costs?
No — Glan Y Don is owners-only and does not allow subletting. Always check licence terms on any park before you buy.

Is a static caravan warmer than a tourer?
Usually, yes. Many modern static caravans and lodges are designed for comfortable shoulder-season use with proper insulation and heating.

Do I pay Council Tax on a static caravan?
In most cases on holiday parks, no — because it cannot be your sole or main residence. You pay Council Tax on your main home. Some parks recover a contribution towards non-domestic rates through annual site fees.

How do I get to Glan Y Don?
Approach via the A496 coastal road. In Tywyn, turn onto Beach Road — Glan Y Don is the first caravan park on the right. Use postcode LL36 0DL for sat-nav.

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.