New Forestry England trial offers overnight stays for motorhomesNew Forestry England trial offers overnight stays for motorhomes

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For years, many motorhome and campervan owners have looked enviously at Scotland’s popular Stay the Night scheme, which encourages responsible overnight parking in designated locations.

Now, Forestry England is taking a step in a similar direction, launching a 60-day trial that will allow campervans and motorhomes to stay overnight at selected forest sites across England this summer.

Running from 16th July to 14th September, the trial will offer pre-bookable overnight stopovers at seven locations:

  • Bedgebury National Pinetum, Kent
  • Jeskyns Community Woodland, Kent
  • High Lodge, Thetford Forest, Suffolk
  • Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire
  • Cardinham Woods, Cornwall
  • Gisburn Forest, Lancashire
  • Kielder Castle, Northumberland

“We’re seeing a real shift in how people think about travel,” Nicola Thompson, CEO of rooftop tent brand TentBox, said. “Rising costs and uncertainty are pushing people to look for alternatives that give them more freedom and better value.”

While the Forestry England trial is aimed at campervans and motorhomes, it also highlights a broader trend towards what many are calling “microadventures” – short, spontaneous escapes that don’t require extensive planning or significant expense.

The growth of rooftop tents, compact camper conversions and other alternative camping setups suggests that more people are looking for flexible ways to explore the UK without committing to the cost of a dedicated leisure vehicle.

For caravan and motorhome owners, however, the biggest takeaway may be the willingness of land managers to explore new ways of accommodating overnight stays. If successful, the trial could provide valuable evidence that responsible overnight parking can support local tourism while helping visitors enjoy England’s forests in a different way.

Image: Unsplash

Heatwave touring: 5 mistakes caravan and motorhome owners should avoid

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For many caravan and motorhome owners, a heatwave is the perfect excuse to head off on an impromptu adventure. But while the sunshine may be welcome, soaring temperatures can create challenges both on the road and at the campsite.

According to breakdown experts at The AA, heatwaves often trigger a surge in call-outs as vehicles struggle with long journeys, heavy traffic and increased strain on key components.

Greg Carter, technical specialist at The AA, says preparation is key. “A few simple checks and smart choices can help drivers stay safe, cool and fine-free all summer long,” he explains.

With more heatwaves becoming a feature of UK summers, a little planning can help ensure your next touring adventure is remembered for the right reasons.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid before setting off.

1. Skipping pre-trip vehicle checks

Hot weather can expose underlying vehicle issues that may have gone unnoticed during cooler months. Before travelling, check coolant and engine oil levels, inspect tyre condition and pressures, test air conditioning and ensure your battery is in good health.

For caravanners, it’s also worth checking the condition and pressure of caravan tyres, which can be particularly vulnerable in high temperatures.

2. Ignoring the effects of hay fever

Summer touring often coincides with peak pollen season. The AA warns that severe hay fever can affect concentration and reaction times, while some medications may cause drowsiness. If symptoms are particularly bad, consider delaying your journey or sharing driving duties where possible.

3. Travelling during the hottest part of the day

Driving a motorhome or towing a caravan in heavy traffic during extreme heat can be tiring for both vehicle and driver.

Early mornings and evenings are often more comfortable for long journeys, helping to reduce fatigue and avoid the busiest roads.

4. Forgetting to pack for delays

Breakdowns, congestion and accidents can quickly leave travellers stranded in hot conditions. Always carry drinking water, snacks and a means of keeping cool, particularly if travelling with children, pets or older passengers.

5. Leaving pets in vehicles

It may sound obvious, but it’s always worth stressing. Temperatures inside caravans, motorhomes and cars can rise rapidly, even when parked in the shade. So, it’s important to never leave animals unattended during a heatwave.

Image: Unsplash

7 tips to make a small caravan feel bigger

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If you own a compact touring caravan, making the most of limited space can have a big impact on comfort and enjoyment. Fortunately, a few simple design tricks can help create a brighter, more spacious feel without major renovations.

  1. Choose light colours

Light shades such as white, cream and soft grey reflect natural light and make interiors feel more open. Consider pale walls, cabinetry and furnishings to create an airy atmosphere.

  1. Keep ceilings white

A white ceiling helps draw the eye upwards and can make a caravan feel taller than it really is. It’s a simple but effective way to add a sense of space.

  1. Use mirrors strategically

Mirrors bounce light around a room and create the illusion of depth. Placing a mirror opposite a window can make a small area feel significantly larger.

  1. Create flooring continuity

Using the same flooring throughout the caravan helps the space flow more naturally. Avoiding abrupt changes between zones can make the interior feel larger and less cluttered.

  1. Maximise natural light

Keep window coverings light and simple where possible. Allowing more daylight into the caravan instantly creates a more open and welcoming environment.

  1. Invest in smart storage

Overhead shelving makes use of otherwise wasted space, while slide-out baskets can improve access to items stored deep within cabinets. These help avoid clutter and make the space feel bigger.

  1. Choose multi-functional furniture

Fold-down tables, ottomans with hidden storage and sofa beds can provide flexibility without taking up valuable floor space.


Image: Unsplash

China’s All in Caravaning event highlights leisure vehicle’s global boom

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Caravanning may be a well-established pastime in the UK, but it’s increasingly becoming a global phenomenon too.

That was clear at All in CARAVANING (AIC), one of Asia’s largest caravanning and camping events, which took place in Beijing last month, showcasing the growing appetite for motorhomes, caravans and outdoor lifestyles across China.

The event brought together around 200 brands and covered 30,000 square metres of exhibition space, with manufacturers displaying everything from touring vehicles and camping equipment to the latest accessories and technology.

Stefan Koschke, Director of the CARAVAN SALON Caravanning & Outdoor Portfolio, said: “As infrastructure conditions in China continue to improve, we believe in the considerable potential of the Chinese caravanning market.”

China’s caravanning market has grown alongside rising interest in domestic tourism, road trips and outdoor recreation. Organisers described holidays in motorhomes, caravans and camping breaks as “extremely popular” and pointed to continued investment in infrastructure as a key driver of future growth.

The exhibition also highlighted China’s growing role as a manufacturing force within the global caravanning industry. Alongside dozens of domestic motorhome and caravan brands, major suppliers of batteries, accessories and vehicle components used across the sector showcased their latest innovations.

For British caravan owners, that could become increasingly relevant in the years ahead, with Chinese manufacturers playing a bigger role in the global supply chain and helping drive innovation in areas such as battery technology, off-grid power and vehicle electrification.

While the UK remains one of the world’s most mature caravanning markets, events such as AIC show that enthusiasm for caravans, motorhomes and camping adventures is growing fast around the globe.

Image: Supplied

New short-term cover aims to simplify motorhome borrowing

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A new temporary motorhome insurance product has launched in the UK, offering flexible cover for drivers borrowing a motorhome or campervan for short periods.

Insurance provider GoShorty has expanded its range of temporary vehicle insurance products with the introduction of motorhome cover available from one to 28 days. The move comes as interest in staycations, road trips and peer-to-peer vehicle sharing continues to grow.

For many motorhome owners, lending a vehicle to friends or family can be complicated by insurance concerns. Standard annual policies often don’t cover additional drivers, while adding someone temporarily can affect premiums or claims histories.

GoShorty says its new policy has been designed to address that issue by allowing the borrower to take out their own standalone insurance. Any claims would be handled separately from the owner’s policy, helping to protect their No Claims Discount.

Phil Evans, managing director at GoShorty, believes demand for this type of cover is increasing. He said: “The motorhome sector, in particular, has seen a rise in peer-to-peer borrowing, particularly in 2026 with the cost of foreign travel soaring and staycations set to rise.

“Motorhomes and campervans are all about freedom, and our temporary insurance solution is designed to give customers just that.”

These platforms provide access to a wider range of motorhomes and campervans without the costs associated with ownership. As more travellers look to explore the UK by road, flexible insurance products are becoming increasingly important, whether for borrowing a family member’s motorhome for a weekend break or taking a longer touring holiday.

GoShorty has confirmed that further specialist temporary insurance products, including cover for taxi drivers and delivery drivers, are also due to launch in the coming months.

Image: Unsplash

Popular VanLife Fest returns to North Yorkshire this summer

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VanLife Fest – one of the UK’s best-known celebrations of campervan culture – is set to return this summer, bringing together van owners, outdoor enthusiasts and families for a weekend dedicated to life on the road.

The festival will take place at Scampston Hall near Malton, North Yorkshire, from 19th to 21st June, offering everything from live music and vehicle displays to family activities, expert talks and a bustling trade village.

While campervans and motorhomes remain at the heart of the event, VanLife Fest has evolved into much more than a vehicle show. It has become a gathering point for the growing van life culture, attracting everyone from seasoned tourers to those considering their first campervan adventure.

Visitors can expect to browse a wide range of campervan accessories, outdoor equipment and lifestyle products, while a new Coffee Club area will host talks, demonstrations and stories from members of the community.

The event also shines a spotlight on the creativity behind modern campervan ownership. Owners will have the chance to showcase their vehicles in competitions including Best Daily Driver and Best Self-Build, highlighting the innovation and individuality that have become synonymous with the van life movement.

Families are well catered for too, with attractions including circus skills, climbing walls and archery, alongside live entertainment running throughout the weekend.

This gathering reflects the continued popularity of leisure vehicle travel across the UK. With more people embracing staycations, road trips and flexible outdoor adventures, campervan culture has experienced significant growth in recent years.

Festivals like VanLife Fest offer a chance to connect with like-minded travellers, discover new products and gain inspiration for future trips. They also provide an opportunity to experience the sense of community that has become one of the defining features of the van life scene.

Regardless of where you are in your journey with caravan culture, VanLife Fest promises a packed programme celebrating the freedom, creativity and adventure that continue to attract more people to life on the road.

Image: VanLife

5 affordable ways to make your motorhome cosier

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One of the perks of motorhome travel is having a home on wheels wherever you go. While most are designed with comfort in mind, a few simple upgrades can make life on the road even more cosy without breaking the bank.

1. Add soft furnishings

Cushions, throws and rugs can instantly make your motorhome feel cosier. They add warmth on cooler evenings and help create a more homely atmosphere. Opt for lightweight, easy-to-store items that won’t take up too much valuable space.

2. Improve your sleeping setup

A good night’s sleep can make all the difference on a touring holiday. Consider investing in a mattress topper or memory foam cushion to improve comfort without replacing the entire mattress. Blackout blinds or curtains can also help you sleep longer during bright summer mornings.

3. Upgrade your lighting

Harsh overhead lights can make a motorhome feel less welcoming. Battery-powered LED lamps, reading lights or warm-toned bulbs are affordable options that create a more relaxing environment, especially on those evenings you prefer to stay in.

4. Stay comfortable in any weather

Temperature control doesn’t have to be expensive. Reflective window covers can help keep the interior cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Small portable fans are also a cost-effective way to improve airflow during warmer months.

5. Make better use of storage

Clutter can quickly make a motorhome feel cramped. Storage boxes, hanging organisers and shelf inserts can help keep everything tidy and easy to find. A well-organised space often feels larger and more comfortable to live in.

Small changes that make a big difference

You don’t need a major renovation to improve your motorhome. A few affordable upgrades can make your vehicle feel more comfortable, practical and enjoyable, helping you get even more from your next adventure.

Image credits: Unsplash

Stolen caravans recovered from Poland show the value of security marking and registration

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Three stolen caravans have been successfully recovered from Poland and returned to the UK following a major investigation involving Cheshire Constabulary, Polish law enforcement and the National Caravan Council (NCC).

The recovery highlights the growing international effort to tackle organised theft of leisure vehicles and shows how security marking and registration systems can help track stolen caravans across borders.

International investigation leads to recovery

The investigation began in March 2023 when Cheshire Constabulary’s Rural Crime Team launched enquiries into a series of high-value caravan thefts across the UK.

Information gathered during the investigation was shared with Polish authorities via Europol, leading to the location of several stolen caravans overseas. Six suspects were later charged in connection with the thefts and are currently awaiting trial.

Returning stolen caravans from another country is a lengthy and complex process, but the NCC helped coordinate the documentation and logistics needed to bring the vehicles home.

How security marking helped

“This initial recovery of stolen caravans demonstrates how our approach, aids law enforcement, and helps reduce the impact of theft. We are very pleased to play a role in returning these vehicles safely to their owners,” said Vince Wise, Director of Leisure Vehicle & Holiday Parks Security, NCC.

The VIN Chip security marking system provides forensic security marking designed to deter theft and assist recovery, while the CRiS registration database acts as the UK’s national registration scheme for caravans. Both of these played a big role in identifying the recovered caravans. 

The NCC believes recovering stolen caravans can also help reduce the wider financial impact of crime, including rising insurance costs for owners.

Protecting your caravan

Caravan theft remains a concern for owners, particularly during the busy touring season. Experts recommend using security devices, secure storage and forensic marking systems such as VIN Chip, alongside ensuring caravans are properly registered on the CRiS database.

Image credits: Unsplash

Cornwall named the UK’s favourite motorhome destination

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Cornwall has officially been crowned the UK’s favourite holiday destination for motorhome and campervan owners, according to new research from motorhome insurance specialist Safeguard.

The survey of 500 UK motorhome and campervan owners found that 26 per cent chose Cornwall as their top place to visit, putting the county ahead of popular touring hotspots including the Lake District and Devon.

The UK’s top touring destinations

While Cornwall took first place, the rest of the top five prove that scenic coastlines and countryside remain a big draw for leisure vehicle holidays.

The Lake District secured second place with 22 per cent of the vote, narrowly beating neighbouring Devon, which came third with 16 per cent. While the Scottish Highlands and Dorset followed in fourth and fith place

Safeguard’s Mark Sheppard commented on the results, saying: “Compared to the north, south-west England generally enjoys warmer and drier weather, so it was slightly surprising to see The Lake District come ahead of Devon, despite its breathtaking scenery.”

Cornwall is also home to the nation’s favourite campsite

It wasn’t just Cornwall itself that came out on top. The county has also secured the vote for the UK’s favourite campsite for motorhome and campervan holidays.

Beachside Holiday Park near St Ives claimed first place with 13 per cent of votes. Located close to the beach, it’s well known for seaside stays and great surfing conditions.

The top-rated campsites were:

  1. Beachside Holiday Park, Cornwall
  2. Carlyon Bay Caravan and Camping Park, Cornwall
  3. Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park, Highland
  4. Freshwater Beach, Dorset
  5. Pennine View Caravan Park, Cumbria

With the summer touring season underway, the results highlight just how popular coastal escapes continue to be with UK motorhome owners.

Image credits: Motorhome and campervan owners have chosen Cornwall as their favourite place to stay in the UK (Credit: Getty/)

The caravans, motorhomes and campervans proving most popular this summer

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As the weather improves and summer touring season approaches, interest in caravans, motorhomes and campervans is beginning to ramp up, with several standout models emerging as favourites among buyers.

According to Bailey of Bristol customers are increasingly prioritising space, flexibility and off-grid capability, reflecting the continued demand for UK road trips and longer staycations.

Among touring caravans, larger twin-axle models appear to be attracting strong interest, particularly those designed to offer more home-style comfort for extended trips. The Pegasus Black Bologna, for example, combines spacious lounge areas with practical all-weather touring features, highlighting the growing appetite for caravans suited to longer stays and year-round use.

In the motorhome sector, layouts focused on maximising living space remain particularly popular. Bailey reports continued interest in models such as the Adamo 75-4DL, which features separate lounge areas and flexible sleeping arrangements. The popularity of this type of layout reflects changing travel habits, with more buyers looking for vehicles that can comfortably accommodate longer trips and family touring.

At the same time, compact campervans are continuing to appeal to drivers wanting something more versatile for everyday use as well as holidays. Smaller models like the Endeavour B62 point to the ongoing popularity of practical, multi-purpose vehicles that combine touring capability with easier day-to-day drivability.

The wider trend across all three categories appears to centre around self-sufficiency and flexibility. Buyers are increasingly looking for vehicles that support off-grid travel, adaptable interiors and longer periods away, rather than purely short weekend breaks.

As touring habits continue to evolve, manufacturers are responding with models designed to balance comfort, practicality and convenience, giving travellers more choice in how they explore the UK and beyond this summer.

Image: Bailey of Bristol

Drivers risk fines for overnight stays this summer

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Families planning road trips and staycations this summer are warned to check local overnight parking rules carefully, as illegal wild camping in cars and campervans could lead to hefty fines, according to motoring experts at LeaseLoco.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, sleeping overnight in a vehicle on public land without permission is generally not allowed. This includes many lay-bys, coastal areas, countryside locations and beauty spots often popular with campers.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said many drivers wrongly assume they can simply park up anywhere overnight during a road trip.

“In reality, rules can vary significantly depending on the location, and drivers could face fines or be asked to leave if they are parked on private land or in restricted areas,” he said.

While unauthorised overnight stays are usually treated as trespassing, refusing to move on when asked can escalate into a criminal offence. In some cases, drivers could face fines of up to £2,500 or even prosecution.

Scotland operates slightly differently under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act, which grants broader access rights for traditional camping. However, these rights do not automatically extend to motor vehicles, meaning campervans and cars can still face restrictions depending on location.

Adding to the confusion, many tourist hotspots have introduced additional controls through local bylaws and Public Space Protection Orders. Several popular destinations, including Snowdonia, Scarborough and Southend-on-Sea, are tightening rules around overnight vehicle stays following concerns about overcrowding, littering and pressure on local infrastructure.

Mr Wilmot advised travellers to use designated overnight parking areas and campsites wherever possible, not only to avoid penalties but also to access proper facilities and help protect local environments.

As road trips continue to grow in popularity, responsible touring will become increasingly important, both for avoiding fines and helping preserve access to some of the UK’s most scenic destinations.

Image: Unsplash.

CARAVAN SALON 2026 set to showcase the future of mobile travel

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CARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf, the world’s largest caravanning trade show, is set to return this year, promising another major showcase of the latest trends shaping the future of mobile travel.

Running from 28th August to 6th September 2026, the event will once again bring together hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors from across the globe, highlighting everything from caravans and campervans to off-grid technology and travel destinations. 

The 2026 show will place a strong emphasis on innovation and changing travel habits. New themed areas are being introduced to help visitors navigate the huge exhibition more easily, including dedicated sections for off-road touring and rooftop tents, both areas that continue to grow in popularity among adventure-focused travellers. 

The event will span 15 halls at the Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre and feature motorhomes, touring caravans, campervans, accessories, technology, detachable units and outdoor equipment, alongside travel inspiration and campsite information from across Europe.

Stefan Koschke, Director of CARAVAN SALON, said the appeal of caravanning continues to grow as travellers look for more freedom and flexibility in how they holiday.

“Caravanning is becoming increasingly popular,” he explained. “It offers flexible breaks, spontaneous short trips or long journeys – and the freedom to tailor your holiday to your own preferences.”

Rising travel costs and ongoing economic uncertainty are encouraging more people to seek holidays that allow greater control over spending, while still offering comfort and adventure.

The exhibition is also expected to highlight the continued rise of self-sufficient and off-grid travel, with growing interest in compact touring setups, rooftop tents and outdoor-focused accessories.

As caravanning continues to boom, CARAVAN SALON’s 65th edition is expected to build on the success of 2025, which attracted more than 270,000 visitors.

Ticket sales start on 11th June and can be purchased here.

Image: Supplied.