Statics vs Lodges – What’s Right for You?

If you're thinking about buying a holiday home in the UK, you've likely come across two popular options: static vs lodges. While they might look similar from the outside, these two types of holiday homes offer quite different experiences, price points, and long-term benefits. So, how do you decide which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between static caravans and lodges to help you make the right choice.

What Is a Static Caravan?

A static caravan is a prefabricated holiday home designed to remain in one location on a holiday park. Typically sized between 10ft to 14ft wide and up to 40ft long, static caravans are available in a wide range of layouts and specifications.

Key Features:

• Compact and practical layout

• Usually 1 to 3 bedrooms

• Open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area

• Bathroom with shower (sometimes en-suite options)

• Often comes fully furnished

Static caravans are designed to be a comfortable and convenient base for holidays, offering excellent value for money and a strong sense of community.

What Is a Lodge?

A lodge is a more premium holiday home, typically larger and more luxurious than a static caravan. Lodges are often 16ft wide or more and built to residential specifications (BS3632 standard), which means better insulation, durability, and all-year usability.

Key Features:

• Spacious interior layout

• High-end kitchen and bathroom fittings

• Residential-style insulation and heating

• Larger bedrooms, often with walk-in wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms

• Luxury extras like vaulted ceilings, integrated appliances, and French doors

Lodges offer a more permanent, home-like feel and are ideal for those looking for a higher standard of comfort or longer stays.

Key Differences: Statics vs Lodges

Feature	Static Caravan	Lodge
Size	Up to 12ft wide	Typically 14ft+ wide
Build Standard	Holiday spec	Residential spec (BS3632)
Insulation	Basic to moderate	High-grade, all-year use
Layout	Compact, efficient	Spacious, open-plan
Bedrooms	1 to 3	2 to 4
Interior Finish	Functional and cosy	High-end, home-like
Price	£10,000 to £70,000+	£75,000 to £200,000+
Depreciation	Faster	Slower
Running Costs	Lower pitch fees, basic utilities	Higher pitch fees, residential-style utilities
Ideal For	Holidaymakers, families, budget-conscious	Long stays, retirees, luxury seekers

Pros and Cons of Owning a Static Caravan

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost

• Great for short breaks and weekend getaways

• Quick and easy to move into

• Wide choice of locations and models

Cons:

• Less insulation and comfort in colder months

• Smaller living space

• May depreciate more quickly

Pros and Cons of Owning a Lodge

Pros:

• High level of comfort and style

• Suitable for year-round use

• Better insulation and energy efficiency

• Higher resale potential

Cons:

• Higher purchase price

• Higher pitch and running costs

• Fewer available pitches (not all parks cater to lodges)

Lifestyle Considerations

When choosing between a static caravan and a lodge, think about how you plan to use your holiday home:

• Frequency: If you plan to visit mainly in the summer or for short breaks, a static caravan could be ideal. If you want longer stays year-round, a lodge may be more suitable.

• Budget: Static caravans offer a more affordable way to get started with holiday home ownership. Lodges are a bigger investment but deliver more in terms of space and comfort.

• Guests: For larger families or those who like to host friends, a lodge’s spacious layout will be a major plus.

• Letting Potential: Lodges often command higher rental rates, but static caravans are easier to fill during peak season.

Resale and Longevity

• Static caravans: Often have a site age limit of around 10–20 years. They tend to depreciate quickly, especially lower-spec models.

• Lodges: Built to last 25–40 years with better long-term value and more stable resale prices.

Always check your park’s rules on age limits and resale options before purchasing.

Which One Is Right for You?

Ask yourself these questions:

• What’s my total budget, including annual running costs?

• How often will I use my holiday home?

• Do I need something luxurious or just a comfortable base?

• Will I let it out to holidaymakers?

• Do I prefer a larger living space or a more compact, manageable home?

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between a static caravan and a lodge. Both have their merits depending on your lifestyle, usage plans, and budget. A static caravan is a brilliant entry point into holiday home ownership, offering freedom and flexibility. A lodge, on the other hand, delivers next-level comfort and is perfect for those seeking a more premium retreat.

At Your Leisure is here to help you weigh up your options with honest reviews, detailed comparisons, and expert guidance. Whatever you choose, we’re here to make your holiday home journey easier, clearer, and more enjoyable.

Explore. Compare. Buy with Confidence.

Browse our latest video tours and reviews to see real-life comparisons between top caravan and lodge models across the UK.