The first sign of warm weather and the arrival of July usually signal the start of caravanning season. And this year, caravan park operators across the country are seeing a greater flurry of activity than usual because of the recession.

Like the traders who followed in the footsteps of Marco Polo 700 years ago, Britons are rediscovering the attractions of the caravan as cash-strapped holidaymakers choose budget breaks at British resorts.