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Buying a luxury lodge vs a static caravan
Whether you’re dreaming of seaside escapes or spontaneous weekend breaks (without the faff of hotel bookings), owning a holiday home gives you the keys to freedom - no passport required! But now comes the biggie: should you go for a static caravan or splurge on a luxury lodge?
Both come with their own bragging rights – lodges bring the space and fancy interiors, while static caravans keep things comfy and cost-friendly. If you're comparing holiday lodges for sale with static caravans for sale, we're here to help you weigh up the differences and find your perfect holiday home match.
What’s the difference between a static caravan and a luxury lodge?
From the outside, they both say "holiday mode activated," but dig a little deeper and the differences are clear. Static caravans tend to be slimmer and more lightweight, making them great for budget-friendly getaways. Lodges, on the other hand, are roomier, sturdier, with some even built to residential standards.
One big win for static caravans?
Choice. You’ll usually get more flexibility when it comes to where your caravan is pitched; decide on the park you love and whether you want to be closer to the action or nestled in a peaceful corner.
Lodges are typically pre-sited
This means fewer decisions but a fast-track to putting your feet up – some owners are settled in just days after signing.
The key differences lie in their size, layout, and, of course, price point, with lodges offering a more premium experience and caravans providing an affordable entry into holiday home ownership.
Many owners start with a static caravan to dip their toes in, then upgrade to a lodge once they’ve fallen head over heels for the lifestyle (it happens more often than you’d think!).
What is a static caravan?
Think of a static caravan as a compact, prefabricated, and oh-so-convenient home-away-from-home. It’s the go-to choice for holidaymakers who want affordability, charm and zero faff. A popular entry point for buyers looking to dip their toes into holiday home ownership, without the ‘punchy’ price tag of a luxury lodge.
Key features:
- Smaller footprint, typically up to 14ft wide
- Open-plan living areas with two to three bedrooms
- Generally more basic kitchens and bathrooms - although not all models!
- Lower ongoing costs and purchase prices
- Shorter lifespan of around 15–20 years (though with the right care and maintenance, they can last much longer!)
- Ideal for affordable, seasonal breaks
- Decking and hot tub options, depending on the location
What is a lodge?
A lodge is a premium holiday home that caravan owners may choose to upgrade to (although you can buy one from the start!), offering more space, better insulation, and a high-end finish throughout.
It’s perfect for those who want to stretch out in style, host a few (or up to ten!) guests, or live the luxe life without having to buy a second yacht. With its roomy layout, posh finishes, and enough space for the whole family, a lodge is the holiday upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Key features:
- Larger build, usually 20ft wide or more
- Higher ceilings and spacious layouts
- Full-sized kitchens with integrated appliances
- Residential-quality interiors
- Longer park licence agreements (up to 30 years)
- Better suited to accommodate more guests
- Options to extend with decking and add hot tubs
Static caravan size and lodge dimensions: how much space do you get?
The difference in dimensions between static caravans and lodges can really shape your holiday experience – from how easily you can stretch out to how many friends, family, dogs and cups of tea you can squeeze in for a getaway. So, what are you actually getting space-wise with each option? Let’s take a look.
How wide is a static caravan?
Static caravans are usually around 12ft wide, though the width often depends on the model – most standard options sit between 10 and 14ft, while premium picks can stretch to a roomy 14ft. That gives you around 280 to 560 square feet of living space, depending on the length and layout you go for.
Inside, it’s all about smart design. You’ll often find space-saving furniture and clever layout tricks that make the most of every inch.
As for the outside, pitches typically come with space to park and the option to add decking – perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying a BBQ. Some parks even offer premium pitches with larger outdoor areas, ideal if alfresco living is high on your holiday wishlist.
How big is a lodge caravan?
Lodges take things up a notch (or five), usually measuring over 16ft wide and often stretching to around 24ft across. With lengths between 36ft and 45ft, that gives you a generous 720 to 990 square feet of living space. That’s nearly double what you’d get in a standard static caravan- more than enough room to swing a cat (if that’s your thing).
The extra width makes a big difference. Think full-sized furniture, wide hallways (no more squeezing sideways!), and proper king-size beds you can actually walk around. Bathrooms tend to have full-sized suites, and the living areas come with comfy sofas and plenty of room for relaxing or entertaining.
You’ll also get those little luxuries – higher ceilings, big windows that let the light flood in, and better sound insulation that keeps things blissfully peaceful.
“When browsing caravans and lodges, don’t assume a 3-bedroom option will cost significantly more than a 2-bedroom. In many cases, they’re similarly priced – the real difference often comes down to layout. A 2-bed lodge might offer larger bedrooms or an en suite, while a 3-bed version could sacrifice a bit of living space to fit in the extra room. It’s less about how many bedrooms you have, and more about how you want to use the space.” - Kate Watts, Holiday Home Sales Expert, Away Resorts
Lodge vs caravan interior comparison
Both static caravans and lodges offer comfortable, well-designed interiors made for relaxing and spending time with loved ones. Today’s market is packed with incredible options, so you’ll find something that tickles your fancy, be it more minimalist or a homely, country feel.
Luxury lodges tend to go a step further: with spacious layouts, high-spec kitchens and bathrooms, and the kind of finishes that would make even Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen envious, these beauties bring all the luxury you could want.
That said, modern static caravans aren’t slouching either. Some even come with free-standing furniture and clever layouts that make the most of every inch. It’s like getting the very best of both worlds, just with a little more pizzazz in the lodge corner.
Caravan interior
Lodge interior
Exterior features: static caravan vs lodge
The outside appearance and construction of your holiday home will significantly affect its durability, maintenance and your overall ownership experience. Static caravans typically feature aluminium or vinyl cladding with a distinctive, lightweight appearance and are usually installed on stands with skirting around the base.
Lodges, on the other hand, are in a whole different league. Think wood-effect cladding, grand entrances, and exterior spaces that scream ‘luxury living’. With wraparound decking options, you’ve got plenty of room to lounge, host a BBQ, or just live your best alfresco life.
Decking on a static caravan? Nice bonus. Decking on a lodge? Welcome to your outdoor entertaining paradise.
Exterior lodge
Exterior caravan
Lodge vs caravan price comparison: what can you expect to pay?
When it comes to buying a holiday home, being clear about costs helps you make the right choice for your budget and aspirations.
So let’s get our calculators out. Static caravans typically start from around £19,995 for pre-owned models, with new entry-level holiday homes beginning at approximately £39,995. Premium models with higher specifications can reach £80,000+.
Lodges represent a more substantial investment, generally starting from £109,995 for a pre-loved model, with new options, ranging from £150,000 to £450,000 for top-end specifications. Prices also vary depending on the holiday park location, the pitch you choose, and the on-site facilities and amenities available to owners.
Beyond the purchase price, you'll need to consider:
|
Feature |
Static caravan |
Luxury lodge |
|
Site fees (annual) |
£3000 - £5000 |
£4500 - £12,000 |
|
Insurance |
£200 - £350 |
£350 - £600 |
|
Utility bills |
£600+ |
£2000+ |
|
Maintenance |
Lower initial costs, higher after 10+ years |
Higher initial investment, more durable long-term |
We offer various finance options and regularly run special offers that can make either option more affordable.
Please note: All prices are for guidance only and may vary depending on the specific model, park location, pitch type, and seasonal promotions. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, speak to our team or visit one of our parks.
Availability of lodges & static caravans
Static caravans win on flexibility. More parks, more pitches, and more freedom to pick your perfect spot. They suit a range of budgets and are easier to site, making them a popular choice for first-time buyers.
Lodges are increasing in demand, but availability is more limited. Their larger size means they need more spacious pitches, and not every park is equipped to accommodate them.
Several Away Resorts parks offer both options, including Sandy Balls, Mill Rythe, Tattershall Lakes, St Helens and St Ives Bay – ideal if you want flexibility in style, space, and park location.
Static caravan vs luxury lodge feature comparison
|
Feature |
Static Caravan |
Luxury Lodge |
|
Width |
Up to 14ft |
Typically 20ft or more |
|
Interior space |
Cosy and practical |
Spacious, open-plan layouts |
|
Build style |
Single unit with practical finishes |
Twin-unit, premium build with home-like materials |
|
Subletting |
Can be sublet for up to 7 years |
More demand for subletting and you can charge more |
|
Kitchen spec |
Compact kitchen, standard appliances |
High-spec kitchens with integrated appliances |
|
Insulation |
Suitable for most seasons |
Superior insulation for year-round comfort |
|
Price range |
From around £19,995 |
From around £109,995+ |
|
Ongoing costs |
Lower site fees and running costs |
Higher site fees and running costs |
|
Year-round use |
Seasonal, depending on park licence and insulation |
More suitable for all-season use (park licence permitting)* *Subject to chosen park season length. Away Resorts parks cannot be used as a permanent residence. |
|
Availability |
Widely available across most parks |
Limited availability, larger plots needed |
Arrange a visit
Seeing is believing, right? There’s no better way to picture yourself living the holiday dream than by stepping into one of our holiday homes.
Book a visit to one of our parks to view available static caravans and luxury lodges, sniff out the surroundings, and speak to our team. We’ll walk you through ownership options, site fees, and what to expect in the long term.
Our team will be on hand to answer all your burning questions, show you the ropes, and probably offer you a cuppa too (we do love a good brew).
With expert advice, flexible finance packages, and a welcoming team ready to help you find your perfect match, we’ll make sure you make the right choice. No rush, no stress – you can even try before you buy!
Disclaimer: All pricing and product information provided is accurate at the time of writing and intended for guidance purposes only. Availability, specifications, and costs may vary. For the most up-to-date details and personalised advice, we recommend speaking with our team or visiting one of our holiday parks.