Halloween caravan breaks present the perfect opportunity to squeeze in one last getaway before the end of the year, enjoying the very best of nature’s glorious autumnal display ahead of preparing for the cold winter months to come.
UK holidays in October with Allens Caravans are ideal for enjoying a peaceful, relaxing getaway. Our caravan holiday parks are located in some of the most scenic, picturesque areas of the UK, giving our visitors plenty of freedom to take in the very best sights of the autumn season.
In this guide, we’ve put together some top tips and ideas to help you make the most of Halloween and the autumn season if you will be staying with us. No matter how you choose to spend your getaway, enjoy the break and take advantage of the opportunities it brings your way.
Some of the staple Halloween decorations – and activities – surround pumpkins. From pumpkin carving to pumpkin decorating competitions, plus pumpkin picking and even pumpkin pie, it’s clear that the pumpkin is a definite essential for Halloween and autumn. You could even try carving a caravan into your pumpkin for a lovely personal touch! However, if you fancy something different, we’ve got a few alternatives to give you some inspiration.
Aside from the traditional pumpkins, there are plenty of other Halloween caravan decoration ideas to help you theme your caravan around the holiday.
Instead of opting for the conventional pumpkin design, there are other vegetables that can give your carvings a unique touch and look equally fantastic.
Below we have compiled just three pumpkin alternatives for you to try your hand at.
Though it may sound strange to use a turnip as a pumpkin alternative, there’s actually a bit of a backstory behind it. According to legend, the tradition of the Jack-O-Lantern came from a man named Jack who, when he died, was turned away from both heaven and hell after he crossed the devil. Lost, he hollowed out a turnip and used a burning lump of coal to guide his way. Some argue that putting Jack-O-Lanterns outside will scare away bad spirits while others claim that it helps to guide lost spirits back home.
Whatever version you believe, turnips played a significant role in the tale that has been passed down for centuries, which is why they are an ideal choice for a pumpkin alternative this October.
Melons can also make a rare yet great pumpkin alternative. All you need to do is scoop out the insides so that it is hollow before carving your face. You can also add various seasonal touches like fake cobwebs and a black marker to make it even more unique, or even pop in some red berries, squashed for a bloody affair!
You can also spray paint your pumpkin alternative with festive colours such as black, gold, red and so on. This will not only help to add a unique touch to the melon, but it will also make it stand out on the night of Halloween!
Although like the melon, it has no ties to Halloween, using a Butternut Squash as a substitute pumpkin is a great way to get more out of your seasonal experience. As an idea, you could cut a square hole in the front of the squash and create a miniature scene from your favourite movie inside. To dress it up a bit, consider investing in black ribbon or lace to tie or wrap around the top of the squash.
Alternatively, you can have different shaped ‘pumpkins’ by cutting the squash in half and carving scary faces into the vegetable.
While you can buy plenty of Halloween decorations, there’s something endearing about taking the time to create your own DIY decorations. Both fun and creative, why not try crafting your own decorations this Halloween? From classic paper chains in seasonal colours to felting a collection of Halloween miniatures like bats, spiders, and pumpkins, there are plenty of options to get creative and let your imagination run wild!
If you will be holidaying with the kids, this is also the perfect opportunity to get them involved and keep them occupied should the weather prove unfavourable during your stay. From Halloween-themed prints to colour in through to fun favourites like tissue ghosts, pom-pom cats, bats, and spiders, or the traditional spiderwebs made from lolly sticks and wool, don’t forget to pack plenty of craft supplies to fuel their imagination!
Whether you’re planning a spot of baking in your caravan or are stocking up on treats to bring away with you on your holiday, Halloween is a great time of year for those with a sweet tooth! From going trick or treating for sweets as children through to classic staples and indulgent goodies that the whole family can enjoy, autumn is a foodie’s paradise!
Toffee apples and apples dipped in melted chocolate make an ideal snack, while also being super easy to make. In addition to apple, cinnamon is also a key flavour for autumn – why not try your hand at baking some delicious apple and cinnamon muffins for a truly seasonal sweet treat? Alternatively – and especially if the kids are keen to get involved – you could try adding a Halloween-themed twist on classic recipes. Think Rice Krispie cakes in the shape of pumpkins, or marshmallow spiders with gummy worms for the legs – the more creative, the better!
If sweet treats aren’t really your thing, this is also the time of year for wholesome, hearty food. Comfort food and dishes like stew, soup, and casserole are the order of the day – pair with thick-cut, farmhouse bread to complete the meal.
Once the cupboards are full of mouth-watering goodies and the caravan is decked out in orange and black, it’s time to consider how else you can make the most of your getaway.
This time of year is one of the best for exploring the countryside. From the rich golds, oranges, reds and browns of the leaves on the trees to the abundance of wildlife preparing to bed down for the winter, there is plenty to see wherever you go. If you’re lucky enough to have a crisp, clear autumnal morning during your stay, it’s the perfect opportunity for a stroll as the early morning mist begins to rise above the fields.
Of course, the great British weather can be notoriously unpredictable, so if this is the case, there’s no harm in staying close to your home away from home! Brave the weather for an enjoyable walk close to the caravan park – after all, there can be something wonderfully relaxing about walking in the rain. Once you are home, curl up with a cosy blanket and a hot chocolate or seasonal spiced apple drink to warm up, watching the rain falling outside the window. Bliss!
Halloween might be the time for spooky Halloween caravan decorations and enjoying delicious sweet treats, but it’s also a great opportunity to make the most of the gorgeous natural colours of autumn’s best seasonal display.
If you haven’t already booked your Halloween caravan break, take the opportunity to plan a UK holiday in October or beyond with Allens Caravans. Simply browse our holiday caravan parks online today or get in touch with our team if you have any queries.
Allens Caravans Estates Ltd is registered in England and Wales - Reg No. 525635
