Devon is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK, offering families a perfect balance of coastline, countryside, and family-friendly attractions. From long sandy beaches and charming seaside towns to national parks and rolling rural landscapes, Devon appeals to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are planning a summer beach holiday, a spring camping trip, or a relaxed countryside escape, Devon continues to be a firm favourite for UK breaks.
One of the biggest challenges families face when travelling to Devon is packing everything needed for a varied holiday. Beach gear, walking equipment, food supplies, and children’s essentials can quickly overwhelm a car’s available space. Roof box hire from West Midlands Roof Box Hire provides a simple and practical solution, helping families travel comfortably while taking everything they need.
This guide explores why Devon is such a popular destination, where families choose to stay, what to pack, and how a roof box can transform both the journey and the holiday itself.
Why Devon Is a Top Choice for UK Family Holidays
Devon offers a wide range of holiday experiences within a relatively compact area. Visitors can enjoy both the north and south coasts, as well as countryside and moorland landscapes inland.
Families are drawn to Devon for several reasons:
- Long stretches of sandy beaches ideal for children
- Two national parks offering outdoor activities and scenic walks
- Excellent campsites and family holiday parks
- Traditional seaside towns and quiet rural villages
- A strong reputation for local food and produce
Popular destinations such as Woolacombe, Croyde, Salcombe, and Torquay provide a mix of lively resorts and more relaxed coastal escapes. Many families also choose inland locations close to Dartmoor National Park or Exmoor National Park, where outdoor activities are a major part of the holiday.
The Packing Reality of a Devon Holiday
Devon holidays often involve a combination of beach days, countryside walks, and family outings. This means packing for multiple activities, which quickly adds up.
Typical items families bring to Devon include:
- Beach equipment such as windbreaks, chairs, and bodyboards
- Waterproof clothing and walking boots
- Picnic supplies and cool boxes
- Camping equipment or outdoor furniture
- Children’s toys, scooters, or bikes
Trying to fit all of this into a standard family car can lead to uncomfortable journeys, limited visibility, and constant rearranging of luggage. A roof box allows you to pack properly without sacrificing comfort or safety.
How Roof Box Hire Makes the Journey More Comfortable
The drive from the West Midlands to Devon usually takes between three and five hours, depending on traffic and destination. Spending that time in a cramped vehicle can make the journey feel longer than it needs to be.
Hiring a roof box helps by:
- Freeing up space inside the car for passengers
- Allowing bulky but lightweight items to be stored securely
- Keeping the boot organised and accessible
- Improving comfort for children on longer journeys
- Reducing clutter and distractions for the driver
West Midlands Roof Box Hire supplies modern roof boxes that are secure, weatherproof, and designed to minimise wind noise and fuel impact. This means you gain valuable storage space without compromising the driving experience.
Popular Accommodation Options in Devon
Devon offers a wide variety of accommodation, and many options benefit greatly from the extra storage a roof box provides.
Holiday Parks
Devon is home to numerous family holiday parks offering entertainment, swimming pools, and direct beach access. These breaks often involve packing bedding, food, and recreational equipment, making extra storage essential.
Campsites
Camping is extremely popular in Devon, particularly near the coast and national parks. Camping holidays require transporting tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and outdoor furniture. A roof box helps keep this gear organised and easy to transport.
Self-Catering Cottages
Holiday cottages are ideal for families but often have limited storage space. A roof box allows you to keep some items stored externally, helping to keep living areas clutter-free throughout the stay.
What to Pack for a Devon Family Break
Packing smartly makes a significant difference to how enjoyable a holiday feels. A roof box allows families to pack everything they need without compromise.
Items well suited to roof box storage include:
- Soft luggage, duvets, and pillows
- Beach shelters, chairs, and umbrellas
- Camping equipment and foldable furniture
- Children’s outdoor toys and sports equipment
- Waterproof clothing and spare footwear
Heavier items such as food crates should remain in the boot, while lighter bulky items are ideal for roof box storage. This helps maintain vehicle balance and ensures safe travel.
Enjoying Devon’s Beaches and Countryside
Devon is best enjoyed outdoors, and having the right equipment with you allows you to make the most of everything the county offers.
Popular activities include:
- Beach days along the north and south coasts
- Coastal walks with scenic viewpoints
- Exploring moorland landscapes on Dartmoor and Exmoor
- Family cycling routes and nature trails
- Traditional seaside attractions and boat trips
A roof box allows you to bring wetsuits, walking gear, picnic equipment, and outdoor clothing without worrying about limited space or mess inside the vehicle.
Why Roof Box Hire Is Better Than Buying
For many families, buying a roof box is expensive and impractical, particularly if it is only used once or twice a year. Hiring provides flexibility and value without long-term commitment.
Benefits of hiring include:
- Lower upfront cost
- Access to modern, well-maintained equipment
- Ability to choose the right size for each trip
- No storage issues at home
- Professional fitting for peace of mind
West Midlands Roof Box Hire offers flexible hire periods, making it easy to plan weekend breaks, longer holidays, or multiple trips throughout the year.
Planning Ahead for Busy Travel Periods
Devon is especially busy during school holidays, summer months, and bank holiday weekends. Planning ahead can make a big difference.
Helpful tips include:
- Booking roof box hire early for peak dates
- Packing and loading the vehicle the day before departure
- Allowing extra travel time during busy periods
- Checking accommodation parking arrangements
With the right preparation and a roof box fitted, families can start their Devon holiday relaxed and ready to enjoy their time away.
A Better Start to Your Devon Holiday
A Devon holiday should begin with an enjoyable journey, not stress caused by limited luggage space. Roof box hire from West Midlands Roof Box Hire helps families pack properly, travel comfortably, and arrive ready to enjoy everything Devon has to offer.
From sandy beaches to rolling countryside, a roof box gives you the freedom to make the most of your holiday without compromise.

