But recently my wife and myself decided to give this caravan weekend break idea a try to get away a from the stresses of work. But this was where our first lesson began, as the word of caravan seems to be replaced by the newer name of Holiday Home or mobile home. It wasn't long before I found out why, as we browsed through a selection of holiday homes for sale before we got he keys to our hired accommodation. Flat screen TVs, Flat Screen fires, built in oven appliances, American style fridge freezer, modern central heating and satellite TV reception were all-available within these modern units. Not only are the modern holiday home different lengths, but also, now much wider than the caravans I had been brought up with.

If the equipment was impressive then so was the furniture. Designer sofas, raised dining areas and open plan kitchens make the modern holiday home look like a penthouse apartment. I can't help thinking that these holiday homes could in fact leave the holiday out and become a cheap home for couple or a single person. The external material of these modern holiday homes has also improved. Materials that will last a lifetime, double-glazing and modern weather protection also compliments the home.

But of course there has to be a snag and I found that this to be the price of these units. But it does seem that in the 21st century there is enough funds around to own second homes whether it be bricks and mortar or a mobile unit that can be moved from site to site. The facts are though that these fitted out units can cost nearly as much as bricks and mortar and certainly as much as a few luxury cars.

But unlike a bricks and mortar holiday homes there can be drawbacks. It is unlikely that your caravan will increase in value like bricks and mortar. There are also some sites that have a 10-year rule, meaning that your investment will have to be moved from the site at this point. Of course it then become difficult to sell leading up to this time. Caravan sites are not cheap either, its almost like paying rent for a house you own.

But that doesn’t stop thousands of holiday homeowners in the UK packing their suitcases and relaxing every weekend and the odd holiday too, at their chosen site. For me I was impressed by how caravans have moved on over the years and I do see the attraction. But for what it costs for a modern unit, I could nearly own an apartment in Spain. So for me I will leave the ownership to someone else and rent one out to suit the mood.