UK’s biggest free caravan show returns to Shropshire

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Fancy a first look at next year’s models before anyone else? The West Midlands Caravan & Motorhome Show returns to Salop Leisure’s Emstrey headquarters from Saturday 26th September to Sunday 4th October, with around 10,000 visitors expected across the free nine-day event.

What’s new for 2027

Visitors will be among the first to see new 2027 touring caravans from Coachman and Swift, alongside motorhomes from Swift, Ace and RollerTeam. New holiday homes from ABI, Carnaby, Swift, Willerby and Victory will also be on display, along with a selection of lodges. This year also marks the arrival of Ace motorhomes, a Swift sub-brand new to the dealership.

A milestone anniversary

The show falls during Salop Leisure’s 60th anniversary year. Mike Harris, the company’s joint managing director, said: “The West Midlands Caravan & Motorhome Show is one of the biggest dates in our calendar, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming our customers back to Shrewsbury. There is a huge amount to see this year, particularly with the launch of the 2027 models and the arrival of Ace motorhomes at Salop Leisure.”

Something for everyone

Alongside new launches, visitors can browse pre-owned holiday homes, take advantage of show offers on caravans, motorhomes, accessories, awnings and tents, and speak to representatives from over 20 holiday parks about ownership options.

Weekends bring free family entertainment, including inflatables and a climbing wall, while Love Coffee, Love Ice Cream and Love Plants will be on site throughout.

Plan your visit

The show runs from 9am to 5pm daily, except Sundays when it opens from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free and visitors who register in advance can enter the draw for a £500 voucher to spend at the show. Register at microsite.salopleisure.co.uk/caravanevent.

Photo credits: Salop Leisure

Kent named the UK’s best seaside spot for a September getaway

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Just because summer’s winding down, it doesn’t mean your seaside days have to end. In support of this, new research from holiday provider Away Resorts has revealed the UK’s best coastal destinations for a September trip. With over half of Brits naming beach holidays their favourite, there’s plenty of reason to squeeze in one more before autumn sets in.

Kent takes the top spot

The research analysed the UK’s 20 most popular coastal destinations for sunshine hours, daytime duration, sea temperature and rainfall, and Kent Coast came out on top. With its white cliffs, sandy beaches and historic towns, Kent sees an average of five hours of sunshine a day and daytime highs of 19 degrees, the warmest of any destination on the list, alongside some of the fewest rainy days.

The rest of the top five

Close behind, the following destinations rounded out the top five:

  1. Solent and Hampshire Coast
  2. Sussex Coast
  3. Isle of Wight
  4. Norfolk Coast

The south-west still holds its own

Dorset and the Jurassic Coast, Devon and Cornwall also feature further down the list. Rainfall is a touch higher here, but strong sunshine hours and temperatures between 17 and 18 degrees make the south-west a solid choice for a family trip, particularly for anyone drawn to dramatic cliffs and coastal walks.

Why September is worth the trip

Kate Watts, spokesperson for Away Resorts, said: “September can be a brilliant time to enjoy everything the UK has to offer. With crowds beginning to disappear and temperatures still consistent and relatively warm, it’s a great opportunity to soak up the last of summer. 

“From coastal walks to reading on sandy beaches, a September trip can allow you to see the sights you want to see, without the chaos of peak summer crowds.”

If you’re touring the coast this September, there’s still plenty of sunshine left to catch.

Image credits: Pixabay

Goboony expands motorhome marketplace to the US, Canada and Australia

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If your next big road trip is to explore outside the UK, it might just become a little easier to plan. Goboony and Yescapa, Europe’s leading motorhome and campervan marketplace, have expanded their reach into the US, Canada and Australia, bringing their combined network to nearly 50,000 vehicles worldwide.

From peer-to-peer to a broader marketplace

Founded in 2015 as a peer-to-peer platform connecting travellers with local motorhome owners, Goboony is evolving its model overseas to include professional rental operators alongside private owners. The aim is to widen choice and availability while keeping the flexible, local feel the platform was built on.

The platform now serves more than 350,000 travellers a year across Europe, North America and Australia. In the US alone, over 3,000 vehicles are available across 20 cities, marking a significant milestone for a company that started life firmly rooted in Europe.

Goboony’s CEO, Sergio Branco, said: “This expansion is the next logical step in building a complete ecosystem around motorhome travel: years of perfecting the experience in Europe, now extended to the US, Canada and Australia. The world’s most iconic road trips should be as accessible as booking a weekend away in Scotland, Wales or Cornwall.”

What this means for touring further afield

For UK tourers eyeing a bigger adventure, this expansion could make renting a motorhome abroad much more straightforward.

Fancy trading Cornwall for California? It might be more within reach than you think.

Image credits: Goboony

Redline Campers to unveil nostalgic new model at the Motorhome & Caravan Show

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Redline Campers, the award-winning brand from Venture Caravans & Motorhomes, is set to unveil a brand new model at October’s Motorhome & Caravan Show, with a nod to one of its former bestsellers.

A milestone worth celebrating

With 2027 marking ten years since Venture Caravans & Motorhomes launched the Redline Campers brand, the Daventry-based company dug into its own archive for inspiration, reviving a feature first introduced in its earliest days. 

Full details remain under wraps until the show opens on 13th October 2026. The new model, based on the latest VW Transporter, will carry Redline’s signature safety credentials as an NCC Approved Manufacturer and VCA Whole Vehicle Type Approved converter.

Familiar features, exclusive materials

This model will feature Redline’s exclusive glass reinforced plastic (GRP) roof alongside a 100 per cent cotton roof canvas handcrafted by French tent manufacturer Cabanon, plus the brand’s much-requested Régis Rive bed, previously only seen on the Explorer.

The Explorer makes its NEC debut

Speaking of the Explorer, it will appear at the show for the first time, having quickly become one of Redline’s biggest sellers since launching earlier in 2026. Content creator Steven Aspinall, of Staycation Lifestyle, described it as a “headline-grabbing entry-level model” that “might just be the best value new campervan on the market”.

Updated Sport GT models and a focus on off-grid

Elsewhere, the Sport GT and Sport GT XS return for 2027 with new features, including a lithium leisure battery and an elevating roof bed platform. Redline will also showcase its Enhanced Off-Grid Pack, offering power without hookup, and demonstrate upcoming PHEV variants.

Visit Redline Campers in Hall 11, Stand 11.40, at the NEC from 13th to 18th October.

Image credits: Venture Caravans

The caravan and motorhome gear mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them

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Your first caravan or motorhome trip should feel like a breath of fresh air, but it can quickly turn stressful if you’re underprepared. Marcus Clarke, Founder at The Prepared Household, has shared some of the most common gear mistakes first-time tourers make, along with simple ways to avoid them.

Spending on the wrong things

It’s easy to splash out on eye-catching gadgets while overlooking the essentials. Marcus explains: “One of the biggest mistakes is choosing gear because it looks impressive rather than because it suits the trip. The right equipment depends on where you are going, the time of year and the conditions you are likely to face.” A reliable awning, proper levelling equipment and weather-appropriate bedding should always come before any extras.

Underestimating how quickly the temperature drops

A caravan or motorhome offers far more protection than a tent, but that doesn’t mean warmth is guaranteed overnight. A good sleeping system, insulated bedding and knowing how to use your heating efficiently all make a real difference, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Getting the packing balance wrong

Overpacking and underpacking are both common mistakes. A written checklist helps strike the right balance, making sure essentials like a first aid kit, torch and spare fuses don’t get left behind, without turning your storage into a squeeze.

Packing for one type of weather

British weather can turn quickly, so it pays to prepare for more than the day’s forecast. Pack layers, keep a waterproof outer layer to hand and bring dry spare clothing, since wet clothes left in a damp locker can leave you cold and uncomfortable later in the trip.

A little preparation now can be the difference between a miserable first night and a trip you can’t wait to repeat.

Image credits: Pixabay

5 tips to feel safe on your next solo motorhome trip

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Travelling solo in a motorhome can be one of the most freeing ways to explore and adventure, but it’s natural to want a few extra precautions in place before setting off alone. A little planning goes a long way towards feeling confident and secure on the road. Here are some of our tips. 

1. Share your plans with someone you trust

Before you leave, let a friend or family member know your rough route and where you plan to stop each night. Even just a quick check-in message once you’ve arrived somewhere new can offer real peace of mind – for you and for them.

2. Choose well-reviewed sites

Sticking to established campsites with good reviews, rather than isolated wild camping spots, tends to feel safer when travelling alone. Look for sites with secure gates, good lighting and other campers nearby.

3. Park with a quick exit in mind

When you arrive somewhere new, take a moment to park in a way that lets you drive off easily if you ever need to. Reversing into a pitch, rather than needing to manoeuvre out later, can make a real difference if you want to leave quickly.

4. Keep your motorhome secure

A steering wheel lock, door alarm or dash cam can all add an extra layer of reassurance, particularly when parked overnight somewhere unfamiliar. Simple habits, like locking up as soon as you arrive, matter too.

5. Trust your instincts

If a spot doesn’t feel right, it’s always worth moving on. There’s no obligation to stay somewhere that makes you uneasy. Most experienced solo tourers agree that instinct is one of the best safety tools you have.

With the right preparation, solo motorhome travel can feel just as safe as it is freeing, allowing you to explore with an easy mind.

Image credits: Pixabay

4 fun ways to entertain your kids without screens on your next caravan trip

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There’s a particular kind of magic to a camping or caravanning trip without a screen in sight, but getting the kids on board with that idea can take a bit of effort. The good news is a few simple activities are often all it takes to keep them happily occupied and having fun.

Go on a mini nature hunt

Give each child a small list of things to spot (a certain leaf shape, a specific colour or an unusual stone) and send them off exploring nearby. It costs nothing, gets everyone outside and often turns into a proper adventure before you know it.

Bring out the classic card and board games

A well-worn pack of cards or a compact travel game can entertain kids for hours, especially once the sun goes down. Games like Uno or Snap work brilliantly for mixed ages, so nobody feels left out.

Build a den

Give children a few blankets, some pegs and a bit of freedom and watch how long they’ll happily spend building their own hideaway. It’s simple, low cost and surprisingly absorbing.

Try some campfire storytelling

Take turns adding a line each to build a story together or let older kids make up their own ghost stories to tell by torchlight. It’s a lovely way to end the day and often becomes a favourite part of the trip.

A little imagination goes further than you’d expect and these are the moments kids tend to remember long after the holiday ends.

Image credits: Pixabay

5 delicious campsite meal ideas that don’t need a full kitchen

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There’s something about eating outdoors that makes even the simplest meal taste better, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with beans on toast every night. With a bit of planning and minimal kit, you can put together meals on your caravan holiday that feel like a proper treat.

1. One-pot pasta

This one’s a lifesaver on busy travel days. Just pasta, a jar of sauce and whatever vegetables you’ve got knocking about, all in one pan. Stir in a tin of chopped tomatoes or a dollop of cream cheese to make it feel more substantial and you’ve got a filling dinner with barely any washing up.

2. Foil-wrapped campfire parcels

There’s nothing quite like the smell of dinner cooking over a campfire. Wrap fish, sausages or vegetables in foil with a splash of oil and some seasoning, then let the fire do the work. Simple, satisfying and almost no cleanup afterwards.

3. Breakfast burritos

Perfect for early starts, scrambled eggs, cheese and whatever else you fancy, all wrapped up in a tortilla. Easy to eat with your hands if you’re heading straight out for a walk.

4. Loaded jacket potatoes

Cook them in foil over the fire or on a portable stove, then pile on cheese, beans or soured cream. It feels far more indulgent than the effort it actually takes.

5. Campsite quesadillas

Tortillas, cheese and leftover fillings, folded and toasted in a pan, make a brilliant lunch that’s ready in minutes.

None of these recipes need much more than a pan, a bit of foil and a few good ingredients, so there’s no excuse for a dull dinner on your next trip. Give one a go and you might just find it becomes a regular part of your caravan holiday routine.

Image credits: Pixabay

Electric cars and caravan holidays help cut staycation costs

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Staying in the UK for holidays doesn’t have to mean compromising on adventure, and if you’re looking to make your money stretch further, the way you travel could make a real difference. New analysis from caravan insurance specialists The Insurance Emporium suggests that pairing an electric vehicle (EV) with a touring caravan could be one of the most cost-effective ways to get away this year.

Caravanning costs far less than a hotel stay

For a family of four spending a week in Cornwall, a hotel stay comes to somewhere between £1,700 and £2,400, once accommodation, eating out and extras are added up. A touring caravan holiday works out at £600 to £1,035, thanks to cheaper pitch fees, home-cooked meals and lower travel costs.

EVs can shrink your fuel bill too

Driving an EV costs around 8p per mile, dropping to as little as 3p per mile if you charge overnight on the right tariff. Compare that with 15 to 20p per mile for petrol and the difference over a week’s driving is considerable.

David Bird, caravan insurance expert at The Insurance Emporium, said: “As more people choose to holiday in the UK, many are looking for ways to make their money go further. Combining an electric car with a caravan holiday can be a cost-effective option, particularly when you factor in lower fuel costs and the flexibility of self-catering.” 

He added: “However, it’s important to plan ahead, especially when towing a caravan, as charging stops and reduced charge range can significantly impact journey times.”

A few tips before you set off

With a bit of planning, an EV and caravan combination could be the key to a great value holiday. Key things to remember include:

  • Plan charging stops in advance for longer journeys.
  • Check your vehicle’s towing capacity before travelling.
  • Look for campsites with EV charging facilities.
  • Make the most of self-catering to help cut food costs.

Image credits: Pixabay

How to choose the right campsite for your first solo trip

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Setting off on your first solo trip is exciting, but picking the right campsite can make all the difference between feeling relaxed and feeling a little uneasy. A bit of research beforehand goes a long way towards making that first trip a good one.

Start with reviews

Recent reviews are one of the best ways to get a feel for a site before you arrive. Look out for comments on safety and how welcoming the site feels to solo travellers, rather than focusing on facilities alone.

Consider the size and setting

Smaller, well-established sites often feel friendlier for a first solo trip than larger, more anonymous ones. A site tucked into a village or near local amenities can also mean you’re never too far from people if you need help or simply fancy some company.

Check for good lighting and secure access

Sites with clear lighting around communal areas and a gated or monitored entrance tend to feel more secure in the evenings. It’s worth checking this before booking, particularly if you’re travelling outside peak season when sites may be quieter.

Look for a mix of fellow campers

Sites that attract a range of visitors, including families, couples and other solo travellers, often feel more sociable than those aimed at one type of camper. A friendly atmosphere can make a real difference to how confident you feel.

Take your time choosing and don’t be afraid to move on if a site doesn’t feel right once you arrive. The right campsite can turn a first solo trip into the start of many more adventures.

Image credits: Pixabay

The summer driving mistakes that could land you a hefty fine

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Warm weather and open roads make summer the perfect time for a caravan or motorhome holiday, but a few common mistakes could turn your trip into a costly one. Specialist motor insurance experts at Keith Michaels have highlighted the summer driving mistakes most likely to catch motorists and the fines that come with them.

Small mistakes, real consequences

Some of the most common summer habits carry fines of up to £100:

When it gets more serious

Other habits carry considerably steeper penalties, over £1,000:

  • Wearing a hat or headwear that blocks your vision or affects your driving.
  • Driving with a dirty windscreen, which can seriously reduce visibility in bright sunshine and in serious cases lead to fines of up to £5,000 or a driving ban.

Towing your caravan safely

For anyone planning a caravan or motorhome trip, one rule matters more than most. Exceeding your vehicle’s legal towing limit can reduce control and create a genuine safety risk. If your setup is found to be unsafe, you could face three penalty points and a fine of up to £2,500 under Rule 98 of the Highway Code, so it’s always worth double-checking your vehicle’s towing capacity before you set off.

The bigger risks

A handful of mistakes carry the most serious consequences of all:

  • Wearing sunglasses at night, up to £2,500.
  • Drink driving, up to £2,500, alongside a possible ban or criminal charges.
  • Driving with unsecured pets, up to £5,000.
  • Driving while impaired by hay fever medication, which carries unlimited fines and, in serious cases, a driving ban or prison sentence.

Plan for a stress-free trip

Whether you’re heading off on a UK road trip or towing your caravan abroad, a little preparation goes a long way. Check your vehicle, secure your load and know the rules before you set off, and you’ll be far more likely to enjoy a trouble-free summer on the road.

Image credits: Pixabay

Sleep expert reveals the 7 camping mistakes parents get wrong

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There’s nothing quite like a family camping trip, until nobody in the tent can sleep. As more of us are heading outdoors this summer, sleep therapist Sam Sadighi of Get Laid Beds and founder of Easy Sleep Solutions has identified the seven most common sleep mistakes families make and how to fix them.

1. Assuming tired kids will sleep anywhere

A busy day outdoors doesn’t guarantee an easy bedtime. Excitement and unfamiliar surroundings can keep children more alert than expected. Sticking to their usual bedtime routine, a familiar story, teddy or pyjamas, helps signal it’s time to settle.

2. Pitching the tent in the wrong spot

Sam explains: “Pitching near toilets, communal areas, footpaths or other busy camping spots can expose you to people walking past throughout the night.” Choose somewhere flat, dry and away from foot traffic, and consider where the morning sun will hit too.

3. Over-inflating the air bed

A firmer air bed can create pressure points and offer less insulation from the cold ground. A little give makes for a more comfortable night and an insulated sleeping mat underneath matters more than firmness alone.

4. Forgetting the ground steals body heat

The ground draws heat away from the body quickly, so insulation underneath is just as important as a warm sleeping bag on top.

5. Eating a big meal right before bed

A large or sugary meal too close to bedtime can leave children feeling uncomfortable and overly energetic. Aim for a filling meal a couple of hours before bed, with a light snack later if needed.

6. Ignoring the early morning light

Tents let in far more light than bedrooms, waking children earlier than you’d like. Eye masks, blackout layers and positioning sleeping bags away from the entrance can help delay the wake-up call.

7. Trying to make the tent completely silent

An unfamiliar environment can make children more alert, so total silence isn’t always the answer. Familiar background noise, like a white-noise track used at home, can help some children settle.

Sleep therapist’s camping checklist

  • Pack something familiar, like a favourite teddy, blanket or bedtime book.
  • Stick to the usual routine of washing, pyjamas, story and lights out.
  • Insulate underneath with a sleeping mat rather than relying on the air bed alone.
  • Ventilate the tent to avoid stuffiness and reduce condensation.
  • Keep tomorrow’s clothes nearby to avoid rummaging through cold bags.
  • Make one final toilet trip before settling down for the night.
  • Pack earplugs for adults, useful for snoring neighbours and early risers.

A little planning before lights out can be the difference between a restless night and a proper night’s sleep under canvas.

Image credits: Pixabay