Check out the site prior to pitching. Have a look to see where you'd like to stay. Check out the toilets, this is a good guide to the standards kept on the site. On the Caravan Club & Camping and Caravan Club sites this shouldn't be an issue as both have high standards of cleanliness.

If you're touring, don't book too far ahead. If you think you'll like a site, wait and see what it's like. If you haven't booked for more than a couple days and you don't like it, you'll not loose too much money; and if you don't like it - move! There are thousands of sites both here an abroad. You don't need to suffer bad service.

This is a sure indicator of a good or bad site. If the attitude is not up to standard - move! You're paying, not them! They'll suffer by not getting a hold of your hard earned cash!

These tend to be better than commercially owned (company) sites as they want your business and are prepared to work to make your stay enjoyable. Complaints can usually be satisfied to everyone's satisfaction due to their commitment to their business.

This is a frequently overlooked problem. Check that you can manoeuvre you outfit onto the pitch. It won't be the first time the pitch is too small or awkwardly placed and you can't get on! Also, is it hot? ..and does the pitch have shade?...Is it cooler?...and does the sun ever hit it?

If abroad, after settling the caravan level, check the polarity before anything else. You don't want to be electrocuted before you've unpacked properly. :O) Connect the lead to the caravan firstly and then to the bollard, then have someone check the polarity. Normally three small lights come on if everything is normal. One or none means reverse polarity.

On most Continental sites, the amps are between six and ten amps. Check before you use the hair dryer, blown air heating and the TV! It is embarrassing to be the one that has to go to the site office and ask them to re-set the whole site!!

Keep a small tool kit for small emergencies. Pliers, spanners, screwdrivers, insulation tape, bulbs, fuses, wires, crimping tool all come into play before you now it!!

ENJOY YOURSELF! You got there without too much trouble, you found the site no problems, you reversed onto the pitch first time, the first cup of tea is near, the sun is shining and all's right with the world!!
Now comes that most ecstatic moment for all true caravanners …………. slyly watching that couple over there shouting and screaming at each other whilst trying to put up that flaming awning!