How Do I Upgrade From a Caravan to a Lodge?

You’re a long-time caravan owner.

You know the joy that comes with having your very own holiday home.

But, what happens when a caravan starts to fall short?

You might find the answer is a luxury lodge.

Lodges in the UK offer more space, comfort and opportunities for family use than caravans.

There’s also often more potential for rental income, as holidaymakers are increasingly looking for luxury accommodation when they go away. 

But, upgrading doesn’t just mean finding a lodge.

It means planning how to sell your caravan, managing your budget, choosing the right location and picking a holiday park. 

Don’t worry, the Explore Lodge experts are here to help.

Swapping Your Caravan for a Lodge

Sell Your Current Caravan and Get the Best Price

Selling your caravan sets the foundation for funding your lodge purchase.

There are various marketplaces out there, and your focus should be on maximising the sale value.

This means taking the time to deep clean and declutter the caravan, so it looks flawless in photos.

You also need to include details about pitch position, age and facilities, as these significantly increase interest.

If your holiday park allows private sales, check your pitch agreement so you know the options and any park commissions – don’t forget, some parks take a cut.

It’s a good idea to start the sales process a few months before you want to buy a lodge. 

Decide What Kind of Lodge You Want and Set Your Budget

Switching from a caravan to a lodge isn’t just a style change, it can be a bigger financial commitment.

Lodges are generally more expensive than caravans, which makes sense considering they provide more living space, boast modern layouts and often better rental appeal.

According to 2025 data from Insure My, new static caravans can cost anywhere from £25,000 to £150,000 – but luxury lodges have been known to go for more than that.

Before you jump into buying a lodge, decide how much you want to spend on top of your caravan sale proceeds.

Be sure to factor in additional costs such as installation and pitch fees.

Find Lodges Within Your Budget

According to UKCCA, there were 4,754 holiday parks and campsites operating in the UK, and 320,901 pitches.

Lodges make up a big portion of that number.

This means you won’t be short of options, but it can make it hard to narrow down your search to lodges that work with your budget.

At Explore Lodges, we have various search features that allow you to focus your lodge search.

It’s easy to see which lodges tick all of your boxes, and whether or not they’re within budget.

Some parks might allow part exchange of your caravan, so it’s worth asking.

Plan Your Lodge Upgrade Timeline

If you want to upgrade to a lodge in the UK, you need to plan your timeline.

Month 1: Organise your caravan sale listings and research lodge prices and locations.

Month 2: Schedule caravan showings, park visits and lodge viewings.

Month 3: Close the caravan sale and negotiate your lodge purchase and plot reservation.

Month 4: Finalise everything, sign on the dotted line and exchange keys

Upgrade to a Lodge in the UK: Tips Before You Commit

• It’s a good idea to visit parks in person, as nothing beats seeing the lodge size, feel and holiday park up close.
• Check rules and contracts, and be sure to read the park licenses or agreements beforehand. You need to understand pitch restrictions and renewal terms.
• Consider the lodge’s rental potential, as some parks let you rent out your lodge when you’re not using it, which can offset running costs.

Upgrading from a caravan to a lodge can be one of the best decisions you make.

Start with selling your caravan, set a realistic budget and explore parks and lodges that fit what you’re looking for.