Static Caravan or Lodge: Which Suits Your Lifestyle?

Two options. One big decision. Static Caravan vs. Holiday Lodge. Here's how to decide which holiday home fits your lifestyle on the Mid Wales coast.

The Key Differences at a Glance

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1. Making the Right Choice

Two options. One decision.

When people start looking along the Mid Wales coast, they often find themselves weighing up two very different holiday home styles.

On one side, the traditional static caravan. Compact, cosy and familiar. Designed for relaxed coastal breaks, easy ownership, and making the most of weekends exploring beaches and Snowdonia.

On the other, the holiday lodge. Larger, timber-clad and more permanent in feel. More like a bungalow than a caravan.

That contrast can feel like a sticking point.

Which one is really right for you?

It’s a big decision. You want to know your money is going into the right asset. You want something that fits your lifestyle—not just this year, but for many years to come.

At Gwynedd, we see this hesitation all the time.

And honestly, it’s a good sign.

It usually means you’re a thoughtful buyer—someone who’s looking beyond size and labels, and thinking about how they’ll actually use their holiday home.

Here’s the important thing to know: at Gwynedd, we specialise exclusively in high-quality static caravans. That focus is intentional. It allows us to offer ownership experiences that suit coastal living perfectly.

This 2026 guide cuts through the confusion.

Written for buyers exploring the Mid Wales coast, it sets aside the sales talk and focuses on practical facts—so you can decide, with confidence, whether a static caravan is not just the right option… but the right one for you.

2. The Fundamentals Explained

What is a static caravan?

Think of the static caravan as the classic choice for flexibility and value.

Most are "single units," meaning they are constructed as one piece and delivered on a single transporter.

• Size: Typically 12ft to 14ft wide.
• The Build: Aluminium or vinyl cladding on a steel chassis.
• The Spec: Usually built to the EN 1647 holiday standard. This makes them perfect for spring, summer, and autumn use.
• The Vibe: Relaxed, easy to maintain, and perfect for frequent coastal escapes.

In short: If you want a comfortable base to explore Aberdovey Beach and Snowdonia without the higher price tag of a lodge, this is the sensible choice.

What is a holiday lodge?

A holiday lodge is the step up in luxury and space.

They are typically "twin units." They arrive in two separate halves which are joined together on your pitch to create a home double the width of a standard caravan.

• Size: Expansive. Usually 20ft to 22ft wide. The extra width transforms the feel of the lounge and dining areas.
• The Build: Most are built to BS 3632 residential specification. This means thicker walls, superior insulation, and domestic-grade double glazing.
• The Foundation: They usually sit on a concrete raft foundation, giving them a permanent, solid feel underfoot.
• The Vibe: It feels less like a holiday home and more like an apartment. You get domestic-style kitchens, utility rooms (great for sandy beach gear), and often free-standing furniture.

In short: A lodge is for those who value space above all else, or who plan to visit during December and January and want that extra layer of warmth.

What they have in common

Despite the differences, they share some key legal points:

• Both are mobile structures (technically).
• Both are for recreation only.
• You pay site fees (rent) for the pitch they sit on.
• You need specialist holiday home insurance.
• You must have a main residential address elsewhere.

3. Cladding & What Works on the Coast

The exterior of your holiday home matters, especially in a coastal setting like Gwynedd.

It's about blending into the beautiful Mid Wales landscape.

The Logic Behind the Colours

In coastal parks, planners generally want holiday homes to be unobtrusive.

• Coast: Creams, light greys, and natural tones are often preferred to complement the dunes and sea views.
• Countryside: Greens and timber effects work well where parks border woodland or hillsides.

The Lodge Advantage

Static caravans typically feature aluminium or vinyl cladding.

Lodges often use CanExel (composite wood) or real timber. This gives a premium, chalet-style appearance that feels very different to a traditional caravan.

4. Comparing Costs on the Mid Wales Coast

Initial Purchase Cost

Static caravans:

• Pre-owned: Often available from £25,000–£35,000.
• New: On quality parks, often start from £35,000–£45,000.

Holiday lodges:

• New: Typically start around £90,000–£110,000.
• Premium: Models with large decking and sea views can reach £200,000+.

Running Costs

Here's something that often surprises buyers.

Lodges generally have higher site fees because they occupy a larger "double" pitch.

However, a modern lodge built to residential spec can actually be cheaper to heat than an older caravan.

The superior insulation retains warmth far better. Your heating bills in November or December may be lower than you'd expect.

The "Long Game" (Depreciation)

View these as lifestyle purchases, not financial investments. Both will depreciate over time.

• Statics: Generally have shorter licence terms (e.g. 10–15 years).
• Lodges: Benefit from longer licences (20–30+ years). This allows you to spread the initial purchase cost over many more years of enjoyment.

5. The "Rainy Day" Test

Viewing a holiday home on a sunny Tuesday in July? Everything looks spacious.

But the real test is a wet Saturday in November when you can't get to the beach.

Space and layout

• Static Caravan (12-14ft wide): The design is clever and efficient. Cosy and warm. But if you have grandchildren visiting or you're drying off sandy beach gear, the corridor can start to feel snug.
• Holiday Lodge (20ft - 22ft wide): A different pace of life. With a domestic-style hallway and a utility room for wet coats and sandy shoes, the weather stays separate from your living space. Room for a full-size dining table and freestanding sofas.

Soundproofing

Lodges built to BS 3632 usually have thicker walls and better acoustic performance.

When the rain hammers down, it's a gentle patter rather than a drum solo.

6. What Ownership Looks Like

Licence Tenure

This is often the deciding factor for our owners.

• Statics: Shorter-term commitments.
• Lodges: Long-term commitments (often double the length).

If you're looking for a "forever" retreat where you don't have to think about upgrading for decades, the lodge offers that peace of mind.

Availability

Caravan pitches are generally available across most parks.

Lodge pitches are scarcer. They require a large double footprint.

7. When a Static Caravan Makes Sense

A static caravan is the ideal choice if:

• You are testing the lifestyle: It is your first venture into holiday home ownership.
• You're a beach and walking enthusiast: You plan to visit for weekends to explore the coast and mountains, and just need a comfy base.
• You want low maintenance: Wipe-clean cladding and compact spaces are easy to look after.
• You want value: You want the coastal lifestyle without the higher capital commitment.

8. When a Holiday Lodge Makes Sense

A holiday lodge is likely the better fit if:

• Space is a priority: You often have family, grandchildren, or guests staying with you.
• You love the winter season: You want to watch the mist roll across Cardigan Bay from a warm, highly insulated lounge.
• You are planning for the long term: You want a base for the next 20 to 30 years.

9. A Simple Decision Checklist

Still undecided? Use this simple checklist.

1. Budget: Under £60k? → Static Caravan.
2. Visits: Mostly summer/beach trips? → Static Caravan. Christmas & long stays? → Lodge.
3. Timeline: 5–10 year plan? → Static. Long-term legacy? → Lodge.
4. Experience: First timer? → Static. Upgrading? → Lodge.

10. Your Next Steps

There is no single "best" option.

There is only the option that fits your budget and your vision for the years ahead.

• A static caravan offers freedom, flexibility, and a lower barrier to entry.
• A holiday lodge offers luxury, residential-style space, and longevity.

Gwynedd at a Glance

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.