Pack these must-have items to make camping with kids easier

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Packing up the kids into a caravan or motorhome for a family getaway is no doubt something many people will be doing as the Easter break approaches. But if you want to reduce the risk of unpleasant surprises, there are a few must-have tools and accessories you need – especially if it will be the little ones’ first time on a camping or caravan trip.

That’s why the experts at camping gear and accessories firm Lexrope have put together a checklist of must-haves for any family trip. Indeed, outdoor specialist at the firm Andy Halliday said he has seen countless trips cut short because families weren’t prepared for the realities of camping with kids.

He added: “The difference between a magical family memory and a camping disaster often comes down to preparation. Parents sometimes focus too much on the big items while overlooking the smaller essentials that can make or break a trip with kids.”

To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, pack these essentials in your caravan or camper.

Plenty of weather-appropriate clothing

We all know the British weather can be fickle, so it’s important to not only have the right clothing for all conditions, but also to bring plenty of spares to replace wet or soiled items. Mr Halliday recommends packing at least double the amount of clothes you think you’ll need, especially socks and underwear. Bringing along individual ziplock bags for clothing items is also a good idea to help keep everything dry and organised.

First aid kit

An unexpected emergency can bring an early end to any camping or caravan trip, but with the right supplies on hand, minor issues can be dealt with quickly and easily to prevent tears. As well as the basics such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, tweezers and children’s pain relief, a camping-specific kit should include items like anti-itch cream for insect bites, burn gel for campfire accidents and a tick removal tool.

Lighting 

Having multiple light sources is essential, especially for camping trips, but even if you’re caravanning, having backups in the event of losing power in the van is a good idea. What’s more, things like headlamps for hands-free activities can also be hugely useful for any unexpected late-night trips outside.

Rainy-day activities

If you do find yourselves cooped up in your caravan because the weather isn’t playing ball, it pays to have a variety of entertainment options on hand. Mr Halliday recommends packing playing cards, travel board games, colouring books and battery-powered speakers for music or stories. Forget these and the combination of bored kids and small spaces can quickly ruin a holiday.

Comfort items for sleeping

Young children can often find it hard to sleep in unfamiliar surroundings. Therefore, bringing along the comforts of home, such as sleeping mats or air mattresses, familiar pillows and beloved stuffed animals or blankets, can give kids everything they need for a good night’s sleep.

 

Image credit: Unsplash/Ben Wicks

Follow these top tips for a great van-to-camper conversion

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The vanlife trend is having a big moment, with more Brits than ever looking into how they can disconnect from their day-to-day lives and head off exploring in their own custom camper.

Even if you’re not planning to drop the nine-to-five completely, a van conversion tailored to your exact specifications is a great way to embrace the touring lifestyle – and demand for this is growing fast.

Indeed, according to specialist dealership Vansdirect, searches for ‘van-to-camper conversion’ have increased by 49 per cent in the last three months, while there are over a million posts on TikTok with the #vanlife hashtag as people show off their creations.

If you’re looking to create your own camper, the experts at the company have put together a few key things to keep in mind that will help make any van conversion a success.

Invest in quality insulation

Operations director at Vansdirect Gregor Mackie noted that even in the summer, the British weather can be temperamental. Poorly-insulated campers can lead to heat loss, condensation and damp, making for a miserable experience.

To avoid this, he recommends investing in high-quality insulation that offers good thermal performance, mould resistance and soundproofing. However, you shouldn’t stop there. Even with the best insulation material, it’s still important to use sealant or rubber seals around gaps to prevent draughts.

Look for multifunctional furniture

When space is limited, cleverly-designed, multipurpose furniture is essential. Mr Mackie recommends a convertible bed as one of the best ways to solve any issues. This is the item that takes up the most space, so making sure it can fold into a table, chairs, or a full living area during the day is a great idea.

It’s also important to think about storage. Magnetic shelves, wall hooks and hidden storage areas underneath or inside other furniture help keep your camper tidy and organised.

Make comfort a priority

Your camper is your home away from home, so you want it to be as comfortable as possible. A high-quality mattress for your bed/sofa is a must, with memory foam an ideal material, as this can be cut into any shape you need, as well as offering great support.

Mr Mackie also recommended blackout curtains for your windows. This helps create a darker, more restful environment for sleep, which is particularly useful in the summer, when daylight can last up to 16 hours.

Image credit: Unsplash/Manuel Meurisse

Partnership aims to connect wild campers with nature

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A new initiative has been launched that aims to encourage wild campers in the UK to connect with some of the country’s most biodiverse landscapes.

The partnership between CampWild and Rewilding Britain will enable nature lovers to access designated rewilding sites that would otherwise be off-limits.

Campers will be able to choose stays that allow them to immerse themselves in some of the UK’s most remarkable rewilding projects for 24 hours, sleeping beneath starry skies and getting to witness the results of conservation efforts first-hand.

Every booking to a ReWild Space comes with an information sheet that not only lists the wildlife to look out for, but also provides details on micro-conservation activities visitors can engage in. These may include hand de-weeding recently planted trees or helping to remove invasive species.

Tom Backhouse, co-founder of CampWild, said: “Rewilding Britain is doing extraordinary work to help restore nature and this partnership is a pioneering step forward. For the first time, people will be able to experience these spaces up close – camping in places where biodiversity is returning, species are being reintroduced and landscapes are healing.

“It’s not just about access; it’s about connection. The more people connect with nature, the more they value and protect it.”

While wild camping is not permitted in many parts of the UK, it is legal in Scotland on the majority of unenclosed land. However, the new initiative will open up normally-private sites in other parts of the UK, such as the Yorkshire Dales, Devon and Cornwall. 

Sites are available for a range of accommodations, including traditional camping, vehicle rooftop tents and small and large campervans.

 

Picture credit: CampWild/Rewilding Britain

New book offers tips on building your own campervan

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For many people, completing their own van conversion is the ultimate goal for their hobby. Taking a starting vehicle and fitting it out to your exact specification means you get a home away from home that’s perfectly suited to your needs, with none of the compromises that you might have to settle for when buying from a dealer.

However, it can be difficult to know where to start with this. There’s a lot to think about if you want to create your own van conversion, from planning out a budget and choosing the right base vehicle to fitting it out safely with gas and electrics.

If you have questions, a new book could be the answer. Build a Campervan: The Definitive Guide is on sale now and promises to provide a complete tutorial in how to create your dream motorhome from scratch.

It offers practical tips on every step of the process, as well as ideas to give you some inspiration and real-world stories of people who have gone through the process – giving you a clear idea of what to do and what mistakes you need to avoid.

The book is by bestselling author Calum Creasey, who says: “There are few things that, when built by your own hands, hold the power to alter your life as much as a campervan.”

Calum is also the owner of conversion company Onwards Adventure Vehicles, so is well-placed to answer any questions or concerns you might have about embarking on your own campervan project.

For those wishing to look further into what vanlife can offer, his previous work ‘Vanlife – Culture, Vehicles, People, Places’ gives a fascinating insight into the freedom of life on the road, with essays, interviews and advice for anyone thinking of embracing this lifestyle.

Motorhome solar panel advice after near-miss incident

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A motorhome insurance specialist has offered his advice on attaching solar panels after an incident that narrowly avoided serious injury.

Dashcam footage captured the moment a solar panel came loose from a leisure vehicle and hit a family car, fortunately not harming anyone inside.

The incident occurred when Philip Palmer was driving his Jaguar XF on the A17 near King’s Lynn and the motorhome was travelling on the opposite side of the road.

Just missing the windscreen, the car was left with a broken splitter, undertray and wheel arch, with Mr Palmer, his partner and four-year-old son who were all riding inside the car unharmed.

The driver, who has managed to track down the motorhome owner due to the number plate on the dashcam footage, said he was mainly relieved.

He noted that had the impact been just a few inches higher, the incident may have ended very differently.

In response to the near-miss, Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at insurance specialist Safeguard, has provided some information on solar panels for leisure vehicles.

He said: “There are two main types of solar panel available for motorhome owners: portable and flexible. It appears that the object which struck Mr Palmer’s vehicle was a flexible panel.

These are made from a thin and pliable material that allows them to conform to the shape of a motorhome’s roof.”

Mr Sheppard added that although solar panels are generally low-maintenance and built to withstand the conditions motorhomers put them through, it’s important to keep an eye out for any issues or malfunctions.

The installation process should also not be underestimated, as it can be complex and may require professional assistance in some cases.

He said: “According to our proprietary data for the UK from the past 12 months, installing solar panels is the fifth most popular modification our customers make to their motorhome.”

Leisure vehicle owners must inform their insurer if they plan to install solar panels, as they not only increase the value of the caravan or motorhome, and therefore affect insurance coverage, but may not automatically be covered by the policy.

Solar panels have become particularly popular in recent years, as owners look to adapt their vehicles to be more eco-friendly.

They also enable motorhomes and caravanners to go off-grid for longer periods of time, powering lights, heating and fridges without the need for electric hook-up.



Head for these beaches for the UK’s best stargazing staycations

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Nocturnal tourism, or ‘noctourism’, has been a growing trend in the UK in the last couple of years. For many people, heading into the wilderness to seek out dark patches of sky unspoiled by the bright lights of the city offers a chance to see the stars and galaxies above us in a way they could never get at home.

Some of the best places to do this are the UK’s beaches. These can provide an exceptional setting for noctourism, as remote coastal locations are often far from urban light pollution, making them prime spots for observing the night sky.

They’re also ideal destinations for caravanners and motorhome enthusiasts. What could be better than setting up camp on a secluded beach and listening to the rhythmic crash of waves while gazing up at a sky illuminated by countless stars?

To give you some inspiration, coastal holiday accommodation specialist Simply Sea Views has put together a list of the best beach locations in the UK from which to see the stars. Founder and coastal expert at the company Josh Williams said: “Exploring the beach under the moonlight and stars offers a completely different experience to daytime visits. Many people don’t realise just how magical the coast can be at night, especially in areas with low light pollution.”

The top five locations listed by the company are:

Ardalanish Beach, Isle of Mull

With its vast, open shoreline and absence of artificial light, Ardalanish Beach provides a stunning vantage point for stargazing. The clear night sky often reveals the Scorpio and Sagittarius constellations.

Kilickeon Beach, Isle of Mull

Not too far from the number one spot – so easy to take in during the same visit – Kilvickeon Beach offers one of the darkest skies on the Isle of Mull. It’s a prime location for catching meteor showers, spotting planets and even seeing the elusive Northern Lights. 

Scolt Head Island National Nature Reserve, North Norfolk

This remote island sanctuary provides an unspoiled setting for stargazing. Visit in the spring and autumn months, when atmospheric conditions are at their best, to see the Milky Way in all its glory.

North Shore, Holy Island, Northumberland

The rugged landscape of Holy Island makes for an incredible backdrop to an evening under the stars. The North Shore in particular offers excellent visibility, allowing visitors to take in the cosmos.

West Bexington Beach, Dorset

A peaceful retreat along the Jurassic Coast, West Bexington Beach offers dark skies perfect for stargazing. With the gentle sound of waves lapping the shore, it’s an idyllic spot to watch the constellations slowly move across the night sky.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Khamkéo

Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025 a huge success

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This year’s edition of the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show, which was held at the NEC in Birmingham last month, has been declared a success.

Many of the exhibitors reported a significant increase in sales compared to previous years and a particularly well-engaged audience.

Some 89,207 visitors attended the six-day event between February 18th and 23rd, exploring the latest leisure vehicle models and camping accessories.

The show had plenty to offer for everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned touring enthusiasts all contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.

Karen Dodd, marketing director at NCC Events, said: “It’s been encouraging to see such enthusiasm from both visitors and exhibitors.

“We’re delighted to have welcomed thousands of enthusiasts to the show, as well as introducing the benefits of ownership to those visiting for the first time, right at the start of their leisure vehicle and camping journey.”

Leisure vehicle manufacturer Adria UK found its expectations exceeded at the show, with sales up by 20 per cent on 2024.

Its managing director Slavica Sterk said the chance to engage with customers directly was invaluable, making it clear the event was the right place to showcase its caravans and motorhomes.

Bailey of Bristol was also in attendance, with its marketing director Simon Howard saying the show remains a key event in the industry’s calendar.

He added that sales levels were high despite challenging economic conditions and the brand would be back at the show again next year.

Ben Parkin, sales director at Coachman, said “We’ve seen positive engagement from visitors, leading to encouraging sales. It’s always valuable to be here and connect with customers in this environment.”

The Motorhome & Caravan Show will return to the NEC on October 14th and run until October 19th, 2025.

It will be an opportunity for the leading UK and European manufacturers to present their new 2026 season models and innovations.

That means potential purchasers can see what to expect ahead of anyone else and start to think about what they might be interested in buying.

The show is the UK’s largest leisure vehicle event, showcasing a wide selection of campervans, caravans and motorhomes before they are available on dealership forecourts.

It’s a unique opportunity to see so many models in one place, as individual locations simply can’t host them all.

Stepping inside leisure vehicles and comparing layouts in real life is the best way to refine your search and establish what would work best for your touring adventures.



See Europe in bloom this spring

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It feels like it’s been a long winter, but now little signs of spring are starting to push their way up through the earth.

A great way to celebrate the new season and embrace all the natural colour it brings is to take your caravan or motorhome to one of Europe’s most blooming destinations.

Horticulture experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have put together a list of cities that offer stunning floral displays at this time of year.

Chris Bonnett, founder of the website, said: “With sunny days and warmer temperatures on the horizon, cities in Europe will be transforming into vibrant flower havens. 

“Blooming flowers have a way of showcasing cities at their best, making the atmosphere feel like you’ve just stepped into a postcard or a painting. 

“What makes spring particularly special is that many European cities host flower festivals and seasonal events that celebrate their local blooms.”

Stockholm, Sweden

Japan may be famous for its cherry blossoms, but there’s another destination closer to home where you can witness them in all their glory – Stockholm.

The streets in the Swedish capital come alive in spring with swathes of the little pink flowers brightening up the cityscape. Visit Kungsträdgården Park in the city centre for the best display.

Rose Valley, Bulgaria

Nestled between scenic mountains, Rose Valley has been named for its famous fields of flowers stretching as far as the eye can see.

There’s a Rose Festival held every year in June, allowing visitors to learn about traditions surrounding the blooms and to pick their own roses.

Madeira, Portugal

Spring is the best time to see the stunning flora and fauna that the island of Madeira is famous for all year round.

Its climate is perfect for growing a diverse variety of flowers, which are celebrated with the Madeira Flower Festival in May, featuring beautiful displays, street murals and a parade.

Lisse, The Netherlands

Lisse in the Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations for flower lovers, as it’s home to the Keukenhof Gardens.

Here, vast tulip fields are filled with around seven million bulbs each year and visitors can cycle or walk around the vibrant fields to explore the 800 different tulip varieties.

Vienna, Austria

While Vienna’s grand palaces may be impressive, during spring it’s their gardens that really steal the show.

This is the time when Schönbrunn Palace Gardens and the Belvedere Palace Gardens burst into life with vibrant tulips, roses and magnolias.

Istanbul, Turkey

The arrival of spring in Istanbul is celebrated with an annual Tulip Festival, where millions of tulips can be found in the city’s historic parks.

During the month-long festival in April, the Emirgan Park and Gülhane Park are the best locations to see the spectacle.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque countryside will be covered with a sea of bright red poppies over the coming months.

Don’t miss the poppies in the Val d’Orcia countryside, where seemingly endless fields of the wild flowers create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk or a scenic drive.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Boudewijn Huysmans

Best holiday destinations you can drive to from the UK

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Whether you’re behind the wheel of your motorhome or towing a caravan, owning a leisure vehicle offers you countless opportunities to escape.

While staycations are great, heading off to the continent is always an enticing option and there are a number of destinations that are easy to drive to.

Ed Sharp, head of car hire at TravelSupermarket, has put together a list of the best of these places, with travellers able to choose between quick and direct routes or more scenic, leisurely journeys.

Calais, the gateway to Europe

The two main options for driving to Europe are the Channel Tunnel or ferry, with the quickest and most convenient of these being the tunnel.

It connects Folkestone in Kent to Calais in northern France and requires check-in at least 30 minutes ahead of departure and no earlier than two hours before.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from a number of ports along the south coast of England, although the most common route is from Dover to Calais.

France

French cities worth exploring within a six-hour drive of Calais include:

  • Lille – Around an hour and a half away, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region boasts a beautiful historic centre.
  • Paris – Approximately three and a half hours from Calais and a cultural hub in need of little introduction.
  • Strasbourg – Six hours from Calais, this city blends French and German influences in its architecture and culture.

Belgium

Once in Calais, Belgium is within easy reach via the A16 and E40 motorways, which may be particularly appealing for caravanners who have already explored France.

Some of the options worth discovering are:

  • Bruges – An hour and a half from Calais, this city is an enchanting mix of canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings.
  • Ghent  – Approximately two hours of driving will bring you to a part of the Flemish region known for its laidback population.
  • Brussels – Two and a half hours’ drive away is an incredible gastronomic city, where you can indulge in waffles, fries and beer, as long as you’ve parked up first.

Germany

All driving routes from Calais to Germany pass through Belgium, so you can stop off at some of the exciting cities mentioned above on the way.

Once in Germany, head for:

  • Düsseldorf – Four and a half hours from Calais and known for its fashion, music and arts scenes.
  • Cologne – Also four and a half hours away, this city has more than 2,000 years of history.
  • Frankfurt – A six-and-a-half hour drive will take you to this culturally diverse metropolis, featuring lots of modern architecture.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Zhu Yunxiao

Take part in the National Forest Walking Festival with your caravan

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The National Forest Walking Festival is now in its 16th year and is the perfect opportunity to get away and enjoy the countryside in your leisure vehicle.

Caravans and motorhomes are perfect accommodation for those taking part in the annual event, which runs from May 16th to 26th in 2025.

The National Forest is a project connecting two ancient forests – Charnwood and Needwood – spanning 200 square miles across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

Its walking festival aims to encourage walkers of all ages and abilities to explore the environment blending nature, community and sustainability.

Newly planted woodlands, meadows, hedgerows and waterways have transformed an area that was once characterised by coalfields into a green space, teeming with wildlife and biodiversity.

Visitors to the festival can take advantage of a packed itinerary featuring a wide range of guided walks and outdoor experiences.

They’re split into four main categories:

  • Gentle, accessible walks: More than 20 routes, each under three miles in length, making them ideal for families, those with limited mobility or anyone seeking a relaxed exploration.
  • Sensory experiences: Curated walks designed to engage the senses, offering a unique way to connect with nature in a different way.
  • Beginner adventures: Perfect for those new to walking, these guided excursions focus on exploring tree life and wildlife.
  • Challenging treks: Ten-mile routes through iconic landscapes, such as Calke Abbey and its reservoirs, for experienced walkers seeking adventure and spectacular views.

The entire festival is supported by volunteers who bring their local knowledge, enthusiasm and love for the National Forest to guide walkers on routes that showcase the best of the region.

Zoe Sewter, volunteer and wellbeing officer at the National Forest, said: “The festival wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of its incredible volunteers.

“Their hard work ensures that the National Forest Walking Festival continues to grow, bringing together communities and celebrating the Forest’s remarkable transformation from industrial land to vibrant green spaces.”

The majority of walks at the festival are free and don’t require booking. For special events where a fee is charged and booking is required, this is listed in the brochure.

There are a number of caravan sites in South Derbyshire, where you could base yourself for a few days or the entirety of the festival.



Natural outdoor swimming pool proves a hit at luxury glamping site

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Up to 50 people a day are making use of the Biotop natural outdoor swimming pool at the multi-award-winning Love2Stay resort in Shrewsbury.

The chemical-free pool is open to locals, as well as those staying at the luxury touring and glamping resort, which boasts 116 fully-serviced touring pitches for caravans and motorhomes.

Coldwater swimming has become very popular in recent years and can easily be combined with caravanning, as having a leisure vehicle close by to get changed in and warmed up afterwards makes things easier.

Among the apparent benefits of coldwater swimming are:

  • Reduced stress
  • Improved mental health
  • Better fitness, metabolism and circulation
  • Boosted self-esteem
  • Increased immunity
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Higher levels of mindfulness
  • Radiant skin

Mark Bebb, joint managing director at Salop Leisure, which owns Love2Stay, said: “Coldwater swimming is known for improving mental wellbeing, benefitting menopausal women, reduces chronic inflammation and helps to control breathing.

“The natural Biotop pool at Love2Stay is a fantastic resource for outdoor swimmers and anybody interested in cold water immersion.”

Competent swimmers over the age of 16 are invited to use the pool on the site and will be given a safety briefing prior to their session.

Anyone thinking about taking the plunge is encouraged to do their research beforehand and follow advice on acclimatisation techniques.

The natural swimming pool facilities at Love2Stay feature a hot tub, sun loungers and changing rooms.

Swimming is not the only activity you can enjoy at Love2Stay, with kayaking, archery and an assault course all set up on site.

There’s even a dog agility course available, so your four-legged friend can join in, and a wild bee and flower garden for those who are looking for a more sedate pastime.

Love2Stay

The Shrewsbury site is the original Love2Stay location, set within 22 acres of natural landscape, but the owners have taken the same wellness and luxury elements to create a second site in Mid Wales.

Fully serviced touring pitches for caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and trailer tents are available at the site near Caersws.

New app aims to enhance guest experience at 3 award-winning campsites

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Three award-winning campsites that are consistently popular with caravan and motorhome owners are hoping to improve the guest experience further.

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, near Edinburgh, Herding Hill Farm, close to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, and Longnor Wood in the heart of the Peak District often top lists of the best sites in the UK.

Now, they’re to benefit from the introduction of a new app with extensive functionality, including:

  • Information on accommodation, site facilities, events and optional extras
  • Reminders and packing lists
  • Interactive maps of the campsites
  • Recommendations for local attractions
  • Information on nearby walking and cycling routes
  • Special offers
  • Managing bookings
  • Leaving feedback
  • Loyalty programme

Guests are encouraged to create personalised holiday itineraries before they arrive using the app, so they can make the most of their trip from the outset.

Enabling pop-up notifications will provide visitors with useful information on everything from emergency road closures nearby and mobile pizza or ice cream vans being on site.

Jo Ritzema, executive chair of WCF, which runs the campsites, said: “Our guests are what make the success of our campsites, and we’re always looking at ways to improve the on-site experience to make their stays even better than before.

“The app boosts the services we already provide and helps ensure that our guests have all the information they need for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Each version of the app is branded with the campsites’ names and can be found in the App Store and on Google Play.

There are links to the app from the respective websites and anyone can download it, regardless of whether they’ve booked a pitch.

Award-winning sites

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, Herding Hill Farm and Longnor Wood are all five-star rated by the AA, with customer reviews reflecting the high standards of the parks.

Drummohr has been named best campsite in the UK in the Camping Awards 2024, while Longnor Wood won the AA’s Heart of England campsite of the year.

It has also been named the UK’s best adult-only site by Campsites.co.uk for two consecutive years. Meanwhile, Herding Hill Farm has achieved a coveted AA Platinum Pennant Award.

David Lakins, CEO of Holidaymaker, which helped develop the app, said: “Working with the WCF team has been a pleasure, and we’re excited that the Holidaymaker platform is continuing to enhance the guest experience.

“The app is already seeing an impressive number of downloads, enabling guests to better self-serve and fully explore the stunning surroundings.”