A caravan manufactured in County Durham has been named Caravan of the Year 2026 at the Out and About Live Awards. The Elddis Whirlwind 868, built in Consett, also won the Best Family Caravan category.
The Whirlwind 868 is a six-berth caravan featuring a double bed and bunk pods at the rear. An Elddis spokesperson said, “Our Whirlwind 868 caravan layout is an innovative six-berth, with double bed and bunk pods at the rear, which Elddis was the first to launch.”
”It has gone on to be one of our best-selling layouts and, with the launch of the Whirlwind 868, is now available at an even lower price point. So, to win the award not only for Best Family Caravan but also Caravan of the Year – topping all of the award categories – is an incredible achievement and testament to our Elddis brand and its USPs.”
Judges highlighted the caravan’s balance of affordability, practicality, and space. Val Chapman, one of the awards judges, told The Northern Echo:
“Tailor-made for a young family, with budget at its heart, and spaciousness that few caravans can beat… The Elddis Whirlwind 868 is impressive on all levels. A brilliant layout designed for versatility, and an all-up weight that puts it within range of a great many tow vehicles, ensure it has wide appeal.”
”Its styling is modern and simple, yet conveys an air of elegance. And it’s superbly crafted to compete in a price-driven market. For all those reasons, it won its class – Best Family Caravan – and then took the overall, coveted title, Caravan of the Year.”
The Whirlwind range was introduced to meet rising demand for accessible, budget-friendly caravans. Positioned below Elddis’ Avante line, the 868 model features a twin-axle, six-berth layout and a full-width design, priced at £30,749.
The Caravan of the Year award is considered the most prestigious recognition in the UK caravan industry. Organized by Out & About Live, the awards aim to highlight caravans that provide strong value, usability, and comfort.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, the success of the Whirlwind 868 demonstrates how competitive pricing combined with flexible layouts can attract family buyers, offering insight for operators considering fleet purchases or campsite partnerships with caravan brands.