Understanding the Difference
If you’re considering upgrading from a standard 7ft 4in caravan to an 8ft wide caravan like the Alicanto Grande, you probably have a few questions: How does the wider model handle on the road? Are rural campsites still accessible? Does the extra space justify the change?
For clarity, the difference between the two is approximately 8 inches (20 cm) of additional width. In some respects, the difference isn’t massive, but it’s certainly noticeable in others.
This article explores the pros and cons based on real-world experience. We cover the main topics, including the impact on interior space and campsite practicalities. But we start with the most common concern: towing:
Towing Performance
Motorway Stability
Testing over a 50-mile journey, featuring motorways, A-roads, and winding B-roads, reveals some interesting aspects about towing wider caravans.
On motorway sections, 8ft caravans demonstrate notably improved stability. The wider axle helps the caravan maintain better tracking, particularly on uneven surfaces.
7ft 4in models might catch and shift between the road ruts created by heavy goods vehicles, especially in gusty conditions, while wider models tend to tow more consistently.
A-Road and B-Road Handling
On A-roads, the combination of a wider stance and twin-axle setups delivers noticeably smoother handling. The pitch movement between the towing vehicle and caravan typically reduces, with the caravan showing less susceptibility to road camber and surface imperfections.
B-road experiences also often improve with wider caravans. Rather than creating additional challenges, the more substantial presence of an 8ft caravan naturally commands more respect from other road users. For example, when navigating roundabouts and town centres, drivers typically give you a wider berth.
Inevitably, caravanners may feel cautious about the dimensions, much like driving an unfamiliar vehicle, but this anxiety usually subsides quickly with experience. After all, despite 8ft caravans occupying more lane space, a quick check in purposely extended towing mirrors shows standard UK roads still provide adequate clearance on either side.
Living Experience in an 8ft Wide Caravan
The most dramatic impact of those extra 20cm becomes evident in the living space, where the extra width transforms the interior.
You’ll immediately notice the change in freedom of movement. The awkward sideways shuffles typically required when navigating past another person in a standard kitchen or hallway disappear. Two people can comfortably pass without performing the characteristic “caravan dance” familiar to owners of narrower models.
Moreover, this additional space affects more than just movement—it creates a noticeably more relaxed, open atmosphere that feels significantly less confined than in standard-width models. The psychological benefit of this additional breathing room enhances the enjoyment of more extended stays.
The width also allows manufacturers to design more creative and practical layouts, including larger bathroom facilities, more substantial kitchen workspaces, or more comfortable seating arrangements.
Campsite Practicalities
Another concern for caravanners considering wider models involves campsite accessibility and manoeuvrability. Notably, navigating the campsite and pitching up:
Site Navigation
While some campsite entrances and internal roads initially appear challenging for 8ft units, proper technique generally overcomes these obstacles. The twin-axle configuration, which is standard on many 8ft models, requires slightly wider turns, but most caravanners adapt to this quickly.
Pitch Accommodation
Contrary to common concerns, standard pitches at most established sites readily accommodate 8ft caravans. The twin-axle setup also presents an unexpected advantage, with more stable and predictable behaviour when reversing onto a pitch. Positioning the caravan becomes easier.
Essential Considerations for Potential Upgraders
If you’re thinking about making the switch to an 8ft model, here are four points to consider:
Towing Vehicle Compatibility
The towing vehicle must have sufficient capacity for both the increased width and the likely additional weight of a larger caravan. Specifications should be checked carefully before committing to an upgrade.
Mirror Requirements
Wider caravans need extended towing mirrors for proper visibility. Standard extensions may be insufficient, whereas specific, wider-reach models are recommended for safety.
Winter Storage
Caravan storage sites vary in their ability to accommodate larger units. Some sites have limited space or access routes that may present challenges for 8ft wide caravans.
Driver Adaptation
While most caravanners adapt quickly to wider models, it’s worth honestly assessing how comfortable you’ll be towing a larger caravan, especially down narrow country lanes or in tight urban environments.
The Conclusion: Benefits vs. Challenges
In practice, the benefits of an 8ft caravan substantially outweigh the minimal challenges for most users. The gains, including a transformative living space, dramatically offset the marginal difference in towing considerations.
For weekend breaks, the extra width provides welcome breathing room. For more extended holidays, the additional space creates a more authentic home-from-home experience.
If you’re considering making the switch, we’d encourage you to take the plunge with confidence. With minimal adaptation to your towing technique and the correct vehicle setup, you’ll quickly wonder how you ever managed in a standard-width model.
Happy Caravanning!